In my guide I am going to share the best of Galveston. Galveston Island was known as the “Playground of the South” – a tourist destination with attractive beaches, convenient location, high-traffic port and numerous attractions. Galveston brings many visitors to this charming historic beach town on the Texas Gulf Coast. It is a romantic island tucked deep in the heart of south Texas. It is located 40 miles south of Houston and has become a popular year-round destination. Galveston has the largest and most well-preserved concentrations of Victorian architecture in the country. It is home to 32 miles of beaches, a wide variety of family attractions, museums, restaurants, shopping, and outdoor activities including kayaking, diving, deep-sea fishing, birding, golfing, beach volleyball, and so much more. Galveston has festive events going on almost every weekend to include the 3rd largest Mardi Gras celebration in the country, the Galveston Island Food & Wine Festival, Brewmasters Craft Beer Festival and the Galveston Island Wild Texas Shrimp Festival. The holiday’s in Galveston are full of charm with unique events such as Dickens on The Strand and Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens. You can also find out all about the nearby beaches here.
Galveston Weather (When to Go)
The best time to visit Galveston is October to November or March to April when the weather is warm, but not sweltering, and accommodation prices are reasonable. Winter is the best time to score a deal on your accommodations, but it will likely be too chilly to enjoy Galveston’s beach activities. The months that span May and September constitute Galveston’s long summer season, where lodging rates, tourism and temps are at their peak. October – November is the best time to visit Galveston. With average highs that fall from 80 degrees in October to the lower 70s in November, fall is a lovely shoulder season in Galveston. The moderate temps are perfect for both days at the beach and leisurely self-guided tours of the historic properties, restaurants and shops in The Strand district. The winter months that span December and February are some of the best times to find deals on your accommodations, but keep in mind that some of the outdoor attractions around town will shutter for the season. These months see high average temps hovering in the 60s.
Early spring is another delightful time to visit Galveston. Average temperatures, which range from the lower 60s to the lower 80s, aren’t at their summertime highs. Plus, April is the month to witness the annual spring bird migration. Still, keep in mind that spring breakers descend on the island on school breaks, so you might see an uptick of families and groups of college students this time of year. Summer is a long season in Galveston, which stretches from May – with high average temps in lower 80s – to September – with high averages temps in the upper 80s. All of that heat draws Houstonians to Galveston’s beaches, which can make for crowded conditions on the sands and at various other attractions. Summer also sees the highest prices on accommodations.
Best Galveston Area Beaches
Babe’s Beach
Babe’s BeachBabe’s Beach is the best beach in Galveston, but not simply for its beach activities. The historic seawall has historic markers along the path giving significant in the founding of Texas. Across from the street from the beach is filled with restaurants, bars, gift shops, and even a few tattoo parlors.
.
.
Stewart Beach
Stewart BeachStewart Beach is a family-oriented beach with shallow and calm waters as well as on-duty lifeguards. On the beach, you’ll find several volleyball nets and rental chairs and umbrellas. Wash away the salt and sand at the onsite shower facilities.
.
.
Crystal Beach
Crystal BeachCrystal Beach is a long calm beach where automobiles, golf carts, and RVs are free to travel the shoreline. Pitch a tent above the high-tide water line and enjoy the stars. The beach is pet-friendly and the packed sand makes it a great area for a morning run.
.
.
East Beach
East BeachEast Beach is the go-to beach for the party crowd. It’s the only beach on the island that alcohol is allowed and sold. There are multiple volleyball courts and horseshoe pits. The wildlife is also quite active here and if you’re a birdwatcher, there are several species here to see.
.
.
Pocket Park 1
Pocket Park 1Pocket Park 1 is a quiet and friendly beach that allows parking on the sand and is away from the main crowd. Visitors are welcome to bring a pop-up awning, unfold some chairs, and throw some Texas-style BBQ on the broil. Its 7.5-mile length of shoreline gives plenty of room for sporting activities such as horseshoe tossing, Frisbee, and kickball. The beach has onsite restroom facilities, but no restaurants close by.
.
