Gaido’s Seaside Inn leads with a nostalgic coastal vibe and a 9.2 location score right on Seawall Boulevard. For boutique luxury, The Mansion on 17th scores a 9.2 overall with a 9.7 location in the East End. Whether you want beachfront convenience or historic character, Galveston delivers.
Galveston means Gulf views, pier fishing, and historic mansions. This list ranks 20 hotels in Galveston, Texas by real guest scores to find you the right stay.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties and 16,200+ total verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing cleanliness scores 8.5+ and location ratings 9.0+ where the data supports it.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best on Seawall Boulevard: #1 Gaido’s Seaside Inn→ Rates
#3 Best Western Plus Galveston Suites→ Rates - Highest-rated overall: #7 The Mansion on 17th→ Rates
- Best for cruise parking: #1 Gaido’s Seaside Inn→ Rates
#6 Inn at the Waterpark→ Rates - Pet-friendly: #12 The Tremont House→ Rates
#17 Residence Inn Galveston→ Rates - Best value under $150: #4 Days Inn & Suites Galveston West→ Rates
- Best for cruisers at Pier 21: #15 Harbor House Hotel→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Gaido’s Seaside Inn | (2,700+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Baymont by Wyndham Galveston | (2,250+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Best Western Plus Galveston Suites | (1,900+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Days Inn & Suites Galveston West | (1,300+ Reviews) |
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| 5. La Quinta Inn & Suites Galveston North | (1,050+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Inn at the Waterpark | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 7. The Mansion on 17th | (750+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Red Roof Inn PLUS Galveston | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Holiday Inn Resort Galveston | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 10. The George Manor | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Spark By Hilton Galveston | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 12. The Tremont House | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 13. San Luis Resort Spa | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Super 8 by Wyndham Galveston | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Harbor House Hotel at Pier 21 | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Lotus Galveston | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Residence Inn Galveston | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Comfort Suites Galveston Cruise | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Seabreeze Hotel | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Holiday Inn Galveston Island | (200+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top Hotels in Galveston, Texas
1. Gaido’s Seaside Inn
The Vibe
This is the classic Galveston beach motel, and it nails nostalgia without feeling dated. Guests consistently praise the location directly on Seawall Boulevard—9.2/10 for location is no fluke. The pool area doubles as a drink spot with views, and the complimentary hot breakfast is a cut above typical hotel fare.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with a kitchen or kitchenette in select units—check your room type. The outdoor swimming pool gets solid marks, and the hot tub stays warm even in cooler months. Free parking on-site is a huge plus in Galveston. Staff score 8.6, which backs up the friendly service. Note that check-in requires you to be 21+, and children 18+ are charged as adults. The property also offers cruise parking, though the shuttle service has been paused.
Choose this if: You want a classic beachfront stay with hot breakfast and cruise parking on Seawall Boulevard.
2. Baymont by Wyndham Galveston
The Vibe
A reliable Wyndham property that proves a 3-star can feel solid. Staff scores are the star here at 9.0—guests consistently mention helpful front desk service. Location at 8.8 puts you within walking distance of the Gulf, slightly removed from the Seawall bustle.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with a refrigerator and microwave—the data confirms closet ironing boards and coffee makers too. The outdoor pool is seasonal, and the continental breakfast is adequate but not the highlight. Upper floors are accessible by elevator, which matters if you’re hauling beach gear. Note: cash-paying guests need a refundable cash deposit at check-in. Pets are not allowed, and groups booking 9+ rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You prioritize friendly, efficient service and a clean, quiet West End location.
3. Best Western Plus Galveston Suites
The Vibe
This is the top scorer among the chain properties here. An 8.7 overall with a location score of 9.3 and comfort at 9.0—these numbers stack up. Guests rave about the breakfast and the private balconies, which are standard in all rooms. The seasonal outdoor pool and fitness center round out the amenities.
What You Actually Get
Every room has a private balcony—confirmed by the property itself. The breakfast is a standout feature with a good coffee maker that guests specifically praise. Free parking on-site and an elevator for upper floors add convenience. Cleanliness scores 8.9, so expect a well-maintained room. Note that pets are not allowed, and early check-in requests depend on availability—contact the hotel day-of. Groups booking 9+ rooms have different policies.
Choose this if: You want a private balcony and a breakfast spread that rivals higher-end hotels.
