Located an hour south of Houston, Galveston is an ultra-popular destination for both Texans and tourists. The island city boasts 32 miles of beaches, a storied history, and endless entertainment options.
With miles of coastline, most people flock to Galveston for its beaches. But if you’ve had too much fun in the sun, there are so many other things to do in Galveston. You can have a fun-filled day riding rollercoasters at Pleasure Pier, splashing around at Schlitterbahn Waterpark, or shopping along The Strand.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of places to go hiking, kayaking, and fishing in Galveston. And if you’re in the mood for a culture fix, the city is home to some excellent museums and famous Victorian-era landmarks. There really is something for everyone!
Whether you’re planning a memorable family holiday, a romantic retreat, or a weekend getaway with friends, there’s no doubt that you will find a unique Airbnb in Galveston that’s perfect for you. From beachfront mansions to historic homes and dome-shaped houses, the options are plentiful.
Finding the perfect vacation home might seem overwhelming, so we have picked out 12 of the best Airbnbs in Galveston to make your decision just a little bit easier!
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Top 10 Things To Do in Galveston
- Marvel at the sharks, monkeys, and penguins at Moody Gardens and Aquarium Pyramid. You can easily spend hours exploring this massive aquarium!
- Indulge in an ice-cold beer or a Bloody Mary at The Spot, one of Galveston’s most popular beachside watering holes. They also serve up great burgers and seafood.
- Explore Galveston’s history and Victorian-era buildings in the Strand Historic District. The Strand also boasts some of the area’s best shops, restaurants, and museums.
- Ride a rollercoaster or Ferris wheel on the iconic Pleasure Pier. If you’re hungry pay a visit to Texas’ first Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. restaurant!
- Have a fun-filled family outing at the iconic Schlitterbahn Waterpark – one of the best things to do in Texas!
- Go bird watching, kayaking, and hiking at Galveston Island State Park.
- Walk along the city’s 10-mile seawall. This is a popular spot to take in the sunset views!
- Soak up the sun at Stewart Beach, Galveston’s most popular stretch of sand.
- Order up a catfish po’boy or homemade gumbo at local favorite, Shrimp n’ Stuff.
- Tour one of the US’s most famous Victorian-era mansions. Bishop’s Palace was built in 1893 and is now a National Historic Landmark and museum.
Why Stay in an Airbnb in Galveston
Staying in an Airbnb in Galveston has plenty of benefits. First, you’ll have the chance to live like a local instead of staying in a touristy hotel. Galveston residents are incredibly laid back and friendly so you’ll likely get lots of travel and dining tips from your Airbnb host.
The selection of cool Airbnbs in Galveston is extensive. You can opt for a Victorian-era estate in a historic neighborhood, a tiny home in the heart of town, or a modern villa on the beach.
By choosing to stay in an Airbnb or vacation home you’ll get way more value compared to a hotel. Most Galveston vacation homes are much nicer and more spacious than your average hotel room. Another added perk is that you’ll have a kitchen to prepare home-cooked meals, which helps save on dining costs.
Plus if you are traveling as a large group, Airbnbs and vacation homes usually cost less per person than paying for multiple hotel rooms. This is especially true in the summer months, spring break, and during the annual Mardi Gras Galveston celebration when tourism is at its height.
Search Galveston Hotels and Vacation Rentals
The 12 Best Airbnbs in Galveston, Texas
Best Galveston Airbnbs for Couples and Solo Travelers
1. Katie’s Kottage: Cozy Tiny Home in the Heart of Town
This cozy tiny home is located right in the heart of Galveston, between the beach and the historic downtown district. Katie’s Kottage can sleep up to five guests, so it’s the perfect option for small families or couples looking for a romantic retreat.
This tiny home is brand new so expect top-of-the-line amenities and thoughtful touches throughout. Step inside this adorable Galveston Airbnb and you’ll find a reading nook piled with pillows, a plush leather couch, a Bluetooth-capable record player, and a smart TV with multiple streaming services.
