If you’re looking for a beautiful beach away from the sounds of the Seawall, then East Beach is your ultimate destination! Located at the far eastern tip of the island, East Beach is famous for its great views of the Gulf, the Galveston Bay Shipping Channel, East End Lagoon Nature Preserve, Bird Conservation Area, and Big Reef.
Special events and concerts are held here throughout the summer, and alcohol is permitted and available for purchase. The expansive, scenic beach is also suitable for outdoor activities, such as beachcombing, volleyball, and horseback riding. Its stage and outdoor pavilion are perfect for private parties and corporate events. The beach is located at the far eastern tip of the island.
R.A. Apffel Park (East Beach)
1923 Apffel Rd
Galveston, TX 77550
For a map of beach locations, check out our beaches page!
Park Hours of Pavilion and Guest Services Operations
March 8 – May 22
Monday – Friday: Closed
Saturday – Sunday: 9AM – 6PM
Spring Break (March 10 – 14): 9AM–5PM
May 23 – August 15
Monday – Thursday: 9AM – 6PM
Friday – Sunday: 8AM – 7PM
Memorial Day & Independence Day: 8AM – 7PM
August 16 – October 26
Monday – Friday: Closed
Saturday – Sunday: 9AM –7PM
Labor Day: 8AM–7PM
Hours are subject to change without advance notice. Exceptions to standard dates and times can be made on a case-by-case basis for special events wishing to rent the pavilion or park grounds for a fee.
(Cash or credit card)
Daily Vehicle Parking: $15 (One-time entry)
$50 Seasonal Beach Park Pass (window decal) for entry to the following beach parks for the entire season (March to October): East Beach, Stewart Beach, Dellanara RV Park, and West End Pocket Parks.
$95 for an Ultimate Pass (window decal) for an entire year of seawall parking plus entry to the beach parks for the entire season
Plan your dream beach wedding or other special events at Galveston Island’s largest beachfront famous for its coastal event venues. Stationed on the eastern-most end of the island, it’s expansive sands and picturesque views provide the perfect backdrop for any event. This expansive beach template boasts the largest collection of sand volleyball courts
on the gulf coast and is suitable for sporting events, weddings, reunions, corporate gatherings, birthdays and more.
Download the East Beach Venue Packet
Head to East Beach for some fun in the sun. The beach hosts concerts and several annual events, including the annual Galveston Sandcastle Festival, in which over 50 teams sculpt designs in the sand and compete for the Golden Bucket Award. Designs are judged based on originality of concept, artistic execution, technical difficulty, carving technique, and utilization of the site.
The East Beach Cantina is a vibrant beachfront destination nestled on the eastern tip of Galveston Island. It's the ideal spot to savor a quick bite or a refreshing drink while soaking up the sun. With its laid-back, casual charm, you can enjoy dining on the second-floor patio with stunning views of the Gulf or opt for the convenience of chair and umbrella rentals, complete with beachside food and drink delivery. Its unbeatable location and inviting ambiance make it a must-visit for relishing the ocean breeze, picturesque scenery, and delicious eats and drinks.
To inquire about hosting your event at East Beach:
