Galveston Gay Beach

Galveston's informal gay beach is the pocket of sand along Seawall Boulevard roughly between 27th and 31st Streets, the stretch closest to the island's downtown gay bars. There is no official designation — Galveston's beaches are open to everyone — but this is where LGBTQ+ locals and visitors have long gathered to lay out towels, swim and socialize, and it is promoted informally within the community as the island's gayest beach. Access is via the public beach entrances off the Seawall; the wider East Beach on the island's eastern tip is the site of the annual Pride beach party. Bring your own shade and water, mind the Gulf currents, and remember these are family public beaches — the vibe is relaxed and low-key rather than a scene.