The downstairs also features a small but fully equipped kitchen and a cozy breakfast nook. The friendly Airbnb hosts even provide you with complimentary snacks and drinks! The main bedroom with a luxury ensuite bath is also on the lower level.
Climb up the latter and curl up with a good book in the loft space. Head up the stairs and you’ll find a gorgeous canopy bed in the additional loft bedroom. If that’s not enough, you’ll also have access to a private patio that features a wraparound couch, a charcoal grill, and a cornhole game!
2. Beautiful Bungalow in a Former Church
If you’re looking to stay in one of the most unique vacation homes in Galveston, this adorable bungalow is the perfect pick. This 1-bedroom home was once a church but has been fully remodeled into a beautiful vacation home.
You’ll love the cathedral ceilings, the stained glass windows, and the spiral staircase! You can walk to the beach from this vacation rental and Pleasure Pier is just a 4-minute drive away.
The lower level is open concept and features a comfy couch, a queen-sized bed, and a spacious kitchen that has everything you need to cook meals at home. There are even a few stores within walking distance if you need to shop for supplies.
Head up the spiral staircase and you’ll find an extra sleeping area with a queen-sized bed. This eccentric bungalow boasts three porches that are decked out with tons of potted plants, peaceful sitting areas, and Insta-worthy hand-painted murals. There’s also a hot tub and outdoor shower that’s perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach!
3. Famous 1960s Galveston “Kettle House”
It’s hard to believe that this newly renovated 1960s home was originally a steel kettle-shaped oil tank. The entire space has been transformed into what is now an iconic vacation rental that is so spectacular it was even featured on the show Big Texas Fix! With its beachside location and creative design, the Kettle House definitely the most unique Airbnb in Galveston.
The open-concept space is outfitted in stylish midcentury modern furniture and features wood-paneled walls throughout. With a large leather couch and 50-inch smart TV, you can kick back and relax in the living room. Head into the spacious kitchen that’s equipped with basic breakfast supplies, including oatmeal and coffee, and everything you need to cook gourmet meals at home.
The main bedroom is just off of the living room and boasts a plush queen-sized bed. Head down the metal spiral staircase in the middle of the home and you’ll find two elevated queen-sized beds. Do note, given the spherical shape of the tank, the owners had to get creative when designing this one-of-a-kind home!
You’ll love the enormous wraparound deck. And if it gets too hot, you can always head down to the shaded patio with plenty of modern patio furniture.
4. LaLa’s Seaesta: Tiny Home 2 Blocks from the Beach
Take one look at this colorful Airbnb and it’s easy to see why it was featured in Galveston Monthly. LaLa’s Seaesta is just picture-perfect! Not only is it cute, but it’s located two blocks from the Seawall and minutes from the historic Strand.
Every inch of this beautiful tiny home has been meticulously designed to make the most of the space. While there is technically one bedroom, you’ll find a queen-sized bed in the cozy loft. The breakfast nook can be converted into an additional sleeping area, which means this tiny Airbnb can sleep up to six people!
The compact living area just bursts with color! You’ll love the aquamarine kitchen cabinets, striped area rugs, and funky-pattered couch. You can have a chill movie night with the smart TV, prepare delicious dinners in the kitchenette, and sip coffee in the sun-drenched breakfast nook.
You’ll find the master bedroom on the first floor. Climb up the ladder to the loft where you can curl up with a good book or get a good night’s sleep.
There is also a spacious outdoor living area underneath this Galveston Airbnb! The space boasts a kitchenette, a Bluetooth capable projector and speakers, custom-built swings, a shower, and a hammock. This truly is one of the best Airbnbs in Galveston!
Best Galveston Airbnbs for Small Groups and Families
5. Captain’s Quarters: Chic Beach Bungalow with Ocean Views
If you’re looking to spend some serious quality time with your family, look no further than the “Captain’s Quarters“! This 3-bedroom home is located steps from the beach in the non-touristy town of Freeport. The town is just across the bridge from Galveston’s west end and is roughly 30 minutes to Galveston’s main attractions.
