Take the Ultimate Texas Coast Road Trip in Style & Luxury for Summer Fun

Not much can top a road trip to the beach. When one lives in a land-locked city, a chance to escape to the Texas coast is hard to pass up. While some non-native Texans complain about Galveston beaches, many weekenders are quite content with this Gulf Coast city’s rich history, slow pace, and ocean views. Our weekend at the beach was filled with sun and sand. We were happy to throw our sandy chairs and umbrella into the back of our Chevy Colorado and keep our cab clean and sand-free while we drove along with the windows down and music playing.

Photo: Facebook/Lil Daddy’s Gumbo Bar

Galveston and the surrounding area offers many other attractions if relaxing on the beach with a cold drink isn’t your scene. The restaurants are numerous, and while it’s easy to accidentally trip into a tourist trap, there is some very good food to be had in Galveston. Lil’ Daddy’s Gumbo Bar in downtown Galveston makes their gumbo in-house, and it’s some of the best you’ll ever taste. Choose from seafood gumbo or chicken and sausage. A half portion could feed two, but you don’t have to share if you’re hungry! Order the gumbo with a side of garlic bread and you won’t be disappointed.

Rainforest Cafe is another place to check out. There are many options for food, drinks, and dessert, but most impressive are the sights and sounds you’ll experience while there. As you enter the restaurant, you’re met with a mountain, a waterfall, and a talking tree inside the gift shop. Once seated, you’ll be surrounded by trees, sky, and animals in a rainforest. Occasionally during your meal a lightning storm might make it’s way through the forest, creating a reaction from all of the animals. Children and adults alike are fascinated to watch the show! The Galveston location also features a ride where you get to float along in a jungle riverboat.

Photo: Melissa Trevathan-Minnis

When the temperatures drop in the evening, it’s nice to stroll along the Strand and peek in and out of the various shops and stores. Weekend nights often host live music, and listeners bring along chairs to stay and enjoy.

While there, don’t forget to check out the street murals. Bring your camera! Several buildings on various downtown streets feature large murals ripe for photographic magic.

Photo: Melissa Trevathan-Minnis

Before you leave the Strand, be sure to visit one of the oldest candy stores around, La King’s Confectionery. It will be tough to choose from all of the candies, chocolates, ice creams, and hand-spun shakes. The taffy, made in-house, is also hard to resist. Equally as tempting is sitting and watching the mesmerizing process of taffy being folded, stretched, and tucked into wrappers. The taffy maker is happy to throw you a sample!

Photo: Melissa Trevathan-Minnis

Finally, if you tire of the city and want a change of pace, check out one of the two water parks in Galveston. Schlitterbahn is great for all ages and offers a bit more punch, while Palm Beach at Moody Gardens offers rides at a slower pace, perfect for families and younger children. With concessions, chairs by the beach, and rides, you can stay all day!

Photo: Facebook/Palm Beach Moody Gardens

There’s still plenty of summertime left to hop into your own Chevy and hit the beaches!