Gas Stations at Crystal Beach, Texas
Gas stations are scarce on the Bolivar Peninsula. Fill your tank before you get here. Here's where to find fuel and what to expect on prices.
Fill Up Before You Get Here
The Bolivar Peninsula has very few gas stations. This is not a place where you can cruise around on empty and expect to find a pump on the next corner. If you're taking the Galveston ferry, fill up in Galveston before you board. If you're coming via Highway 124 from the north, fill up in Winnie.
Running out of gas on the peninsula is a real inconvenience. There's no AAA truck waiting around the corner. Tow services exist but response times are slow. Save yourself the hassle and arrive with a full tank.
Gas Stations on the Peninsula
There are a handful of gas stations and convenience stores scattered along Highway 87 on the peninsula. They're small operations, and some of them close early or have irregular hours. Don't assume they'll be open at 10 PM when you realize you need fuel.
You'll find stations near Port Bolivar (close to the ferry landing), in the Crystal Beach area, and heading east toward High Island. But the spacing between them can be several miles. Keep your tank above a quarter and you'll be fine.
Expect Higher Prices
Gas on the peninsula costs more than the mainland. The remote location and limited competition mean prices are typically $0.20 to $0.50 per gallon higher than what you'd pay in Galveston, Winnie, or Houston. It's not outrageous, but it adds up if you're filling a big truck.
If you're driving on the beach a lot (which uses more fuel because of the sand), you'll go through gas faster than normal. Factor that into your planning. Fill up on the mainland when you can and use the peninsula stations for top-offs.
Other Supplies While You're at It
The gas stations and convenience stores on the peninsula also sell ice, snacks, bait, beer, and basic supplies. But the selection is limited and the prices reflect the location. Don't rely on them for your main grocery shopping.
If you're staying at a well-equipped vacation rental like Pickle Beach from Insane Stays, you'll have fridge and freezer space for ice and drinks. Stock up on the mainland and use the local stores only for the stuff you forgot or ran out of.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there gas stations at Crystal Beach, Texas?
There are a few gas stations on the Bolivar Peninsula along Highway 87, but they are limited. Fill up before the ferry in Galveston or in Winnie if coming via Highway 124.
Is gas more expensive at Crystal Beach?
Yes. Gas on the peninsula is typically $0.20 to $0.50 per gallon more expensive than mainland prices. Fill up before you arrive to save money.
What if I run out of gas on the Bolivar Peninsula?
Tow and fuel delivery services exist but response times are slow on the peninsula. Always keep your tank above a quarter. The nearest reliable fuel stops off the peninsula are Galveston (via ferry) and Winnie (via Highway 124).
Where to Stay in Crystal Beach
Most visitors to Crystal Beach stay in vacation rentals. If you want a property with a private pickleball court, game room, tiki bar, and fire pit that sleeps up to 15 guests, check out Pickle Beach by Insane Stays. Book direct and save 20% vs. Airbnb, Vrbo & Booking.com.
Planning a Crystal Beach Vacation?
Pickle Beach is a 5-bedroom vacation rental with a private pickleball court, game room, tiki bar, and fire pit. Steps from the beach. Pet-friendly.
View Pickle Beach