Galveston, located on Texas' gulf shore, is quickly becoming a mecca for tourists. With its natural beauty, varied activities, and wealth of history, it has something to offer every age group. Baby boomers will love the friendly, laid-back atmosphere, along with the island's myriad things to do and see for the discriminating over-50 crowd. There's as much or as little as you want to do! Spend your hours lazing in the sun, or filled with a non-stop schedule of exciting activities and unique sights.

First and foremost is the beach. The island has several, each with its own unique qualities. For some peace and quiet, away from the bikini-clad bodies, loud music, and rippling torsos of body builders, head to West End Beach. These shores are isolated, and no walking is required. Just drive right up to the water's edge and park. Boomers who need special accommodations can still enjoy the sand and surf at Dellanera Park Beach and Pocket Park Beach 2, where special beach wheelchairs are available.

For shopping, dining, and historical sightseeing, check out the Strand District downtown. You'll find several blocks of turn-of-the-century buildings that survived the Great Storm of 1900. These old edifices have found new life as shops, restaurants, museums, and galleries. Shop for boutique items, antiques, books, estate jewelry, portraits, confections, and original art, and dine at a sidewalk cafe, bistro, or seafood restaurant. The brick-paved streets have wide sidewalks and little parks with seating, perfect for taking a break amid your self-guided tour. Be sure to check out the Grand 1894 Opera House and the vintage tall ship that's docked at the waterfront.

Bird watchers will love Galveston, one of the top birding locations in the entire U.S. Over 500 species either live permanently on the island or stop for a visit on their spring and fall migrations. Galveston is one of the few places you can see the reddish egret, which is headed to the endangered species list. The best places to bird watch are the Galveston Bay estuary and along the shores of Crystal Beach.

Active boomers won't be disappointed with Galveston. Along with all kinds of water sports, there's horseback riding on the beach, volleyball, hiking along miles of nature trails, and plenty of venues for cycling. For golfing, head out to the Galveston Island Municipal Golf Course, named one of the top five municipal courses in the entire state. With its manicured greens and bumps and rolls, it provides 18 holes of some great swinging action.

Many boomers enjoy fishing, and Galveston's inshore and near-shore waters are prime for reds, trout, flounder, sharks, and gigantic tarpon. Fish from the beach, one of the piers, or the rock jetties, or charter a boat to hook up with mahi mahi, snapper, grouper, cobia, triggerfish, or king mackerel. Overnight fishing trips will take you out 100 miles to find giants like marlin, sailfish, and tuna.

This area is full of fascinating history, too. In addition to the Strand District, you'll find other sites for the history buff, like the 1872 Point Bolivar Lighthouse on Crystal Beach; the Ashton Villa, an antebellum mansion; forts and battlegrounds; and destroyers from World War II. A must-see is the Bishop's Palace, a Victorian castle completed in 1892, full of intricate carvings, rare woods, interesting bronze sculptures, stained glass, and a fireplace lined with pure silver. Listed as one of the top 100 buildings in America, Bishop's Palace is sure to amaze visitors. Historical tours on the bay aboard a comfortable motor vessel is another great way to experience Galveston's rich history.

Baby boomers just can't go wrong choosing Galveston as a vacation destination. You'll find so much to enjoy, you'll have a hard time deciding what to fit in your schedule. Or perhaps you just want to lounge on an uncrowded beach, lulled by the sound of the gentle surf as you watch the clouds go by. Galveston's great for that, too!

This tidbit of real travel advice was brought to you by Holle Abee.

Enjoy your Galveston Island vacation during the day on the glorious sand (or Strand) and in the evening in your gorgeous condo.  Or enjoy that condo during the day, too.  (Just try to pry yourself from the luxurious lodging enough to see the sights at least once!)