Crystal Beach
Crystal Beach
Bolivar Peninsula
Crystal Beach is an unincorporated community in the Bolivar Peninsula census-designated place, in Galveston County, Texas, United States. Also known as Patton, Crystal Beach stretches 7 miles along Texas State Highway 87 in the middle of Bolivar Peninsula
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Extending 7 miles along Texas State Highway 87, Crystal Beach is nestled on the impressive Bolivar Peninsula. Here, golf carts, RVs, trucks, and other vehicles are allowed to travel on the sandy shoreline, which means you can easily unload all your beach gear without having to haul it from a busy street or parking lot. Enjoy searching for shells, building sandcastles, boogie boarding, fishing, or playing frisbee with your furry friend at this pet-friendly beach. This one-of-a-kind spot is reachable by ferry and bridge. You can travel down Interstate 45 and then park on the free Galveston-Port Bolivar Ferry for a short, 2.7 mile journey across the bay. You can also drive approximately 20 minutes from Galveston to Port Bolivar to reach Crystal Beach, which is just 10 miles past the Bolivar Lighthouse.
The Bolivar Peninsula is a coastal area spanning 27 miles on the east end of Galveston. Here, you will find Crystal Beach, an unincorporated community that stretches 7 miles along Texas State Highway 87. You can easily unload all your beach gear without having to haul it from a busy street or parking lot since golf carts, RVs, trucks, and other vehicles are allowed to travel on the sandy shoreline. Visitors can enjoy collecting seashells, building sandcastles, boogie boarding, fishing, or playing frisbee with furry friends at this pet-friendly beach. Birdwatching is another popular pastime thanks to the over 100 species of migratory birds such as egrets, herons, and spoonbills that inhabit the peninsula. Crystal Beach also hosts several annual events, including Crabfest, Jeep Weekend, Mardi Gras weekend, multiple cooking competitions, and a Christmas Parade.
Accessible by ferry and bridge, this secluded beach is just 10 miles past the Bolivar Lighthouse. Travel down Interstate 45 and then park on the free Galveston-Port Bolivar Ferry for a short, 2.7 mile journey across the bay. You can drive approximately 20 minutes from Galveston to Port Bolivar as well.
Read about some of this area’s most loved restaurants, entertainment destinations, and accommodations below.
Where to Eat near Crystal Beach
Ocean Grille Crystal Beach
2275 Highway 87 | .1 mile from Crystal Beach
Open at 11AM from Sunday through Saturday, Ocean Grille is family-owned and operated in Crystal Beach, offering classic Southern, Tex-Mex, and seafood dishes in a relaxed environment. Order favorites such as burgers and fries, grilled chicken, shrimp pasta, and hand-tossed pizza. Then, you can wash them down with selections from the full bar, including spiked lemonade, beer, and wine. Ocean Grille also has an on-site gift shop where you will find an assortment of beach-themed souvenirs.
Steve’s Landing Restaurant
1290 Bay Vue Road | 1 mile from Crystal Beach
Steve’s Landing Restaurant is recognized as “Crystal Beach’s Ultimate Waterside Dining Experience.” After being demolished by Hurricane Ike in 2008, this casual-chic eatery has been reinvigorated with modern touches to offer a one-of-a-kind setting for your next meal. Park your car or pull your boat up to the dock before sipping on drinks at the Swings Patio or at the Blue Dolphin Bar. Enjoy delicious entrees as you unwind in the private dining room or take in sunset views from the outdoor patio. The chefs at Steve’s Landing will also cook your freshly caught fish to order.
Stingaree Restaurant & Marina
1295 North Stingaree Drive | 3.7 miles from Crystal Beach
At Stingaree Restaurant & Marina, you can dine on seafood favorites and burgers as you watch various types of watercraft cruise around the canal. In addition to seafood and burgers, their extensive menu includes chicken fried steak, rib-eye steaks, and grilled chicken, in addition to scrumptious desserts and refreshing bar offerings as well. The upstairs dining room reveals sweeping views of the bay, while the downstairs cantina hosts live music in a vibrant setting. Set on the Intracoastal Waterway, this restaurant has been serving up favorites for over 30 years. Opened in 1986, the friendly owner and his son continue to greet customers, bus tables, and provide impeccable service to everyone that walks through their doors.
