The Most Budget-Friendly Hotels to Book in Galveston, Texas

DoubleTree by Hilton is up there with Galvestons finest seaside hotels
DoubleTree by Hilton is up there with Galveston's finest seaside hotels | Courtesy of DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Galveston Beach / Expedia
Frank Lopez

Writer

Tick off the beaches and the famous Galveston Pleasure Pier, then seek out happiness with one of these cost-conscious stays, all bookable with Culture Trip.

The island city of Galveston, down on the Gulf Coast of Texas, has much to offer visitors – including museums, nightlife and some incredible slices of coastline. But there’s no reason to hold back on comfort if you’re visiting on a shoestring. Save your cents for sightseeing with a stay at one of these budget Galveston hotels.

1. Candlewood Suites Galveston

Budget Hotel, Hotel

An outdoor pool at Candlewood Suites Galveston surrounded by some palm trees, with green sun loungers on the right side
Courtesy of Candlewood Suites Galveston / Expedia

Visiting Galveston on a budget doesn’t mean scrimping on comfort or proximity to the beach. The suites at Candlewood come with fully equipped kitchens, meaning you can prepare your own meals, but there is also the luxury of an outdoor pool and fitness center. The gazebo grill is a social place to prepare your food as a family or a great way to meet others staying at the hotel if you’re feeling sociable.

2. Harbor House at Pier 21

Boutique Hotel, Independent Hotel

A modern and minimalist bedroom at Harbor House at Pier 21
Courtesy of Harbor House at Pier 21 / Expedia

The only harborfront hotel in Galveston, right next to the cruise ship terminal and adjacent to the Historic District, is close to all the family-friendly entertainment and attractions the island has to offer. With ceiling fans and hip furniture, these extremely stylish rooms offer great views of working ships and marine life – if you’re lucky, you might even get a glimpse of some dolphins frolicking.

4. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Galveston Beach

Chain Hotel, Hotel

The bright modern rooms at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Galveston Beach look out onto the beach
Courtesy of DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Galveston Beach / Expedia

A little further from the action than some of its peers, this Galveston hotel is designed for those seeking respite over noise and excitement. But never fear – you won’t be completely cut off from the island’s attractions; there’s a friendly shuttle bus that’ll take you to wherever you need to go and there’s plenty to do within walking distance, too. For an added dose of adventure, the hotel offers free bicycle rental – a glorious way to discover the island.

5. Hotel Galvez & Spa

Spa Hotel, Hotel

The pastel-coloured dining room in Hotel Galvez & Spa, with arched windows looking out onto greenery
Courtesy of Hotel Central Avignon / Expedia
Those wanting to experience the history of the island without leaving their bed should opt for this beautiful Spanish-colonial hotel – a local landmark in itself. A hundred years old, it’s a wonderful window into Galveston’s past and even boasts a lavish spa and highly recommended restaurant, plus a glamorous pool area, with delightful arches and a swim-up bar. You’ll forget you’re on a budget in no time.

6. The Tremont House

Hotel, Luxury

A bedroom at The Tremont House with a large black rug, a double bed, and curtains and a table adorned in a floral pattern
Courtesy of Schaefer Haus / Booking

The Tremont dates back to 1839 and feels as much part of the legend of Galveston as any other landmark on the island. Walking into the grand lobby, you get a sense that you have arrived: it screams of another era while still feeling every inch the modern establishment. The rooms are spacious and basing yourself in the Historic District adds an undeniable sense of pomp to your stay, while the rooftop bar is a fantastic place to enjoy a cocktail with a view.

7. Inn at the Waterpark

Hotel, Budget Hotel

Inn at the Waterpark has a communal area with a snack bar
Courtesy of Inn at The Waterpark / Expedia

It would be hard to stay anywhere more laid back than Galveston’s Inn at the Waterpark. Set right next to the splash of joy that is the Schlitterbahn Waterpark and only steps from the Moody Gardens, this is the ultimate family hotel with large rooms and breakfasts to match. It is geared towards those wanting a care-free and family-focused experience and the 18-hole mini-golf on-site only adds to the carnival atmosphere.

8. Schaefer Haus

Boutique Hotel, Hotel, Luxury

A spacious suite at Schaefer Haus has a fireplace, seating area and floor-to-ceiling windows
Courtesy of Schaefer Haus / Expedia

Right in the historic center, occupying one of two structures from the 1890s, Schaefer House offers the opportunity to truly discover Galveston. The location is extremely quiet, but you’re still within easy walking distance of all the action, including a multitude of restaurants and shopping hotspots practically on your doorstep. Guests are gently encouraged to mingle in the parlor. Expect to be charmed.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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