About Galveston

Welcome to Galveston Island – the Playground of the South!

If you’re looking for the perfect spot for your next vacation, you’ve come to the right place! Being less than an hour south of downtown Houston, Galveston Island is Texas’ friendliest and most accessible portal to the Gulf.

There are 32 miles of beaches in Galveston, whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon soaking up the sun or an adventure through the waters as you swim, fish or sail. Galveston Island may be small, but offers a wide variety of things to do, no matter the season or interests; adventure, amusement parks, water parks and other water activities, sports, thrift and boutique shopping, a vast array of restaurants, biking, sports, history, and more tours than most can imagine. The possibilities are truly endless on your Texas coastal vacation!

With Galveston Island’s friendly community of locals and its sub-tropical weather, the island has become a favored home-away-from-home for tourists from around the world. There is a reason Galveston Island vacation rentals are becoming increasingly popular!

Events, Activities & More to Explore in Galveston

If you’re looking for a special occasion around which to plan your vacation, Galveston has an exciting schedule of annual events which you won’t want to miss! Enjoy the Galveston Mardi Gras, LoneStar Biker Rally, Dickens on the Strand, FeatherFest, Yaga’s Wild Game Cook-Off, Chili-Fest! These are just a few of the reasons people from all over the world keep coming back to the island. And that’s not to mention the frequent art walks, craft markets, farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts and movies, and so much more.

As one of the oldest cities in Texas, Galveston is perfect for lovers of history and culture. Some of the oldest buildings in Texas are on the island — including many survivors of the 1900 Storm, which can be found throughout the Galveston Historic District, one of the liveliest and most charming areas of the island. The Historic District includes museums, art galleries, Galveston tree sculptures, and the Strand—more than enough to fill your schedule!

Lovers of nature will be no less thrilled by all that Galveston has to offer! As a barrier island, it features a diverse and fascinating eco-system that attracts countless adventurers every year. Birding, wading, kayaking, fishing, hiking through the State Park, horticulture — it’s all here and waiting for you!

When it comes to reasons to visit Galveston, this is just the tip of the iceberg. For more information and details, check out our collection of articles on specific features and attractions on Galveston Island. We want your trip to Galveston to be the best it can possibly be. If you have any questions, just ask us! We are always happy to help.

Galveston Island Weather Forecast & Climate

For more info on Galveston’s weather, climate, sunrise and sunset, check out Ryson’s Galveston Weather page.

Live Galveston Beach & Surf Webcam

Let Ryson’s virtual livestream webcam transport you to the island right now!

Ryson’s Galveston Island Google Map

Questions about Galveston Island and where things are located? Check out Ryson Vacation Rentals’ Google Map. Want to know what the beach access is like, or what restaurants and attractions are near your vacation home? Notice on the left-hand side guests may select to turn layers on and off; Neighborhoods, Condo Communities, Neighborhood Amenities, Galveston Beaches, Shopping, Attractions, Restaurants & Delis and Drinks.