Best Galveston Restaurants
BLVD Seafood $11 – 30
What to look for on their NEW menu: New items include: Tuna poke, Oysters the BLVD. way (always changing), AND Exotic game (always changing and made their way!). Lunch Menu Items: PBJ sliders, soft shell crab tacos, Caribbean tacos, blackened shrimp tacos, Mediterranean tacos, and Asian tacos. Telephone: 409-762-2583 Web: BLVD Seafood.
Miller’s Seawall Grill $11 – 30
Miller’s Seawall Grill serves fresh seafood, breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and blue plate specials, all with a view of the Gulf! Their full menu is available all day. Telephone: 409-763-8777 Web: Miller’s Seawall Grill.
Rudy & Paco $31 – 60
When visiting Galveston Island, you simply can’t miss the Island’s most unique dining experience, Rudy & Paco. Rudy & Paco features grilled seafood and steak with a South and Central American sabor. Relax and unwind with your favorite cocktail while enjoying delicious Antojitos. Rudy & Paco is located next door to The Grand 1894 Opera House, and is a great choice for pre-show dinner specials. Telephone: 409-762-3696 Web: Rudy & Paco.
Shearn’s Seafood & Steaks $31 – 60
Shearn’s Seafood and Prime Steaks is the premier destination for fine dining in Galveston. Their restaurant features floor-to-ceiling views of the Gulf waters. Shearn’s is one of only 11 Houston/Galveston area restaurants to receive AAA’s Four Diamond Award of Excellence, and it has won it each year since 2004. Executive Chef Felipe Gonzalez crafts his signature Gulf dishes, including his Shrimp Dejong and Lobster Bisque. Shearn’s Lounge, the bar outside the restaurant, has spectacular views of the Moody Gardens Pyramids and sunsets over Galveston Bay. Telephone: 409-683-4554 Web: Shearn’s Seafood & Steak.
Shrimp & Stuff $11 – 30
Shrimp n Stuff, known for affordable and delicious seafood dinners, po-boys, gumbos and salads, has been an island mainstay since it opened for business in 1976. The ‘locals’ have supported their reputation for value, freshness and flavor. “They have people visiting Galveston who come in and say they wish they would have found Shrimp n Stuff the first day they arrived in Galveston, ” the manager says. Telephone: 409-763-2805 Web: Shrimp & Stuff.
Best Galveston Beach Bars
Ocean Grill & Beach Bar
Ocean Grille & Beach Bar is a coastal seafood restaurant with an exciting, chef-driven menu, inspired beverage program, and incredible views of the Gulf. They are dedicated to providing an exceptional dining experience to the residents and visitors of Galveston Island. You can relax on their casual Gulf front patio with one of their signature cocktails, delicious appetizers and awesome flatbreads. Telephone: 409-974-4508 Web: Ocean Grill & Beach Bar.
Huli Huli Hut
Get food and drinks Island Style! Huli Huli Hut is a bright, Hawaiian-style restaurant serving lunch and dinner with a full bar in a beautiful tropical setting. They have a large menu of great specialty drinks. Telephone: 409-443-5525 Web: Huli Huli Hut.
Beerfoot Beach Bar
Beerfoot Brewery is your stop for fantastic craft beers while looking out on Galveston’s historic Seawall Boulevard! Combining a one-of-a-kind venue with the latest in specialty beers, Beer Foot is THE place to enjoy beers of all kinds. Telephone: 409-762-BEER Web: Beerfoot Beach Bar.
Nick’s Kitchen & Beach Bar
Nick’s is serving up the freshest seafood, juiciest burgers and fattest po’boys on Galveston Island! With the best beer selection on the seawall, the freshest ingredients, live music and an ideal seaside location, you’ll want to take the bait and get hooked. Telephone: 409-761-5502 Web: Nick’s Kitchen & Beach Bar.
Daiquiri Time Out
There is always time for a daiquiri. Even in the face of catastrophic emergency, in which life or death actually depend on immediate action, there is still…. always time for a daiquiri. Telephone: 409-497-2760 Web: Daiquiri Time Out.
