Six Holiday Gifts You Can Only Find in Galveston

During your Galveston holiday getaway, you’ll love holiday shopping in Historic Downtown Galveston. The downtown area is walkable and the shops and boutiques are locally owned and operated. Here is a list of six holiday gifts you can only find in Galveston.

1. First on the list is fudge from La King’s Confectionary, 2323 Strand. La King’s makes more than 50 different candies, including hand-dipped chocolates, their famous saltwater taffy, peanut brittle, and more. It’s a treat to visit and you’ll be overwhelmed with the selection. Insider tip: Their ribbon candy is only available during the holidays. 
2. If you love scented candles, then stop by Tina’s on The Strand, 2326 Strand, and purchase one of their Tina’s Blend candles. It’s a combination of cinnamon, amaretto vanilla, and almond and is available in 15- and 30-hour votives and 50-hour candles. The owner has these candles specially made for Tina’s. It’s a customer favorite.  
3. Foodies and history buffs will love the tomato gravy from Maceo’s Spice & Import Company, 2706 Market. According to the website, the Maceo Family left Sicily in 1903 through the Port of New Orleans and eventually settled in Galveston. Along with photos, they brought family traditions and recipes. The Maceo family passed down these recipes and used them in some of Galveston’s finest restaurants, including the infamous Balinese Room. If you don’t know the history, look it up.
4. Hendley Market is the only source for the Cider Beetle. You’ll love it if you want to enjoy the smell and taste of the holidays. Hendley Market makes this all-natural sweet and spicy “beetle” from a dried orange half and a combination of cinnamon, cloves, allspice, sugar, and more. Dissolve this treat into your favorite apple cider or red wine. It ​creates a delicious mulled beverage and makes the house smell like the holidays!  
5. Take a bit of Galveston home with you by stopping by Rene Wiley Studio, 2128 Postoffice. Her preferred subject is, of course, Galveston. You’ll see famous landmarks, alleys, birds, and beaches. In addition to Rene Wiley’s paintings, you’ll see the work of other Galveston artists. 
6. While the restaurant is not located in downtown Galveston, you should pick up a Pecan Crunch Pie at Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant, 3828 Seawall. Gaido’s is widely known for its delicious Pecan Crunch Pie. Pre-order their Pecan Crunch either in a round shape or in the shape of Texas. It will be a hit with the family. 

Make the most of these holiday travel tips and enjoy your next getaway in Galveston. Ryson Vacation Rentals offers more than 200 properties across the island that provide plenty of reasons to visit Galveston during the holidays. If you need help planning your visit, Gulf Coast Concierge is available to assist.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Christine is a proud BOI, meaning she was “Born on the Island.” She is the co-author of the newly released “100 Things to Do in Galveston Before You Die,” published by Reedy Press. Before the book, she wrote more than 300 blogs on Galveston offering travel tips on what to see and do. Over the years, she’s given hundreds of tours for visiting travel writers showcasing the sites on the island. Currently, she’s a Galveston guide for ToursByLocals.com.