Reservation Process
Why should I choose Ryson Vacation Rentals?
Ryson Vacation Rentals provides the best service and vacation rentals in Galveston. We are staffed by local Vacation Planners and a full-service Operations team, who provide 24-hour support if an emergency arises during a guest stay. Ryson’s premier concierge service partner, Gulf Coast Concierge, is also available to ensure our guest’s time on the island is unforgettable!
What is the best way to book a Galveston vacation rental?
Book direct and save! By booking directly through Ryson Vacation Rentals, either via our website or over the phone with a local Vacation Planner, guests will always receive the best rate available and save on fees from third-party sites.
How much is due at time of booking?
Please check the property details page for deposit information. For long term bookings, please call.
Please check the property details page for payment information. For long term bookings, please call.
How old do you have to be to rent a property?
The contracted Guest must be at least 25 years of age for reservations at private homes and 21 for most condos. However, some private homes require Guest to be at least 30, and some condos have a minimum rental age of 25. Please contact Ryson if there are any questions regarding the minimum rental age. Also, there are additional age restrictions for events such as prom, homecoming, church or school events, etc.
Do you have pet-friendly vacation rentals?
Yes! Ryson offers many pet-friendly vacation rentals. Please review Ryson’s Notes & Tips for Traveling with Pets and specific property listing for any pet limitations. All pets must be registered, and a $100 non-refundable pet fee for each dog must be paid in advance.
Are we able to review the Rental Agreement prior to booking?
Definitely, Ryson’s Rental Agreement is available for review online. Please contact Ryson with any questions.
Are there any additional costs for our vacation rental?
Some of the properties Ryson manages require additional fees for things like parking passes, resort fees, amenity wristbands, etc. When permitted by the community to collect and pay those fees in advance, they are included in the reservation charges. However, some area HOAs require these fees to be paid directly and Ryson is unable to include these costs into our reservation rates. It is highly recommended to review both the specific Rental Property listing and the neighborhood or community resort description where the Property is located on the Ryson website in advance. Please contact us with any questions.
Do you allow rentals for prom, school/church-sponsored events, small weddings, etc.?
Ryson offers select properties, which may be able to host small events. Please speak with a Vacation Planner for these eligible properties, as not all properties are eligible, and there are additional stipulations for small events, as well as a refundable security deposit requirement. Please keep in mind that all reservations require a complete Guest and Vehicle Registration, and Ryson is a member of a local security organization, the Galveston Association of Rental Managers (GARM). It is always recommended to disclose events of any type, so that we may properly review all necessary items with the contracted Guest. This way there are no surprises.
What communications will you provide after I reserve?
We will email you your online rental agreement which will need to be electronically signed, along with information on travel insurance, information on how and where to check in and information on Ryson’s premier concierge service partner, Gulf Coast Concierge.
What is Galveston Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT)?
Galveston Hotel Occupancy Taxes (HOT) are 15% (6% State of Texas + 9% City of Galveston), charged on all hotel and short-term rental stays; the nightly rental rate, cleaning, and pet fees, etc. Hotel Occupancy Taxes are used for beach patrol, maintenance, nourishment and development, shoreline cleanup, encouragement of arts and history, along with preservation, restoration and promotion, transportation systems, tourism development (advertising and promotions), and construction, maintenance, and operation of convention and visitor centers.
What is your cancellation policy?
We want all vacationers to feel confident about booking their Texas vacation with Ryson Vacation Rentals. Please see the property details page for our cancellation policy.
Check-In & Check-Out Process
Check-in is at 4:00 pm, and staff is unable to release keys until 4:00 pm. If guests arrive on the island before the approved check-in time, we kindly ask that guests make other arrangements and plan accordingly, as keys are not released and access codes are not active until approved check-in time.
What if we need to check in late?
Typically, Management is able to accommodate check-ins until 8:00 pm. Check-ins between 8:00 pm to 12:00 am (midnight) may be accommodated for an additional fee. However, after-hours check-in must be scheduled prior to 5 pm. Please call the office in advance to arrange a late check-in and for information regarding additional fees.
Check-in and check-out location varies by property. For check-out, keys are returned to the same location as check-in. Please refer to your rental agreement and/or check-in instructions email, and please contact Ryson with any questions.
The contracted Guest must be present at check-in and provide ID. If alternate arrangements are necessary, please contact us in advance, so we may let you know if we’re able to make other arrangements.
What is needed to check-in?
You will be asked to provide a government-issued license and vehicle information (make, model, color, and license plate information).
Trip Planning
What we should we pack for our trip and what is provided?
It is recommended to review Ryson’s Packing List when planning your vacation. If there are any questions, please contact us.
Are additional guests allowed at our vacation rental?
All properties have established Maximum Occupancy limits, as listed in the Rental Agreement. At no time during your Reservation Dates are Guests to exceed the Maximum Occupancy for your Rental Property. Occupancy is defined as the total number of people at the Rental Property at any given time, not only overnight guests. All guests, including daytime visitors, must be registered on your Guest Registration.
How many vehicles may be parked at the property?
Most houses allow up to four vehicles to be parked at the property, and some houses may not be able to accommodate this maximum. Parking at condos is determined by the space available at the property (typically two-car maximum). Vehicles should be parked in the driveway or designated parking space. At no time should any vehicle be parked on lawns, yards, or dune. If bringing multiple vehicles, it is your responsibility to find additional parking, and carpooling is highly recommended. Please review your Rental Property listing or condo community page for additional information about your specific Rental Property, or contact Management with any questions. RVs, campers, and trailers are not permitted on the grounds of Rental Property unless approved by Management. Management is not responsible for guest vehicles while parked at the Rental Property.
Where can I rent a golf cart?
Ryson’s premier concierge service partner, Gulf Coast Concierge, offers golf carts, equipment rental and so much more. Golf cart rentals fill up fast during the summer season so book as early as possible to guarantee this great addition to your vacation! Please speak with a Vacation Planner to find out more.
Can I have a fire on the beach?
Yes, however, there are strict rules for having a fire on the beach in Galveston. Our concierge service provides wonderful bonfire nights that include music, smores, and games!
Does the property have a grill?
All houses have a charcoal or propane grill, and most condo communities offer community grills, on a first-come, first-serve basis. Guests are typically responsible for providing their own charcoal/propane.
Does the property have Wi-Fi?
Almost all properties have Wi-Fi. Please check the property listing description and listed amenities to verify that it is provided.
Does the property have (insert amenity here)?
Please check the property description for details of what each property provides. All properties will have a coffee pot, microwave, dishes, glasses, silverware, pots, and pans.