Galveston is a dazzling summer destination along Texas’ Gulf Coast. With a famous pier, huge stretches of beach, and interesting history Galveston truly has a little bit of everything. If you’re looking for the ideal staycation in the United States this summer, Galveston is certain to delight. What’s more – it is also great for budget travellers!
Galveston is the name of the city, but the resort area stretches along the entirety of Galveston Island. We recommend staying in the city, but even then it’s important to get your bearings. Each neighborhood has something different to offer – so wherever is best for you depends on what you’re looking for.
Thankfully, we’re here to save the day. Visiting as a family? We’ve got you sorted. Prefer a couples retreat? We have that covered too. Just need a budget-friendly spot to rest up for a few days? Look no further! We’ve combined our personal experience with that of locals and travel experts to bring you the lowdown on where to stay in Galveston.
So, let’s jump right in!
- Where to Stay in Galveston
- Galveston Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Galveston
- Galveston’s Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Galveston
- What To Pack For Galveston
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Galveston
- Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Galveston?
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Not fussy on which neighbourhood you’re staying in? Central Galveston is quite compact, so all these properties are within walking distance of the historic district and the beach!
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
The Victoria House | Indulgent Family Home in Galveston
Airbnb Plus properties are hand-selected for their gorgeous design and excellent service! Despite its place in this prestigious category, the Victoria House is very affordable for those on a mid-range budget. With modern furnishings and tall windows, this stunning beach house lets in plenty of natural light. It can sleep up to 15 guests across three bedrooms – but smaller parties are welcome too.
The Tremont House | Designer Hotel in Galveston
Willing to splurge a little? Enjoy all the extra comforts of a hotel at The Tremont House! This four-star hotel gives you a little bit of luxury without going overboard on price. Rooms benefit from modern technology, and there are free shuttles to the ferry terminal. Everyone is welcome, but we think this is an excellent choice for couples and groups of friends.
Key West Style Home | Beachy Villa in Galveston
This All-American villa is located right on the beach! Just pop on your swimsuit and walk out the front door to the largest stretch of sand in Galveston. With two bedrooms, it is popular with families, groups, and couples – and the price isn’t half bad either. They also have bikes available for use throughout your stay.
Downtown
Downtown Galveston – also known as the Downtown Historic District – is where you will find some of the more traditional and cultural attractions.
East End
Like Downtown Galveston, the East End has its own Historic District. This neighbourhood is, however, far more laid back than its more central counterpart.
San Jacinto
San Jacinto is the hottest neighbourhood in town – with beaches stretching along the entire area! We think this is a great place for couples – but really, it would also make an excellent destination for groups of friends visiting the city.
Galveston’s Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Whether you want sunshine, history, or family fun – we have you sorted! Check out our top tips for where to stay – plus our favourite accommodation picks in each neighborhood.
Want to save money on accommodation?
Enjoy 20% OFF on stays ALL around the world.
#1 Downtown – Overall Best Place to Stay in Galveston
COOLEST thing to do in Downtown: hit up the best nightlife in Galveston on this epic bar crawl along the Strand.
BEST place to visit in Downtown: Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum has a fantastic exhibition about the history of the oil industry in Texas.
Downtown Galveston – also known as the Downtown Historic District – is where you will find some of the more traditional and cultural attractions. The waterfront in this neighborhood has plenty of monuments to the city’s past – as well as some great museums for the whole family to enjoy.
If this is your first time in Galveston, Downtown is a great starting point. History aside, it has excellent retail destinations and a vibrant culinary scene. The beach and the East End are only a short walk away, so there’s no need to worry about getting around.
Taking tours of Galveston Island? Most of them depart from the Downtown neighborhood. Even if you have your own car, this is one of the easiest neighborhoods to stay in for getting around. The bridges to Pelican Island and the Mainland are closest to Downtown. That being said, we reckon Jamaica Beach is an excellent day trip from the neighborhood.
The Tremont House | Elegant Hotel in Downtown
Condos are the most popular type of accommodation in Galveston – but sometimes you just need the added benefits of a hotel. That’s why we recommend the Tremont House for those with a slightly larger budget in Downtown. The lavish bedrooms have high ceilings, making them feel very spacious. Breakfast is included – saving you a little bit of cash along the way.
G Town | Quirky Tiny House in Downtown
Looking for something a bit different? This tiny house is a firm favourite with young couples and solo travellers! It has everything you need for a short stay and is well connected to the city centre. The Grand Theatre is a short walk away, and there are plenty of excellent tours departing from the neighborhood.
Central Hotel Lofts | Rustic Condo in Downtown
Bright and stylish, this apartment combines modern appliances with classic finishes. The Galveston Railway Museum is only a hop, skip, and a jump away – perfect for history buffs! There is a small patio area where you can soak up the Galveston sun over breakfast. It can sleep up to four but is also popular with couples.
Things to See and Do in Downtown:
- Keen to explore spooky goings-on? This walking ghost tour takes you to the most haunted spots in Downtown!
- Galveston Railway Museum isn’t just about transport; it’s also where you can learn about the fascinating history of the island.
- The Moody Mansion is a restored house from 1895 – they run regular tours throughout the year.
- Take a day trip to Pelican Island, Tiki Island or Virginia Point – all great for getting away from the bustling city atmosphere.
- Before heading out on the Strand, we recommend stopping in at the Historical Falstaff Brewery to sample some of the best beers in the city.
- Need to ease a hangover the next day? MOD Coffeehouse is an excellent café right in the heart of Downtown with chill vibes and tasty treats.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey#2 East End – Best Place to Stay in Galveston for Families
COOLEST thing to do in East End: head to Galveston Yacht Basin and hire a fishing vessel or yacht for the day.
