Not only the beauty of Galveston but also many of the recreational and culinary delights of living there result from its location on Galveston Island, a 27-mile long barrier island,
Great Birding, Fishing, and Dining Opportunities
Barrier islands are coastal landforms that create a buffer from hurricanes and storms that aim for the mainland. Found along 13%-15% of the world’s coastline, these ribbons of sand – or strands – absorb much of the power of the storm and waves and often shift with currents especially if they are undeveloped. Barrier islands often form in chains.
Galveston Island is one of seven of the Texas barrier islands, which also include Follet’s Island, Matagorda Island, San Jose Island, Mustang Island, Padre Island, and Brazos Island. Most barrier islands feature protected waters where wetlands offer a safe habitat for birds and fish. This is true for Galveston which offers many opportunities for bird watching and fishing – and fine seafood.
Boating and Water Sports
The Texas coast near Houston is home to Galveston Bay, an estuary system with four bodies of water (Galveston Bay proper (upper and lower), Trinity Bay, East Bay, and West Bay) that collect waters from several rivers and empty them into the Gulf of Mexico at three points. The bay is one of seven major estuaries along the Gulf Coast of Texas. The band of water between the Texas mainland and the island is Intracoastal Waterway, an inland waterway consisting of natural watercourses and man-made canals, which connects the bay to the Gulf of Mexico. The bays, the waterway, and the Gulf all offer inviting locations for boating and all types of water sports.
While the Gulf contains saltwater, the water in Galveston Bay is a complex mixture of seawater and freshwater, which supports many forms of marine life. This adds to the variety of fish to catch and enjoy.
A Beachcomber’s Paradise
The area is known for its beaches, although the water near shore the Texas coastline has a brownish tint. This is due to the sediment-filled Gulf waters that flow west from New Orleans, where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf at New Orleans to the east. The water, which is safe and frequently tested, is often clearer and bluer when temperatures are cooler and as you go further south along the Texas coast. There are over 370 miles of Texas coastline along the Gulf.
If you are thinking of buying a vacation property in the Galveston area, Royal Coastal Builders can build you a home base to enjoy the pastimes you love. Land on barrier island tends to shift, so using proper building techniques to protect your home against the ravages of nature is essential. Contact us for information at 281-254-5087 about how we can build you a gorgeous home that is just right for the area.
