Hosting the holidays at home can bring familiar comforts, but it often comes with added stress. There’s menu planning, shopping, nonstop cooking, cleaning, and making space for guests (not to mention the cost of decorations and buying gifts). Imagine trading all that pressure for a relaxing stay at one of our holiday vacation rentals in Crystal Beach, Texas.
While there are advantages and disadvantages to hosting a holiday celebration at home, there is a more stress-free and adventurous option. If that sounds like your idea of a December to remember, then read on.
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Why You Should Consider a Holiday Away
This holiday season, swap the bustle and bustle for strolls on the beach, beautiful Gulf views, and family memories made in a spacious vacation home. Crystal Beach and nearby Galveston offer fantastic activities and events for every major holiday, so you can enjoy the spirit of the season, even at the beach.
Hosting at Home
You may think that staying at home is a more budget-friendly option than heading out of town. However, the average American spends $556 to host a Christmas gathering (and that doesn’t include gifts). In addition to the cost of food and beverages, you also have the cost of decorations and buying gifts for your family members. Your holiday hosting costs just went up exponentially! Not to mention the stress of cooking, hosting, cleaning, and the things that come with getting your home ready for guests. However, experiencing the holidays at home may make it easier for certain family traditions. Geographically, it might be more convenient for your family members.
Taking a Trip
Taking a trip during the holidays may be something to consider if you would like to branch out and do something different this season. Because December is typically considered off-season for most coastal cities, you can find great rates and flexible stay dates. It is the perfect time to gather your friends and family under one roof … at the beach! There’s considerable less stress with taking a trip because you don’t incur the pressure of hosting, the rental is already clean from top to bottom, and all the daily stressors are left at home. You’ll also enjoy unique Gulf cuisine and the opportunity to explore new areas. For some people, the experience itself makes this option priceless.
Travelers can make their holiday getaway even more economical by considering the trip as the “big gift” and opting for family experience and quality time as the true treasure this holiday season. Small gifts could include handmade crafts or baking cookies together in your vacation rental’s fully-equipped kitchen. You could even visit a local attraction, such as Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, or take a holiday tour at Moody Gardens.
Holiday travel to Bolivar Peninsula has never been easier!
Holiday Activities Near Crystal Beach
- Thanksgiving weekend: Explore the charming Bolivar Christmas Market. You will find arts, crafts, décor, and a tree-lighting ceremony.
- December: Crystaland Parade lights up the peninsula with golf-cart floats and holiday cheer.
- New Year’s Eve: Local concerts and beachside gatherings allow you to ring in the New Year under the stars.
Family-Fun That Everyone Can Enjoy
- Outdoor family-friendly activities: Beachcombing, crabbing, fishing, and kite flying
- Indoor fun: Playing games, watching movies, or a cooking contest
- Local attractions: Bolivar Escape Room, The Gulf Range, or the Moody Gardens Aquarium
- Area Restaurants: Stingaree, HardHeads, Jose’s Cantina, or one of our favorite pizza places
No matter how you spend your time together, it’s sure to be a holiday to remember. Which of the wonderful winter things to do will you be adding to your itinerary? With beautiful average daytime temperatures in the mid-60s °F, you will want to do it all! The weather is fantastic this time of year, especially if you are getting away from ice, snow, and below-freezing temps.
Book a Holiday Vacation Rental in Crystal Beach
When you book a Swedes Real Estate vacation rental for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s, you will find roomy interiors, fully-equipped kitchens, and the amazing amenities like private decks and hot tubs. You’ll be able to skip the “host” role and simply relax with your family. Check all the gifts off your list this year! Santa Claus is bringing everyone an epic time together on the coast, rather than stress and holiday fatigue.
Our vacation rentals can accommodate six to 64 guests, which means you can invite your BFFs or the entire extended family! The friendly staff at Swedes Real Estate is looking forward to assisting you with an unforgettable holiday experience.
If you’re ready to enjoy your turkey by the Gulf, let the big man in red find you at the beach. Or, you can ring in the new year with a champagne toast on your waterfront deck.