Plan to spend the night in Galveston Island on a weekday. On weekends, Houstonites looking for a little rest and relaxation swarm onto the island in droves, driving up the costs of hotel rooms, which may double in price. You can find bargains Sunday night through Thursday night, however.
Go to Galveston Island off-season. Once the weather cools down a bit, so does the price of hotel rooms. Vacationing during October can give you some relief from the summer's heat , and will likely be warm enough for you to enjoy the water.
Bargain with the hotel manager. Take a peek at the parking lot. If it appears fairly empty, chances are the hotel has plenty of rooms that will sit empty for the night. Ask the manager for a discount. If she denies your request, either try this strategy at another hotel or ask if a free upgrade is available.
Use your automobile club membership, retirement club membership or status as a government employee to get a discount. Some Galveston hotels offer these discounts, while others do not. Call in advance to find out if the hotel offers a discount based on your memberships.
Call the hotel direct, or reserve your room at the front desk. Avoid calling the hotel's 800 number, as according to Budget Travel, the rates you will offered will not include discount rates.
