The end of summer will be here before we know it. With oil-free beaches just a five-hour drive from the Dallas Metroplex, you still have plenty of time for a fun, family getaway. Galveston beaches are clean, oil-free and ready to show visitors a good time.
Many people have avoided Galveston in the past two years because of devastation caused by Hurricane Ike. That damage is no longer an issue. The beaches are open, publicly accessible and fully functioning. Restaurants and stores are back in business. And, lodging has been restored. It’s also available at bargain pricing, because property owners just want people to start coming back to Galveston.
Here are some tips for enjoying a great vacation at bargain pricing.
Lodging
Summer is usually the most expensive season for lodging in Galveston, but condo owners and hotels are hungry for business. Expedia.com is currently offering four and five star hotels for $100 a night – sometimes a little bit less if you book more than three consecutive nights. For even cheaper options, search for condo rentals on Vacation Rentals by Owner. All of the condos listed on this site are privately owned and rent for much cheaper than the condos owned by the management companies in the same complexes. Plus, there’s the added advantage of negotiating. Many people don’t think to do this, but there’s nothing wrong with making a lower, yet reasonable, counter offer on an owner’s published rate. We know of one person who recently offered $550 cash, for five nights total, on a house that was renting for $200 a night. The owner accepted the offer.
Free Activities
Most beaches are free. Just walk on and have fun. There are some private access beaches that cost money, but unless you need an entire beach to yourself, the level of tourism in Galveston is still low enough to enjoy public access beaches without a lot of crowds. Take a walk, play games, splash in the warm gulf water or just chill under an umbrella.
Take a ride on the ferry that goes across to Crystal Beach. You can ride your vehicle onto the ferry and go exploring when you get to the other side. Or, you can just walk on and enjoy the ride from the deck. You’re almost sure to see Dolphins swimming along side the boat, and if you go during sunset, there are some great, free photo opportunities.
Tour the Strand - an eclectic and historic area of Galveston. There are fun shops, good eats and lots of free, live entertainment at night. If you feel like splurging, be sure to stop in at La King’s old fashioned ice cream parlor and candy factory. Just about everything they sell is made on-site, and it’s delicious.
Don’t let summer pass you by without a little down time. For more information on fun things to do in Galveston, click here.
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