Galveston proper there isn't much to get sandy on. You need to head east across the Boliver Ferry (fun little ride if nothing else, lots of cars crammed on a boat...) or head West to either Surfside or Quintana beaches.

Unfortunately I won't be able to make it down south from H-town... I'm heading north to the big "D" to watch some flat land cars go around in a bean shaped oval called Texas Motor Speedway! ;-)

 

The Toyota Trail Team Event a while back was at Crystal Beach, just a ferry ride away East from Galveston and lots of sand to drive on. There's a Galveston beach (Stewart Beach, I believe) that is also a big drive-on beach.

See this map:

http://www.galveston.com/maps/map.pdf

 

You can go onto some dunes and beach area just before San Luis Pass bridge. Going away from Galveston, take the last exit before you are committed to going over the bridge. The short feeder road will lead you into the area.

 

Hit up Crystal Beach on the Bolivar Peninsula. You will need a parking permit to actually park on the beach (it's like $10).

Texas sees beaches the same as it sees roads. The vehicle must be street legal. Also, no driving on vegetation. Basically, try not to tear anything up.

 

thanks for the info and the map. i see stewart beach is right down the street from where her place is. And the ferry over to Crystal beach seems fun.

 

If you're coming in through I-10, you can go through Winnie straight to the peninsula. It'll save loads of time if you are heading to Galveston, that is unless there is a 3hr wait for the ferry.