Galveston, Texas, a vibrant barrier island just 50 miles southeast of Houston, is a destination that blends sun-soaked beaches, rich history, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway, a deep dive into Texas history, or thrilling outdoor adventures, Galveston has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to help you plan an unforgettable trip to this Gulf Coast treasure, known as the “Playground of the South.”
Galveston Island, stretching 30 miles long and up to 2.5 miles wide, offers 32 miles of Gulf Coast beaches and a thriving cultural scene. With over 7 million visitors annually, the island is a hub for tourism, boasting a bustling cruise port, diverse dining, and attractions.
Stroll through Galveston’s historic heart, where iron-front buildings house eclectic shops, restaurants, and galleries. Known as the “Wall Street of the South” in the 19th century, The Strand offers a mix of history and modern vibrancy. Don’t miss La King’s Confectionary for old-fashioned sodas and candies. Also visiting Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a carnival-style pier over the Gulf with thrilling rides, games, and stunning ocean views.
Staying and Going Out.
I stayed at a typical beach hotel DoubleTree by Hilton Galveston Beach with a great view of the ocean and easy access. It also had a nice restaurant for breakfast and a Tiki Bar with a swim-up bar for the evenings. Going out had a lot of choices; my trip included the following.
- Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant: A Galveston institution since 1911, serving briny Gulf. oysters and fish tacos with Tex-Mex flair.
- Miller’s Seawall Grill, great traditional seafood with a great ocean view seating.
- La King’s Confectionary, the chocolate is fabulous.
- MOD Coffeehouse, great coffee with beautiful outdoor sitting.
- Havana Harbor Cigars, a great place to have a whiskey and cigar.
- Drunken Monkey, a cute little local bar.
Getting Around
By Car: I drove from San Antonio, TX so, the most convenient way to explore, especially for reaching beaches or attractions, was by car.
Parking: Varies by area; check galvestontx.gov for parking info near The Strand or beaches. I used an APP that is easily accessed for parking in the town.
Other methods.
Island Transit: Galveston’s bus system covers downtown and the Seawall but stops early evening, so plan for taxis at night.
Trolley Buses: Connect downtown to the Seawall, with stops at key attractions.
Best Time to Visit
My vote would be for Spring (March–April) or Fall (October–November): Mild weather (high 60s to low 80s) and lower accommodation costs make these ideal seasons.
Plan Your Trip
Galveston is a year-round destination with a mix of relaxation and adventure. For more details, visit galveston.com or visitgalveston.com to request a visitor guide. Whether you’re building sandcastles, savoring Gulf shrimp, or stepping back in time, Galveston promises memories that last a lifetime.
