Houses & Vacation Rentals in Galveston

The town of Galveston is located approximately 50 miles south of the major transit hub of Houston, Texas. Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport has scheduled flights to a large number of domestic and international destinations. Houston Hobby Airport is located slightly closer to Galveston Island and is served primarily by Southwest Airlines. Vacationers arriving in Houston by air have the choice of renting a car for the short drive to Galveston, or traveling to your Galveston vacation rental by shuttle service or bus. Galveston is a highly walkable town, although visitors that are traveling with kids or interested in exploring the area around Galveston are better off hiring a vehicle.

1. Fish Tales

Relax on the restaurant balcony with views out over the Seawall. Try the unique seafood options such as Shrimp Kisses, which is shrimp wrapped in bacon and stuffed with jalapeño-jack cheese.

2. Mosquito Cafe

This local favorite has a warm atmosphere and delicious food options like pecan-crusted brie or Baja-style fish tacos.

3. Gaido's

A restaurant that opened in 1911 and has been serving the people of Galveston ever since. Famous for their Creole crawfish fondue and seafood gumbo.

4. Cajun Greek Restaurant

This place has something to please everyone on their menu. Delicious options include seafood stuffed jalapeños and fried catfish.

5. Leon's Barbeque

Head to Leon's for some truly authentic Texas-style BBQ. The prime beef brisket sandwich and sticky ribs have made this a local favorite.

1. Explore The Strand

The historic town center is where Galveston's Mardi Gras celebrations take place. You'll also find Victorian buildings containing restaurants, bars and curio shops located within easy distance from your Galveston vacation rental.

2. Check Out the Silk Stocking National Historic District

Located conveniently between Broadway and Seawall Boulevard, the area is enjoyable to explore on foot and contains a large collection of homes built between the American Civil War period and World War II.

3. Walk Along Galveston's 61st Street Fishing Pier

The 61st Street Fishing Pier isn't only about fishing, although you'll find an abundance of tackle shops there. It's also a great place to take in the ocean views with a drink and a snack in hand.

4. Enjoy Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark

Family fun is guaranteed at Schlitterbahn Galveston Waterpark, where you'll find rides, slides and tubes suitable for children and adults of all ages. Get in touch with your inner child!

5. Go Wild at Moody Gardens

There are lots to see and do at the Moody Gardens theme park including aquariums, water park with slides and lazy river, high ropes course, 3D theater and indoor rainforest.

6. Discover Bishop's Palace

The Victorian mansion of Bishop's Palace opened to the public in 1963, and visitors can now enjoy the stained glass windows, intricate interior design and luxury furnishings including a solid silver fireplace.

7. Visit to the Seawall

If you want some fresh air outside of your Galveston vacation home, visiting the Seawall is a great option for biking, blading and enjoying an ice cream with a beautiful view of the Gulf of Mexico.

8. Take the Ferry to Port Bolivar

For an enjoyable ride, take the ferry between Galveston and Port Bolivar for the chance to see dolphins swimming alongside the ship and beautiful sunset and sunrise views. As a bonus, the voyage is free of charge!

Galveston is a hot spot for art and culture in the southern United States. Galveston Arts Center offers a rotating exhibition of contemporary art with a particular focus on Texan artists.

The center is also the organizer of the famous Galveston ArtWalk, which takes place every sixth Saturday. The walk promotes the town’s visual art community through guided walks in the town’s historical districts, highlighting artwork in existing commercial galleries and cafés along the way. It is a unique way for visitors in Galveston to experience the heart of this vibrant community.

Another popular cultural destination to visit during your stay in your Galveston vacation home is the Bryan Museum. The museum is home to an extensive collection of historical artefacts from the island and from across Texas.

1. Stewart Beach

A family-friendly beach with lifeguards, restrooms, chair rentals, and a playground. Sandcastle building lessons and other activities are offered during the summer months.

2. Galveston Island State Park

This is a peaceful place away from the crowds and with all the amenities you could need. Enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and birdwatching at this beach.

3. Beachtown Development

A favorite beach for locals that allows dogs to run free and has a nice cafe on the side. The beach is safe for swimming and has rental beach huts for when you want to relax.

4. Pirates Beach

A quiet and safe beach close to a number of beach rentals. There are often sea turtles nesting along this particular stretch of shoreline.

5. San Luis Pass

This beach has very calm waters due to the shape of the bay and miles of golden sand. There are restrooms and picnic facilities available.

1. Mardi Gras

This traditional Mardi Gras has been running for over 100 years. Book your balcony tickets in advance to get the best view of the parades and to really be a part of the party. After the parade, head to one of the many live music venues to dance the night away. The event normally takes place in February.

2. County Fair

Celebrate all things country and the life of a cowboy at the County Fair and Rodeo. Listen to the best artists in country music every night and during the day watch the rodeo and eat traditional food from the vendors.

3. Spring Break

Head to Galveston for spring break with friends or family. There are plenty of exciting events that take place during spring break such as St. Patrick's Day celebrations, Schlitterbahn Waterpark hosts a festival throughout spring break, and Moody Gardens provides family-friendly fun at the aquarium.

4. Galveston Island Wine Festival

This event takes place in April each year and brings together all the best wineries from around Texas. Food vendors provide some of the best cuisine in Texas. If you are still feeling energetic, you can take part in the 5-kilometer run that is part of the weekend's celebrations.

5. Greek Festival

In October, celebrate all things Greek by tasting the best Greek cuisine, drinking Greek wine, and dancing to live musical entertainment.