This chic vacation home is part of Treasure Island’s beach community so expect friendly local vibes. There are no cars allowed within 300 meters of the pedestrian beach so renting a golf cart to get around is highly recommended – plus it adds to the family fun!
With its stylish furniture and modern accents, you’ll love the open-concept great room. You can lounge around on the massive sectional sofa, have a movie night with the 4K smart TV, or whip up meals for the group in the chef’s kitchen. Because this Galveston Airbnb is a bit removed from town, it’s best to bring groceries and supplies with you, but there are also basic grocery stores nearby.
You can pack a picnic and spend the day splashing around in the ocean, watch the sunset from the wraparound deck, or make margaritas with the margarita maker. This beach home is all about relaxing!
6. Shipman Hall: Lovingly Restored 19th-Century Victorian
This beautiful 19th-century Victorian home is the perfect pick if you want to be in the heart of town. This 3-bedroom Airbnb is located in Galveston’s East End Historic District so all of the city’s boutiques, restaurants, and cafes are a short stroll away. If you want to have a beach day, the beach is just one mile to the north.
Shipman Hall has been thoughtfully remodeled to keep its historic design intact. Step inside this architectural marvel and you’ll find hardwood floors, wood-trimmed windows, and traditional furniture throughout.
With its plush leather couch and oversized chairs, the living room is perfect for relaxing. The kitchen boasts granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and everything you need to cook meals at home. You can brunch in the sunny breakfast room or host a formal dinner in the adjacent dining room.
You’ll love sipping your morning coffee on the front porch, which is surrounded by beautiful trees and a lovely garden. You’ll also have a private backyard filled with plants, flowers, and trees.
7. The Crab Shack: Canal Front A-Frame Home in Jamaica Beach
This adorable A-frame home is located right on a peaceful canal, just two minutes away from Jamaica Beach. The Crab Shack has three comfy bedrooms and can accommodate a group of nine people so it’s perfect for a family trip or a getaway with friends. This picture-perfect home is outfitted with mid-century modern furniture, polished wood floors, and white shiplap walls.
One of the coolest features of this Airbnb is the newly-built second-story deck, which juts out over the canal. It’s the perfect place to soak up the Texas sun, relax with an ice-cold beer, or enjoy an alfresco meal.
You’ll find a shaded space under the home, which boasts a charcoal grill, a shower, a swinging chair, and two kayaks. If you have a boat, you can moor it in the covered dock and go on a fishing excursion right from your house. If not, you can use the dock to access the canal and do some kayaking!
The Crab Shack is conveniently located near some of the area’s best restaurants including Nate’s West End, Mario’s Pizza, and the Shrimp n’ Stuff food truck in case you want a post-beach snack.
8. Surfside: Unique Dome Home on the Beach
Set right on the beach, this 3-bedroom dome home is definitely one of the most unique Airbnbs in Galveston. You’ll love the spacious deck, which offers 180-degree views of the ocean. If you want to sunbathe on the sand or splash in the water, you’ll have direct access to the beach via a short pathway!
Walk through the front door, and you’ll be wowed by the living room. With towering ceilings, large windows, and sliding glass doors, the space is filled with natural sunlight. The living room has plenty of comfy couches and chairs and is the perfect spot for a game or movie night.
The kitchen is outfitted with everything you need to prepare meals at home. The owners will even go the extra mile and go grocery shopping for you ahead of your arrival. There’s a charcoal barbeque on the shaded outdoor patio (located on the lower level) where you can grill up some burgers or steaks for the group!
Another cool feature of this Airbnb is that you’ll have access to the neighborhood’s fishing pier on the bay side of the island. The Airbnb hosts provide you with all the gear you’ll need to go fishing or crabbing in the bay! And if you want to head into town, downtown Galveston is 20 miles away.
Best Galveston Airbnbs for Large Groups and Events
9. BeachBox: Stunning 6-Bedroom Home on Pirates Beach
If you’re planning the ultimate reunion with family and friends, the BeachBox is definitely one of the best Airbnbs in Galveston. With six bedrooms, this beachfront home can sleep up to 16 guests. Plus it’s nestled right on the beach in the coveted Pirates Beach community!
