Looking for beachfront resorts or hotels in Galveston, TX, with direct beach access and relaxing amenities for the perfect romantic or family vacation?
Fortunately, this article will help you find the best hotels on the beach in Galveston, TX, with a balcony.
Beauty, sand, and surf await those who visit Galveston Island.
Found in the southeast corner of Texas, this island is home to some of the most pristine beaches along the Gulf Coast.
All you want is to be able to sit on the beach and enjoy the ocean breeze.
1. Holiday Inn Club Vacations Galveston Beach Resort, an IHG Hotel
When you visit the Galveston, TX, area, make sure to book your stay at this convenient hotel.
It’s quite close to the historic Strand Entertainment District and Pelican Island.
The hotel offers a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and spacious suites with free WiFi.
All suites come with a kitchenette or full kitchen and provide a living room with a sofa bed and TV.
Select rooms offer a balcony with stunning views of the Gulf Coast, overlooking miles of beautiful beaches.
And there are also villas with a private hot tub in the bathroom, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
More info: Holiday Inn Club Vacations Galveston Beach Resort, an IHG Hotel
2. Courtyard by Marriott Galveston Island
Courtyard by Marriott Galveston Island doubles as a resort and is conveniently located on the beach.
It’s less than 5 minutes from Moody Gardens and Schlitterbahn Waterpark.
As a guest at the hotel, you can enjoy drinks at the outdoor bar or by the fire pit, room service, and premium channels from the in-room entertainment system.
And take a quick break with a cup of coffee and a newspaper, or get your morning workouts in at the on-site fitness center.
Some rooms come with wonderful ocean views.
The on-site Bistro serves breakfast in the morning and light meals during the evening hours.
More info: Courtyard by Marriott Galveston Island
3. Holiday Inn Resort Galveston – On The Beach, an IHG Hotel
Located on the beach, this comfortable hotel offers spacious rooms with private balconies and top-notch amenities.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Moody Gardens, and Pleasure Pier are all within a 10-minute drive away.
Holiday Inn Resort Galveston offers the perfect stay for travelers. Rooms have flat-screen cable TVs, microwaves, and coffee makers.
The beachfront resort also has outdoor pools and a variety of on-site attractions, like the sports court and fitness center.
The on-site restaurant serves American cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and the on-site nightclub offers drinks, dancing, and live music on select days.
The hotel also offers free shuttles for guests to attractions within a 6 miles radius.
More info: Holiday Inn Resort Galveston – On The Beach, an IHG Hotel
4. DoubleTree by Hilton Galveston Beach
One of the best hotels on the beach in Galveston, DoubleTree by Hilton offers an outdoor pool, on-site bar, and restaurant.
All of the rooms offer free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and a mini-refrigerator.
For guests who would like to enjoy the view from their accommodations, select rooms with a balcony and views of the Gulf of Mexico.
When you stay at our hotel, you’ll enjoy modern amenities like a fitness center, gift shop, and laundry facilities.
The famous Inverness by the Sea Golf Course is just 10 minutes away.
Other nearby attractions include the historic Strand District and Moody Gardens’s Aquarium.
Multiple cruise ship terminals can also be found within driving distance from this hotel.
More info: DoubleTree by Hilton Galveston Beach
5. Holiday Inn Club Vacations Galveston Seaside Resort, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Galveston Seaside Resort is a fun-filled vacation spot on the Gulf Coast.
This beachfront resort offers everything you need for a relaxing stay, including comfortable accommodations, great amenities, and superb service.
The spacious rooms are perfect for families or groups. Some rooms feature a kitchenette or kitchen, making it easy to prepare meals and snacks. The resort also has an on-site restaurant, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without having to leave the property.
The amenities include an outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and game room.
And if you’re looking to explore the area beyond the resort, there’s plenty to do in Galveston Island, from fishing and boating to visiting the historic seafood district.
More info: Holiday Inn Club Vacations Galveston Seaside Resort, an IHG Hotel
6. Hilton Galveston Island Resort
Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Hilton Galveston Island Resort is home to all-day dining, breathtaking tropical landscapes, and an outdoor pool with sun decks.
Your stay includes a coffee maker, satellite TV, and a compact refrigerator in the room.
Guests can request evening room service as well.
Some rooms offer a balcony overlooking the ocean. The resort also has a fitness center, free WiFi, and an on-site gift shop.
