The delightful island city of Galveston on the Gulf Coast of Texas is a perennially popular destination with both locals and visitors from farther afield. Most who come here gravitate towards its sandy beaches, but there are also plenty of inland attractions too. Indeed, Galveston is home to six historic districts containing one of the largest and most historically significant collections of 19th-century buildings in America.
When it comes to accommodation in Galveston, there’s a wide range of options available, with something to suit every budget and taste. If it’s a resort style property you’re looking for, then we’ve done some digging and picked out 5 of the city’s most charming. We hope you find our selection useful.
Hilton Galveston Island Resort
From $311/ night
Part of the renowned Hilton hotel chain with properties across the world, this 4-star resort is just a minutes’ walk from Seawall Urban Park, where most of Galveston’s beach activity takes places. The large guest rooms feature a tropical décor and come with a flat-screen TV, coffee maker, and iPod docking station. Hotel amenities include an outdoor pooled flanked by tropical trees, a gymnasium, a business centre and a gift shop where you can pick up mementos and souvenirs. As for eating options, there’s an on-site restaurant serving all-day food and outside there’s a bar and grill where you can enjoy poolside cocktails. The Galveston Island Convention Center is located next door to the resort.
The San Luis Resort Spa & Conference Center
From $223/ night
Also within moments of the Seawall Urban Park, this upscale resort combines a desirable location with some top class amenities. Among them are three on-site restaurants, including a fine dining eatery, a full-service spa where guests can indulge in massages, facials, body scrubs, wraps and hydrotherapy baths, a high-tech gym, and a tropical outdoor pool with a poolside bar. All guest rooms come with a flat-screen TV, an iPod dock, a coffee-machine, a desk and free WiFi. Pleasure Pier, an old-fashioned waterfront amusement area, is two miles from the resort.
Holiday Inn Club Vacations
From $354/ night
Just seconds from one of Galveston’s beautiful sandy shores, this mid-range resort is home to a large number of self-catering suites, each with their own kitchen, living room, sofa bed, and TV and DVD player. Some also have a balcony with stunning views over the Gulf of Mexico. Elsewhere in the resort, there’s a heated outdoor swimming pool, a gym and a hot tub, all of which are freely available for the use of guests. There’s also free WiFi in all areas. Galveston’s Historic Strand Entertainment District is about a 20-minute drive away.
Hotel Galvez and Spa
From $310/ night
Located a few minutes; drive from the centre of Galveston, this resort is one of the city’s most popular thanks to its convenient position and charming features. There’s a full-service spa, an outdoor heated pool, a fitness centre, a business centre and an on-site restaurant specialising in grilled dishes, including meats and seafood. Guest rooms are furnished in classic style and come equipped with a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee-making facilities, a work desk and ironing facilities. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. The Port of Galveston, with its bustling docks and wharfs, is a quick drive away.
Baymont by Wyndham Galveston
From $230/ night
Our final recommendation is this 3-star resort, where you’re certain to get value for money. As well as being a touch cheaper than the options listed above, there’s no shortage of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a dining room where continental breakfasts are served daily. There are also vending machines selling snacks and drinks throughout the day. As for the guest rooms, they are a good size and feature a flat-screen TV, microwave and refrigerator. Seawall Urban Park is within easy walking distance and downtown Galveston is a 10-minute drive away.