If you love walking along the beach, you will love the Seawall Urban Park. It’s a 10-mile-long stretch of continuous sidewalk that is open to the public. You can also enjoy birding. Just make sure you use a fire-safe, manufactured fire-pit to do so. There are many activities to keep the family entertained in Galveston. If you’re looking for a beachfront activity that’s safe for the whole family, try Crystal Beach.

Seawall Urban Park is a 10-mile stretch of continuous sidewalk

The Seawall Urban Park is a ten-mile stretch of continuous sidewalk on Galveston’s eastern shore. The park is named after the seawall below the road, which protects it from ocean storms. You can walk or jog along the sidewalk the entire length of the park, which offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico. There are restaurants, shops, and a continuous parade of vacationers.

The Seawall is lined with benches and mosaic artwork featuring different themes. You can stroll along the sidewalk, bicycle, or skateboard. You can also buy beachwear and athleisure clothing. A great place to grab a bite is Miller’s Seawall Grill, which features fresh seafood and signature bloody mary. Taking a break from the beach can be a great way to take in the city’s nightlife.

Fires on Galveston beaches must be contained in a manufactured fire pit

While it may be tempting to bring your own firewood to the beach, it is prohibited on Galveston Island. Remember to burn charcoal properly and dispose of it in a designated trash bin. You must also carry a fire extinguisher along. Fires should also be kept to a minimum, because all open flames can spread harmful invasive species. Galveston also offers an excellent climate for kayaking, fishing, and biking.

While some public beaches have designated areas for fires, it is generally best to stay on the beach’s designated fire rings. When choosing a spot for your fire, be sure to find one that is above the high tide line, and at least 50 feet from flammable beach grass and shrubs. Check the sand to see if the beach is dry before you dig.

Birding is a year-round activity in Galveston

If birding is your hobby, you’ll find that the island is a prime destination throughout the year. Its diverse habitats offer a variety of species. Early in the year, water birds congregate on Bolivar Flats. Spring brings tropical birds, like ruby-throated hummingbirds and waterthrush. In midsummer, shorebirds make the island a prime location for birdwatching.

You can spot migrant and seasonal migratory birds in Galveston’s many bird sanctuaries. Try 7 1/2 Mile Road and Apffel Park Road for excellent opportunities to observe warblers and roseate spoonbills. You’ll also find white-winged doves and flocks of pelicans along Piers 19/20. A few other good spots to bird-watch are in parks and preserves.

Crystal Beach is a family-friendly option

Families will enjoy the quiet atmosphere and mild climate of Crystal Beach. While it doesn’t have as many amenities as other beaches in the area, it’s still a great choice for a beach getaway. You can take advantage of the beach’s free parking and visit the local cafe. Families can enjoy the view of the Gulf of Mexico while staying in a vacation rental on Crystal Beach.

If you’re looking for an area to walk on the beach at night in Galveston, Crystal is a great option. The community has seven miles of sandy shoreline and is the perfect location for families to walk on the beach. Other activities in Crystal include the Fun Spot Waterslide, the Point Bolivar Lighthouse, and the moody gardens aquarium. The Bolivar Ferry connects Crystal Beach to Galveston Island.

Historic Pleasure Pier is packed with roller coasters

The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier opened in 2012 and is filled with roller coasters and family-friendly attractions. You can enjoy waterfront dining, play midway games, and experience Texas’ first Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant. The pier also offers a 5D Theater Ride. The pier has 16 rides and attractions. If you’re in the mood for some thrills, you can try the water park.

This pier was one of the first in the country to offer a variety of thrill rides. Today, it is the only theme park in the world to feature three roller coasters. The pier itself is packed with roller coasters and has 12,000 square feet of space for rides. You can purchase all-day rides and parking nearby, but there is limited parking. If you’re visiting Galveston, make sure to bring your kids with you.

East Beach is the only public beach where alcohol is allowed

You can find a wide range of drinks at this sprawling spot for swimming and sunning. Live bands regularly perform on the beach, and it is the site of an annual sand castle competition. Alcohol is allowed at East Beach and a number of other Galveston locations, but there is no drinking age. Unlike other Galveston beaches, this one does not allow pets.

Visitors to the far eastern part of Galveston can relax at this uncrowded beach, where alcohol is allowed. There’s a pavilion and a playground. You can rent beach chairs or umbrellas and purchase alcohol. There are also concession stands, restrooms, and alcohol vendors. East Beach also hosts the annual AIA Sandcastle Competition, which attracts thousands of visitors each summer.