Chillin’ in Galveston

Jamaica Beach RV Park, Galveston, Texas

Yesterday we left Houston and drove about 1.5 hours to Galveston Island. We’re staying at Jamaica Beach RV Park right across the road from the Gulf of Mexico.

This is quite a nice park. All of the sites are paved with 20, 30 and 50 amp FHU sites, free wi-fi and free cable TV. They have a brand new indoor hot tub which we haven’t had a chance to enjoy yet. There is also a nice outdoor pool, a mini golf course, and some playgrounds for kids.

Here’s the view from the front of our fifth wheel. We’re in the second row. Notice the nice utility pedestal at the site in front of us. All of the sites have these, and they light up at night.

It was quite chilly and windy when we arrived yesterday so we didn’t do much exploring. Today the sun was out, the high was 50 degrees and the wind had died down.

We drove to Galveston Island State Park, a few miles from us, and did some exploring. There were almost no birds around. I think it is just too cold for them. We did a little hiking in some of the marshy areas, but didn’t see much. Here’s a look at Galveston Bay from the park.

Do you see that dark spot in the middle of the picture? I first noticed this dark spot on my camera a few weeks ago. I’ve cleaned the lens, but it’s still there. I think there may be a scratch on my lens. Has anyone else had this happen? I’m wondering if it can be corrected, or if I should break down and buy a new camera. Sometimes I see it, and sometimes I don’t.

I have a Panasonic DMC-ZS3 point and shoot camera. I’ve had it for about four years, and I really like it. It has 12x zoom which comes in very handy, and it fits in my pocket.

After checking out the state park, we drove back home and then walked across the road to the beach. We spent about an hour walking along the sand and enjoying the view. These birds were enjoying the surf.

 

There’s a riding stable next to our RV park. We saw these people enjoying a horseback ride on the beach. There are signs that say no horses, so I’m guessing they must have a special permit. I found a nice shell on the beach. I’ve got an idea to have Kevin drill a hole into it and then I can use it as a Christmas ornament. I’m going to get a thin line permanent marker and write the date and place on the inside edge. We’ll see how it works out.

Almost every house we’ve seen on Galveston Island is built on stilts. I know they’ve had several severe hurricanes here, and I’m sure they know what they’re doing. But, to me it looks like a strong gust of wind will blow them right over. They just look so top heavy to me.

There’s a pond in the RV park. When we got back, there was a group of birds on the shore. I don’t know what kind they are, but they sure have very bright orange beaks. Maybe someone can help me identify them.

Tomorrow we’re going to explore downtown Galveston.

Don’t wish upon a star – Reach for one!