Galveston, Texas, is the total package. With a storied past, well-preserved historical architecture, stunning beaches, lively activities on land, water, and in state parks, vibrant nightlife, decadent restaurants, and of course, a wide array of cultural events and attractions. There are a few destinations that can offer it all - until you’ve met Galveston in October!
This island city is perched in the Gulf just off the coast of Houston, but might as well be light-years away from the sweltering, high traffic city. This October, book a stay at our luxurious beachfront vacation rentals in Galveston and enjoy all this and more! Thanks to our conveniently beachfront location, you're steps from the sand and perfectly positioned to take advantage of all this city has to offer.
October is one of the best months to plan a visit to Galveston, Texas, thanks to the pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Here's everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip this fall season.
October Weather in Galveston
If you're looking for warm yet pleasant daytime weather and cool, comfortable nights in Galveston, October is the best month for you to plan your visit.
Often considered by locals to be the all-around best month to travel to this region of Texas, the temperatures drop a bit from September and sit between the low 60s and low 80s both day and night. The transitional period between summer and fall has far lower humidity than the previous summer months, too. This means you should turn your attention to the outdoors!
Water Temps
The Gulf's water remains delightfully warm well into fall—typically around the mid-70s °F in October. These temperatures keep beach outings, morning dips, and watersports enjoyable well after summer ends—though a light wetsuit or rash guard might start looking appealing as you move into November.
Rainfall
October generally brings mild and manageable rainfall to Galveston. The few days with rain are usually brief and light when they do occur. The overall fall season remains relatively dry, allowing you to plan beach days and outdoor adventures with confidence.
Off Peak Season
Considering the incredibly pleasant weather, you would expect the shores of Galeston to be crowded with tourists. But not so. October is not technically considered peak travel season, which means, in addition to perfect weather, you can also get many of the idyllic beaches mostly to yourself.
Best Things To Do in Galveston in October
If you're looking for the absolute best things to do in Galveston Island in October, look to the outdoors. Thanks to the pleasant weather and lack of crowds, our wild spaces certainly won't disappoint. Here are the top five activities and attractions you should prioritize on your next fall visit.
1. Spend the Day at the Beach
Photo Credit: Mark Taylor Cunningham
Most travelers who come to Galveston make at least a little time for our tranquil Gulf beaches. It is an island after all. With 32 miles of soft sand and placid crystalline waters set at perfect swimming temperature, they are a must-see. Here are some of our favorite Galveston beaches where you can soak up the last rays of the October sun.
Stewart Beach
This family-friendly beach, located on the east end of the Seawall, is clean, well-maintained, and offers amenities such as concessions, chair and umbrella rentals, and restrooms. Stewart Beach is the most popular of the beaches on this list, so it's nice to take advantage of the lack of crowds at this time of year.
East Beach
East Beach is one of the more tranquil sandy spots on island, offering a great spot for both swimming and sunbathing on its large expanse of uninterrupted sand.
There are still many amenities offered here, like beach gear rentals, food and drink vendors, restrooms, and showers. East Beach is known for its volleyball courts (hailed as the largest collection on the Gulf Coast) as well. During the weekends, you may run into a small local tournament.
Jamaica Beach
Welcome to the hidden gem of the West End. This teensy tiny beach is far from the tourist crowds and is one of the few beaches where you are permitted to bring your golf cart onto the sand. Keep in mind, Jamaica Beach is much more limited in terms of amenities, and you should BYOB (bring your own beach chair).
2. Step Into Nature at Galveston Island State Park
Photo Credit: Warren Price Photography
Swim, fish, hike, mountain bike, and paddle your way into the paradise that is Galveston Island State Park. Be sure to pop into the Galveston Island Nature Center to learn about the local wildlife within the park and the delicate ecosystems it protects. The open hours are fleeting, but if you catch it, it's worth a look.
Local Wildlife
Covering nearly 2,000 acres of Texas Prairie, this preserve is a host to raccoons, armadillos, marsh rabbits, and a seemingly endless list of bird species. October is peak birding season in Galveston Island State Park as it's the month of migration. The best places to participate in bird-watching are the beach dunes and this state park. Don't forget to pack your binoculars!
Explore Via Paddle Trails
If exploring the water is more your style, you can also bring your own canoe or kayak to explore some of the park's "paddle trails," from the calm open water to the winding bayous.
