Funny this thread pops up. In the past month, I've made three trips down to the island. Twice for a part in a wedding down there, and the third for a little fun in the sun. I have spent nearly my entire life in Houston, and use to go to Galveston fairly often when I was kid (thanks to my parents). When I became older(20's), I never thought about going down there even though its just an hour drive. Now, that I am in my 30's my wife and I are looking for places to hang out during our weekends (outside the city), and now I enjoy going down to the island. Its different, I like the water, and enjoy the atmosphere. I think its a place you either hate or you love. I know I will be spending my weekends down there for day trips and just hanging out on the beach.