Galveston beaches should be at the top of your list of places to go if you’re looking for a great place to soak up the sun during a trip to the Gulf Coast. This island is located just offshore from the city of Houston, and it’s easy to reach during any Texas vacation. Some people think that Florida is the only place for a sunny escape in this part of the world, but Galveston Texas beach vacations are sure to prove them wrong. On this island you will find 32 miles of sandy beaches, golf courses, plenty of places for a family picnic, water sports, and more. Whether you picture yourself sipping a frozen cocktail or getting active on your beach vacation, Galveston can deliver.

In particular, Galveston beaches are known for being family-friendly. This barrier island is home to miles and miles of pristine beaches for sunbathing and sand-castle building. Before you pop open an ice cold beer, keep in mind that alcohol is banned on the public beaches and the seawall in Galveston. However, there are many licensed concession areas where you can watch the sun go down while enjoying a drink. Popular daytime activities on the beach include flying kites, fishing, and volleyball games.

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One of the best Galveston Texas beach vacations is a trip where you choose vacation rentals over hotels. Galveston is an ideal location for your own oceanfront rental. This tactic will also save you significant money as many beaches charge a fee for visitor parking. This can add up over the course of a vacation, but when you choose a rental, you will be in close proximity to the beach and you won’t need to worry about driving or parking. Beaches are generally open from dawn to dusk, all year long. Some of the most popular options for a day of lounging in the sand include Apffel East Beach Park, Seawolf Park on Pelican Island, and Stewart Beach. Most beaches in Galveston offer bathroom facilities and concessions.

Reading details about Galveston beaches might help you to choose a location for sunbathing along this island. Apffel East Beach Park is one of the biggest beaches in Texas and is known for its big beach parties—this is one of the things that make Galveston a popular Spring Break destination. Here you will find outdoor concerts, annual events, and entertainment for the young and young at heart. On the other hand, families will likely prefer Stewart Beach. This option is known for family-oriented events, sand-castle competitions, and volleyball tournaments. Instead of bikini contests, you will find events here that are appropriate for all ages. Between the two extremes there are many other beach options including Galveston Island State Park, Sea Gull Shores Beach, and Sand Castle Beach.

If you’re looking for even more outdoor adventure during Galveston Texas beach vacations, one place not to miss is Moody Gardens. The soft, sandy beaches are ideal for sunbathing while the fresh lagoons and waterfalls add something special to a day of fun in the sun. Keep in mind that Galveston is only one of the many options along the Gulf Coast of Texas. In recent years, this coastline has been receiving more and more attention for the quality of its beaches, cuisine, and weather. From South Padre Island to Corpus Christi and beyond, you will find many desirable destinations along this stretch of Gulf coast.