Why Go to Galveston
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Galveston is the Texas coast's favorite escape. This barrier island sits about 50 miles southeast of Houston, so it's a go-to getaway for anyone craving a Gulf breeze. It's also one of the busiest cruise ports in the country, with Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Disney sailing from here to Mexico and the Caribbean.
There's plenty to enjoy beyond the beach and the cruise terminal. Stroll the East End Historic District to admire grand Victorian homes, then browse the shops and galleries along The Strand. Explore the island's museums and dig into fresh Gulf seafood. With wide beaches, water parks and family-friendly attractions, Galveston is an easy and affordable trip for all ages.
Cruising from Galveston? Spend a night on the island before you sail. You'll avoid the stress of a same-day drive and get to enjoy the town. I'll book your pre-cruise hotel, parking or transfers so embarkation day is easy.
BEST FOR
Cruise travelers, families, beachgoers and history enthusiasts
BEST MONTHS
March to May and September to November
EXPLORE
The Strand anchors the historic downtown near cruise terminals; the Seawall faces Gulf beaches; East End has historic homes, and the west end offers quieter stretches of coast.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Galveston
North America › Southwest › USA › Texas
Victorian streets, Gulf breezes and a 10-mile seawall on Texas' favorite island.
Beach & Resort
Cruise
History
Family
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Sailing from Galveston? Arrive a day early. You'll avoid stressful Houston traffic on embarkation day and get an extra day on the island.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Visit at sunset, when the pier lights up over the water.
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
An amusement park on a pier over the Gulf, with roller coasters, rides, games and restaurants.
Buy a day pass to see all three pyramids.
Moody Gardens
A family resort with three glass pyramids housing a rainforest, an aquarium and a science discovery center.
Visit during Dickens on The Strand in December for a festive experience.
The Strand Historic District
A historic district of beautifully restored Victorian buildings filled with shops, restaurants and galleries.
Take the guided tour, including the basement-to-rooftop tour.
Bishop’s Palace
A stunning 1892 Victorian mansion, one of the finest examples of its style in the country.
A great stop for families and train lovers.
Galveston Railroad Museum
A museum with vintage trains and railroad history in a historic depot.
A historic 1911 beachfront hotel known as the "Queen of the Gulf," with Gulf views.
Grand Galvez
East End / Seawall Boulevard
Hotel Tags
A historic boutique hotel in the Strand District, with elegant rooms.
The Tremont House
Historic Downtown / Strand District
Hotel Tags
A resort on the Seawall with a pool, spa and Gulf views.
The San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center
Midtown / Seawall Boulevard
Hotel Tags
A family-friendly hotel next to Moody Gardens, with pools and easy access to the pyramids.
Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center
West End / Moody Gardens
Hotel Tags
A boutique hotel on the harbor, steps from the Strand and the cruise terminals.
Harbor House Hotel & Marina at Pier 21
Historic Harbor / Pier 21
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Galveston
High 71°F · Low 59°F · Rain 4.1 in
The Lone Star Rally brings motorcycles and music to the island.
The best times to visit Galveston are March through May and September through November, when the weather is warm and pleasant. Summer is hot and humid, and hurricane season runs June through November. Winter is mild and quiet.
Best Times to Visit Galveston
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Galveston's food scene is all about fresh Gulf seafood, Tex-Mex and laid-back beachside eats.
- Seafood: Try Gulf shrimp, oysters and red snapper at seafood restaurants on the Seawall and harbor.
- Historic dining: Enjoy dinner in a Victorian building in the Strand District.
- Must-try: Gulf shrimp, oysters, fried catfish and a Texas-sized dessert.
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Bikes & Surreys
Bikes and surreys are great for riding along the Seawall.
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Taxis & Rideshares
Taxis and rideshares are available, especially for cruise terminal transfers.
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Rental Cars
A car is the easiest way to get to Galveston and explore the island.
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Galveston Island Trolley
The trolley connects the Strand District with the Seawall.
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Cruise Port
Galveston's cruise terminals are at the harbor near the Strand, an easy ride from island hotels.
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Flying In
Houston's William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is about an hour away, and George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) about 90 minutes away.
Most visitors fly into Houston and drive to Galveston, about an hour away. Once you're here, the trolley, bikes and rideshares make it easy to get around, and the cruise terminals are close to the Strand District.
Getting Around Galveston