As the closest beach town to Houston, Galveston has long been the go-to for those of us searching for a coastal getaway. Whether you’re spending the day by the beach or going all out for a staycation, here are the top 10 things to do in the Galveston area.
Best beaches in Galveston
1. East Beach
Charles Barkley be damned, the beaches in Galveston are a good time. The island town’s most popular beach is East Beach. Situated on the eastern edge of Galveston, East Beach features a boardwalk, pavilion, and concert stage. Concessions, amenities, and restrooms are all available in the area. Alcohol is also permitted on East Beach.
193-199 Seawall Blvd.
2. Stewart Beach
If you’re wanting to spend a beach day with a family, Stewart Beach is probably your best bet. Named among the “10 Best Beaches for Families” by Family Vacation Critic, the beach features a volleyball court, giant Jenga, and cornhole, as well as all other necessary amenities. Stewart Beach is located at the intersection of Broadway and the Seawall.
Galveston, Texas 77550
3. Surfside Beach
A little further southwest in Freeport, visitors can also get a more action-packed beach experience with better surf, as well as rental options for jet skis and kayaks.
101 Parkview Rd., Surfside Beach, TX
Galveston attractions
4. Kemah Boardwalk
Every day, the Kemah Boardwalk welcomes visitors of all ages with a delightful array of attractions. Situated a mere 20 miles away from downtown Houston, this lively destination and amusement park boasts a variety of enjoyable experiences for everyone.
With its scenic waterfront, visitors can indulge in delectable dining at charming restaurants, revel in exciting amusements, explore delightful retail shops, and partake in frequent festivals and entertaining seaside performances.
215 Kipp Ave, Kemah, TX 77565
5. Galveston State Park
Galveston Island State Park, which underwent several enhancements and repairs before reopening the previous year, covers a vast area of 2,000 acres from the beach to the bay. Within this expansive space, visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, offering excellent chances for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
The park also boasts numerous trails that wind through marshes and dunes, providing a picturesque and adventurous experience for nature enthusiasts. For overnighters, Galveston State Park is the only beach in Galveston where you can actually camp on the beach.
14901 FM3005, Galveston, TX 77554
6. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
This Gulf Coast destination offers waterfront fun and entertainment unlike anything else on the coast. Among the family-oriented attractions at Galveston Island’s Historic Pleasure Pier are rides, games, and shows.
2501 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
7. Explore Moody Gardens
The Moody Gardens hotel, spa, and convention center is home to a wide swath of attractions across 242 acres that the whole family can enjoy. Populated with a rainforest, aquarium, museum, theaters, zip line and ropes course, there’s endless entertainment to be had at Moody Gardens.
Furthermore, the venue features multiple theaters, a paddlewheel boat, and Palm Beach waterpark where visitors can enjoy access to Galveston’s only white-sand beach.
1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554
8. Take a Trolley
The trolley, which charges only a single dollar for adults, has routed seven stops across Galveston’s Downtown Loop, a Seawall route, as well as stops from Moody Gardens, Stewart Beach, and Schlitterbahn. The trolleys pass each stop half hour. Guests must pay in cash only, drivers cannot make change.
Multiple locations
9. Peruse the Maritime Museum
The recently remodeled Texas Seaport Museum tracks Galveston’s nautical history of commerce and immigration. The museum is also home to the historical tall ship ELISSA.
2200 Wharf Rd., Galveston, TX 77550
10. Schlitterbahn Waterpark
Whether you want to chill or get your thrills this summer, Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston offers everything from mild to wild. Packed with high speed slides, water coasters, raft rides, pools, as well as cabanas, swim-up bars, and areas for the little ones, you get everything and more at Schlitterbahn. Daily passes start at $39.99.
2109 Gene Lucas Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554
Best bars and restaurants in Galveston
11. The Rooftop Bar
Located in The Tremont House historic, luxury hotel in downtown, Galveston, The Rooftop Bar is a local staple that features high-class cocktails and breathtaking views of the downtown area and harbor.
2109 Gene Lucas Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554
12. Daiquiri Time Out
The vibrant Galveston cocktail lounge in Galveston’s Historic District mixes us a vibrant array of island-style libations. Whether you’re seeking something classic, something seasonal, or just some shots: Daiquiri Time Out is the place to wet your beak.
2701 Market St., Galveston, TX 77550
13. The Proletariat Gallery and Public House
Located at the site of the first opera house in Texas, The Proletariat Gallery the collaborative community space and exhibition house where artists and aficionados gather. In addition to exhibiting an array of visual and performing arts, the working class hang also features a fully-stocked bar to get those creative juices flowing.
2221 Market St #100
14. Tookie’s
Hop in the van and ride out to Kemah for Tookie’s Hamburgers. Founded in 1975, Tookie’s Hamburgers is a nod to the drugstores and soda fountains of a time since past. Styled in vintage decor and Americana ambience, Tookie’s is known for their classic menu and super-sized beef patties hamburgers made fresh daily.
406 Texas Ave #2845, Kemah, TX 77565
15. The Spot
The Spot is an “Island Famous” beachfront bar and restaurant in Galveston. Here patrons can enjoy from a savory assortment of burgers, fresh seafood, and hand-dipped onion rings. The massive, two-story hut and patio parades all things tropical, not limited to five venues, a sideyard for beach games, and a tiki bar capable of serving 100-ounce Piña Coladas and margaritas.
3204 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550