Galveston Island: A Dog-Friendly Coastal Getaway
There is nothing like a cool ocean breeze flowing through your hair, tasting the salt air on your tongue or feeling the sand between your paws.
That’s right, Galveston isn't just for humans. It is the perfect vacation destination for our furry four-legged friends, and there is an activity to suit every pup-persona.
Pamper Your Pets
Dining Options
There are dozens of island eateries that offer pet-friendly patios. Some options to look into include Mosquito Cafe, Maceo Spice & Import Company, Mario's Seawall, Star Drug Store, Yaga's Cafe and many more! Give your favorite restaurant a call and see - they're likely to offer it.
Dogs are welcome at all beaches as long as they stay on a leash.
Dog Parks
Kempner Park
With its abundance of shade trees and lush foliage, Kempner Park is a dog lover’s paradise. Dogs of all sizes and breeds can be seen frolicking at the park, home to the octagonal Garten Verein (Garden Club), which was the center of 19th-century refined social life Galveston.
Galveston businessman Stanley Kempner bought the site in 1923 and donated it to the city as a public park dedicated to his parents. In 1998, the Kempner Fund provided a $1 million restoration grant for the iconic pavilion.
Lindale Dog Park
There’s much fun to be had at Lindale Park, known for its ballpark and tennis courts – and its popular dog park. There, tails are wagging as dogs of all sizes and breeds get together for some canine socialization inside the fenced enclosure. Lindale Park is a city-owned park open to the public.
Menard Park Dog Park
From its prime location at 28th and Seawall Boulevard, Menard Park is one of the island's most popular parks. It is home to the Jonathan M. Romano Skate Park, McGuire-Dent Recreation Center, and the Menard Park Dog Park. You’ll usually find friendly dogs there throughout the day. The park also has tennis courts, picnic areas and a pavilion. Menard Park is ADA accessible, and admission is free.
Historic Downtown & East End Historic District
From shopping to dining to sightseeing—you and your dog can spend all day strolling down historic downtown Galveston and the East End Historic District. Shop till you drop at stores like Surf Styles, Luna, Strand Brass and Christmas on the Strand, Hendley Market and more! Want to commemorate your trip to Galveston with your furry best friend? Stop in Buster’s Old Time Photo for a photo souvenir. Take advantage of pup-perfect patios like Taquilos on Postoffice Street or Stuttgarden on The Strand.
You and your dog can howl along to live music and share a slice a pizza at Sharky’s Tavern located just a few blocks off The Strand.
Waterfront
There is nothing like enjoying a cool breeze off the water in Galveston Bay. Whether the wind is blowing through your hair or your dogs, the views from these spots will have you both drooling. At Katie's Seafood, you and your doggo can watch freshly caught seafood make its way from the harbor to the kitchen on their oversized deck overlooking the bay. At the Marina Bar & Grill, not only do you get stunning views of the harbor and Port of Galveston—but your pup can order from their dog menu that has everything from doggy beer to dog-inspired meals.
Are you looking for some adventure? Be sure to check out Baywatch Dolphin Tours. Your dog can ride for free on this cruise that visits dolphins in their native habitat. The 45-minute tours are held on a boat with a covered interior, and the boat (which has no propeller) is designed to keep the dolphins safe. Your dog will love the sights and sounds of Galveston Bay, and may even get an up-close look at a friendly dolphin!
West End
The West End is a vacationer's paradise. Beach or bay, there is plenty of fun in the sun for you and your dog. Many of the vacation rentals to choose from that are dog-friendly. Are you spending the day on the boat? You can pull it into restaurants like Waterman's or The Sandbar Grille in Sea Isle for a drink and a nice meal or order to-go and continue on your boating adventure. Are you looking to stay on land? Head to Galveston Island Brewery for a cold BOI (Brewed On Island) beer or hit a few golf balls at Tin Cups Caddy Shack.
Stop by SUP Gulf Coast located on the beach just west of the Historic Pleasure Pier between 29th and 25th street. You and your dog can have it made in the shade in a chair and umbrella set or hang ten on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP). You can even book a private SUP lesson for you and your furry friend.
Ready to chow down? The Seawall has a ton of options. You can grab a light bite to eat from the Mediterranean-inspired Kritikos Grill.
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