48 Hours in Galveston

Thank you to ShopStyle and Macy’s for sponsoring today’s post.

Good morning friends, and happy almost Friday!  Back in January, I resolved to have more fun in my life.  I wanted to go on more adventures and travel, even if it was just a quick getaway.

I feel like we work so hard and go, go, go, so scheduling in these little breaks helps us rest and refuel and connect with the people we love. It gets us out of the daily grind bubble and helps us remember what we’re working for and what’s important in life.

You don’t have to travel to incorporate FUN into your life, but it sure is nice!  I kicked off this year with a restful weekend in the woods with no internet service (kids hated it at first, then loved it!), celebrated Spring Break with the kids and friends in San Antonio and rode roller coasters at Fiesta Texas.

I dipped my toes in the sand in Miami with one of my oldest and closest friends, Audrey.  James’ friend Cooper joined us on the lazy river at Lost Pines for Memorial Day Weekend.

Shannon and I combined business and pleasure in NYC last month.  Then, it was three generations in Galveston with me, my mom and the kids.

Today’s post is a recap of our trip as well as tons of things to do in Galveston and great places to eat.

48 HOURS GALVESTON

Galveston is an island about 50 miles south of Houston.  We’re lucky to be able to go from the hustle and bustle of the city to the sandy beach in under about an hour.  As soon as you cross over the Galveston bridge, you can literally feel the ocean starting to sooth your soul.

48 Hours in Galveston - Beach View

We stayed at the San Luis Resort, a beautiful hotel right on the seawall with easy access to the beach.

48 Hours in Galveston - Kids at the Hotel

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48 Hours in Galveston - Pineapple Shirt

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I stopped at Macy’s for last minute summer outfits for the kids.  I enjoy shopping at Macy’s for the kids because they have darling styles and awesome sales.  That pineapple and floral shorts combo were sold as a set, isn’t it perfect for vacay?!

Also, now through July 28th you can save 20% on 1,000’s of markdowns at Macy’s with promo code BIG.

As soon as we got checked in to the hotel, we couldn’t wait to get our swimsuits on and head to the beach.  Galveston isn’t known for its pretty water, but we’ll take it!

48 Hours in Galveston - Blue crochet swimsuit and beach hat

Crochet SwimsuitSimilar Packable Hat

I found the crochet swimsuit we all love in a gorgeous blue!  I also have the black and I wouldn’t mind getting the white and merlot too!

This swimsuit fits and flatters like no other, and you’ll feel sassy, but still appropriate for splashing around and carrying little ones. I’m wearing a size XS, but the Small also fit with a bit more room in the length.

48 Hours in Galveston - Black dress and miller sandals

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I also found this cute little dress style cover-up.  It’s sleeveless with adjustable shoulder drawstrings and side pockets.  It’s recommended to hand wash, but I’ve washed it on gentle cycle and hung dry and it was fine.

48 Hours in Galveston - boogie boarding

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I adore the colors in James’ swimsuit!  It’s functional too with pockets and a hidden elastic waist.

We jumped waves on boogie boards and played in the water until the storms rolled in.

48 Hours in Galveston - playing in the ocean

48 Hours in Galveston - Boogie boarding with a blue crochet swimsuit

Grandma and Jordan built sand castles.  Ever since she was little, Jordan has loved digging in the sand.  I’m so thankful that my Mom has been able to spend so much time with James and Jordan while they’re young.  Jordan and her are especially tight since she has been with us nearly everyday since Jordan was born.

My Mom is gonna miss her so much when she starts preschool, but I told her she’s always welcome to come over anytime!

48 Hours in Galveston - Grandma and Granddaughter playing in the sand

48 Hours in Galveston - Little girls stripe tankini

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We found Jordan’s rainbow striped tankini at Macy’s at the beginning of the summer and it’s always the one she insists on wearing.  I adore the little ruffle on the top and bottom and it’s easier than a one-piece for bathroom breaks.

48 Hours in Galveston - Beach View

The storm rolled in at the perfect time because it allowed for some downtime in the room while Jordan napped.  I appreciate that the San Luis has a foot-washing station at the bottom of those steps for getting all the sand off of your legs and feet before you get to your room.

Day 1 • Evening

After getting cleaned up, and I mean putting a hat and some lip gloss on, we headed to dinner at Willie G’s, a popular seafood restaurant. The entire area downtown is perfect for eating, then strolling along the streets popping into shops and cafes for dessert.

48 Hours in Galveston - Willie G's

48 Hours in Galveston - Toddlers princess dress

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48 Hours in Galveston - Pleasure Pier

Like most island life, Galveston’s vibe is completely casual and relaxed.  You’ll be good to go wearing jean shorts and flip flops almost anywhere, but if you want to get a bit dressier, a maxi or sundress would work.

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48 Hours in Galveston - mother-son selfie

Look at how big James is getting and how his teeth have changed!  I can’t believe he’ll be in fourth grade this year!  It always warms my heart when y’all tell me you’ve known him since he was a baby! I started blogging when he was just four months old.  I guess my 10-year anniversary is approaching!

When you go to Galveston, you HAVE to stop in La King’s Confectionary!  It’s an old-time candy shop that makes fresh saltwater taffy and serves ice cream by the bucketful.  They have traditional sweet treats with a 192o’s soda fountain and arcade games too.

48 Hours in Galveston - Laffy taffy

48 Hours in Galveston - the strand icecream

The mocha chip was divine!

48 Hours in Galveston - ice cream

There’s also the most fun toy store too, Play on the Strand.  I had to drag James and Jordan out of there.  James ended up buying a really cool bedazzled microphone that connects to an app for karaoke. Jordan got a crown and jewelry.

48 Hours in Galveston - Kids store

48 Hours in Galveston - mother daughter and son in galveston

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Jordan: Similar Princess DressSimilar Shoes

James: Under Armour ShirtShorts

I haven’t been to the Pleasure Pier, but it’s a top attraction with roller coasters, rides, carnival games and souvenir shops.  I’ve heard it’s pricey though, so I’d recommend trying to find a coupon or Groupon.  Their website says they offer group discounts.

48 Hours in Galveston - pleasure pier

After a long day, we settled into bed and Jordan got to wear her Frozen pajamas.  I swear, it’s so cute at this age to hear her singing the lyrics to songs. That voice kills me!

48 Hours in Galveston - toddlers frozen pajamas

Frozen Pajamas

DAY 2

Did you know there’s a Shipley’s Donut shop in Galveston?  It’s not too far from the San Luis, so we popped in for breakfast.  Their kolaches are awesome if you’ve never had one.

48 Hours in Galveston - shipley's donuts

Then it was back to the beach.  I asked the kids if they wanted to go to the pool, but the beach won!

48 Hours in Galveston - Boogie boardingUnder Armour TopSwimsuit

James forgot his flip flops, so he’s wearing mine!

48 Hours in Galveston - grey stripe maxi dress with miller sandals

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I loved wearing the Miller dupe sandals.  They are perfect for washing off when they get sandy and I didn’t feel like I had to be too precious in them.  They fit TTS.

48 Hours in Galveston - mother-son swimming in the ocean

48 Hours in Galveston - siblings playing in the beach

48 Hours in Galveston - brother sister playing in the sand

You’ll never guess where the kids wanted to eat dinner – IHOP!  There’s an IHOP right next to the San Luis and it’s James’ favorite restaurant.  I can’t say I blame him; they do make a good pancake.

48 Hours in Galveston - underarmour shirt with underarmour shorts

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48 Hours in Galveston - stripe shirt with a beach hat

48 Hours in Galveston - stripe shirt with a beach hat

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Like I said, the island is totally casual, so I wore jean shorts the whole time, but the lightweight off shoulder blouse is so pretty!

And I wanted more ice cream, so after dinner, we headed back to LA King’s!

48 Hours in Galveston - pineapple stripe dress and an underarmour shirt and shorts

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Finally, on the morning we were leaving, we got a little pool time.  The San Luis pool is legendary for pool parties and had a fantastic swim up bar.

48 Hours in Galveston - grey maxi dress by the pool

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48 Hours in Galveston - grandmother and granddaughter playing in the pool

48 Hours in Galveston - mother daughter selfie in the pool

48 Hours in Galveston - family selfie in the pool

And I can’t forget the mandatory pit stop on the way home.  The kids would kill me if I didn’t stop at Buc-ee’s!

