My husband and I have lived in nine different states and on all three coasts. We chose to buy our vacation condo on Galveston Island, Texas for its beautiful beaches, mild climate, low cost of living, excellent gulf and bay fishing, wide range of food options, friendly people and huge variety of activities. We specifically chose the community of Pointe West for its pristine, mile long, no drive beach, and the enormous number of amenities, including; two pools, two hot tubs, a gym, basketball & pickleball areas, fire pit, walking/jogging trails and the fact that both the beach and the community are meticulously maintained.
If you get tired of the quiet, relaxing environment at Pointe West, head up the road to the city of Galveston. Galveston is very unique and full of history. It’s amazing that a small city has so much to do and see. VisitGalveston.com says, “First settled in the 16th century, Galveston’s citizens have weathered civil war, survived monumental storms, and created celebrations that spread to the nation.” When you combine the fascinating history, incredible food from all over the world (especially seafood,) a strong arts community, and conservation groups working hard to save the beaches, dunes, animals and sea life, there is truly something for everyone. Here are some examples of the activities you will find in Galveston, Texas:
– Go Bird Watching! Over 300 species of birds live on this island and birding is very popular. Galveston has more than 20 bird watching areas.
– Fish In The Bay Or The Gulf! The bayside is known for redfish, speckled trout, black drum and flounder, whereas the Gulf has an abundance of cobia, wahoo, mahi-mahi, red snapper, kingfish, marlin, and several tuna species.
– Visit Moody Gardens! Tour their world-class aquarium, living rainforest, and Discovery Museum.
– Get Your Thrills! Ride the rides on the Pleasure Pier. Walk along the pier, stop for food and visit the shops.
– Go Shelling! One of the Top 10 Shelling Beaches In The World – Pocket Park #3 – is located on Galveston Island. NOTE: Winter is the best time to find amazing shells!
– Tour Historic Victorian Homes! Don’t miss the 1895 Moody Mansion, the Bryan Museum and the 1892 Bishop’s Palace.
– Get Scared! Historic Galveston Ghost Tours share the best ghost stories as their ghost tour guides take you on a grand expedition through the historic Silk Stocking District and beyond.
– Learn About The Gas & Oil Industry! Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum showcases a retired jack-up rig. There are three floors of exhibits and interactive displays detailing the history of offshore oil and gas including seismic technology, exploration and production.
– Visit The Galveston Naval Museum! This is where you can tour the USS Cavalla Submarine, USS Stewart Destroyer Escort, as well as a memorial and park. According to VisitGalveston.com, “USS Cavalla, is a World War II submarine that sank one of the Japanese aircraft carriers responsible for bombing Pearl Harbor; and the USS Stewart is the only Edsall-class destroyer escort preserved in the United States.”
– Be Mesmerized By The Tree Sculptures! These stumps were transformed by sculpture artists who turned the stumps of trees downed by Hurricane Ike, into beautiful works of art. You can see these tree sculptures throughout the city.
– Ride the Galveston/Port Bolivar Ferry! It’s free, and open 24 hours a day.
– Tour The Galveston Historic Seaport! This is the home of the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA, an 1877 square-rigged iron barque. She is one of only three ships of her kind in the world to still actively sail.
– Take In A Show! Grand 1894 Opera House presents a year-round performing arts schedule of music, dance, stars of stage and screen, comedy, drama and more.
– Stroll The Historic Galveston Seawall! The Seawall began being built in 1902 after the Great Storm of 1900, as a way to help protect the city from future storms. 10 miles long and rising 17 feet above sea level, the seawall features beaches, unique shops, restaurants, and thrilling attractions.
– Taste The Local Fare! Galveston’s Own Farmers Market offers locally-grown produce, prepared foods and edible farm products. Since you are now a “Winter Texan” this is a great opportunity to support local Texas farmers and producers.
– Find All 50 Turtles! Turtles About Town commissions local artists to paint turtle sculptures to raise awareness of sea turtle conservation efforts to protect endangered sea turtles on the upper Texas coast. See if you can find all 50 colorful Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle statues placed throughout the island.
– Eat Well! Visit the outstanding restaurants on the island, many featuring fresh seafood.
– Stroll the Strand! This is home to antique shops, galleries, souvenirs, and restaurants featuring many different cuisines.
– Play some golf! Hit the links at Galveston Country Club or Moody Gardens Golf Course. In the mood for miniature golf? Try out Magic Carpet Golf.
– Go On A Cruise! According to VisitGalveston.com, “Galveston is the fourth busiest homeport in the country, with cruises departing throughout the year.” Cruise to Mexico, the Caribbean, or other destinations.
– Attend One Of Galveston Island’s Annual Fall Or Winter Events:
- ARToberFEST – October 15 & 16
- Island Oktoberfest – October 21 & 22
- Lone Star Rally – November 3-6
- Holiday In The Gardens – November 18 – January 7
- Dickens On The Strand – December 2-4
Come stay at Someday Came Beach Condo this fall or winter! We would love for you to be our guest! We offer discounts for stays of 30 days or more. See photos and more information on our website at www.SomedayCameBeachCondo.com. You can also contact us at (949) 229-0907 or SomedayCameBeachCondo@gmail.com for more information.