How Much Is Your Home Worth?
Galveston West End Homes
Beachfront views, bayside living, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle on Galveston’s West End.
CONTACT US
RE/MAX Leading Edge
License #: 0616427
3616 7 Mile Road Galveston, TX 77554
Home - Galveston Real Estate - West End Homes
The West End of Galveston Island is where coastal dreams become reality. Stretching for miles beyond 61st Street, the West End offers an array of beachfront houses, canal-side retreats, and master-planned communities.
Known for its laid-back lifestyle, waterfront access, and sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico and Galveston Bay, the West End appeals to vacationers, retirees, and full-time residents alike who want to live close to the sand and surf.
West End Galveston Island
Vibe: Coastal, relaxed, resort-style communities
Home Types: Beachfront cottages, modern coastal builds, canal and bay houses, gated community estates
Lifestyle Perks: Private beach access, fishing piers, marinas, boating canals, community centers
Who It Fits: Buyers seeking vacation homes, retirees, water-sport enthusiasts, families wanting a seaside lifestyle
Location
When locals talk about the West End, they mean everything west of 61st Street, covering neighborhoods such as Pirates Beach, Jamaica Beach, Sea Isle, Terramar, Pointe West, and Isla del Sol.
This part of the island delivers true coastal variety, with Gulf-front communities that open directly onto the beach, bayside neighborhoods with canal-front homes and boat slips, and wide stretches of preserved nature including wetlands and Galveston Island State Park.
Life here feels more peaceful and secluded compared to the bustle of the Strand and Seawall, yet downtown and major services remain within reach.
West End Homes: History & Development
Originally remote and dotted with fishing shacks, the West End has transformed over the past 50 years into a hub of coastal living.
Communities like Sea Isle and Pirates Beach began development in the 1960s and 70s, introducing beach and bayfront subdivisions. Pointe West, added in the 2000s, brought resort-style amenities such as pools, fitness centers, and a private beach club to the island’s western tip.
Today, the area blends long-standing neighborhoods with newer luxury homes, offering something for every buyer.
Nearby Links
Galveston Island State Park - If you are interested in wetlands and outdoor recreation, this is the perfect setting for nature and lifestyle appeal.
City of Jamaica Beach (official site) - Jamaica Beach is its own community within the West End. This link to the city gives you more information about this small sliver of the west end.
Pointe West Beach Club - For those interested in Pointe West’s resort-style living, the HOA-managed Beach Club is a valuable reference.
Housing & Architecture
Housing on the West End is designed with the water in mind. Beachfront homes are typically raised on pilings with broad decks and inverted floorplans to maximize Gulf views. On the bay side, neighborhoods like Sea Isle and Terramar feature canal and bay homes with private boat slips, docks, and direct access to fishing, sailing, and jet-skiing on Galveston Bay.
Master-planned communities such as Pirates Beach and Pirates Cove combine golf course living with beachside access, while Pointe West caters to those seeking a true resort experience.
Architecturally, the West End showcases everything from traditional raised coastal cottages to modern coastal contemporary builds with expansive windows, open layouts, and storm-resistant features.
Many newer custom homes even include elevators, gourmet kitchens, and multiple decks overlooking the water.
Lifestyle & Amenities
Outdoor living is the heartbeat of the West End. Residents enjoy walkable beach access, endless opportunities for fishing and boating, and nearby Galveston Island State Park for kayaking, birding, and hiking.
Each community carries its own flavor:
Jamaica Beach operates as an independent city with its own services and marina, Sea Isle offers a pool, marina, and restaurant for residents, and Pointe West features an infinity pool, beach club, and walking trails.
Dining and entertainment are more limited here than in central Galveston, but local seafood shacks and tiki bars add character, and downtown is only 20–30 minutes away. For a broader look at island attractions, one only need to drive east onto Seawall Blvd for access to all the island has to offer.
Insurance & Property Considerations
Housing on the West End is designed with the water in mind. Beachfront homes are typically raised on pilings with broad decks and inverted floorplans to maximize Gulf views. On the bay side, neighborhoods like Sea Isle and Terramar feature canal and bay homes with private boat slips, docks, and direct access to fishing, sailing, and jet-skiing on Galveston Bay.
Master-planned communities such as Pirates Beach and Pirates Cove combine golf course living with beachside access, while Pointe West caters to those seeking a true resort experience.
Architecturally, the West End showcases everything from traditional raised coastal cottages to modern coastal contemporary builds with expansive windows, open layouts, and storm-resistant features.
