Galveston Hotels With Free Cruise Parking
Its one of the best-kept secrets in Galveston cruising. If you know about it, however, you can save some serious money.
Since Galveston caters to tourism and the cruise industry, many hotels will do everything they can to earn your business. That includes letting you park your car during your trip at a huge discount or often even for free. To take advantage of this perk, you simply need to stay at the hotel/motel before you leave on your cruise.
While a number of the hotels have cruise and park packages that raise the price of the room to include parking, lots of smaller or independent places will just let you park for free. Many will also provide a free shuttle to the port.
To give you an idea of where you can find hotels offering this service, we started with all the hotels on Galveston Island. Then, using Kayak.com, we narrowed our list down to those offer 2-star or higher accommodations and positive reviews. Finally, we searched for only those offering cruise parking. The list below should be a good starting point, but keep in mind that it may not list every hotel with the perk.
Also, be sure to confirm the details with the hotels below just in case anything has changed.
Two Star Hotels:
What Are The Best Beach Hotels In Galveston Near Cruise Port
1. The San Luis Resort Spa & Conference Center
If you want hi-end, unashamed luxury, then this fabulous spa resort is the place to stay. A lavish 4-star resort and conference center set in 32 acres on Galveston Island, the complex has held the Triple A Four Diamond Award for the last 20 years.
With 248 rooms, ranging from plush standard to Club 10, VIP rooms to penthouse suites and superb villas, this complex has it all. With 3 award winning restaurants, 2 swimming pools, fitness center, full spa and wellness treatment center, plus large conference center, you need never step out of the resort.
If you do, you have 32 miles of beach to explore, with Moody Gardens, the Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark, Moody Mansion Museum, and Seawolf Park, all within five miles of the resort.
Why Stay Here
- Rooms with ocean view & balcony
Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10
2. Hotel Galvez and Spa, A Wyndham Grand Hotel
At over 100 years old, this 224 room, Spanish Colonial style 4-star hotel, has lost none of its impressive mystique. Close to the historic Pleasure Pier, and with a view out to the Gulf of Mexico, it is known as the Queen of the Gulf.
Cruise parking is available. It is a one-time fee of $40/vehicle. The charge includes the overnight parking stay and then up to 7-nights that you are gone on the cruise.
Why Stay Here
3. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Galveston Beach
Why Stay Here
- Ocean facing rooms with balcony
Cruise Expert Rating: 9/10
Why Stay Here
Why Stay Here
Avenue O Bed & Breakfast
2323 Avenue O, Galveston, TX, 77550 | 409-789-3070 | Hotel 10 on Map Below | Read Reviews of this 3-Star Hotel | Back to Table
Located towards the south side of Galveston, Avenue O Bed & Breakfast offers a more personal stay than you might find in the big chain hotels. Just ten minutes walk from Galveston Pleasure Pier, this boutique hotel with just three individually styled rooms even offers its guests complimentary snacks in the afternoon!
Amenities, depending on which room you book, include spa robes, over-size showers, a view of the tropical gardens or a private balcony. Could be the perfect way to start your Caribbean cruise
DISTANCE TO PORT: < 10-minute drive
PARKING: 7 days
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If You Stay At Harbor House You Get A Close View Of Ships
If you stay at Harbor House, you get a close view of ships from around the world as the travel into the Port. Bring binoculars to see more of the ships. There is also a good vantage point to see ships on the far East point of Galveston island. Take Seawall Blvd East until the road ends, then park and watch.
1. Scottish Inns Galveston
The classical facade places this two-story budget friendly hotel amongst the most elegant properties in Galveston. Inside, there are beautiful tiled floors, modern art paintings and a lounge with bright, contemporary decor. Each of the forty-five rooms is tastefully presented and features round windows on either side of the front door.
Outside, theres a patio and pool. Theres free parking during your cruise vacation and on the weekends the hotel provides a complimentary one-way shuttle transfer.
