You might be wondering, Holly, what the HECK is a babymoon? A babymoon is that precious last hurrah before your new adventure begins with a little one. According to Merriam-Webster, it’s “a trip or vacation taken by a couple shortly before the birth of a child.” Think of it as your pre-baby honeymoon, a time to relax, reconnect, and reflect before parenthood takes over. Something all moms-to-be need a little bit of, TIME TO RELAX! With our due date fast approaching, my husband and I knew we wanted a little getaway.
Living near Houston, Galveston felt like the ideal escape. Only about an hour away and I wanted to spend some time at the beach. Plus, we’d heard amazing things about Moody Gardens, and it seemed like a place where we could balance adventure with rest. I hadn’t been to Moody Gardens in forever! We timed our babymoon around Easter weekend to take advantage of seasonal events. Choosing the second trimester felt like the sweet spot, far enough along to enjoy the baby bump but still comfortable enough to walk around and explore. We wanted to carve out a few celebratory moments before the baby arrives, and this felt like the best time to do it.
Staying at the Moody Gardens Hotel
Let me just say, Moody Gardens Hotel didn’t disappoint. From the minute we walked into the airy, elegant lobby, we felt pampered. Our room had a view that overlooked the outside areas, and everything was spotless. It was the perfect hotel in Galveston for relaxing before baby Liam arrived.
We booked a Moody Gardens tickets + hotel package, which saved us a bit. Tip: check for seasonal promotions or holiday bundles, they sometimes include admission to attractions like the aquarium or the botanical gardens.
We stayed in one of the Junior Suites at Moody Gardens Hotel, and it was such a great experience. The room was super spacious with a comfy king-size bed and plenty of room to relax. We didn’t have a private balcony, but the view of Moody Gardens and the island from our window was still so good, especially in the morning with the sunlight coming in. One little thing I loved was the small area with the coffee maker. It doubled as the perfect spot for me to do my makeup while sipping coffee before heading out for the day. It’s those little details that make a stay feel extra comfortable, and this suite definitely delivered.
Our Babymoon Adventure in Galveston, TX
When my husband and I decided to take a babymoon before our son Liam arrived, we wanted a destination that was close to home yet offered a mix of relaxation and activities. Galveston, Texas, just an hour’s drive from Houston, seemed like the perfect choice.
We planned our trip around Easter weekend, thinking maybe there would be less people in Galveston since it was a holiday. However, we quickly realized that many others had the same idea. Despite the crowds, the busy atmosphere added charm to our getaway. Hotel Lucine was on my radar too. It’s got that modern boutique vibe and would be perfect for a future romantic getaway. We booked our stay at the Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa, and Convention Center. The hotel is located not too far from any of the Galveston attractions, making it easy to explore without much hassle. The main reason I wanted to stay at this hotel was the idea that we wouldn’t need to leave the hotel area if we didn’t want to. Our room was spacious and clean, with a comfortable bed that was much appreciated due to how pregnant I was. The staff was so sweet and helpful, ensuring we had everything we needed for our stay.
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Moody Gardens Aquarium. The aquarium features a variety of attractions, including penguins, sharks, and colorful fish. Tickets were reasonably priced, and we appreciated the efforts made to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. My favorite part has to be either when you can touch a sting ray or at the end of the aquarium, where you can sit and just really take in all the fish swimming around you.
After exploring the fascinating aquarium at Moody Gardens, we headed to our reservation for the Easter Sunday Brunch Buffet, and it was absolutely worth the price! The spread was incredible, with everything from fresh seafood to a carving station and delicious desserts. I totally wish I could’ve enjoyed the unlimited mimosas, but the food alone made it an unforgettable experience. The Easter Sunday Buffet was the perfect way to wrap up our day at Moody Gardens.
Dining at Cajun Greek
For our special babymoon dinner, we chose to dine at Cajun Greek, a local favorite known for its fusion of Greek and Cajun cuisines. The menu offered a variety of options, from seafood platters to gyros. Cajun Greek has been a long time favorite of mine. My friend Samantha worked here years ago and ever since it’s been one of my favorite spots on the island. The food is AMAZING.
Sweet Treat Stops We Loved in Galveston
No trip, and especially no babymoon, is complete without a little dessert. After dinner one evening, we stopped by La King’s Confectionery on The Strand. It’s an old-school candy shop and ice cream parlor that’s been around forever. The vintage vibe is adorable, and the smell of fresh saltwater taffy being pulled right in front of you is nostalgic and honestly kind of magical. I went for a scoop of their homemade peach ice cream, while my husband grabbed a bag of cherry sours and chocolate fudge for the room. It was the perfect way to end the night.
Another spot I recommend is Hey Mikey’s Ice Cream. It’s a small local shop with homemade flavors you won’t find anywhere else. Think banana pudding ice cream, cotton candy, and seasonal favorites. Bonus: they let you sample as many flavors as you want, and when you’re nine months pregnant, you take full advantage of that.
We also made a quick stop at Sugar Bean Coffee & Cream in the East End. It’s this cozy little coffee shop tucked into a charming neighborhood, and they serve up incredible gelato and sweet pastries. I had a scoop of their sea salt caramel gelato and a decaf iced latte, which was exactly what I needed for a slow afternoon.
If you’re more into baked goods, PattyCakes Bakery is a solid option too. Their lemon bars and chocolate chip cookies are the kind of homemade treats that just hit differently when you’re on vacation. (My friend used to work here, too!)
Tips for Planning Your Babymoon in Galveston
- Book early: Especially during holiday weekends, accommodations can fill up quickly.
- Check attraction schedules: Some attractions may have limited hours or require advance reservations.
- Pack comfortable clothing: The weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers and comfortable shoes for walking.
- Stay hydrated: Especially important during pregnancy, carry a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Take breaks: Listen to your body and rest when needed to ensure you enjoy your trip without overexertion.
FAQ
What is a babymoon?
A babymoon is a trip or vacation taken by a couple shortly before the birth of a child. It’s a chance to relax and spend quality time together before the baby arrives.
Why choose Galveston for a babymoon?
Galveston is a convenient destination for those living in Houston or nearby areas. It offers a variety of attractions, restaurants, and beaches, making it a great spot for a relaxing getaway.
What are some must-see attractions in Galveston?
Some popular attractions include Moody Gardens, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, and the Moody Mansion. There are also beautiful beaches and historic sites to explore.
Where should I stay in Galveston?
There are many great options for accommodations in Galveston. We stayed at the Moody Gardens Hotel, which was convenient for visiting the aquarium and other attractions. Other popular choices include the San Luis Resort and Hotel Galvez.
What are some good restaurants in Galveston?
Galveston has a variety of restaurants to choose from. We enjoyed our meal at Cajun Greek, which offers a mix of seafood and Greek dishes. Other popular spots include Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant and Shrimp ‘N Stuff.
Is Moody Gardens Aquarium worth visiting?
Yes, the Moody Gardens Aquarium is a popular attraction in Galveston. It features a variety of marine life exhibits and is a great place to visit for families and couples alike.
A cozy beach house stay is still on my bucket list for the next trip down here! History buffs will love checking out the Moody Mansion and Bishop’s Palace, both packed with stories from Galveston’s past.
