The Galveston Thread This thread is intended to identify key points of interest, places to go, recommendations, beaches, and other information that may be valuable to people who intend to visit Galveston, Texas. Please contribute to this thread with your opinions of things to enjoy and avoid in Galveston. I will start by providing a link to this excellent map of Galveston beach access points and their features. I have found this map to be extremely helpful in choosing a beach for specific interests: Map in pdf Map in large image Please refrain from diverting this thread away from its original intent. If you have tangent conversations, debates, or non-contributing intent, please create a different thread.
The more time you spend there, the more you love it. For selfish reasons, I hope this thread doesn't take off.
One of the things that the above map describes in fine print is.... Is driving on the Galveston beaches allowed? Answer: Yes, but only at certain beach access points at certain times of the year: Access Point 33, 34, and 35: Vehicles are prohibited on the beach from 6:00 pm Friday to 6:00 pm Sunday during the month of March, Memorial Day through Labor Day, and all legal holidays Access Point 36 and 41: Vehicles are allowed any time
The Strand is a cool place to walk around during the day, and you can legally have a beer on the street. Lots of shopping, tourist shops and places to eat. On the Seawall, the Spot and Float are really good for hanging out and having a beer and a bite to eat. At night, The Strand and 25th & Post Office are good places for live bands and bars. If you want to stay on the Seawall, The Spot, Float and right behind Float, Beerfoot, are good bars/hangouts.
I like it too. It has its charm that I've come to appreciate more lately. I could eat at Rudy and Paco every day. I would like to have a weekend home there. Unfortunately, my income is about 1/5 that of people who have weekend homes.
^^^ Colonel Bubbie's is a HUGE military surplus store on the Strand that has all kinds of stuff. It's a must-visit (while they're still in business). Also... LaKing's candy store is another must-visit location on The Strand. <iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/W05w88Prp_0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Had a mean grilled swordfish at Gaido's...a loooooooong time ago. Not sure if that place is still open. (early 90's)
If you want a slightly more relaxed and upscale place to hang out with some nice looking women and a great view, check out The Rooftop Bar on top of the Tremont House hotel near The Strand. It is a great place and reasonably priced considering the location.