Over the course of three days in Galveston, you’ll get to know the island’s meandering trails, spend hours spotting exotic birdlife, and bask in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. No matter what you choose, there is plenty to do during your three-day adventure. Let the itinerary below be an inspiration for your trip to this little Texas barrier island!
This story was created in partnership with Visit Galveston.
DAY 1: Get on Island Time With the Beach, Sun, and Downtown Fun
MORNING
After arriving at one of the nearby international airports in Houston, make your way to your three-day home-away-from home: Galveston Island, Texas. You’ll immediately sense the change of pace as you cross the causeway!
The key to Island Time is to sync your body with the island’s natural rhythms. You’ll soon discover there is a pace and a place for every visitor. First, head to your beach of choice for some sand and salt air. Take advantage of rental opportunities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or even jet skiing. It’s easy in Galveston, where beachfront businesses like SUP Gulf Coast or Celebrity Jet Ski Tours and Rentals make being active a breeze.
Pro-tip: For an all-inclusive beach experience, kick back on East Beach. Join in a game of beach volleyball, lounge under a pre-set umbrella and beach chair, or simply go for a swim in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Plus, this is the only Galveston beach where you can purchase and consume alcohol.
AFTERNOON
After washing off all the sand, head to the Galveston’s Historic Downtown District. Here, the streets are lined with boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and local watering holes—all within a six- block radius. Enjoy numerous coffee shops, a variety of live entertainment, and historic architecture throughout.
Pro-tip: If your three days in Galveston are Thursday-Sunday, be sure to hop a ride on Galveston’s vintage steel wheel trolley for $1!
EVENING
Then, dig into dinner at one of Galveston’s many eateries. From family-friendly options to romantic waterfront establishments, there is something for every palette. In fact, the island was once the nation’s second largest immigration port and is home to many international cuisines. But it will always be famous for its fresh gulf seafood!
Pro-tip: Katie’s Seafood House offers fresh off-the-boat fish and shrimp. Their market next door also allows you to purchase just caught seafood to prepare a home-cooked gulf coast meal, if desired.
After you’ve had your fill, it’s time to check into your lodging for the next two nights. From historic bed and breakfasts to unique vacation rentals, waterfront RV parks, and well-known hotel brands, there are plenty of ways to stay in Galveston to suit all accommodation styles.
Pro-tip: Consider basing your stay at the opulent Grand Galvez, the only historic full-service beachfront hotel on the Texas Gulf Coast, or alternatively the modern and luxurious San Luis Resort.
DAY 2: Experience Galveston’s World-Class Birding and Fishing
MORNING
Rise with the sun on day two to go birdwatching. Galveston is an incredible location for winged wildlife thanks to its location on the trans-Gulf migration route. With a variety of habitats such as beaches, wetlands, grassland, and woods, it’s suitable for advanced birders and novices alike. East End Lagoon Nature Preserve offers nearly 700 acres of protected land. Hike along their short half-mile nature trail—binoculars in hand—or opt to kayak the lagoon’s waters. Otherwise, Laffite’s Cove Nature Preserve has a charming raised boardwalk where you can spot anything from Glossy Ibis to Blue-Winged Teals.
Pro-tip: Bring your guidebook to help identify each unique species!
AFTERNOON
That afternoon, embark on a fishing trip. Whether you’re looking for a top-rated deep-water sportfishing experience or you simply want to enjoy a family-friendly casting trip, Galveston is a great place to reel one in. Depending on where you go, you might just land a trout, mahi-mahi, or even a marlin!
If fishing isn’t your style, opt instead for a guided boat tour. Galveston’s many outfitters offer historic harbor tours, dolphin watching trips, and even free ferry rides.
DAY 3: Hike Galveston Island State Park and Take In Some History
MORNING
On your third day on the island, discover the hiking trails and boardwalks of beautiful Galveston Island State Park. Here on the west end, you can: swim, fish, picnic, bird watch, bike, kayak geocache, study nature, or simply put your toes in the sand and relax.
AFTERNOON
End your adventure in Galveston with one of the many guided and self-guided tours that showcase the island’s beauty, history, and resiliency. One of the most popular is the Juneteenth freedom walk, a free self-guided tour. As the birthplace of Juneteenth, Galveston Island encourages everyone to learn the history. Another great self-guided option is the tree sculpture tour, which invites visitors to stroll through the East End Historic District and marvel at Galveston’s beautiful historic homes. The tour features sculptures created by artists who transformed the neighborhood oak trees destroyed by Hurricane Ike into beautiful works of art.
After three days in Galveston, you’re sure to feel rejuvenated and inspired to book your next beach vacation. Perhaps you’ll even return to Galveston for an upcoming festival, now that you’re an island time pro.
