Galveston Island, Texas is a resort with a year-round population of around 60,000 with many more visitors during the popular summer season. It’s 50 miles away from Houston, its nearest big neighbor.

A seaside jewel on a slim barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston has quietly but assuredly developed gay cachet as a charming weekend hideaway.

Historic Victorian hotels, gay B&Bs, and a few hopping gay bars complement 32 miles of golden-sand beaches (including a popular gay section).

Quirky shopping and festive oyster bars call for your attention in the cobblestone Strand historic district.

ACCOMMODATIONS
Galveston Island boasts a fairly wide variety of accommodations for such a small destination in just about every budget and preference.

Big, luxury hotels with pools, room service and other amenities include Hotel Galvez (a Wyndham Historic Hotel), Moody Gardens Hotel & Spa, San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center, and the charming European-style Tremont House (another Wyndham Historic Hotel), which makes for an ideal romantic getaway.

The island features unique, historic B&B properties which offer the experience of turn-of-the -century living (with modern conveniences of course!) in these restored gems. Our favorite gay-friendly Bed and Breakfast hotels include the charming, gay-owned Lost Bayou Guesthouse, a Victorian-style home in the Lost Bayou historic district; and Avenue O B&B, a 1923 Mediterranean style bed and breakfast located 4 blocks from the beach minutes from the Strand.

DINING
Plentiful fishing waters around Galveston Island provide local restaurants with the freshest and largest selection of seafood on the Gulf of Mexico though area menus offer much more, from Cajun favorites to steak. This is still Texas after all.

901 Postoffice offers a wide selection of fish and meat dishes served with fresh ingredients and a great wine selection.

Family-owned and operated, Apache and its second generation of proprietors serve the freshest Mexican cuisine in town. The enchiladas are a local favorite.

Eat Cetera is a sparkling downtown Galveston eatery that specializes in gourmet sandwiches, paninis, and salads.

After dinner, don't forget to treat yourself to local favorite desserts, like pecan pie and home-made cakes, or tres leches.