The on-site restaurant serves Caribbean-inspired dishes alongside American cuisine. At the on-site bar and grill, you can enjoy lighter fare or poolside cocktails.
More info: Hilton Galveston Island Resort
7. Quality Inn & Suites Beachfront
With a location directly across from the deliciously clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll get a wonderful view at Quality Inn & Suites Beachfront hotel.
Within driving distance of Galveston Convention Center and Moody Gardens (not to mention all the other amazing attractions), this comfortable gem is waiting for you.
Not only will you be treated to a room with a private balcony, high-def flat-screen televisions, and free Wi-Fi, but the hotel also provides 24-hour front desk service, a fitness center, and laundry facilities.
And don’t forget about the indoor swimming pool, on-site dining options, and complimentary toiletries in the room.
The Port of Galveston cruise terminal is less than 2 miles away too.
More info: Quality Inn & Suites Beachfront
8. Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Galveston Beach, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Express & Suites is one of the best hotels on the beach in Galveston that offers beachfront accommodations with plenty of amenities.
Take advantage of the outdoor swimming pool, the 24-hour front desk, the fitness center, and free WiFi to finish tasks while on vacation.
For a comfortable and spacious stay, choose between a variety of family rooms, all with a desk, a flat-screen TV, and a bathroom.
All guests have access to an American breakfast buffet.
The hotel is located less than a mile from the Seawall Urban Park.
More info: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Galveston Beach, an IHG Hotel
9. Grand Galvez Hotel
On the Gulf of Mexico, just 5 minutes from downtown Galveston, this luxurious resort features stunning views of the water, a full-service spa, and an outdoor heated pool.
Grand Galvez also has a restaurant and bar where you can enjoy champagne brunch or delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
Rooms come equipped with a desk for working, a modern flat-screen TV, and an iron and ironing board.
Rooms with city or ocean views are available as well as a business center and a fitness center.
More info: Grand Galvez
10. The Victorian Condo/Hotel
Located oceanfront, The Victorian Condo/Hotel offers a private beach area and accommodation with air conditioning.
You’ll also find a swimming pool, a garden, a tennis court, and an outdoor hot tub on-site as well.
The air-conditioned units are equipped with a living room, a fully-stocked kitchen, a patio, views over the ocean or the pool, and parquet floors.
This aparthotel offers a barbecue, a business center, and free private parking.
If you want to explore the area around the property, snorkeling, cycling, and canoeing are possible.
More info: The Victorian Condo/Hotel
11. Galveston Beach Hotel
If you’re looking for affordable hotels on the beach in Galveston, TX, with balconies, then the Galveston Beach Hotel is a place to consider.
For your convenience and relaxation, the hotel provides an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a 24-hour front desk, and a fitness center.
The hotel has family rooms as well.
Talking about travel-friendly service – the hotel’s continental breakfast is stocked with fresh bakery items every morning.
Luckily, this budget-friendly hotel is less than a mile from Seawall Urban Park.
All rooms feature air conditioning, private bathrooms, bed sheets, and towels and some rooms have a private balcony.
More info: Galveston Beach Hotel
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FAQs
What is the best part of Galveston to stay? ›
- Downtown Galveston.
- East End Historic District.
- San Jacinto.
- Beachtown.
- Fish Village.
- Cedar Lawn.
- Silk Stocking Historic District.
Seawall Beach
The best known beach in Galveston is probably Seawall Beach because it is the most centrally located on the island. The beach follows the famous seawall that runs for 10 miles and is the longest continuous sidewalk in the country.
Popular Galveston Beaches
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.
Where can I camp on Galveston Island? Camping on all Galveston beaches is prohibited from 12am-5am. Additionally, there is no overnight parking allowed on Seawall Blvd.
What is the best month to visit Galveston? ›The best time to visit Galveston is October to November or March to April when the weather is warm, but not sweltering, and accommodation prices are reasonable. Winter is the best time to score a deal on your accommodations, but it will likely be too chilly to enjoy Galveston's beach activities.
What is the least crowded beach in Galveston? ›The least crowded beaches in Galveston are Sunny Beach, Galveston Island State Park, Jamaica Beach, Stewart Beach, and Galveston Sea Wall Beach. These beaches provide you with a quiet and calm environment where you can relax and meditate without interruptions.