Tiki Beach Bar & Grill
1369 TX 87 | 1.1 miles from Crystal Beach
Step inside this laid-back tavern near Crystal Beach, where sports memorabilia and pub-inspired food comes together with tropical cocktails for a fun beach dining experience. At Tiki Beach Bar & Grill, customers rave about the portions, pricing, and friendly bartenders and wait staff. Some of the most popular menu items include pizza, hamburgers, nachos, frozen margaritas, and fried seafood. You will also find surf and turf options such as rib-eye steak, shrimp cocktail, bacon-wrapped shrimp, and more.
DownUnder Bar & Grill
1295 North Stingaree Drive | 3.7 miles from Crystal Beach
Located on the bottom floor of the Stingaree Restaurant, the DownUnder Bar & Grill is a festive cantina-inspired spot on the bay. Choose from an assortment of fried seafood baskets, po-boys, and burgers. Thirst-quenching refreshments such as freshly brewed iced tea and their famous Stingatira are available as well. This bustling eatery also boasts live entertainment on the weekends.
Where to Stay near Crystal Beach
Out by the Sea Bed & Breakfast
2134 Vista Street | 1.2 miles from Crystal Beach
Located within walking distance to the water, Out by the Sea Bed and Breakfast is a great place to stay when visiting Crystal Beach. Wake up to a tasty breakfast served from 8:30AM to 9:00 AM in the main home or on the expansive deck that overlooks the gulf. There are two comfortable rooms inside the main house and three more rooms on the property. Within the warm, welcoming rooms, you will find private bathrooms, luxe amenities, window shutters, and satellite television.
Saltwater Inn
1020 TX-87 | 1 mile from Crystal Beach
This quaint, budget-friendly hotel near Crystal Beach offers cozy accommodations where you can unwind after a long day in the sun. Newly renovated, the Saltwater Inn is set right off the highway and is just a short walk away from the beach and several local eateries. The clean, air-conditioned rooms have plush beds, refrigerators, and microwaves for your convenience.
Beachside RV Park at Crystal Beach
1280 TX-87 | 1.4 miles from Crystal Beach
The thoroughly maintained sites with level concrete pads and full hookups at Beachside RV Park offer ideal accommodations for those visiting in an RV. Situated on Highway 87, this spacious venue is conveniently located less than 10 minutes from Crystal Beach. Take advantage of on-site amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a screened-in gazebo, and a laundry facility.
Landry’s Landing Vacation Rental
2101 Pond Street | 1.1 miles from Crystal Beach
Take in picturesque views of the sunrise and sunset when you stay at Landry’s Landing. This privately owned vacation rental was built in 2013 and is located less than 3 blocks from the beach. The home sleeps 6 guests, has 3 bedrooms, and 1 full bath. Two of the guest rooms have queen beds, and the third room has a set of bunk beds. A fully equipped kitchen offers everything you need to prepare a delicious meal, while the washer and dryer allow you to do laundry from the comfort of your home away from home. Central A/C and heat, satellite television, and a barbeque pit are available as well.
Boardwalk Resort Bolivar Peninsula
947 Barkley Street | 6.8 miles from Crystal Beach
For the ultimate beach vacation, book your stay at Boardwalk Resort Bolivar Peninsula. This expansive property features a resort-style swimming pool, a hot tub, and barbeque facilities alongside roomy condos. As you explore the grounds, you will also find a children’s playground, a mini-golf course, a splash pool, and a volleyball court. Inside your air-conditioned condo, discover comfortable bedrooms, a functional kitchen, and a flat-screen television with satellite channels. Balconies, coffee makers, and refrigerators are included as well.
Where to Do near Crystal Beach
Galveston-Port Bolivar Ferry
Providing complimentary transportation between the Bolivar Peninsula and Galveston Island, the Galveston-Port Bolivar Ferry is a must-do attraction when visiting Crystal Beach. Though you can reach the peninsula via highway as well, the ferry offers exciting opportunities to see dolphins, birds, shrimp boats, and oil tankers. The approximately 15-minute cruise across the water occurs on large highway department vessels. They allow you to park your vehicle or walk on to experience sights from every direction, including the remains of the historic concrete ship, the Selma. The ferries can carry around 500 people and 70 vehicles each. Passengers can take advantage of an air-conditioned indoor sitting area and an upper observation deck as well. Check current wait times here.
