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By Landon Pemper
One of many benefits to living in Houston is easy access to Galveston — a Texas destination among the most famous beach towns on the entire Gulf Coast. For Houstonians, this convenient getaway offers a relaxing weekend vacation or midweek break at one of the many hotels in Galveston. But, selecting the right place to stay out of all their Texas beachfront hotspots can be difficult.
To help ease the stress of choosing the right Galveston hotel, we’ve curated this helpful guide to the best hotels on the island. In this resource, you’ll find a variety of highly-rated hotels in Galveston, from popular beach resorts like the San Luis Resort and Moody Gardens Hotel to more budget-friendly options. Whether you’re looking for the best Galveston hotels for families or a romantic weekend getaway, we’ve got them for you here.
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Best Western Plus Galveston Suites
Curator’s Pick
Without sacrificing location, Best Western Plus is one of the Galveston hotels for travelers on a budget. It’s located on the seawall and is a cheaper option than more well-known resorts in Galveston. With free parking and breakfast, this clean, well-reviewed spot for families — but no pets, sorry — has walkable beach access. Neighboring attractions like the Pleasure Pier, Schlitterbahn Galveston, and Moody Gardens are minutes away by car. Guests who book at this Galveston hotel may want to consider paying slightly more for a room that has a balcony with a view of the Gulf.
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Grand Galvez Resort and Spa
Curator’s Pick
Previously the Hotel Galvez, this historic treasure on the east end of the Island is a posh, art deco-style Galveston resort. After being acquired in 2021 as a strong portfolio piece of the prestigious Marriott Autograph Collection, the already-beautiful hotel has undergone renovations to restore its classic ambiance. Booking a room here means choosing between the beach across the street and palm-tree-lined pool on the property. As you’d expect, like all the best Galveston hotels, oceanfront views will cost more than other rooms here. Even if you don’t stay here, there’s a free self-guided history museum in the basement.
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Harbor House Hotel & Marina at Pier 21
Curator’s Pick
If you’re staying at one of the many Galveston beach hotels prior to boarding a cruise ship the next day, The Harbor House Hotel is located on the marina at Pier 21, steps away from the Carnival cruise ship docks. This is one of the best Galveston hotels for cruise passengers; you’re also able to dock your own boat. It’s close to Historic Downtown Galveston, but be aware this hotel only offers free Wi-Fi and coffee — there’s no pool, fitness center, or breakfast — and pets aren’t allowed.
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Hilton Galveston Island Resort
Curator’s Pick
The Hilton Galveston Island Resort is one of the best beachfront hotels in Galveston for business travelers. With over 66,000 square feet of event space, 239 rooms, and 10 private meeting rooms, this hotel was built with conventions in mind. Hilton Honors members might find this is their best option when on the Island. Access to the beach is a breeze, plus there’s an on-site pool, restaurant, and 24-hour room service. Like some other Galveston hotels, there is a charge for self-parking and/or valet. Pets are not allowed, but there is a fitness center and Wi-Fi is free.
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Holiday Inn Resort Galveston – on the Beach
Curator’s Pick
Vacationers seeking a relaxing Galveston resort experience shouldn’t overlook the Holiday Inn Resort Galveston – on the Beach, especially at its bargain price point. Situated right on Seawall Boulevard next to The San Luis, guests can enjoy rooms with an oceanfront view of the Gulf and convenient walkability to the beach and neighboring restaurants. Onsite, try the Jetty Restaurant and B Jigger’s cocktail lounge which often has live music. Want some “me-time”? Galveston hotels offer that, too: visit the Spa San Luis, right next door. As for amenities, pets are not allowed and overnight parking is onsite and reasonably priced.
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Moody Gardens Hotel
Curator’s Pick
Of all the Galveston Beach hotels, Moody Gardens is unmistakable — look for the pyramids when you cross the bridge on Interstate-45. It hosts an aquarium, rainforest, Discovery Museum, numerous theaters, paddlewheel boat, and zip line and ropes courses — you won’t be bored here! For couples looking to unwind, the Island’s best golf course and The Spa at Moody Gardens are perfect options. This hotel in Galveston offers plentiful dining options; choose from fine dining, poolside snacks, a coffee bar, and several cocktail bars. Note: Parking is free, but no pets are allowed.
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The San Luis Resort
Curator’s Pick
The San Luis Resort has always been a flagship hotel in Galveston and is widely considered to be the premier resort on the Island. The San Luis also holds the distinction of being versatile in that it’s great for either families in search of fun or couples looking for leisure and romance. As a Galveston hotel on the seawall, the beach is located directly across the street. But be warned – with a beautiful pool on-site, including the legendary “Cove” with adults-only cabanas, you may be tempted to stay put. Guests also have several dining options inside the resort, which include: Blake’s Bistro, The Steakhouse, Grotto, and even a Rainforest Café. Those who want to be pampered should plan to complete thier stay at the Spa San Luis for a rejuvenating experience. Although The San Luis Resort is one of the most expensive resorts on the Island, parking is free and the location couldn’t be better.
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The Tremont House
Curator’s Pick
Featuring exterior architecture plucked right out of New Orleans, The Tremont House offers luxurious, Creole charm in the heart of downtown Galveston. It’s the perfect Galveston hotel for visitors seeking daily shopping and the local nightlife. The rooms and on-site amenities exude class and sophistication, and there’s a killer rooftop view of the neighboring pier. Parking is valet-only and there is no pool on-site, but beach access is nearby. The Tremont House is also one of the best Galveston hotels for pet parents, allowing dogs up to 40 lbs for a one-time pet fee, regardless of how long you stay.
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TownePlace Suites by Marriott – Galveston Island
Curator’s Pick
Ideal for visitors in need of an extended stay or guests who prefer to do their own cooking, TownePlace Suites by Marriott is a condo hotel in Galveston. This family-friendly, all-suites Galveston hotel offers free self-parking, daily housekeeping, breakfast, WiFi, a small fitness center, and an outdoor pool, plus the beach is a short walk away. For a room with a refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, and microwave, you won’t likely find a better deal at any of the cheap hotels in Galveston. Dogs and cats are allowed, making this one of the best hotels in Galveston for pets, too.
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