If you are cruising out of Galveston, you’re probably looking for a hotel for at least one overnight stay before embarkation day. Even if you’ve sailed from here before, spending the night on the island can take the stress out of departure day — especially if you’re driving in from out of town.
Editor’s Note: This 2022 article was reviewed and updated on November 17, 2025, to ensure all information is current and relevant.
We usually cruise from Galveston since it’s close to home, but one trip reminded us how important that extra night can be. One of our recent cruises sailed from Fort Lauderdale, and suddenly, we were in unfamiliar territory — trying to figure out what was nearby, which hotels offered shuttles, and where to park our car safely.
That experience inspired this list—a roundup of Galveston hotels that make cruising easier with parking and shuttle perks.
Why Stay the Night in Galveston?
If you are driving in, consider a Stay, Park, and Cruise hotel package. Many properties offer free or discounted parking while you’re away, plus shuttle service to the terminal on embarkation day. These deals can save time, money, and a few grey hairs.
Tip: Cruise parking packages are usually available only when booking directly with the hotel. Always confirm current details before reserving — offers change frequently.
Another Tip: Galveston Saltwater Moms transportation service is an excellent option for getting to and from Houston’s airports or area hotels. It is the best, most reliable service I am aware of. We always call Galveston Saltwater Moms for airport drop-offs and pick-ups.
You’ll find many options not listed here, but I’m familiar with these hotels and can personally recommend them as convenient, reputable choices.
You can also browse the visitGalveston.com hotel chart.
Recommended Hotels for Galveston Cruisers
Comfort Suites Galveston
3606 89th Street | 409-741-9977
Across from the beach and close to Moody Gardens and Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Six miles from the Port. Stay one night and park free while you cruise. A round-trip shuttle is available for a reasonable fee.
Inn at the Waterpark
2525 Jones Drive | 409-740-1155
It is right next to Schlitterbahn, which is great for families wanting pre-cruise fun. Overnight guests have free parking, but there is no shuttle service.
La Quinta Inn & Suites Galveston
2901 63rd Street | 409-497-2950
Close to the beach and Walmart for last-minute items. Free cruise parking, but no shuttle to the ports.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Galveston Island North
1002 63rd St. | 800-753-3757
A newer property near I-45, between downtown and the beach. Complimentary cruise parking, though no shuttle.
Gaido’s Seaside Inn
3700 Seawall Blvd. | 409-761-5504
Next to the famous Gaido’s Restaurant. Book directly to get free cruise parking. No shuttle, but just 10-15 minutes by taxi, Uber, or Lyft to the ports.
Holiday Inn Resort Galveston On the Beach
5002 Seawall Boulevard | 409-740-5300
Across from the beach with gorgeous Gulf views. Cruise package includes eight days of parking and shuttle service to and from the ports.
TownePlace Suites Galveston Island
9540 Seawall Boulevard | 409-497-2840
New, modern property with suite-style rooms. Paid cruise parking for up to seven days (longer stays cost more). Note: Cruise parking is unavailable from May through September. No shuttle.
Courtyard Marriott Galveston Island
9550 Seawall Boulevard | 409-497-2850
Shares a lot with the TownePlace Suites. Ask about the “Perfect Cruise Experience” package, which includes shuttle service.
Beachfront Palms
5914 Seawall Blvd | 409-740-1261
Across from the beach with free cruise parking. No shuttle, but staff can arrange one for a fee.
Country Inn & Suites Galveston
2818 Avenue R ½ | 409-763-5000
Offers a cruise package (5-7 days) including round-trip shuttle service to the ports. Parking is limited, and shuttle service isn’t always complimentary.
The San Luis Resort
5222 Seawall Blvd | 409-744-1500
One of Galveston’s premier resorts. Cruise parking is available in the back lot for $50. Book the “Stay, Park and Cruise” package for free shuttle service.
Grand Galvez
2024 Seawall Blvd | 409-765-7721
A historic and elegant pre-cruise favorite — one of the island’s grandest hotels. The Galvez offers cruise parking, but no shuttle service.
The Tremont House
2300 Ship’s Mechanic Row | 409-763-0300
Located in the charming Strand District, not by the beach. Offers cruise parking and shuttle service for a fee.
Harbor House Hotel and Marina at Pier 21
No. 28 Pier 21 | 409-763-3321
Practically next door to the Carnival terminal and just a few minutes from Royal Caribbean’s pier. Stylish and convenient Self-parking for a fee, but if you leave your vehicle during your cruise, you’ll receive free round-trip shuttle service.
Look at these earlier Galveston posts if you’re looking for Galveston attractions before or after your cruise.
- Where to stop on your way to Galveston
- Day trip to Galveston
- Surprises in Galveston
- Galveston, TX – one-day cruise
We are currently in full cruise frenzy mode, but we haven’t given up on our RV travels — those road trips will return soon! Subscribe to follow our adventures both on the road and at sea.
Current Traffic Route Changes
Please see the attached Cruise Traffic Route Changes for Terminals 25 and 28. Carnival, Princess, and Norwegian usually dock at these terminals. These changes are in effect through December 25, 2025. Royal Caribbean ships dock at Terminal 10, and MSC ships dock at Terminal 16; both are about a five-minute drive from Carnival’s pier.
Check out my t-shirt shop on Etsy; lots of cruise t-shirts available.