Best Galveston Texas Hotels
Great details about Galveston…I can’t say I have ever considered going before, but equally I wasn’t aware of how much it had to offer. The post has definitely tempted me given how informative you have been. Thanks
I lived in Texas for 10 years, and Galveston is just one of those places, along with South Padre and a few others that Texans visit for the beach. You would enjoy a visit here. Thanks for taking the time to leave comments.
Very interesting and informative post. I like to travel and the Galveston Island with its content attracts my attention. When I travel I love the historical attractions what Galveston can offer. When I think of where I should run away from winter and snow from my country, Galveston is one of the desirable destinations. Thanks for the excellent post.
You are welcome and yes, Galveston is a great choice! Texas hospitality is great and you would really enjoy yourself. Thanks for visiting our Galveston Texas Travel Guide.
I was station in Lackland Texas during my basuc training,it was beautiful as well.But I don’t think it compare to Galveston. This is very well written, with lots of imagery making it very easy to visually see yourself there,enjoing,the beautiful beeaches,historic downtown,and the many colorfuf attractions.
Very thorough travel guide of Galveston Texas
Thanks Orlando and glad you enjoyed your digital vacation to Galveston :D. Thanks for visiting and come back again!
Hi, Leahrae… “Playground of the South  Oh this title is surely tempting me to make a move over there. I like the idea of a weather chart that shows the temperature of the location throughout the year. It’s so awesome visually! However, I’m kind of tight in budget. So, I’d prefer to stay in a budget hotel and I’m looking for this type of hotel in Galveston Island, Texas. Thank you for sharing this awesome destination by the way. XD
You are so welcome! It really is a great place and you can find a hotel to fit any budget. Texas is a lot more budget friendly than other locations 🙂
Hi Leahrae. I wish I found your post a bit earlier. In that case I would have been found in Galveston Texas, enjoying my life and sights. I really wish to see the dolphins some day. They are my favorite animals. Is there something to do in Galveston during the winter? Thank you for your reply.
Well Nikola, I am glad you found my site and the post on Galveston! We have actually been to the beach in the winter. The weather is still nice. The water can be a bit chilly but refreshing! You can take boat tours, see the dolphins, fish and play around on the beach, as well as enjoy the great many restaurants and bars.
Hello,
Thank you for this nice recommendation. Galveston Texas seems to be awesome. You know I´m a big fan of beaches. It seems to be very hot in Galveston in August so I might consider to travel there in the summer.
Thank you for this lovely written article.
P.S.: My favorite animals are dauphines, just another reason why I have to visit this place.
Galveston Texas is awesome! On top of the nice beaches, there is a lot to do and a lot in the area to include more wonderful Texas Beaches 🙂
Leahrae,
Thanks for the Galveston Texas Travel Guide in such details. It looks like a vacation getaway for the entire family. My kids will enjoy the Baywatch Dolphins Tours and diving will be the wife and I favorite.
I took a look at a Galveston travel guide before but never thought it covers such vast amount of activities and events. I will discuss this with the wife and look to make this as one of our next vacation.
Thank you for the information, will be sharing this site with family and friends. Take care and all the best.
Cheers.
Thank you Bishop! I am glad you enjoyed reading my Galveston Texas Travel Guide. The whole area has a lot to do and of course, really nice Texas beaches!
What a comprehensive guide on Galveston. Perfect. My husband is going over there for business, so I thought I would take the kids and we could entertain ourselves in the day.
This article is perfect, I can plan my itinerary right from here. There is loads to do, I am surprised. I wasn’t sure about the trip before..
You will have fun Ruth! Galveston and the whole area has a lot to offer, on top of having great Texas beaches. Thanks for visiting!
Very well written, and very extensive as well.
I never was to Texas before, and didn’t look at it like a good place for travelers, but I might have to change that opinion for myself.
I love how you mashed up together your experiences and general info, the personal touch was very appealing in my opinion.
Keep up the good work!
Thank you Vlad! Texas really does have a lot to offer, on top of the wonderful Texas beaches! Glad you enjoyed!
Galveston sounds like a great place to spend a vacation/holiday. I have been to Texas but never had the chance to visit this beautiful beach.
Great information you have provided with respect to lodging, restaurants, bars and more. My kids will love the dolphin tours.
