The ocean was calling our names this summer. I knew somehow, some way, we needed to make it to the beach. With a toddler and an infant, we knew we wanted to stay fairly close to home. The five-hour drive down to Galveston was the perfect solution! Despite a rainy forecast, our whole family had a blast! When planning family trips, I usually break things down into four categories: lodging, activities, free activities, and dining.
My best tips for a Texas family beach vacation to Galveston:
Where to Stay in Galveston
Beach Houses/Condos
We booked early this year with VRBO and were able to stay in a brand-new house within walking distance from the beach. There are several neighborhoods close to the beach with a variety of rental options. Our neighborhood even had a tasty restaurant, a playground, and a swimming pool.
Hotels/Motels
There are plenty of options when it comes to hotels and motels in Galveston. There are several nice hotels to choose from such as Holiday Inn and the Beachcomber, but if you plan on spending most of your time elsewhere, you can get a great rate at a motel right by the beach. If you plan on visiting Moody Gardens (see activities below), there is also an option of staying at the on-site hotel.
What to Do in Galveston
If your kids are like mine, they like to constantly be doing something. These kid-friendly activities in Galveston are sure to keep your little ones entertained.
Pleasure Pier
The Pleasure Pier is a beachside carnival with rides, games, restaurants, and shopping.
Schlitterbahn Water Park
If your crew gets tired of the salt water, a great place to check out is Schlitterbahn Water Park.
Moody Gardens
Another unique attraction is Moody Gardens: an interactive experience with two pyramids housing an aquarium and a “rainforest”, a children’s museum, and a 3D/4D movie theater.
Houston Aquarium
Although not technically in Galveston, it’s become a tradition in our family to stop at the Houston Aquarium on the way home. My daughter loved riding all of the rides this year!
Free Family Activities in Galveston
I’m all about vacationing frugally and seeking out free activities is a must, especially if you are going to be in town more than a few days. Luckily, there are plenty of free things to do in Galveston!
Galveston beaches
Best free activity of all? The beach! The possibilities are endless…our kids built sandcastles, “surfed” on their boogie boards, hunted seashells and crabs, and fed the seagulls.
Ferry ride
Another free activity is the ferry ride. It’s about a 20-minute trip and you might even catch a glimpse of a dolphin or two!
Galveston State Park
Although there is a $5 charge for adults, admission is free for ages 12 and under. If you enjoy being outdoors, this place is for you. Galveston State Park is a great place to hike, swim, kayak, fish, or just check out all of the beautiful ocean wildlife and scenery. The beach side area of the park (south of FM 3005) is closed to all visitation until 2022 due to renovations. The bay side (north of FM 3005) is open.
Sightseeing
I always like to plan at least half a day of sightseeing on our family vacations. Galveston has tons of neat old buildings and museums. Some favorites include Bishops Palace, the Moody Mansion, the seawall, downtown Galveston, the Galveston Railroad Museum, and the Bryan Museum.
Where to Eat in Galveston
I don’t know about anyone else, but I’m the type of person who plans their days (and trips) around their meals. Our family was especially excited for some fresh seafood!
Jimmy’s on the Pier
Jimmy’s on the Pier came highly recommended by several friends and it did not disappoint. With beautiful views of the ocean and delicious seafood and American favorites, it’s a great place to relax and grab a bite to eat at the end of a long day at the beach with some ceviche or a Bloody Mary.
Joe’s Crab Shack
Our kids enjoyed eating here because they have a playground. It was a great place to grab a bite to eat and get the wiggles out after a five-hour road trip.
Rainforest Cafe
Another family favorite is the Rainforest Cafe, an interactive dining experience with a great gift shop.
If you’re dying to get to the beach, but want to stay close by, a great place for a Texas family beach vacation is Galveston.