Shuttle & Parking
1. Inn at the Waterpark
If your cruise vacation involves the kids, then this is the perfect place to stay as the Inn at the Waterpark is located right next to the Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Families can also enjoy a round or two of the hotels mini-golf.
Take advantage of the Inn at the Waterparks free long-term parking. If you are a guest of the hotel you may leave your vehicle parked at the property for the duration of your cruise. Just confirm vehicle parking with the Front Desk. On the day of embarkation, taxi and ride share are available for transportation to and from the cruise terminal.
- Free Cruise Parking
- No shuttle service
Moody Garden Hotel Spa & Convention Center
While not offering amenities specific to cruising, this list would not be complete without mentioning Moody Gardens Hotel Spa and Convention Center. This 4 star hotel is popular among Galveston visitors because there is so much to do and see, right on the resort property. There is a botanical garden, aquarium and rain-forest, a spa, beautiful beach and three restaurants. Kids will enjoy the 3-D theatre and Discovery Pyramid science exhibit and Palm Beach with its lazy river, wave pool and slides.
The hotel itself has an outdoor tropical pool with a swim-up bar, Jacuzzi and adults-only area, complete with cabanas and poolside beds. There is also an indoor lap pool, perfect for a bit of exercise, or a dip in the water in cooler weather. This pool is fully accessible. The rooms themselves offer luxurious bedding, complimentary WiFi, bath robes and maid service twice a day. Long term parking and shuttle can be arranged by contacting the hotel. For more information on Moody Gardens Hotel Spa and Convention Center and great prices on rates, click here.
Miles to Port : 5.7 miles
Airport Transfer : No
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What Are The Best Hotels Near Houston George Bush International Airport
If your flight arrives late in the evening you can opt to stay in Houston near George Bush International Airport.
If you are in early you can already make your way to Galveston. The island is a tourist destination where you could stay at least a day before or after your cruise vacation.
1. Houston Airport Marriott at George Bush Intercontinental
Located on John F Kennedy Boulevard, Houston, Texas, this 4-star hotel is connected to the George Bush Intercontinental Airport by a free airport tram shuttle system. The Houston Airport Marriot has 565 comfortably elegant studios, suites, and family rooms. The popular steakhouse/bar is great for meeting friends for a drink or evening dining, and an American Grill serves breakfasts and lunch.
Other amenities include an outdoor saltwater pool, fitness center, and 24-hour business center. The Houston Marriot is the closest hotel to Houston Airport.
Why Stay Here
- One of best hotels near Houston Airport
- Easy to get to/from terminal by free train-shuttle
3. Courtyard by Marriott Houston Intercontinental Airport
This 3-star hotel just a few minutes from George Bush International Airport that benefits from a free airport shuttle. The 127 letting units comprise rooms or suites, and all have the usual amenities, including private bathrooms.
Why Stay Here
Homewood Suites By Hilton
Homewood Suites by Hilton is another well-located hotel for cruisers with lots of added benefits including rooms with kitchenette, microwave and refrigerator. Guests have free parking and a tasty breakfast as well as childrens activities. Theres a fitness center, pool and shuttle bus service and its just steps from the sandy beach. Beat that!
- Distance from port: 2.1 miles
- Address: 110 Seawall Blvd
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Closest Hotels To The Port Of Galveston
Galveston is an interesting city to explore, but at the end of the day, this trip is all about your cruise. If convenience if your number one concern when booking your pre-departure stay, these are the closest hotels to the Port of Galveston:
- The Tremont House 0.1 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Harbor House Hotel and Marina at Pier 21 0.4 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Shaefer Haus 0.8 miles from the Port of Galveston
- The Villa Bed and Breakfast 1 mile from the Port of Galveston
- Coppersmith Inn B& B 1.1 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Avenue O Bed and Breakfast 1.2 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Carr Mansion 1.2 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Rosenberg Motel 1.2 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Lasker Inn Bed and Breakfast 1.2 from the Port of Galveston
- Lost Bayou Guest House B& B 1.3 from the Port of Galveston
- Four Points by SheratonGalveston 1.5 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson 1.6 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Knights Inn Galveston 1.7 miles from the Port of Galveston
- La Quinta Inn 1.7 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Ocean Inn 1.8 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Hotel Galvez and Spa 1.8 miles from the Port of Galveston
- Pearl Inn 1.9 miles from the Port of Galveston
- DoubleTree by Hilton 1.9 from the Port of Galveston
- Condo di Cocco 2 miles from the Port of Galveston
Things To Keep In Mind
Although Galveston is geared toward welcoming visitors and has many hotel rooms to choose from, we recommend you make your reservations in advance, especially during the busy periods for cruises or during festivals when hotels might be booked up. This will help ensure you are able to get your preferred hotel and room type.
