The temperatures are staying high here in Texas, and that means many people will be heading to the beach and to Galveston. The island took a major hit from Hurricane Ike in 2008 and there was major devastation, but Galveston has been through this before and is now well on its way back.  As in previous storms, things will be a little different and a little better in some regards. A new "Pleasure Pier” mini amusement park is under construction on one of the beachfront piers, most hotels have been fully renovated and some new ones have opened. Some new restaurants are also popping up around town. Here are a few suggestions for planning your visit:
If you are looking for upscale, modern resort-style accommodations you can go to the Hilton, Moody Gardens Resort or to The San Luis Resort.  Although Moody Gardens is a beautiful property with many family-friendly activities, I prefer a little more action and my choice would be The San Luis (AAA 4 Diamond Rated). 

All of the rooms here face the Gulf of Mexico and have balconies.  Especially appealing are the “club 10” accommodations - these rooms on the 10th floor of the tower have been significantly upgraded from the regular rooms.  The owner of the San Luis also owns a casino resort in Las Vegas (among other things) and these rooms give you a little of that style and excitement.  I noticed the contemporary décor with dark wood finishes, plus lots of electronic goodies.  The resort has a great pool area with waterfalls, private cabanas and a stylish swim-up bar that attracts a crowd both day and night.  There is also a full spa and salon.

For dining options at the San Luis it’s hard to beat The Steakhouse (AAA 4 diamond rated) which may be the best restaurant in Galveston.  The staff at the hotel told me that it was the “best steakhouse in Texas” – well, I’m not sure about that, but they do have everything you would want in a premium steakhouse: prime steaks, great side dishes, fresh Gulf fish and a few extra items like foie gras, fresh oysters and live lobsters.  The service staff is refined but still friendly and very attentive and no jacket or tie is needed. 
 
Of course, many people combine their visit to Galveston with a cruise departure –some new ships will be sailing from Galveston this year, with more arriving to port next year.   Many of the hotels on the island offer cruise parking and shuttle service for guests. 

If you are looking for something a little simpler or more wallet-friendly, there are many properties lining the seawall.  Some were heavily damaged in the storm, but by now most all have been fully renovated or rebuilt entirely, so there are some good choices. There is a brand new Four Points by Sheraton, a new Country Inn & Suites and a Holiday Inn Express to name a few.  

My choice for the best deal on the beach would have to be the Best Western Beachfront Inn (AAA 2 Diamond rated). The rooms are of the exterior corridor design and are not huge, but they have been regularly updated and have all the comforts you need for a short stay. They also have a nice outdoor pool area in a courtyard and are right across Seawall Boulevard from the beach and a fishing pier.

The historic downtown area known as The Strand is also a popular area and is adjacent to the cruise terminal.   Boutique shopping seems to be the main draw, but there are also some museums, cafes and bars.  The Tremont House (AAA 3 Diamond rated) is one block off the main strip and gives you an interesting blend of historic property with a slightly more boutique style. The rooftop bar at the Tremont House is a great place to catch evening breezes and a view of the city.  

Nearby is the Harbor House (AAA 3 diamond rated) which sits directly on a wharf in the busy Galveston harbor.  The rooms here are large and have a loft style with high ceilings and sitting areas.  There are some restaurants right next door as well as the Texas Seaport Museum featuring tours of  the 1877 tall ship Elissa.  The Harbor House and Tremont House are run by the same company as the Hotel Galvez and Spa (AAA 4 Diamond rated) which is on the gulf front a few miles away.  The hotels run a free shuttle van so guests can use the amenities of all of three hotels. 

The Galvez retains its grand historic exterior and lobby, but the rooms have been thoroughly updated and have a modern look that may surprise you. The Galvez earned historic status a long time ago, but this year celebrates its 100th birthday - pretty impressive considering the gulf front location and the island’s history of hurricanes. 

Click on the map to see AAA Approved lodging in Galveston in Trip Tik Travel Planner, as well as recent reviews for each from Trip Advisor.