The short Dana Cove Trail, with its stunning ocean views, and the Jenkins Bayou Trail, ideal for birding, are the most popular routes. You can also fish for flounder, redfish, trout, or black drum straight from the shore without the hassle of a fishing license.
Hiking and Biking
Hikers and bikers can hit the trails. There are only four miles of them, but they make up for their brevity by being absolutely teeming with wildlife and beautiful scenery. We recommend the Caracara Trail for a basic introduction to the landscape, the Clapper Rail Loop and Egret Loop for twitchers, and the Heron’s Walk Trail for the most comprehensive exploration.
3. Savor The Sunshine With Other Outdoor Attractions
Photo Credit: Cire notrevo
Galveston offers a wide range of outdoor activities beyond its sandy beaches and famous birding spots. October’s temperate weather makes it an especially great time to get outside and enjoy the Gulf Coast.
Walk the Seawall & Go Fishing
Start with a stroll along the Seawall, a scenic path stretching nearly 10 miles along the Gulf shore. It’s perfect for walking, jogging, or simply soaking in the views. While you’re there, try your hand at fishing—this is the second-best fishing destination in Galveston (with the state park taking the top spot).
Adventure Tours & Outdoor Excursions
For something more adventurous, mid-October is an ideal time to head out on a horseback ride along the beach with Galveston Island Horse and Pony Rides.
You can also join one of the many dolphin tours that launch into the Gulf or Galveston Bay to spot dolphins leaping alongside the boat. If you’re craving a bigger thrill, book a deep-sea fishing charter and spend the day out on the Gulf waters.
Seawolf Park
Another favorite destination is Seawolf Park, which combines fishing, picnicking, and history all in one place. Cast a line from the pier, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the harbor views—sunset here is especially beautiful. The park is also home to the Galveston Naval Museum, where you can learn about the USS Seawolf submarine while pelicans glide overhead.
Water Sports
For locals, the best way to spend a crisp October day is on the water. Surfing, kayaking, or paddle boarding are all popular, and rental shops across the island make it easy to grab gear and set out. With calm waters and comfortable temperatures, this is one of the best ways to experience Galveston at its finest.
4. Explore The Strand Historic District
Photo Credit:JHVEPhoto
The beating heart of downtown Galveston. Explore the numerous boutiques, shops, bars, restaurants, and beautiful Victorian-era buildings that make this part of the island so vibrant.
The Strand Historic District, situated about one block from the pier on the Galveston Channel, is absolutely packed with everything a tourist could want. Even better, the architecture is historic and well-preserved. Venture from here to some of the best art galleries and to the iconic Postoffice street.
5. Visit the Various Museums
Photo Credit: Richard Frazier
If your October trip isn't yielding the best outdoor weather or you're looking for a family-friendly afternoon activity, consider visiting one of the numerous and varied museums that Galveston Island has to offer.
Moody Gardens
Welcome to the pyramids. The Aquarium Pyramid, the Rainforest Pyramid, and the Discovery Pyramid, that is. Moody Gardens is a wild place that surpasses all expectations of a theme park. Known mostly for its iconic pyramid design, it's also renowned for its glass walk-through aquarium, a rainforest exhibit featuring sloths and monkeys, an extensive network of rotating museums, a golf course, a spa, and a water park, all for good measure.
There are also IMAX 3D films, botanical gardens complete with a canopy walk, and plenty of on-site restaurants and coffee shops to keep you enthralled. It's like they've brought the best of the outdoors – indoors!
The Victorian Mansions
These historic Victorian-era and Greek Revival-style homes, dating back over 100 years, offer educational tours that allow you to explore the halls and marvel at the ornate architecture up close. With stained glass, carved wood moldings, intricate stonework, and elaborate furnishings, it is truly evident that they just don't make things like they used to.
These are the historic mansions not to be missed:
- Bishop’s Palace
- Michel B. Menard House
- Moody Mansion
The Bryan Museum
Follow the storied legacy of Texas told through the eyes of the American West. The Bryan Museum showcases over 12,000 years of American history through photographs, art, and Native American artifacts. It's known to be one of the best museums in Galveston.
Galveston Railroad Museum
If you've got a budding trainspotter in your midst, the Galveston Railroad Museum offers an extensive collection of cabooses and locomotives to keep you entertained. Galveston was once the second-wealthiest city in the nation, largely due to its extensive railway network.