Fort Travis Seashore Park
900 TX-87 | 9.9 miles from Crystal Beach
Established by the Republic of Texas in 1836, Fort Travis was the first fort constructed to protect the Galveston harbor entrance. It was named in honor of famous Alamo defender William B. Travis and was built using army recruits and slave labor. Throughout its rich history, Fort Travis has served as a shelter for residents and livestock during severe hurricane outbreaks. Identified as a Texas Historical Marker in 1993 and open for tourists, Fort Travis is now part of a larger park that includes walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. Fort Travis Seashore Park reveals panoramic views of the Bolivar Lighthouse, Galveston Island, and the harbor.
Fun Town Water Park
995 Noble Carl Drive | .1 mile from Crystal Beach
Exuding relaxing and friendly vibes, Fun Town Water Park is a locally owned waterpark in Crystal Beach. Grab a tube and float down the meandering lazy river that flows around a man-made island. Here, several seats and plenty of shady spots are available for picnicking and lounging. The park also has two water slides that are perfect for cooling off from the Texas heat. An on-site concession stand sells popular items such as nachos and hot dogs. Life jackets are available for your convenience as well.
The Gulf Range
1987 TX-87 | .4 miles from Crystal Beach
Promising a fun time for guests of all ages, The Gulf Range is one of Crystal Beach’s most beloved attractions. This vibrant venue features a custom-designed, 18-hole miniature golf course where you can compete with friends and family. Several yard games are available to play, including washers, giant Jenga, horseshoes, and cornhole. On top of that, you can practice your serve on the beach volleyball court or spend rainy days inside the arcade. An on-site snack bar and saloon are available as well. The Gulf Range also hosts concerts, events, karaoke nights, and open-mic nights throughout the year.
Fun Spot Waterslide
2061 TX-87 | .8 miles from Crystal Beach
Nestled less than a mile from Crystal Beach is the Fun Spot Waterslide. Adored by locals and visitors alike for over 35 years, this popular slide is open during the Spring and Summer months. In addition to an exciting water slide, the venue also has a snack bar where you will find an assortment of tasty treats.
Google Reviews
Crystal Beach
Bolivar Peninsula
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The Inn is a little older but don’t let that scare you away. Our room (King bed- courtyard view) was extremely comfortable and cute. The pool and hot tub were by far the best part. The pool bar overlooks the sea wall and water. The staff is very nice and helpful. Can’t beat the location!! We love it here and will definitely stay here again.
Amanda Green
October 24, 2022This is the only place I want to stay in Galveston. Pool amazing! On the sea wall. Walk to the beach or to the pool! Service is excellent and friendly!! I will be back!
Teri Hitchcock
September 27, 2022The rooms are super cute with oil paintings and flower arrangements. The place is pretty clean as well. The pool is absolutely fantastic and the staff treated us like family. Also, breakfast was delicious. Our family had a wonderful time and we plan to come back again.
Jennifer Johnston
August 27, 2022when i travel to galveston, this hotel is my number one option. I like the rooms because they are very warm-welcoming. The beds are so comfortable and I love them so much because they have 6 pillows per bed. The pillows are the best. I know things have changed with COVID. So, if you need anything just ask the front desk people. The pool is awesome my daughter loves it. the spa is great. just the food is not my favorite at the bar.
Bris Ideas
August 27, 2022 -
My friends and I stayed there for a girls getaway.. The location and pool were great. But the reason we would come back was the outsanding customer service, and attentiveness that Anne (front desk lady) gave us. We appreciated it. Will definitely return.
Regina Mills
August 27, 2022We loved staying here clean room, the breakfast is good and you can order from Nick's poolside, and it's great food, great view, great sunrise. Poolside bar, with good music. We had no problems with anything.. We are looking forward to our next month visit
Leticia Rodriguez
August 27, 2022Great rooms comfortable beds and views that are hard to beat. Beach is walking distance across the street with a fantastic pool and restaurant on the grounds. I highly recommend.
Mark Thieme
August 27, 2022+ The staff I dealt with were friendly and very good. I did request some soap for the next day and never got it though. - Rust on the fridge. Socket sparked when I plugged in phone charger. No complete face plate for switch in bathroom and lighting in bathroom as well. Very moody, musty smell. found someone else¿s dirty crusty sock under bed skirting. Water & no soap in d
Verified Hotel Guest
August 27, 2022
