Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Galveston-Port Bolivar Ferry
( 409-763-2386;
http://traffic.houstontranstar.org/ferrytimes
; 1 Ferry Rd; 24hr)
Linking Galveston Island and the much less populated Bolivar Peninsula, this 20-vehicle
ferry runs 24/7, weather permitting. The 20-minute, one-way ride is an attraction in itself.
Get out of your car and climb the platform for better views of freighters from all over
the world, and sometimes, dolphins. Note that on summer weekends the boat wait can eas-
ily be an hour or longer.
CRUISE SHIP PARKING
Cruising out? Some accommodations in the area will let you leave your car parked for free if you stay over at
least one night before departure. Otherwise, the visitor bureau's website (
www.galveston.com/cruiseparking
)
acts
as a consolidator of sorts for area cruise ship parking lots. Rates run $40 to $70 per week, shuttle included.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Around Galveston
Bolivar Peninsula
After arriving by ferry (
Click here
)
from Galveston, the drive north along this windswept
peninsula passes through areas that were hard hit by Hurricane Ike in 2008. There are no
real sights to see, but if you're looking for an ain't-nothin'-fancy, local beach getaway
tion rentals and two laid-back, island-style bar-restaurants.
light. The scrubby forests of this area serve as a stopping point for fall and spring migrat-
ory birds. When inclement weather hits, fall-outs may fill the trees with the birdsong of
thousands. The Houston Audobon Society (
Click here
)
runs four small sanctuaries here,
with detailed site maps online and at each site. The
Boy Scout Woods
(
www.houstonaudubon.org
;
2088 5th St, High Island; admission $7; dawn-dusk)
is one of the most well-regarded, for its
wooded trail, ponds and observation tower.
Northeast of High Island, the TX 87 coastal road is closed. To reach Sabine Pass and
Port Arthur, you have to cut inland at Hwy 124.
