Galveston Summer Surf Camp Vacation | White Magnolia Guest Story

Guest Story: A Galveston Summer Surf Camp Vacation

By Allie Demers • White Magnolia Galveston

Summer on Galveston Island is the perfect time for beach adventures, and this family trip from Richardson, Texas turned into an unforgettable week full of surf camp excitement, island exploring, and classic Galveston traditions.

With White Magnolia Galveston as their home base in the Historic East End, the family was able to enjoy everything the island offers while having a comfortable place to relax together after long days in the sun.

Ohana Surf Camp: A Summer Tradition

For the kids, the highlight of the trip was their annual tradition — Ohana Surf Camp. This week-long camp has become something they look forward to every summer. Find more information here - Ohana Surf & Skate.

Each day was filled with surfing, beach time, and building friendships with other campers. By the end of the week, they had gained new skills and plenty of confidence in the water.

Kids posing with a surfboard at Ohana Surf Camp in Galveston — Surf camp excitement — the kids proudly posing with their giant surfboard after a day on the waves.

Kids hanging out at Ohana Surf Camp in Galveston Texas — Ohana Surf Camp days are filled with fun, sun, and friendships that last long after summer vacation.

Murdoch's — A Galveston Classic

One afternoon the family made a stop at one of Galveston's most iconic spots — Murdoch’s.

They decided to drive there this time in case they came home overloaded with souvenirs, which turned out to be a smart move.

Murdoch’s is the perfect open-air coastal market with something for everyone: sunglasses, beach hats, home decor, gifts, and even hermit crab pets for the kids. It’s the kind of place where you can wander for a while and always find something fun to bring home.

Murdoch's historic gift shop on the Galveston Seawall, a popular stop for beach souvenirs and ocean views — Murdoch’s on the Galveston Seawall — a classic stop for souvenirs, beach views, and island traditions. Photo by Kelly Chapman, My Galveston Adventures.

Dinner at Mama Teresa’s Flying Pizza

One evening the group tried something new and had dinner at Mama Teresa’s Flying Pizza.

The restaurant instantly transports you to Italy with its cozy atmosphere and incredible pizza. See more about this fabulous restaurant here - Mama Teresa's Flying Pizza.

During dinner there was a birthday celebration happening in the restaurant. Suddenly an opera singer stood up and sang Happy Birthday in Italian. His voice thundered through the small restaurant and everyone stopped eating to watch the moment unfold.

Between the incredible singing and watching pizzas fly through the air in the kitchen, it turned into one of those magical travel moments that nobody expected but everyone will remember.

Pizza from Mama Teresa's Flying Pizza restaurant in Galveston Texas, a popular island Italian restaurant known for its flying pizza dough and casual dining — Dinner at Mama Teresa’s Flying Pizza in Galveston — famous for tossing pizza dough in the air and serving classic Italian pies on the island.

Last Day Tradition: Cordray Drug Store

No surf camp week would be complete without their final day tradition — a stop at Cordray Drug Store for rolled ice cream.

Rolled ice cream at Cordray Drug Store in Galveston

Celebrating the end of surf camp with rolled ice cream at Cordray Drug Store — a family tradition.

With patio games, classic desserts, and a throwback atmosphere, it's the perfect way to wrap up a week of beach adventures.

Photo Stop at White Magnolia Galveston

Of course no stay would be complete without a few photos at the White Magnolia Galveston photo wall.

Guests posing at the White Magnolia Galveston courtyard photo wall

The White Magnolia courtyard photo wall — a favorite photo stop for guests.

These moments capture exactly what the house was designed for: families gathering together, making memories, and having a place to return to after full days exploring the island.

Why White Magnolia Is Perfect for a Galveston Summer Trip

Close to the beach and seawall
Easy access to surf camp locations
Walkable to Galveston favorites
Plenty of room for families to spread out
Bikes available for exploring the Historic East End

The family shared that the location made the whole week easier — the kids could explore, grab ice cream, and enjoy the island while parents could relax knowing everything was nearby.

"We hope we can do it again next year!"

Planning For a Galveston Summer Getaway?

White Magnolia Galveston is a historic East End vacation home located minutes from numerous wedding venues, the beach, and next door to The Bryan Museum.

Check Availability

Photo of Allie Demers, owner of White Magnolia Galveston

About the Author — Allie Demers

Allie is the co-founder and host of White Magnolia Galveston, a luxury short-term rental on the island’s historic East End. She shares local travel tips, hidden gems, and insider guides to help guests experience Galveston like a local. When she’s not hosting travelers, Allie bakes for White Magnolia Bread Co. and explores new places around the island with her family.