We also recommend you call the hotel you are interested in to check the availability of their Park & Cruise packages as there may be a limited number of rooms available with this offer and some hotels may only offer this option if you make the reservation directly with them.
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Hotels With Cruise Parking
With amenities and attractions minutes from the harbor, its no surprise many Galveston hotels offer free cruise parking and/or transportation to the terminal. Some offer parking for your vehicle while you are cruising from Galveston while others offer shuttles to the cruise terminal. Some are complimentary while others charge a fee. Click the website links for a list of options.
Galveston Hotels With Shuttles To The Cruise Port
Hilton Galveston Island ResortAddress: 5400 Seawall Boulevard | Phone: 409-744-5000 | Shuttle with PackageStaying at the Hilton? Youll have a great location with the beach just steps away from your room, but youll also have access to a shuttle to the port. Booking the parking package through the hotel means you get parking and transportation included in your fare. The hotel is also close to a grocery store if you need to make a stop before heading to the ship.
- Distance to Port: 4.5 miles
- Review Rating: 4 out of 5
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Red Roof Plus Galveston Beachfront
A little further from the cruise port, Red Roof Plus Galveston Beachfront has well-appointed rooms with free Wi-fi, air-conditioning, tea/coffee makers and satellite TV. Close to the beach and offering ocean view rooms, this 2-star hotel represents great value for money just a short walk from restaurants, attractions and Galveston pier.
- Distance from port: 3.1 miles
- Address: 3924 Avenue U, Galveston island
- Phone number: 750-9400
Hilton Galveston Island Resort
5400 Seawall Boulevard, Galveston, Galveston Island, TX 77551 | 855-271-3621
Enjoy your pre-cruise stay at the Hilton Galveston Island Resort. With their Park and Go Package, you receive parking for 7 nights and a round-trip shuttle to the port. This AAA 4 Diamond rated hotel is full of wonderful amenities and is located within walking distance of shopping, restaurants and is just steps from the gorgeous beach.
This 32 acre resort boasts 10 restaurants and bars including Rainforest Cafe and IHOP, heated outdoor swimming pool with swim-up bar and pool-side cabanas and fitness center. You can also treat yourself to a day of fun at the nearby Pleasure Pier, Galvestons historic amusement park. Your elegantly appointed room offers amazing Gulf views, some with private balcony.
Port Transfer : Yes with Park and Go Package
Long-Term Parking : Yes with Park and Go Package
Breakfast : $
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Port Of Galveston Hotels Faqs:
What hotel is truly the closest to the Galveston cruise port?
The closest hotel to Galveston cruise port is the luxury Harbor House Hotel and Marina at Pier 21. It is just 0.3 miles from the cruise terminal and close to the Strand for shopping and dining.
Is there a hotel that is walking distance to the Port of Galveston?
There are several hotels within walking distance of Galveston cruise port including Harbor House Hotel , Tremont House and Knights Inn .
What hotels in Galveston offer cruise parking?
There are several hotels near Galveston cruise port offering cruise parking packages. Comfort Inn and Suites on Seawall Blvd is hard to beat for free cruise parking for guests.
What hotels near Galveston cruise port have free shuttle?