Check Tonight’s Price for Best Western Plus Galveston Suites →
4. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Galveston West/Seawall
The Vibe
Budget travelers, this one’s for you. It’s a solid 7.3 overall, but the Wi-Fi scores an impressive 8.9—the best connection in this price bracket. Location on Seawall puts you steps from the beach, and most rooms have balconies (confirmed by guest QA). The pool is seasonal and open 10-10.
What You Actually Get
Kitchen facilities in select rooms make this a pick for longer stays or families who want to cook. Free parking on-site is included. The fitness center is small but functional. Cleanliness scores 7.9 and comfort at 7.9 are decent for this price tier. Note: pets are not allowed, and there is no elevator on property—request a ground-floor room if stairs are an issue. No shuttle service is available.
Choose this if: You need fast Wi-Fi and kitchen access without paying for a full resort.
Check Tonight’s Price for Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Galveston West/Seawall →
5. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Galveston North at I-45
The Vibe
This 2-star property punches above its weight. Staff scores at 8.5 reflect the guest quote pattern—”perfect location, great customer service” shows up repeatedly. The I-45 location makes it convenient for those driving in, and the covered parking option ($12/day) is a nice touch for Texas heat. Wi-Fi scores a 9.5, which is stellar for this tier.
What You Actually Get
The outdoor pool and fitness center are available. Breakfast is included, which guests appreciate. Cruise parking is available for a fee ($9/day uncovered, $12/day covered) but the shuttle service is not provided—though the front desk can connect you with third-party options. Comfort scores 8.1 and cleanliness 8.1 are respectable. Pets are not allowed. Groups booking 9+ rooms have different policies.
Choose this if: You need easy I-45 access, reliable Wi-Fi, and a solid budget option with cruise parking.
Check Tonight’s Price for La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Galveston North at I-45 →
6. Inn at the Waterpark
The Vibe
The name says it all—this one sits right near Schlitterbahn and Moody Gardens, making it a top pick for families hitting the waterparks. Staff scores 8.7 and location 8.7 are both strong. Guests love the free mini-golf and the easy walk to the waterpark. Check-in starts at 3 PM, earlier than many on this list.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have cable flat-screen TVs and air conditioning. Pets are allowed on request with potential charges, which is rare at this price point. Free cruise parking is available with a one-night stay—guests confirm this in QA. Breakfast to-go is included. Note: there is no elevator on property, and all rooms have outdoor hall access, which is typical for this style of motel. The pool is seasonal.
Choose this if: You’re taking the kids to Moody Gardens or Schlitterbahn and want cruise parking included.
7. The Mansion on 17th, formerly Schaefer Haus
The Vibe
This is the luxury pick on the list. A 9.2 overall with a location score of 9.7 and comfort at 9.3—this is a top-tier stay. Guests describe the experience as “absolutely amazing,” citing the complimentary happy hour, the concierge Aaron, and the exceptional breakfast that includes continental, gluten-free, and American options. The mansion itself is a restored historic property with quiet street views.
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking is included. The breakfast is exceptional—guests rave about it. Check-in has a narrow window (3-6 PM), so plan your arrival. Guests can come and go freely with keys. The property does not accommodate children under 13, making it an adult-focused retreat. Pets are not allowed. Cancellation policies vary, so check your room type before booking.
Choose this if: You want a historic boutique stay with exceptional breakfast and an adults-only atmosphere.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Mansion on 17th, formerly Schaefer Haus →
8. Red Roof Inn PLUS + Galveston – Beachfront
The Vibe
One of the few pet-friendly hotels on this list, and it comes with a strong Wi-Fi score of 9.3. Location at 8.8 puts you a 3-minute walk to Seawall Urban Park. Guests note the “lots of space, super clean” rooms and the beach proximity. It’s a straightforward, no-frills beach motel that welcomes your dog.
What You Actually Get
One well-behaved domestic pet stays free—second pet is $15/night. Rooms have mini-fridges and microwaves but no full kitchens. The outdoor swimming pool is seasonal. Free private parking on-site is included. Staff scores 8.7, which is high for this tier. Cleanliness scores 8.1. Note that groups booking 9+ rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with a dog and want a clean, beach-close stay without a pet fee.
Check Tonight’s Price for Red Roof Inn PLUS + Galveston – Beachfront →
9. Holiday Inn Resort Galveston – On The Beach by IHG
The Vibe
A proper beachfront resort with private balconies overlooking the Gulf. Location scores 9.1 and staff 8.8 are strong. Guests love the ocean views and the pool area, which includes free snow cones for kids and pool toys. The cruise shuttle is a major plus for pre-cruise stays—they provide transportation to the terminal.