Many newer custom homes even include elevators, gourmet kitchens, and multiple decks overlooking the water.
Short-Term Rentals & Investment
Outdoor living is the heartbeat of the West End. Residents enjoy walkable beach access, endless opportunities for fishing and boating, and nearby Galveston Island State Park for kayaking, birding, and hiking.
Each community carries its own flavor:
Jamaica Beach operates as an independent city with its own services and marina, Sea Isle offers a pool, marina, and restaurant for residents, and Pointe West features an infinity pool, beach club, and walking trails.
Dining and entertainment are more limited here than in central Galveston, but local seafood shacks and tiki bars add character, and downtown is only 20–30 minutes away. For a broader look at island attractions, one only need to drive east onto Seawall Blvd for access to all the island has to offer.
Short-Term Rentals & Investment
Outdoor living is the heartbeat of the West End. Residents enjoy walkable beach access, endless opportunities for fishing and boating, and nearby Galveston Island State Park for kayaking, birding, and hiking.
Each community carries its own flavor:
Jamaica Beach operates as an independent city with its own services and marina, Sea Isle offers a pool, marina, and restaurant for residents, and Pointe West features an infinity pool, beach club, and walking trails.
Dining and entertainment are more limited here than in central Galveston, but local seafood shacks and tiki bars add character, and downtown is only 20–30 minutes away. For a broader look at island attractions, one only need to drive east onto Seawall Blvd for access to all the island has to offer.
Galveston Real Estate For Buyers & Sellers
Buying in Galveston
Purchasing a home on the island comes with unique considerations. From flood zones and windstorm insurance to coastal building permits and elevation certificates, buyers should understand the added layers that come with owning property by the Gulf. Working with local experts helps ensure you’re protected and prepared for long-term ownership.
Learn more in our Galveston Buyer’s Guide
Selling in Galveston
The Galveston market is influenced by seasonal demand, tourism flow, and regional weather patterns. Strategic pricing, professional staging, and strong online marketing can make a big difference in how quickly a property sells. Sellers who align with local trends often achieve stronger offers and faster closings.
Learn more in our Galveston Seller’s Guide
Galveston West End Real Estate
Galveston’s West End blends beachfront neighborhoods, canal communities, and master-planned coastal developments - each with its own zoning rules, insurance requirements, and short-term rental regulations.
Navigating this part of the island takes more than general real estate experience. A REALTOR® with true West End expertise understands FEMA flood maps, TWIA windstorm coverage, HOA and POA restrictions, and building permits for waterfront or dune-adjacent lots.
Choosing a Galveston agent who knows the West End inside and out ensures smoother transactions, better risk management, and peace of mind for both buyers and sellers.
Susanna Mayberry, REALTOR® – Contact Me
ABR – Accredited Buyer’s Representative
CNE – Certified Negotiation Expert
GRI – Graduate REALTOR® Institute
SRS – Seller Representative Specialist
Learn more: Why Work With A Local Realtor
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are West End homes only for vacation use?
No. While many are second homes or rentals, a growing number of residents live in the West End year-round.
Which West End neighborhoods are most popular?
Pirates Beach, Jamaica Beach, Sea Isle, and Pointe West are among the most sought-after.
How far is the West End from Downtown Galveston?
Depending on the day of the week and events, expect a 15–30 minute drive to the Strand/Downtown.
Do all West End homes require flood insurance?
Most do, as the area is highly exposed to coastal flooding, but premiums vary by elevation and construction.
Can I dock a boat at my home?
Yes, if you purchase in a bayside or canal community like Sea Isle or Terramar Beach.
Coffee With Susanna
Let's discuss your real estate goals over coffee.
What Others Are Saying
Client Reviews
Roger Scott
Makerting Agent
Your Paragraph text goes Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem dolore, alias, numquam enim ab voluptate id quam harum ducimus cupiditate similique quisquam et deserunt, recusandae. here
Roger Scott
Makerting Agent
Your Paragraph text goes Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem dolore, alias, numquam enim ab voluptate id quam harum ducimus cupiditate similique quisquam et deserunt, recusandae. here
Roger Scott
Makerting Agent
Your Paragraph text goes Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Autem dolore, alias, numquam enim ab voluptate id quam harum ducimus cupiditate similique quisquam et deserunt, recusandae. here
Let's Talk
Get In Touch
Susanna Mayberry
Local Realtor
Disclaimer: All information contained on this website is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal notice susannamayberry.com believes all information to be correct but assumes no legal responsibility for accuracy.