Who says that you can go to the beaches only during summer? At Galveston, with its semi-tropical climate, visitors enjoy year-round coastal bliss. Located 50 miles southeast of Houston, Galveston is an island in the Gulf of Mexico that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history, beaches, as well as city ambiance.On the north end of the island, the restored Victorian Strand district, resort hotels, and beachfront businesses provide a busy, commercial ambiance. If, however, you are seeking solitude and open beach access, then head south where you will find long stretches of private and rental residences.There are several activity options that will keep you entertained in Galveston.

You can shop to your heart's content, or visit any of the several delightful locations. If architecture and art fascinates you, then structures such as the Bishop's Palace, the Ashton Villa, the Galveston County Historical Museum, the Texas Seaport Museum and the Moody Mansion are places you might want to include in your agenda. If you are an ocean lover, then Elissa and the Ocean Star may interest you.

And if you enjoy spending time in parks, then do visit the Moody Gardens and the Stewart Beach Park. If you want to simply soak in the sun and spend time on the beach, then you can swim, sunbathe, and relax all day.Night Life: If you are a nightlife enthusiast and love music, then you might want to check out the Galveston Island Outdoor Musicals as well as the Strand Street Saloon.

For theater lovers, the Grand 1894 Opera House and the Strand Street Theater offer many delights. To keep up your spirits during your nocturnal adventures, you can visit bars such as The Press Box and Slices.History: In the year 1900, Galveston was nearly devastated by a hurricane. The resulting destruction of life and property led the city officials to raise the island and add a seawall. Galveston then became a safe place to visit. Though Galveston is no longer Texas's busiest seaport after the hurricane, preservationists restored stately homes and built commercial districts with modern facilities.

The Strand (formerly the site of stores, offices, and warehouses) now features on the National Register of Historic Places, and has one of the largest collections of historic buildings in the country.Reaching Galveston: The nearest airports to reach Galveston are in Houston. Do check beforehand with the airline as to which of the two airports you will be using, as many airlines serve both.So if you are looking for an exciting, relaxing and rejuvenating vacation, kick off your work shoes and head to Galveston.

moodygardenshotel.com for more information on a quality Galveston hotel.

By: Nancy Kinley