Next time you go to Galveston, Texas for a day trip or vacation you should check out SeaWolf Park on Pelican Island. It's one of the hidden treasures of the Galveston area. The big attractions were two naval vessels from World War II, the Cavalla, a Gato class fleet sub and the USS Stewart that is a destroyer escort that was actually built in nearby Houston. The submarine was damaged by Hurricane Ike and is no longer there, not sure if they plan on refurbishing and bringing her back at this point. But the USS Stewart is fine and still on display.
Besides the famous USS Stewart (only one of three still in existence) there is also a 3-story pavilion for viewing the ship channel, a lighted fishing pier, and a playground. Pelican Island is surrounded by water and provides some great views of passing ships and even porpoises and other wildlife. There are picnic areas and pedestrian access to the shoreline.
This is a great spot for kids for fishing and the playground is a big attraction. You can fish off the shoreline for free or go on the Fishing Pier for $6 for adults and $3 for children. There are a lot of whiting and sand trout (not serious fisherman's choice of catch) that are easy to catch and keep the kids entertained. If you get lucky you can catch some good trout and redfish too. Spanish Mackerel and Stingrays can often be around so be careful handling both since they can sting or bite you. Best time to fish is usually when the tide is moving in or out.
The views from the three-story pavilion are great. You can see many ships coming and going through the ship channel and there are often cruise ships too. Many rarely see these large ships up close and it is a great place to just watch. A good pair of binoculars is good to have if you want to see the different bird species and other items of interest in and around the shorelines and ship channel.
Entry to the park is $1 for adults and $.50 for children. But they do get you for a parking fee too, cars are $6. The entry to the USS Stewart is $7 for adults and $3 for children under 11. These rates are subject to change so you might want to check if concerned. Take cash since the last time I was there (1/10) they did not take credit cards. And bring your own refreshments too if you plan on staying awhile.
The fastest and easiest way to get to Pelican Island and SeaWolf Park is to take Interstate 45 all the way to 51st Street and take a left. Just continue across the bridge to Pelican Island and go to the end of Seawolf Blvd. It ends at the entrance to the park. Take plenty of sunscreen and mosquito repellent. If there is a strong breeze the mosquitoes aren't a problem but if the wind dies down, you will know they are there. And even if it's overcast or cloudy the sunscreen is a very good idea.
Best time to visit is early in the morning or after 6:00 PM when it's cool and there is some boat traffic to watch. Fishing is good anytime the tides move but it's more comfortable early and late. Less crowded too so you can find a good picnic area or watching point.
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