What You Actually Get
All rooms have private balconies and refrigerators. The outdoor pool and fitness center are available. Breakfast is available for an additional €11 per person. Cruise parking is available for a fee—contact the resort for current rates. Wi-Fi scores a moderate 7.1, which is the weak point here. Check-in requires guests to be 21+. Groups booking 6+ rooms have different policies.
Choose this if: You want a resort-style stay with ocean views and a cruise shuttle to the terminal.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Resort Galveston – On The Beach by IHG →
10. The George Manor
The Vibe
Tied for the highest overall score on this list at 9.2, The George Manor is a B&B that feels like a home. Location scores 9.6 and cleanliness hits 9.4. Guests rave about the breakfast—full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten-free, kosher, Asian, and American options are all available. The property is run by Graham and Michael, who guests describe as warm and engaging.
What You Actually Get
Free parking is included—”FREE parking!” is highlighted in the data. The property offers an airport shuttle from IAH for a fee. Breakfast is exceptional and included. The property speaks German, English, Spanish, and French. Pets are allowed on request with charges, but note that not all units accept pets—check with the property. Secure cruise parking is available at a private lot on 24th St with shuttle service.
Choose this if: You want a boutique B&B experience with gourmet breakfast and airport/cruise shuttle options.
11. Spark By Hilton Galveston
The Vibe
A solid Hilton budget property with a key differentiator: an indoor pool and hot tub. For Galveston, where many pools are seasonal and outdoor, this is a real advantage in cooler months. Location at 8.9 puts you adjacent to the beach. Guests mention the covered parking and good-quality toiletries as highlights.
What You Actually Get
The indoor pool and hot tub are the main draws. Breakfast is included. Free on-site parking with covered spots is available. Wi-Fi scores 8.8, which is strong. Cleanliness scores 8.1 and comfort at 8.2 are decent for the price point. Note that this property does not accept cash payments—credit card or photo ID required at check-in. Pets are not allowed.
Choose this if: You’re visiting in cooler months and want an indoor pool and hot tub steps from the beach.
12. The Tremont House, Galveston, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
The Vibe
This is the sophisticated pick. A 9.1 overall with a location score of 9.5 puts you in the heart of the historic East End. The building itself is gorgeous—guests describe it as “elegant” with an “atmosphere of sophistication.” Staff scores 9.3, facilities 9.2, and cleanliness 9.3 all back up the high rating. It’s a Tribute Portfolio property, so expect Marriott-level service.
What You Actually Get
Pets are allowed on request—only dogs under 40 lbs (18.14 kg). Breakfast is available for €22 per person. Private parking is available on-site for a fee. Rooms are oversized, which guests consistently note. The fitness center is available. Roll-away beds can be added for $20/night. Cruise parking is available for $100/week, and a shuttle to the terminal is $15/person. Check-out is at 12 PM, which is generous compared to the 11 AM standard.
Choose this if: You want a sophisticated, pet-friendly stay in a historic building with cruise parking and shuttle.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Tremont House, Galveston, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel →
13. The San Luis Resort Spa & Conference Center
The Vibe
The San Luis is the full resort experience on Seawall Boulevard. Staff scores 9.1 and location 9.3 are top-tier. The property spans the gulf coast with three on-site restaurants and a full spa. Guests love the corner rooms for extra space, and the pool area is described as “very welcoming.” It’s a splurge, but the amenities justify it.
What You Actually Get
The spa and hot tub/Jacuzzi are standout features—Villa suites even have private hot tubs in-room. Breakfast is available for €26 per person for the buffet. Self-parking is $15/night, valet is $32/night. Pets are allowed with charges. Coolers and ice chests are not allowed on property. The fitness center is available. Groups booking 3+ rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You want a resort experience with spa, pool, and dining—all on Seawall Boulevard.
Check Tonight’s Price for The San Luis Resort Spa & Conference Center →
14. Super 8 by Wyndham Galveston
The Vibe
This is the budget champion. A 7.9 overall with a location score of 8.5 puts you a 3-minute walk from the Gulf seafront. Guests consistently call it “my favorite place to stay” for the price. It’s close to Kroger, Walmart, and restaurants—practical for self-catering stays. The outdoor pool is seasonal.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi scores 8.4 and free parking on-site. Rooms have air conditioning and bathtubs. Breakfast is available but basic. The property is 4 miles from the cruise port, with taxi costs around $20. Cruise parking is not offered. Cash-paying guests need a refundable cash deposit at check-in. Pets are not allowed, but service animals are accepted.