48 Hours in Galveston - brother sister at bucees

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48 Hours in Galveston - stripe shirt with jean shorts

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Below I’ve compiled a list of where to eat and things to do in case Galveston is on your agenda.

WHERE TO EAT IN GALVESTON

Below are a few local favorites and personal recommendations from my friends:
The Spot – sit on the open air deck across from the ocean and order the pina colada in a pineapple!
La King’s Confectionery – old fashioned taffy-making and best ice cream
Blvd Seafood – waterview dining for dinner
Mosquito Cafe – super cute for breakfast/brunch
Waterman’s on the Bay – gorgeous sunset and decent food/drinks
Nate’s West End – Not much to look at, but hands down best food on the island
Outriggers Seafood Grill & Bar – in nearby Kemah
Russo’s – best pizza & pasta
Gaido’s – traditional seafood
Gumbo Bar – if you like Gumbo
Olympia Grill at Pier 21 –  great people watching
Farley Girls Cafe – amazing food
Hotel Galvez – Sunday brunch
Shrimp & Stuff – downtown for an excellent meal and kid friendly food
Saltwater Grill – on Post Office Road
Original Mexican Cafe – on Market Street
Cafe Michael Burger– yummy burgers and American food
Tremont Hotel – has a great little cafe, and favorite hotel

THINGS TO DO IN GALVESTON

The Seawall – This is iconic Galveston, and you can drive, walk, bicycle along the seawall and soak in the ocean air and great people watching.  There’s tons of restaurant and cheap shopping along the seawall too.
The Strand – a quaint neighborhood of restaurants, shops and bars with historic architecture
Pleasure Pier – amusement park with rides, games, Bubba Gump Shrimp Restaurant and shopping
Pier 21– waterfront entertainment and dining area with attractions including Harbor House, Willie G’s, Olympia Grill, Noony Tony’s
Pier 21 Museums (Ocean Star- drilling rig & Texas Seaport Museum)
Pier 21 Theater –showing 3 documentary films highlighting major events in Galveston history, including the 1900 Storm
Moody Gardens (amusement park with 3D theater, white sands beach, aquarium and hotel)
Schlitterbahn Waterpark 
Fishing at 61st Street Fishing Pier, Jimmy’s on the Pier at 91st, Seawolf Park or
Charter an offshore fishing boat – I’ve done this with friends and it was a blast, but don’t forget the Dramamine!
Baywatch Dolphin Tours 
Galveston Island Horse & Pony Rides 
Sea Turtle Tours 
Capt. Hal Newsom’s Airboat Tours of Galveston Bay
Galveston Island State Park
East End Lagoon Nature Park & Preserve
Galveston Harbour Tours 
Kempner Park
Horse Carriage Ride
Magic Carpet Golf
Railroad Museum
Haunted Mayfield Manor 
Children’s Museum
Lone Star Flight Museum & Texas Aviation Hall of Fame

CLICK THE PHOTOS BELOW TO SHOP


We’ve got just three weeks until school starts and no more travel plans, but the summer has been such a joy so far.  Do you have any fun plans for the rest of the summer? Are you looking forward to school starting back?  I’m not yet, but I know when the time comes, I’ll be ready for the routine again.
Have a great day friends!

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Meet Megan

Hi! I’m Megan, mom to a thoughtful teenager and spunky young girl. We call Houston home and recently moved into our dream home. I traded my lawyer hat to become a full-time blogger in 2010. I love sharing my passion for affordable fashion, home decor, organization, & fitness to help inspire you to take care of you!

6 Comments

  1. Loved this post! I grew up in Houston and we used to drive down to Galveston for the day or a weekend (we also stayed at the San Luis a couple of times). Saltwater taffy, shopping on the Strand, going crabbing, dinner at Gaido’s (does that restaurant still exist?), seeing the dolphins in the bay – great memories of special times with my family. And my dad also used to volunteer at the Flight Museum, but I’ve actually never been myself. My parents have both passed, but seeing your post brought back some happy memories. Thank you!

  2. You forgot to mention that you can walk around with alcoholic beverages on the strand!! Haha! (FYI for anyone doing an adult only trip). Galveston is so fun!

  3. We live in Houston and love taking day trips to Galveston. Shrimp n Stuff has the best fried shrimp ever! And La Kings is a must like you said! We are headed to Lost Pines next week- can’t wait!

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