2 votes

Crystal Beach

Galveston, Texas 77550 USA

Independent

“Dig your toes into the sand”

Crystal Beach is an unincorporated area in the Bolivar Peninsula census-designated place, in Galveston County, Texas, United States. Also known as Patton, Crystal Beach stretches 7 miles (10 km) along Texas State Highway 87 in the middle of Bolivar Peninsula. It is located along 27 miles of beach on the Bolivar Peninsula. It is a popular destination thanks to its permitting of camping and fires, as well as its fishing opportunities. Some fish in the surf, while others take advantage of Rollover Fish Pass or the rocks of the North Jetty. The pass is named for the practice of ship captains from the days of Spanish rule through prohibition, who, to avoid the Galveston customs station, rolled barrels of import or export merchandise over that part of the peninsula. Crystal Beach is served by the Bolivar Chamber of Commerce, which is the official source for business, tourism and government information for the Bolivar Peninsula.

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Reviewed by
Nancy Sewell

1,228 Reviews
414 Helpful

August 26, 2016

he Bolivar Peninsula, off the east end of Galveston Island, has 30 miles of sparkling beaches accessible by motor vehicle, horseback, bicycle or foot. The most popular -- Crystal Beach -- stretches along the peninsula's southern shore. You can set up a tent or park your RV anywhere along its 7 miles of white sand.

Portable restrooms are spaced along the beach for public use, and no shower facilities are provided. There is no shade, so bring canopies to give your tent or picnic area respite from the sun. Build a small, contained campfire when fire restrictions are not in force, and be sure to bring your own firewood. Giant beach bonfires are not permitted.

To park your car at your camp, you'll need to obtain a Bolivar Beach parking sticker, available from beach parking attendants, local stores and real estate agencies. You can also order a sticker by mail from the Galveston Parks Department. The sticker is valid for the entire year in which it is purchased, and the nominal fee helps fund beach maintenance. If you plan to fish in the surf along Crystal Beach, you'll need a Texas saltwater fishing license.

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