What is the best time to go to the beach in Galveston? ›The least busy time to visit Galveston is the winter months, from December to the early part of March when the weather is cooler. The beaches won't be crowded during the winter months.
Why is the water brown in Galveston? ›The brown comes from the large amount of silt in Galveston's water. When dry, silt has a texture similar to flour, but becomes smooth like mud when wet. When the region has lots of swells coming out of the Gulf, they wash up on the beach and mix with the water causing its brown discoloration.
What is the best time of year to see dolphins in Galveston? ›With these findings, we have scientific support to answer a question that we are asked often: “When can I see dolphins in upper Galveston Bay?” Unless heavy precipitation occurs and lowers salinity, June through September are the months of the year when you are most likely to see dolphins in UGB.
How much is Galveston beach fee? ›Fee: $2 an hour with a two-hour minimum, not to exceed $16 / day, yearly passes available* Operation: 10 AM – 6 PM, 7 days a week, 365 days per year. Payment Options: PayByPhone or call 866-234-7275 or call 409-797-5198.
Can you drink beer on the beach in Galveston? ›
Alcohol is allowed in some parts of the beach. You will know its allowed because there will be a sign that says if you can or can't. The areas we know alcohol is allowed are: East Beach/Apffel Park, Porretto Beach, and west of 61st to 16 Mile Road.
What are the rules on Galveston beaches? ›- NO LITTERING.
- No Glass Containers.
- Dunes are protected by law. Please stay off the dunes.
- Speed Limit 15 mph on the beach.
- ALL dogs must be leashed.
- Pedestrians have the right of way.
- Driver's licenses are required for golf carts, ATV's and UTV's.
- ATV and UTV's must be trailered to the beach.
They are open 24 hours a day seven days a week year round. The Galveston Island State Park was named one of the top 5 “Best Gulf Coast Beaches” by Travel Channel in 2013. The park offers a quiet oasis on the island's West End where visitors can explore the Gulf of Mexico or Galveston Bay.
Which beach is better Galveston or Surfside? ›Our guests frequently comment on this too. If you're looking for a “party beach”, the readers of Gulfscapes say that Surfside is not the one for you! For a younger vibe and easy access to parties and late-night entertainment, Galveston beach houses are very popular with younger visitors.
What is the clearest beach in Texas? ›The beach with the clearest water in Texas is Boca Chica beach on South Padre Island.
Is there alligators in Galveston? ›Yes, while it is not an everyday occurrence alligators do enjoy a day at the beach as well. Alligators that live in our bodies of freshwater throughout the island collect parasites on their body as shown to the left.
What is the rainiest month in Galveston Texas? ›The month with the most rain in Galveston is September, with an average rainfall of 4.9 inches. The month with the least rain in Galveston is March, with an average rainfall of 3.2 inches.
What is hurricane season in Galveston TX? ›The Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 to November 30 every year, with peak tropical storm activity occurring from August through mid-September. During hurricane season, Texas is among the handful of states most impacted by tropical storms.
What is the coldest month in Galveston? ›Galveston's coldest month is January when the average temperature overnight is 49.7°F.
What is the difference between Galveston and Galveston Island? ›Galveston Island (/ˈɡælvɪstən/ GAL-vis-tən) is a barrier island on the Texas Gulf Coast in the United States, about 50 miles (80.5 km) southeast of Houston. The entire island, with the exception of Jamaica Beach, is within the city limits of the City of Galveston in Galveston County.
Is Galveston Island walkable? ›
Galveston's iconic Seawall is the perfect spot for staying active – on foot or on wheels. At more than 10 miles long, Galveston's seawall is the nation's longest continuous sidewalk and is a great spot for your daily run, walk, jog, skate or bicycle ride with its scenic view of the Gulf of Mexico.
Is Galveston Texas a nice vacation spot? ›Galveston Island is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Texas. This lovely barrier island on the Gulf Coast has it all: miles of wonderful white sandy beaches, a port for cruise ships, a beautifully restored historic old town and a distinct Southern charm.
Does Galveston have a homeless problem? ›Galveston for decades has had a visible homeless population, especially downtown, in the East End, around the University of Texas Medical Branch and in areas near service providers such as the Salvation Army shelter.
Does Galveston have alligators or crocodiles? ›Alligators on the beach? Yes, while it is not an everyday occurrence alligators do enjoy a day at the beach as well. Alligators that live in our bodies of freshwater throughout the island collect parasites on their body as shown to the left.