Heading to the Galveston coast is a popular spring and summer pastime for many throughout Texas. As we emerge from a year-long pandemic, families and friends are eager to hit the beach and enjoy time outdoors. Galveston Island’s beaches offer the perfect getaway for those seeking respite. And, the beach is just the beginning.
Here’s a look at what you can enjoy in Galveston this season:
Beach Parks
Galveston is an ideal family getaway in part because of the convenience and amenities offered at its beach parks. While Seawall beaches are open year-round, the island’s largest public beach parks – Stewart Beach and East Beach – open seasonally. The 2021 beach season kicked off in March, offering a variety of special amenities. Visitors to the beach parks can take advantage of restrooms, showers, beach chair rentals, volleyball courts, snack bars and other concessions, including horseback riding and helicopter tours. For more information, visit www.galvestonbeachinfo.com.
Fun Fact: Alcohol is permitted at East Beach Park. It is prohibited elsewhere on the beaches.
Beach Safety
While you’re at the beach, having fun should be a priority and so should beach safety. The award-winning team at the Galveston Island Beach Patrol safeguards the island’s visitors along Galveston’s 32 miles of beaches. Beachgoers are urged to follow these safety tips:
- Avoid rip currents – Stay away from rock jetties and piers
- Swim near a lifeguard
- Never swim alone
- Do not dive in headfirst
- Obey warning signs and flags
Fun Fact: Every day, the Galveston Island Beach Patrol raises flags that signal the condition of the water. To learn the meaning behind each flag’s color, visit www.galvestonbeachinfo.com.
Road School
A trip to Galveston can enhance hands-on learning experiences during this time of remote learning. At this historic beach town, your student will gain information about immigration, the maritime industry, nature, the coastal environment and more. The Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau has compiled a guide that includes lessons about Galveston’s historical places, immigration experiences and The Great Storm of 1900. The site shows you how to prepare for your visit and offers activities to reinforce lessons after a visit.
Fun Fact: Activity sheets can help kids pass the time during a road trip to Galveston. Download them here: www.galveston.com/galveston-for-homeschools/
Remote Work Options
With thousands of beach houses and vacation rentals available on Galveston’s 32-mile coast, booking a remote stay – for working or learning — may be closer than you think. If you’re looking for a vacation rental, the island offers everything from beachfront mansions and waterfront condos to historic cottages and luxury high rises.
Fun Fact: If you’re more of the resort sort, you can choose among seaside, bayside or downtown hotels (from historic to modern) to make your island getaway special.
Family-Friendly Events
In-person special events are back! Galveston Island has the perfect festival line-up for your post-spring, break pre-summer fix. Gorgeous weather will set the scene for foodies, families and fans of feathered friends to gather on the Island for festival fun and fare. Some notable upcoming events include Galveston FeatherFest, April 15-18; the Grand Kids Fest, May 1 and the Galveston Island Historic Homes Tour, May 1 & 2 and 8 & 9.
Fun Fact: Be sure to be here May 15 for the Galveston Island Beach Revue. Watch contestants model vintage-inspired swimwear that echoes the “good ole days” of Galveston’s summertime history.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Whether you’re a thrill seeker or someone who loves learning about the world around us, Galveston is home to several attractions that will fit your style. Moody Gardens is home to an aquarium, rainforest and discovery pyramid featuring rotating educational exhibits. The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier juts out over the Gulf and features more than a dozen rides, plus midway games. Schlitterbahn Galveston Water Park is a great way to stay cool! The park features more than 35 other rides for visitors to enjoy.
Fun Fact: You can save up to 40% on attractions when you take advantage of the Galveston Island Pass. Details can be found at www.galvestonislandpass.com.
Girlfriends’ Getaways, Bro-cations Options
Sharing some Island Time with your family is always fun. It’s fun to celebrate with your best buds, too! When it comes to a girls’ or guys’ trip, Galveston has it all. Foodies will revel in the fresh flavors from the coast at the many locally owned restaurants. Cocktail connoisseurs can sip drinks at local breweries, beachfront and rooftop bars. Fun bonding activities include surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing, golfing, birding and more.
Fun Fact: Bring your friends aboard a harbor tour and see who spots the dolphins first!
About Galveston Island
Galveston Island is a historic beach town located on the Gulf of Mexico just 50 miles from Houston. The island is best known as a vacation destination, offering 32 miles of beaches, a variety of family attractions, Texas’ premier cruise port and one of the largest and well-preserved concentrations of Victorian architecture in the country, including several National Historic Landmarks. Galveston Island is home to popular amusements such as Moody Gardens and Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark, as well as a variety of museums and recreational activities from surfing to birding. For more information on Galveston Island visit www.galveston.com or call 1-888-GAL-ISLE.