BEST place to visit in East End: enjoy some peace and serenity at Corp Woods Nature Sanctuary – just a few minutes north of the East End.
Like Downtown Galveston, the East End has its own Historic District. This neighborhood is, however, far more laid back than its more central counterpart. This is where you’ll find chilled cafes and restaurants, with a more family-friendly vibe than other parts of the city. If you’re visiting with young children, in particular, this is the place to be!
Need even more peace and quiet? The Lagoon is right next to the East End and has plenty of stunning parks and coastal getaways. You won’t need to break the bank either! This is where the local student population live, so there are plenty of budget-friendly picks.
Victoria House | Luxurious Airbnb in East End
Indulge in some waterfront luxury in this stunning Airbnb Plus property. It comes with a huge double balcony where you can admire views across the national park at breakfast – or take in a mesmerising sunset in the evenings. There are three bathrooms in the apartment, giving adults a little bit of extra privacy. They also accept pets – so even Fido can enjoy the scenery!
Modern House | Spacious Family Home in East End
Only a few steps from Stewart Beach, this cosy little home is perfect for families heading to the area! It comes with three bedrooms, and a separate bathroom for the parents. The interiors are beautifully decorated to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. They also have space for two cars – great for larger groups.
Schaefer Haus Mansion | Traditional Bed & Breakfast in East End
Among the best-reviewed accommodations in Galveston, this B&B is a great alternative to hotels for those looking for something a bit cosier! Rooms are lavishly designed with classic furnishings. The high windows let in plenty of light and give you stunning views across Galveston. A breakfast buffet is offered every morning. Schaefer Haus Mansion also sits right next to the boundary with Downtown.
Things to See and Do in East End:
- Galveston Island Horse and Pony Rides offer fun for the entire family – with mounts to suit all weights and heights.
- East Beach is one of the more laidback resorts in Galveston – you’ll need a car, but it’s only a couple of minutes from the East End.
- Take a stroll through the East End Historic District and admire the old shop façades and the quirky boutiques behind them.
- The Original Mexican Café is a great way to sample the mixing of Texan and Mexican cuisines in the region.
- Rub elbows with locals at Kate’s Seafood Market – there is also a great restaurant next door with delectable seafood and gorgeous ocean views.
#3 San Jacinto – Where to Stay in Galveston for Couples
COOLEST thing to do San Jacinto: hit the beach! Stewart Beach is the most popular in the city, with plenty to do.
BEST place to visit San Jacinto: Galveston Seawall is not only an important historical attraction, but it’s also an excellent spot for a morning stroll with the camera.
San Jacinto is the hottest neighborhood in town – with beaches stretching along the entire area! We think this is a great place for couples – but really, it would also make an excellent destination for groups of friends visiting the city. San Jacinto is the beating heart of tourism in Galveston, and you’ll be spoiled for choice for things to do.
Aside from the beach, San Jacinto is also home to a carnival throughout the summer! The restaurants represent cuisines from across the world, and the bars stay open until late. We also really like the accommodation picks in this neighborhood – especially if you’re looking for a coastal condo.
The Captain’s Quarters | Idyllic Couples Accommodation in San Jacinto
The ultimate home for couples seeking a coastal retreat this summer, Captain’s Quarters is a self-contained unit right on the coast. You will have access to a private balcony with sunset views. Guests are also provided with bikes – perfect for a romantic cycle along the edge of the beach. Interested in history? This building dates back to 1921!
Kate’s Place | Historic Bayou Home in San Jacinto
Hitting the beach on a budget? Kate’s Place is great for those on a shoestring. This sunny little house comes with a well-equipped kitchen, meaning you can save some cash by opting to self-cater. It is a little bit more inland, but the beach is still within walking distance. This also means you’re slightly closer to the Historic District.
Key West Style Home | Dreamy Cottage in San Jacinto
We love this breezy villa! It can be found right by the largest beach – and the laid-back, fancy-free attitude continues inside. There is a small porch area where you can admire views of the sunset over a couple of drinks in the evening. Pleasure Pier is only a short walk away, meaning you’ll be right in the heart of the action during summer.
Things to See and Do in San Jacinto:
- Take a trip down the Galveston Coast towards the state park where you can enjoy a relaxing kayak tour at sunset.
- Ride the Texas Flyer at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Point – the late-night carnival right next to the beach.
- Rent a boat and go fishing or sailing!
- Ride a bike along the Galveston Seawall – we reckon Joy Bike Rental offers great value for money.
- The Bryan Museum hosts the most comprehensive exhibits of Texan history in the city – with artefacts from the pre-Columbian era right through to modern times.
- Is the theme a bit cheesy? Sure – but the steak at Saltgrass Steak House is unmissable!
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Galveston
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Galveston and where to stay.
What To Pack For Galveston
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Galveston
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Galveston?
Galveston is the ultimate staycation destination this summer! The Gulf Coast Sunshine ensures you’ll get to soak up some rays during your stay. The beach is vibrant and packed with things to do, while the City Centre is a must-visit for history buffs. If you only have a few days to take off, Galveston is a great place to pack it all in.
We love San Jacinto in particular! This is the main hive of activity during the summer – from Pleasure Pier to quieter stretches of sand. It’s also where you’ll find the best bars and restaurants after sundown.
That being said, all of these neighborhoods are within easy walking distance of each other. Where you choose to end up really depends on what vibe you want after a day of exploring the major attractions in the area.
We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your choices. If we missed anything, let us know in the comments!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Texas instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
