About Bolivar Peninsula
Bolivar Peninsula is a coastal community in Texas located just east of Galveston Island along the Gulf of Mexico. With its 27 miles of beautiful beaches, vibrant community, and numerous activities, Bolivar Peninsula is a popular destination for fishing, birding, beachcombing, and simply relaxing at the beach. There is something for everyone on the Bolivar Peninsula.
Are you looking for a relaxing weekend or a vacation filled with family fun? Rent one of the many beach houses located here. Do you enjoy fishing? Though Rollover Pass, a local favorite fishing spot, no longer exists, the North Jetty, about two miles from the ferry landing, is a renowned spot for catching fish. It is also a great place to go crabbing with the kids. Surf fishing or guiding bay fishing are also very popular. Birdwatching is always a popular activity here because there are over 100 species of migratory birds such as egrets, heron, and roseatte spoonbills.
Check out the Point Bolivar Lighthouse during your visit. It was built in 1872 and guided seamen on their journey for 61 years. This lighthouse survived the infamous storms of 1900 and 1915 and even managed to make an appearance in a 1968 movie called “My Sweet Charlie”, which starred Patty Duke. Although the lighthouse is privately owned and not open to the public, it is a very popular photo opportunity. And hop aboard the Galveston-Bolivar free ferry for a trip across the bay. Park at the ferry landing and walk on for the round trip and a chance to see dolphins, huge oceangoing vessels, and maybe even a cruise ship leaving port.
While much of the area was impacted by Hurricane Ike in 2008, Bolivar has experienced significant growth and repopulation in recent years. Beautiful new beach homes are going up regularly. And restaurants and businesses have been rebuilt and are thriving.
Bolivar Peninsula was named in honor of Simon Bolivar (1783-1836), a freedom leader fighting to free South and Central America from Spanish rule. The area is rich in history including associations with infamous pirates such as Jean Lafitte. It is also where Jane Long, known as “The Mother of Texas”, gave birth during the brutal winter of 1821 while her military husband was away on a mission. Hwy 87 was renamed ‘Jane Long Memorial Highway’ in her honor.
Bolivar Peninsula is made up of five communities: Port Bolivar, Crystal Beach, Caplen, Gilchrist, and High Island.
More information about some popular activities can be found below:
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