Are there other beaches in Texas other than the one in Galveston?
Oh yes, we have lots of beaches down in that same area. You can visit them at http://beachtraveldestinations.com/category/best-beaches-of-texas They are all pretty awesome! I am glad you enjoyed reading the Galveston Texas Travel Guide!
Rockport beach is such a nice place for visit. I also spent really awesome time with my few family members during my holidays. I really enjoyed there hiking and boating. I captured many incredible views of nature beauty in my camera. In my point of view it is a best place for having fun. I will love to explore this alluring destination again and again in my future life.
Rockport Beaches and the whole area is amazing. I hope you and your family can visit again soon. Thanks for visiting the Galveston Texas Travel Guide.
I love the images that you have at the beginning of your post, they really get your attention which is great.
This has really helped to draw me in to read about Galveston, which I didn’t realise was on an island.
I thought that Galveston was just an industrial port city and not much else happens there.
But you have changed my perception very quickly, I wasn’t aware that it is a tourist playground and that you can do quite a few things there if you want to.
I like how you have explained all the activities that tourists would be interested in such as tours, restaurants, bars and hotels.
This is a good post, thank you Leahrae.
You are very welcome Adrian. Yes, I get that a lot…many do not think that we would have great beaches right here in Texas! Good thing I live here and I tend to be a huge beach bum! Galveston is a fun place to go. A lot of atmosphere and a lot to do for the entire family.
Nice article about traveling topics. I would like to see more pictures about the Galveston Island. It sounds very interesting to make a tour during August to live all those amazing experiences watching the baywatch dolphins. I would like to know which hotel can you recommend me from your list described?.
Thank you for reading. It really depends on your budget. For a good mid-range, and rated good, I would probably suggest the Hilton Galveston Island Resort. It’s budget friendly, but also more of an upscale hotel with an awesome pool and great location. August is a great month as it is still really warm, and the water is a good temperature.
Hi Leahrae,
Thanks for the in depth travel guide . I didn’t realize that Texas has such nice beaches. I’m planning a trip to the United States next year and after reading your article I think I’ll have to visit Galveston. Do you have any idea how much I should budget for Midrange travel? The Baywatch Dolphin Tours seems like something I’d want to do with my family.
You can get a very nice hotel for under $90 a night, and if you stay a week, then you will find weekly deals as well. I wouldn’t worry about getting a hotel right on the beach, because everything is close! Yes, the Dolphin Tour is a must as the kids will really enjoy….heck I enjoy it! Thanks for visiting the Galveston Texas Travel Guide.
I live in Texas, and I love going to the beach. However, the closest beach is 13 hours away from me so it’s usually a minimum week-long vacation when we go to a beach. We have been to Corpus Christi, Galveston, Port Arkansas, and have ultimately found the PERFECT beach get-away in Rockport. I like casual, non-touristy places to stay at when I escape the hustle and bustle of the city life. Galveston was really fun and I agree with the recommendation for the Chilaca Mexican Grille–especially the shrimp fajitas! I also recommend taking some baby powder to the beach. I love the beach but don’t really want to take it home with me or get sand in my car–baby powder has worked great for our family to rid ourselves of the sand when wash stations are too crowded or out-of-order. Have you ever tried baby powder to get rid of the sand or have a better alternative for keeping the sand at the beach when a day of play is over? Have you ever tried Fulton Beach or crabbing using a chicken leg, string, and crab net? It’s not for everyone, but you can make some AMAZING homemade crabcakes. Thank you for sharing your recommendations and for giving me some more places to visit when we are in the Galveston area again.
Hi Shawna, I have never tried baby powder and my truck has sand in places I cannot get to, LOL I agree about Rockport beach. It’s a nice area. I sometimes like the crowd and people watching, and all that goes with that. But, it is nice to escape all that as you say. And I had not been to Fulton Beach! New destination for us to go to for sure. I don’t have nearly as long of a drive as you, about 4 hours or so. I have not tried crabbing, or anything like that….only in Alaska. I bet the crab cakes are amazing! Thank you so much for taking the time to read all about Texas beaches 🙂