Unwind and Unplug: A Family Getaway to Galveston
Family vacations, they say, are all about relaxation, creating happy memories, and disconnecting from the daily grind. But let’s be real: orchestrating a getaway for a family of five can feel more like a complex puzzle than a leisurely escape. As the kids grow older, their interests change, making meeting everyone’s wants and needs challenging.
With spring break approaching, my family was looking for a quick getaway. With our wishlist in hand and a modest budget in mind, we set our sights on Galveston, drawn by its proximity, diverse activities, and recommendations from friends.
The players in this vacation included a 15 year old beach loving daughter, my work-tethered husband, and my energetic 11 and 9-year-old boys who alternate between gaming and running amok outdoors. Oh, and me, the mom desperately in need of some R&R.
Finding Paradise in Galveston
We zeroed in on Jamaica Beach — and after looking around Airbnb, we found a sweet little spot that felt like a home away from home, Mermaid Lair. Our rental was stocked with kayaks, fishing poles, bikes, and even a hot tub, which was a highlight for this mom and the boys.
The downside of going in early April, as spring break was earlier than usual this year, was that it was too early in the season for any water activities, such as Schlitterbahn Water Park or the neighborhood pool. But even with these limitations, we made the best of it.
We had a difficult time making decisions as a group due to the abundance of activities available. Our family isn’t great with sticking to a strict schedule, so we chose a few activities each day and took our time to enjoy them. We discovered that the aquarium and mini-golf were only 15 minutes away, so we added those to our list of adventures. Everyone was happy, so it was a win!
Embracing the Quirks of Galveston
Galveston’s beaches may not boast white sands or crystal-clear waters, but they have a unique appeal. The salty sea air and the sound of waves crashing provided a much needed break from reality. Moreover, our family was staying just three minutes away.
Driving onto the beach was a game-changer — there was no need to wrangle kids and gear — just pull up, pop the trunk, and let the good times roll! And despite the chilly temps, there was joy on my kids’ faces and maybe some chattering teeth as they rode the waves with their new bougie boards in knee-deep waters. Meanwhile, my husband and I sat comfortably in the back of the minivan. Pure bliss!
Lessons Learned and Memories Made
What made the trip really special were the unexpected moments, like observing my 11-year-old son amidst a moment of frustration with everyone, communicate his intention to hit the reset button and start fresh the next day. My 9-year-old was delighted to see the glowing canals of Jamaica Beach at night, which reminded us of the movie Migration. Fun fact: Jamaica is famous for its bioluminescent waters!
We kept things simple, incorporating the highlight of our day and a question of the day into our dinner routine — a practice that created connection and kept the focus off screens. And despite a few hiccups — a minor family squabble over tacos and a forgotten item or two (or three) — the trip was a resounding success.
Local Flavor, Mom Style
Galveston, Texas, was the perfect destination for our diverse family crew. Technically, we visited during off-season, which resulted in fewer crowds, making exploring the area much more enjoyable.
So, if you’re in need of a mom-approved getaway that’s equal parts relaxation and adventure, pack up the minivan and head to Galveston. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, kayaking through the tranquil canals, or indulging in local cuisine, you’ll find something to delight every member of your group.