Gaidos Seaside Inn offers free cruise parking for guests and complimentary shuttle transfers. Alternatively, consider Beachfront Palms, at 5914 Seawall Blvd which offers free cruise parking and will arrange transfers with a local taxi company for a fee.
What is the best area to stay in Galveston?
The best area to stay in Galveston is around the Historic Strand District. This downtown area has excellent shopping, restaurants and nightclubs as well as the Pier 21 theater, Seaport Museum and the three-masted Tall Ship Elissa.
Main Photo Credit: Kokoulina / Shutterstock.com
Four Points By Sheraton
Overlooking the gulf, the Four Points by Sheraton pampers guests with a lounge bar, business center, pool and beachfront location. Air-conditioned rooms have quality linens, tea/coffee makers and ocean views. They also offer competitively priced cruise packages including a nights stay and parking for the duration of your cruise.
- Distance from port: 1.6 miles
- Address: 2300 Seawall Blvd
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Ideal Hotels Near Galveston Cruise Port With Shuttle
As Galveston is a top vacation destination as well as a popular cruise port, theres a huge choice of hotels near Galveston cruise port for cruisers to choose from. We cut through the confusion and list the best hotels for cruisers, including the cheapest and closest places to stay in Galveston.
We also list hotels with cruise shuttle service to and from the port. Some charge a modest fee while other cruise shuttles are complimentary with a Cruise and Stay package.
First, a few quick facts about Port of Galveston for cruisers. The port was established in 1825, when Texas was still part of Mexico. It remains one of the oldest ports in the Gulf of Mexico. It is now the 4th busiest cruise port in North America, serving over a million cruisers every year.
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The port itself is on the east end of Galveston Island, a 27-mile long barrier island connected to the mainland via the I-45 and the San Luis Pass toll bridge. Most hotels close to Galveston cruise port are found on Galveston Island, so check out our round-up of the most ideal hotels near Galveston cruise port for a pre- or post-cruise stay.
Harbor House Hotel & Marina
No 28 Pier 21, Galveston, TX 77550 | 409-763-3321 | Hotel 6 on Map Below | Read Reviews of this 3-Star Hotel | Back to Table
Start your nautical adventures a little early with a pre-cruise stay in one of the stylishly decorated rooms or suites on the waterfront at Harbor House Hotel. Located on Pier 21 this hotel is just a few minutes walk to the cruise terminal and offers views of the harbour . If youre up early the morning of your cruise you may even catch your ship coming back to port to get ready to welcome you.
Before boarding your ship you can make the most of your stay by visiting several attractions, like the 1877 Tall Ship Elissa and Seaport Museum, or the many shops and restaurants just a few minutes walk away in the Strand Historic District.
DISTANCE TO PORT: 5-minute walk
PARKING: $10 per day
POOL: No Access to Hotel Galvez pool for guests
CHECK-IN/OUT: 4 PM / 12 NOON
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Full List: Galveston Hotels With Cruise Shuttles To The Port
Headed for a cruise in Galveston and need a hotel with a shuttle to the port?
Staying on the island before or after your cruise is highly recommended. Galveston is one of the most historic cities in Texas, and as a tourist destination, there are tons of things for you to do. Add that to the miles of Gulf Coast beaches and Galveston should be a port of call itself not just a place to board your cruise ship.
Of course, if youre staying at a local hotel, then you still have to get to the cruise port.
Luckily, Galveston is a fairly compact. Any hotel on the island will only be a $10-15 Uber/Lyft ride to the cruise terminal. Still, its much more convenient if you dont have to worry about a ride at all and simply have transportation provided by the hotel.
Thats why we called and spoke to dozens of hotels on the island to see if they offer a shuttle to the cruise port. Many hotels do, making it easy to get to the ship on cruise day.
The hotels listed below told us they offer a shuttle to the port or have one listed on their website. We suggest calling ahead to confirm, as policies can change.
Note: This article contains affiliate links to Kayak. We earn a commission for clicks made on their website, at no charge to you. Review ratings come from Google and are rounded to the nearest half-point.