Sandy beaches, crystal waters and endless sunshine await visitors to Galveston, an island off the Texas Gulf Coast. The shore is the main draw, with plenty of activities for adventure seekers: kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and surfing to name a few. It’s ideal for nature lovers as well, with protected areas for migratory birds and state parks for hiking and mountain biking. Its historic pier, thrill rides and waterpark attract families seeking a fun family vacation.
Galveston has a variety of accommodations to meet the needs of those taking advantage of all the island city has to offer. Many visitors opt to stay in one of the many vacation condo rentals that line the shore. Available in all sizes and price ranges, condos are a good value for those seeking the comforts of home at a fraction of the price. Below are TravelMag.com’s picks for short-term beach condo rentals in Galveston.
From $120/ night
This 6th-floor condo rental features dramatic views of the Gulf coast. The outdoor balcony looks out onto miles of beach in both directions and guests can watch boats coming in and out of the harbor. Bird watchers can use the scope to view the birds flocking to the protected nature area. The corner unit studio unit sleeps four and has a Murphy bed and futon, a fold-up dining table and a fully-stocked kitchen. East Beach is quieter than other beaches in Galveston, and the complex offers a heated pool, tennis courts, shuffleboard and communal grills.
From $143/ night
On the bay side of Pointe West, this beachfront condo rental is ideal for active travelers. The property offers kayaks, bikes, a stand-up paddleboard, crabbing nets, boogie boards and a golf cart for guest use. The bay fronting the property is only 12–18 inches deep, making it ideal for families with young children. In fact, moms and dads will love that the unit offers a portable crib, high chair and well-equipped kitchen. The balcony has views of the surrounding waters, making for prime bird watching and fisherman can cast their lines right outside the door.
From $149/ night
This beachfront condo is all about location. It’s a few miles from Moody Gardens, Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Pleasure Pier. Its location on the 12th floor means clear views in all directions and the outdoor patio is ideal for watching the dolphins play, the boats pass by and the sun come up. The nautical-themed one-bedroom, one-bath condo sleeps four and features a king-size Tempurpedic mattress, copper sink and large walk-in closet. Guests can enjoy the complex’s tropical setting, private pool, barbecue area and tennis courts.
From $166/ night
This upscale two-bedroom, two-bath condo fronts the beach. The oversized outdoor balcony offers expansive Gulf views as do the floor-to-ceiling windows in the living and dining areas. The condo has a master suite with a king-size bed, a second bedroom with a queen-size bed, twin bunk beds and a sleeper sofa. The unit has been professionally decorated and offers everything expected in a vacation condo rental: a fully stocked kitchen, washer and dryer, and resort-style atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the oceanfront pool, hot tubs and outdoor grills. A pedestrian boardwalk leads beachgoers to the shore.
From $249/ night
This Pointe West vacation condo rental offers modern amenities and is close to the resort’s beach club. Guests have access to the infinity pool, lazy river, beach and miles of biking and hiking trails. The club also features a hot tub, children’s wading pool, fitness center, game room and picnic area with gas grills. The unit itself has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, one with a king-size bed, the other with two twins. The lanai has a view of the Gulf of Mexico and is a great place to unwind and watch the waves.