First, a bit about Moody Gardens. If you've never been, Moody Gardens is an aquarium, rain forest, hotel 4-D theater, and more rolled into one attraction. There are two attractions/events that are done seasonally - Palm Beach in summer and the Festival of Lights in winter. The other attractions alone, in our experience, are worth a visit to Moody Gardens.
And now, Palm Beach.
Palm Beach opens in May of each year. It is a man-made beach complete with sand, beach chairs, and (of course) water. If, like us, you haven't been in a while, you will note that there is still an area for smaller children, but there is now also a wave pool, a large water slide, lazy river with tubes, a splashpad, and more.
What I like most about Palm Beach is that it is removed from beach crowds and traffic. It's easy to simply park in the lot, walk up, pay your admission, find a spot for your things, and go have fun. I will admit that it's a splurge, but the experience was memorable for my family.
Other notes:
- Locker rentals are available for storing belongings.
- Life vests can be borrowed at no charge.
- No outside food and beverages are allowed. Palm Beach has a concession area.
- You can leave, then return.
- Chairs are first come, first served. Cabana rentals are available.
- Special events and concerts are often planned inside Palm Beach. See Moody Gardens' site for a complete schedule of events.
Palm Beach is located inside Moody Gardens. Moody Gardens is located at One Hope Blvd. in Galveston. Admission is $23.95/adult and $18.95/child or senior.