Choose this if: Your priority is the lowest possible rate within walking distance of the Gulf.
15. Harbor House Hotel and Marina at Pier 21
The Vibe
Location score of 9.7—tied for the highest on this list. Harbor House sits right on Pier 21, the same pier as the cruise terminal. Guests love watching dolphins from the boardwalk. The room cleanliness scores 9.4 and comfort at 9.3. It’s a 3-star property that performs like a 4-star on guest satisfaction.
What You Actually Get
The complimentary hotel shuttle to the cruise terminal is a major perk. Private parking is available on-site. Breakfast is included with the “good breakfast” option—€0, so it’s free. Rooms have air conditioning and free Wi-Fi (score 8.3). Pets are not allowed. Check-out is at 11 AM. The property requires a valid photo ID and credit card at check-in.
Choose this if: You’re boarding a cruise and want a hotel on the same pier with a free shuttle.
Check Tonight’s Price for Harbor House Hotel and Marina at Pier 21 →
16. Lotus Galveston
The Vibe
Lotus Galveston is a small, quiet hotel in a historic house. It’s popular with solo travelers and guests looking for a calm, garden-view stay. The Wi-Fi scores 9.6—the second-highest Wi-Fi score on this list. Value scores 9.0, which is exceptional. The property is less than a 5-minute walk to The Strand and a 7-15 minute walk to the cruise port.
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking is available—they provide a Galveston visitor parking pass for street parking. Rooms have garden views and quiet street exposure. Children are not allowed at this property, making it an adult-focused retreat. Check-out is early at 10 AM. The room is small but well-equipped with a private bath. Guests particularly note the exceptionally clean rooms and comfortable bed.
Choose this if: You’re a solo traveler or couple who values a quiet, clean, garden-view stay near The Strand.
17. Residence Inn by Marriott Galveston Island
The Vibe
A 9.1 overall with a cleanliness score of 9.3—this is the cleanest property on the list tied with #10 and #15. Staff scores 9.2 and facilities 9.2 are excellent. Guests describe it as “a home away from home” with large rooms and a good breakfast selection. It’s a 4-minute walk to Seawall Urban Park.
What You Actually Get
Full kitchens in every room make this ideal for extended stays. The excellent breakfast is included. Free Wi-Fi scores 9.3. The outdoor swimming pool and fitness center are available. Private parking is available for a fee. Pets are allowed with a non-refundable $125 fee per room per stay. Note: this hotel does not have a cruise port or airport shuttle. Groups booking 3+ rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You’re staying 3+ nights and want a clean, kitchen-equipped room with excellent breakfast.
Check Tonight’s Price for Residence Inn by Marriott Galveston Island →
18. Comfort Suites Galveston Cruise Port Area – Beachside
The Vibe
A budget-friendly option near Schlitterbahn and Moody Gardens. The cruise shuttle is the main draw here—$20 per person round trip or $15 one way if you stay the night before. Location scores 8.1 and staff at 8.1 are decent. It’s a practical pick for pre-cruise stays where price matters more than luxury.
What You Actually Get
The outdoor swimming pool and fitness center are available. Breakfast is included—a “very good” breakfast according to the data. Free private parking on-site is available. Wi-Fi scores 7.0, which is the weakest on the list. Pets are not allowed. Groups booking 5+ rooms face different policies. The property is one mile from Schlitterbahn and Moody Gardens.
Choose this if: You want the cheapest cruise shuttle option near Schlitterbahn and Moody Gardens.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Suites Galveston Cruise Port Area – Beachside →
19. Seabreeze Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel
The Vibe
A 9.0 overall with a perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi score—the best internet on this list by a wide margin. Location scores 9.5, putting you one block from the Seawall. Staff scores 9.3 and cleanliness 9.4 are both stellar. Guests note the “good breakfast” and “helpful staff.” It’s a small, boutique Ascend Collection property that outperforms its size.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi with a perfect 10.0 score is the headline. Very good breakfast is included. The property is a 3-minute walk from Seawall Urban Park. A damage deposit of $50 is required at check-in. Pets are not allowed. Check-in runs until 11:30 PM, which is generous. Check-out is from midnight to 11 AM, offering flexibility.
