Galveston Island is the perfect place to extend your cruise vacation with amenities and attractions minutes from the harbor. With most cruises departing between 4 and 5 p.m., you can easily add some fun to your cruise vacation!
TRAVEL TIP: Arrive a few days early and check-in at any of the island hotels that offer port shuttle services and free parking during your cruise when you book at least a one-night stay.
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast in the East End Historical District at Sunflower Bakery & Cafe. It’s worth your time to stroll through the district after breakfast to admire streets lined with classic Victorian homes painted in the most interesting color ensembles and complemented by well-manicured lawns and gardens. Throughout the district, one can take a self-guided tour of elaborate Galveston Tree Sculptures carved from Oak trees ruined by Hurricane Ike in 2008.
A trip to Galveston isn’t complete without touring through the “Broadway Beauties,” including the breathtaking 1892 Bishop's Palace and the 1895 Moody Mansion. Step back in time to explore the history and stunning architecture of these fabulous homes.
When you arrive, spend the morning exploring the many attractions surrounding the Moody Gardens complex. Moody Gardens is home to three pyramid-shaped buildings that feature a live rainforest replica with free-roaming animals, a gigantic aquarium and an interactive Discovery Museum. Outside of the pyramids, you can walk through botanical gardens while deciding whether to splash at Moody Gardens’ Palm Beach water park or hit the green at the Moody Gardens Golf Course. For lunch, there are a variety of dining options located on the Moody Gardens property, including their Garden Restaurant, Cafe in the Park and Shearn's Seafood and Prime Steaks.
After Moody Gardens, make your way to the beach! The afternoon is the perfect time to enjoy sparkling gulf views with the sand between your toes along Galveston Island’s 32 miles of beaches.
Stewart Beach is Galveston’s premier family-friendly beach park, named as one of the “10 Best Beaches for Families” by the Family Vacation Critic. Stewart Beach, located near where Broadway meets the Seawall, has all the amenities you need for a day of family fun at the beach.
Located at the far eastern tip of the island, East Beach is home to a pavilion, boardwalk and entertainment stage as well as restrooms, showers, chair and umbrella rentals, children's playground, concessions and other amenities. Unlike most of Galveston’s beaches, alcohol is permitted at East Beach.
On Day 1, spend the morning and afternoon cooling off and lounging at Schlitterbahn Waterpark on the west side of the island.
Dinner options along the Seawall are endless with many offering breathtaking views of the gulf at sunset. The Spot is a fantastic local venue easily recognizable due to its gigantic palapa roof. Here, you can eat, relax and watch the waves crash on the shore. For a more formal option, dine at the iconic Gaido's Famous Seafood Restaurant and don’t forget to try their famous pecan pie. After dinner, take a walk to Murdoch's charming gift shop, ride a surrey bike along the Seawall or take part in a game at Magic Carpet Golf!
For the next morning, see the itinerary above for “Half Day in Galveston.”
For more than 20 years, Katie’s Seafood Market has provided the highest quality seafood to Galveston locals and visitors. In September of 2019, Katie's husband, Buddy, opened Katie’s Seafood House right next to the store. The market supplies the restaurant with its fresh seafood, which is a unique attribute among restaurants and takes each dish to the next level. Stop in for a delicious shrimp platter and enjoy a house cocktail next time you in Galveston!
