There’s still plenty of summer left to savor. If Bahamas is out of the cards, consider a local trip out to Palm Beach at Moody Gardens, a tropical oasis complete with a water park, private white sand beach, and Texas-sized spa.
Palm Beach at Moody Gardens offers a vibrant blend of beach ambiance and water-park fun. Open seasonally from late May through September, the summer destination is Galveston’s only private white-sand beach and a tropical getaway for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Palm Beach
As Moody Gardens’ first attraction, Palm Beach opened in 1988. Unlike the natural Gulf shoreline, Palm Beach was built with soft white sand directly imported from coastal beaches in Florida. The beach offers a pristine environment complete with landscaped surroundings, palm trees, and lagoons.
Visitors here can lounge on complimentary beach chairs under large umbrellas, play a little beach volleyball, rent out a cabana, or simply enjoy the seaside view.
The area also features on-site concessions and dining options including Shoreline Grill, Dockside Pizza Express, and Dippin’ Dots.
The waterpark at Palm Beach
Palm Beach is home to a tropical-inspired waterpark. Its signature attractions include its lazy river and wave pool. Spanning 650 feet, its lazy river passes through tropical landscaping – featuring over 60 interactive splashpoints where visitors can spray floating guests. The lazy river is designed for all ages.
Its 6,100-square-foot wave pool is likewise accessible for visitors of all ages. Deepening to five feet, the wave pool simulates a beach-like experience of ocean surf.
For a little more excitement, the waterpark features two 18-foot-high tower slides, as well as a splash pad, and aquarium adventure play area.
Entry Palm Beach at Moody Gardens
Palm Beach is located at 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston. Peak summer season runs until August 9, 10 am – 7 pm. From August 15 – September 17, the beach is open weekends only from 10 am – 4 pm. Admission is priced around $26 for adults; around $20 for seniors (65+) and children (4 – 12). Children 3 and under are permitted free entrance.
