Unique Gifts From Galveston to Inspire Your Holiday Shopping
Skip the big-box stores and discover holiday treasures you can only find on Galveston Island
Galveston’s myriad of vintage boutiques and unique local attractions makes holiday shopping just as exciting as the miles of coastline during the summer. Get ready; ‘Tis Island Time and we have some recommendations for everyone on your list.
🎁 = Under $50
🎁🎁 = $50 - $100
🎁🎁🎁 = $100+
Support Small Businesses this Holiday Season
The Island’s charm shines year-round and so does its shopping scene. From vintage finds to handcrafted coastal goods, Galveston offers thoughtful gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Start with these signature picks and give your holidays a little island flair. Below, you'll find a specially curated list of items from Galveston small businesses to help inspire your holiday gift-giving. Each business provided one unique item for this blog, but each has much more to offer. Visit as many of these local shops on your next visit to ensure you find those oh-so-perfect gifts.
FOR HIM
Do you have a mixologist in your life, or someone who appreciates a good cocktail? A bottle of Texas Tail Vodka or Coastline bourbon will make their bar cart complete. Crafted on the Gulf Coast, this multiple award-winning vodka embodies the true essence of Texas craftsmanship.
Add some tinsel: Pack the bottle with a cocktail shaker or martini glasses from Luna Home and Gifts for a party starter pack.
Give the gift of open waters and salty breezes with a Galveston fishing charter. Whether he’s a seasoned angler or a first-time fisherman, a day spent chasing redfish or snapper along the Gulf is an unforgettable island adventure.
Add some tinsel: Get your guy some fishing gear before he sets sail from Galveston Fishing Co.
This wood Galveston Island map is laser cut into pine with blue detailing and custom designed for The Admiralty. It’s a gorgeous piece and perfect for his office.
Add some tinsel: Want to freshen up his space? Tina’s on the Strand has Tina’s Blend candles and room spray that will have him thinking It’s Island Time all year long.
FOR HER
A must-have for any island lover’s wardrobe. Cozy meets coastal with the Galveston sweater; available in different colors. It comes in a variety of colors and is a favorite among the Visit Galveston team.
Add some tinsel: Stop by Tangerine Boutique and get some beautiful accessories to compliment your look during sweater weather.
Take your favorite ladies to High Horse Boutique & Hat Bar where they can build their own custom hat and maybe find a great outfit along the way.
Add some tinsel: Make their holiday even more special with a Galveston ornament from Strand Brass and Christmas on the Strand.
Support Galveston’s art scene with a one-of-a-kind piece from Mock & More Gallery. Get your gal pal a coastal landscape or a whimsical sculpture because this gallery offers gifts as unique as the island itself.
Add some tinsel: If your gal pal has more of a spooky vibe, stop by The Witchery to find her some tarot cards or a beautiful journal.
FOR THE KIDS
There's no shortage of activities to do at the Historic Pleasure Pier. Spend the day and make memories that last a lifetime for kids from 1 - 92!
Add some tinsel: Make their holiday even more special with The Polar Express Train Ride at Galveston Railroad Museum (Nov 14 - Dec 23).
Introduce younger kids to The Undersea Adventures of Timmy Turtle from Robert A. Peterson at Vacation on Canvas! Wander around his gallery and maybe pick up a piece for yourself.
Add some tinsel: A Galveston classic! Made the old-fashioned way, La King’s creamy fudge is a sweet slice of nostalgia that even your little ones will love, if you can resist eating it first.
FOR THE FOODIE
For the foodie who savors every sip, Red Light Coffee Roasters’ small-batch beans offer a rich, island-roasted aroma that makes any kitchen feel like a Galveston getaway.
Add some tinsel: Grab a cup at the beloved OG MOD Coffee House, a cozy downtown Galveston staple serving handcrafted expresso drinks, seasonal lattes, and freshly bake treats.
A staple of Galveston kitchens since the 1940s, Maceo’s spice blends bring bold island flavor to every dish. Grab some of their tomato gravy to take anyone’s holiday meal to the next level.
Add some tinsel: Crafted locally and beloved by islanders, Katie’s Seafood Seasoning is the secret ingredient for next-level grilling, roasting, or seafood boils. A small but mighty gift for any home chef.
As much of a tradition as Dickens on the Strand, Gaido's pecan pie is so good people around the world want to get their hands on it.
Add some tinsel: Scout out Chymoon’s Vintage & Antiques to see if you can complete your gift with vintage Fire king glassware or Pyrex cookware.
FOR THE HISTORY BUFF
Step aboard for a narrated cruise through Galveston’s storied harbor. This tour brings maritime history to life with tales of tall ships, trade, pirates, and resilience. A must for anyone fascinated by the island’s seafaring past.
Add some tinsel: Check out the nearby Galveston Historic Seaport – Home of the 1877 Tall Ship ELISSA.
Level up your gift card game with a gift certificate from Carriage Haus Rentals. Let them step back in time with a drive around the East End Historic District in a Model T.
Add some tinsel: Keep the history vibes going with a stop at Hendley Market to check out some vintage-inspired souvenirs.
FOR THE ADVENTURER
Gift the ultimate bird’s-eye view of Galveston! Soar above the Gulf in a vintage-style biplane and see the island’s beaches, piers, and skyline from a whole new perspective.
Add some tinsel: Commemorate the vintage adventure with a family photo at Busters Old Time Photos. Bring the whole family (even the family pet), get dressed up, and have an old-time photo taken that you can treasure for generations to come.
Is someone on your list just discovering their adventurous side? See Galveston from overhead with a 7-mile tour that takes you over the Historic Pleasure Pier, along the Seawall.
Add some tinsel: Make a day of it and walk some, or all, of the longest walkway in the world! The Seawall in Galveston officially holds the title with 10 miles of Gulf Coast goodness.
Make it the Most Wonderful Time of the Year on Galveston
Our recommendations are just the beginning. Galveston’s local shops and galleries offer endless ways to make your holiday shopping truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re strolling down the Strand or exploring hidden treasures, every stop adds a little more sparkle to the season. Come see for yourself why it’s always island time when you shop Galveston.
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