Choose this if: You need flawless internet and want a boutique stay with a 9.5 location score.
Check Tonight’s Price for Seabreeze Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel →
20. Holiday Inn Galveston Island by IHG
The Vibe
A quieter option on Broadway Street, away from the Seawall bustle. Guests love the lagoon views from the large bay windows—the property overlooks a lagoon rather than the Gulf. Wi-Fi scores 9.0, which is strong. The on-site evening restaurant means you don’t have to leave for dinner. Location at 8.1 is decent, but it’s further out from the main attractions.
What You Actually Get
The outdoor swimming pool and restaurant are the main amenities. Breakfast is included—exceptional breakfast according to the data. Free on-site parking is available. Wi-Fi scores 9.0. Air conditioning is standard. Spa and gym facilities are available but subject to closure. Pets are not allowed. Cruise parking is no longer offered. The property is 100% non-smoking. Check-in runs until midnight, offering flexibility for late arrivals.
Choose this if: You want a quiet stay with lagoon views and don’t need to be right on the beach.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Galveston Island by IHG →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#7 The Mansion on 17th
A 9.2 overall rating with a 9.7 location score, exceptional breakfast, and complimentary happy hour—this is the best stay in Galveston.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Mansion on 17th, formerly Schaefer Haus →
đź’° Best Value
#14 Super 8 by Wyndham Galveston
A 7.9 rating with a 3-minute walk to the Gulf and the lowest rate on this list—unbeatable value for beach access.
🚢 Best for Cruisers
#15 Harbor House Hotel and Marina at Pier 21
A 9.7 location score right on Pier 21 with a complimentary cruise shuttle—the ideal pre-cruise stay.
Check Tonight’s Price for Harbor House Hotel and Marina at Pier 21 →
How We Ranked These Galveston Hotels
I evaluated 20 hotels in Galveston, Texas, sifting through 16,200+ verified guest reviews on Booking.com. The ranking prioritizes overall guest score, with emphasis on location and cleanliness as the primary drivers of guest satisfaction in beach destinations.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.0+ overall and 200+ verified reviews were included
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and staff scores — the categories that drive repeat bookings in Galveston
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns to confirm accuracy
- Location signals: Proximity to Seawall Boulevard, the historic East End, and cruise terminals for Galveston-specific travel patterns
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these Galveston hotels?
Yes, but only at select properties. Red Roof Inn PLUS Galveston allows one pet free and a second for $15/night. The Tremont House accepts dogs under 40 lbs with charges. The George Manor and Residence Inn allow pets on request with fees, while Inn at the Waterpark allows pets on request with potential charges. The remaining 15 hotels on this list do not accept pets.
Which hotels offer free cancellation?
Cancellation policies vary by room type and property. Most hotels on this list offer flexible cancellation options on select room types, but you’ll need to check the specific conditions for your chosen rate. Properties like Gaido’s Seaside Inn, Baymont, and Best Western Plus allow cancellation based on the room type selected at booking—always review the policy before confirming.
When’s the best time to visit Galveston?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the best weather with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with beach activities and higher rates. Winter months are quieter and cheaper, but many outdoor pools are seasonal. For cruise passengers, book year-round—the cruise terminal operates throughout the year with the best hotel deals from November to February.
What’s the most walkable area in Galveston?
The East End, particularly around The Strand and Pier 21, is the most walkable area. Properties like Harbor House Hotel (#15), Lotus Galveston (#16), and The Tremont House (#12) put you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, the cruise terminal, and the historic district. The Seawall Boulevard area is also walkable but more spread out—you’ll want a car for the West End properties.
Do any of these hotels offer cruise parking and shuttle?
Several hotels provide cruise parking. Gaido’s Seaside Inn (#1) offers free cruise parking but no shuttle. The Tremont House (#12) charges $100/week for parking and $15/person for shuttle. Harbor House (#15) offers complimentary shuttle and private parking. San Luis Resort (#13) has paid parking and may assist with transportation. Always verify current policies and pricing directly with the hotel before booking, as these services can change.
How do I get from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Galveston?
IAH is approximately 57 miles from Galveston. The most practical options are renting a car (about a 1-hour drive), booking a shuttle service like Galveston Limousine or Saltgrass Express, or using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft which typically costs $80–$120. The George Manor offers an airport shuttle from IAH for guests who arrange it in advance. Most hotels have free on-site parking if you drive.