This museum boasts one of the largest rail collections in the Southwest and features lovely, restored train cars that you can walk through.
October Events in Galveston
Looking for a cultural experience to add some flair to your Galveston visit? While a ghost tour is always a good idea for spooky season, these are the best annual festivals hosted on the island that you absolutely cannot miss.
1. Galveston Island Greek Festival
- When: Mid October
- Where: 714 19th Street, Galveston, TX
- Website: galvestongreekfestival.com
For 40+ years, the Galveston Island Greek Festival has been celebrating and showcasing the most interesting aspects of Greek culture and cuisine to the people of Texas. The cornerstone of Greek life in Galveston is The Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, which has been around since the 1930s.
This festival gives both locals and visitors a chance to experience Greek heritage through food, music, dance, wine (lots of it), and a bustling agora (market) filled with interesting Greek knick-knacks. Why fly all the way to Athens when you can enjoy the best Pastitsio, Spanakopita, Dolmades, and Keftedes right here?
2. ARToberFEST
- When: Mid October
- Where: Postoffice St & 22nd St, Galveston, TX
- Website: artoberfest.com
If you're an art and culture lover, this is a festival that cannot be missed. Put on annually by the Grand 1894 Opera House, this collection of renowned artists showcases the true talent across our country with pieces both local and from afar.
Tucked into the scenic historic district, this festival hosts more than 300 different vendors selling jewelry to home goods, as well as giving attendees the chance to interact with and learn from their favorite creatives. Enjoy the food, drinks, and vibe of the local music performances. The festival opens at 10 am each morning and goes until 5 pm on Saturday and 4 pm on Sunday.
3. Island Oktoberfest
- When: Late October
- Where: 2415 Winnie St, Galveston, TX
- Website: galvestonoktoberfest.com
This family-friendly festival extravaganza is one of the most awaited gatherings in Galveston, Texas. Dig into plates piled high with smoked sausage, bratwurst, and the traditional Wurstabendessen before you go browse the markets at the Historical Lyceum of Galveston in your lederhosen.
Much like the iconic German festival of the same name, this Oktoberfest features a ceremonial tapping of the keg and lots of Bavarian Steins filled with frothy light beer. You can also expect a German Chocolate Cake Baking Contest, a Stein Holding contest, craft markets with traditional goods, and a silent auction. This is both a cultural event and a fun atmosphere for the whole family!
4. Ghost Coast Festival
- When: Mid October
- Where: League Kempner Mansion
- Website: ghostcoastfestival.com
Looking for a spooktacular event that highlights Galveston's storied paranormal history? Whether you're a true believer or just want to get into the Halloween spirit, this new annual event in Galveston is sure to thrill.
While the main festival happens at the League Kempner Mansion on Saturday, there is also a pub crawl the night before at Galveston's Haunted Historic Strand and an iconic ghost/cemetery/haunted mansion tour on Sunday. The festival is family-friendly and hosts a slew of paranormal specialists, including psychics and special celebrity guests.
5. Oni Con
- When: Mid October
- Where: Galveston Island Convention Center
- Website: oni-con.net
Oni, the Japanese word for "demon" or "ogre". A fitting way to kick off the spooky month. This comic-con-inspired event features anime, manga, and video games as well as LARPing, concerts, and a Masquerade Ball, all focusing on Japanese culture.
While you don't need to be a fan of anime or manga to love this festival, you will most definitely learn a thing or two about the activities over the course of the weekend.
Packing for October in Galveston
October in Galveston is still quite pleasant and warm, so light clothing, swimwear, and sunscreen are a must. Here’s your October packing guide!
- Swimsuits and beachwear
- Sunglasses
- Hats
- Beach bags and gear
- Beach reads
- Sand toys and boogie boards
- Bug spray and sunscreen (summertime swarms begin to decrease this time of year, but it's still a good idea to pack)
- Casual tops, shorts, and sundresses
- Sandals and comfy walking shoes
- Electronics and chargers
Book Your October Getaway to Galveston Island!
October could not offer better conditions for visiting this lovely Texas island. Don't waste another second and book your luxurious stay with us in our beachfront vacation homes today!
We're ready to welcome you Gulf-style to our idyllic island. Galveston makes the perfect escape with friends, your spouse, or the whole family. Come see everything we have to offer this fall!
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