When you drive up to this beautiful stilted beach home, you’ll be wowed by just how close it is to the ocean. Its second-story pergola and lovely turquoise paint job just add to the curb appeal!
The stunning great room is perfect for socializing. With massive picture windows and plenty of comfy couches and chairs, you can enjoy ocean views right from your living room. Head into the luxury kitchen where you can prepare delicious dinners for the group and dine with a view in the formal dining room.
You can sip sunset cocktails on the oceanfront deck, hunker down with a book in the brand new pergola, or grill up some burgers in the covered barbeque area. The beach is literally right outside your door and all of Galveston’s main attractions are a short drive away!
10. Bayfront Estate with Private Dock and Outdoor Kitchen
This 5-bedroom bayfront estate is perched right on the water in Galveston’s famous Jamaica Beach community. This vacation home has so many cool amenities you’ll probably never want to leave. You’ll even have access to the attached guest house, which features a massive deck, a movie room, and a pool table.
Inside the main home you’ll find an open-concept living room adorned with hardwood floors, modern furniture, and stylish artwork. Sliding glass doors lead out to the bay-facing deck where you can sunbathe or enjoy your morning coffee. The great room also boasts a fully equipped chef’s kitchen.
You’ll love all of the outdoor features of this unique Galveston Airbnb. You can moor your boat or jet skis at your private dock, go night fishing from the waterfront deck, prepare meals in the outdoor kitchen, dine waterside in the covered cabana, or host a cocktail hour on the upper deck. You’ll be endlessly entertained!
Renting a golf cart is highly recommended for getting around the community. And if you want to head into town, Galveston is just 15 miles up the coast.
11. Lavish Villa on Galveston Bay with Infinity Pool and Private Dock
If you’re looking to go all out on your next vacation, look no further than this luxurious Galveston Airbnb. With six bedrooms, this sprawling 3-story bayfront mansion can sleep 10. Located right on Galveston Bay, the setting is spectacular!
This posh vacation home boasts 5,583 square-feet of indoor and outdoor living areas. While the inside is impressive, you’ll love all of the cool outdoor amenities. You can splash around in the infinity pool, hop on your boat at the private dock, dine on the water at the 6-person dining table, or watch the big game in the outdoor living room. Or just kick back and enjoy the bay views from the wraparound patio.
Inside you’ll find 6 well-appointed bedrooms, a regal living room with comfy couches and overstuffed chairs, and a gourmet kitchen where you can prepare family meals. There’s even a game room with a shuffleboard table, a den, and a wet bar to keep you entertained!
If you want to head out for a seafood dinner, Waterman’s Restaurant is just a 5-minute drive away. Or if you want a fun-filled adventure, the famous Schlitterbahn Waterpark is just 15 minutes up the coast.
12. Adorable Red Beach Barn on Bolivar Peninsula
The newly-renovated 4-bedroom vacation rental is located on a secluded stretch of the idyllic Crystal Beach on the Bolivar Peninsula. With a cute outdoor playground and a nautically-themed bunk room, The Beach Barn is the perfect pick for groups with young children. Galveston is 20 miles down the coast, so this is a great option for those who want to get away from it all!
Inside you’ll find an open-plan living area. Grab a bowl of popcorn and have a movie night in the living room or head into the kitchen where you can pack a picnic for the beach. There’s also a large breakfast bar so the chef in your group can socialize while they cook!
You’ll love the spacious outdoor area of this fun Galveston Airbnb. You can host a barbecue with the outdoor grill, warm up around the fire pit, lounge around in one of the many swinging chairs, or have an alfresco family dinner.
The beach is just a 20-second walk from your front door. And you can rinse off with the outdoor shower after a sandy day at the beach. If you want to be able to cruise around the area, you can rent the owner’s golf cart for an extra fee, which is highly recommended!
That’s it – 12 of the best Airbnbs in Galveston! Do you have a favorite vacation rental in Galveston? Let us know in the comments below.
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