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Galveston, TX, has solidified its reputation as the state’s top beach destination with a rich history and stunning landscape, and rightfully so. Glistening waters and sandy beaches bring in thousands of eager tourists every year who are looking to taste the city’s spicy flavors and take a dip in the warm ocean.
Galveston, TX, was named after Bernardo de Gálvez, a colonial explorer and general from Spain. The city continued to thrive as a seaport into the 1800s. The European influence, mixed with the region’s Southwestern flair, can still be seen today in its architecture, culture, and food.
Located off the coast of mainland Texas and into the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston is packed with a range of exciting activities for everyone, including those looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a group retreat.
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Planning Tips
Galveston is an island city with easy accessibility via Highway 45 that connects the town to the Texas mainland. The nearest airports include The Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Houston Hobby (HOU), located in Houston. The two most affordable ways to reach Galveston are renting a car and driving or taking a shuttle bus from these airports.
Determining where to stay will depend on your group size and the activities that interest you most. The majority of parks, restaurants, and shops are along the northern sides and eastern coast of the island, so if you aren’t anticipating renting a car, you’ll likely want to stay within walking distance to these areas.
Although Galveston can be desirable to visit any time of year, the city is a popular Spring Break destination. This can mean potentially less availability at the top rental spots or your favorite restaurants, so keep this in mind when planning the specifics of your trip.
For more tips on planning and making your trip smooth and easy, check out the government’s website for visitors’ information or read through the Greater Than a Tourist – Galveston Texas USA: 50 Travel Tips From a Local (Amazon) guide book.
Best VRBO for Couples: Sun, Surf, Sea!
This stunning condo is situated in a developed resort. It comes fully-equipped with spectacular beachfront views, a communal pool, hot tub, and breathtaking interiors to make you and your partner feel like space was created just for you.
Decorated with stunning designs and complete with fresh linens, the property is complete with one private bedroom and a queen-size bed. You also have access to your very own private balcony, where you can relax together for a morning coffee or laugh together over a dinner you’ve created together in the condo’s full kitchen.
Things To Do Nearby for Couples
- For a romantic, candlelit dinner for two, check out the city’s most renowned restaurants, including Grotto Ristorante, which serves authentic and fresh Italian cuisine, or take a look at Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant for freshly-caught lobsters and scallops. The restaurants are also a short walk away from your property, so you’ll be able to reach them in time for your reservation or a quick lunch.
- You can dine along the shore and watch the sunset as you settle into a glass of wine and your loved one. For an unforgettable dining experience that emulates Galveston’s rich culture, check out Rudy & Paco Restaurant and Bar.
- After you’re nice and full, take a stroll through the city’s historic downtown, which offers beautiful nighttime views of the piers, a vibrant nightlife if you’re looking to dance and party some more, and an array of artisanal shops you won’t find anywhere else.
Best VRBO for Families: Private Lagoon Pool
This outstanding property is one you’ll have to drag the family away from – because they’ll love it so much! The entire house is all yours and comes with five bedrooms, sleeps 12, and three bathrooms so that everyone can have their own space and sprawl out simultaneously.
The kitchen contains all of the necessary appliances and enough bar and dining space for all of your family members, making it easy to cook for a hungry pack after a busy day of swimming. Laundry facilities are available inside the property so that you can keep everyone’s towels and gear clean.
There is also secure parking available on the property, a spacious exterior garden, and a grill for evening barbecues.
Things To Do Nearby for Families
- As your property is within 2 miles of Porretto Beach, you can also take the family for a stroll along Seawall Boulevard, where you’ll encounter one of the city’s top attractions, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. Complete with roller coaster rides, late-night snacks, and games, your kids will love stopping by the pier on an evening out.
- For a rainy day activity, consider taking the family to Escape the Island, the indoor escape room facility where you can solve riddles and puzzles together to beat the clock and make it out!
- When the family’s ready for a taste of Galveston’s finest, stop by Mama Teresa’s Flying Pizza. Known for their fresh dough and specialty pizzas, this place is excellent for families as there’s something on the menu for everyone!
Best Airbnb for Groups: By Pleasure Pier
Ideal for larger groups, this property contains nine beds spread across seven separate bedrooms where your party can spread out and get comfortable. The property has an old charm and natural, welcoming features that allow you to relax while conveniently providing all of the necessary amenities to have a fantastic group trip away.
There’s dining space for everyone, and it comes with a fantastic deck that extends across the back of the property and onto the private garden. You can entertain your guests by cooking out on the grill or hanging around the fire pit in the backyard.
The house is large enough for group dinners, team-building or bonding activities, and any other meetings or gatherings you have planned for the duration of your trip.
There are plenty of towels and linens provided for your group, so you don’t have to worry about sharing or overpacking. All you have to do is tell everyone where to be, and we guarantee you’ll love this property when you arrive!
Things To Do Nearby for Groups
- With all of the historic sites to choose from, Galveston has a large selection of museums and landmarks your groups can explore before heading out to your team-building activities or event. Take a tour to the Moody Mansion, one of the city’s top attractions with guided tours, or pick up tickets for a show at The Grand 1894 Opera House, where some of the latest shows stop in for a premier.
- When the time finally comes, the group can continue onwards to the big event as the property is only a short drive away from the area’s most popular venues. Pay a visit to the Waterfront Event Center and Galveston Island Convention Center at The San Luis Resort – where large conferences, expositions, and weddings are often held.
- If you’re planning on hosting a large-scale event in Galveston, be sure to check out Galveston Island Palms Outdoor Events and Parties, a venue known for its stunning views and ideal location.
Final Thoughts
For a beach holiday that your partner, family, or group will enjoy, Galveston offers a delightful combination of history, culture, and one-of-a-kind beaches. The city boasts amusement parks, museums, top-rated restaurants, and beach activities for all ages, making it perfect for anyone wanting a vacation location that provides it all.
A trip to Galveston will keep you coming back time and time again, where you’ll continue making memories like never before. So, don’t wait too long before making your way to Galveston!
