Candlewood Suites Galveston

This hotel has a contemporary and simplistic decor that's to be expected from a chain. While the design of the building -- cement in shades of beige and gray -- and the interior are not particularly memorable, the property does make an effort to energize the grounds with greenery. Potted plants and flowers, and large palm trees accent the peaked-roof building. A blue carpet with green and brown floral designs is the most significant decorative piece in the lobby, which has a small seating area with dark-navy leather couches and white flowers in vases on wood tables. Tan tile can be seen in some areas where there isn’t carpet. The last renovations were done in 2013, and while the hotel is clean, it does allow smoking in some rooms, so the cigarette smell can be bothersome in certain areas. Most guests are couples and families who can be seen using the pool, around which a scattering of palm trees stands. 

Candlewood Suites Galveston is in a good location to access many parts of Galveston by car. The Galvez Shopping Center is located across the street -- a four-minute walk -- and includes many big-name stores. There are a few dining options within walking distance, including a seafood restaurant and fast-food joints. The Strand Historic District is a nine-minute drive away. The closest beach area also takes about 10 minutes to reach by car, while Galveston Historic Pleasure Pier, and Stewart Beach, which also hosts family-friendly events, take about 10 to 15 minutes by car. It's about a nine-minute drive to Scholes International Airport at Galveston. 

Rooms are homey and comfortable, though not particularly stylish, with pale floral-patterned bedding, lime-green throw pillows, warm-wooden furniture, and a combination of gray carpet and wooden floors. Despite the recent renovations in 2013, the mauve curtains, desk chairs, and plush armchairs appear dated, as does the generic art hanging on the walls. Each room includes a flat-screen TV (an older model), DVD player, coffeemaker, ironing facilities, and well-equipped kitchenette that has a large refrigerator, two-burner stove, dishwasher, microwave, toaster, and dishes/cutlery/glassware. Studio Suites also include sitting areas with couches. Cork boards on the walls are a nice touch for business travelers. Bathrooms are of a standard size and come with granite countertops and walls in the shower/tub combos. Toiletries and hairdryers are also provided. Note that complaints have been made about some rooms having views of a nearby recycling plant. 

The Candlewood Suites Galveston has many family-friendly features. Its best offering is a curvy pool with an attached hot tub that's more luxurious than might be expected from this hotel chain. It’s handicap accessible, and there are plastic loungers on the deck. A 24-hour fitness center is on-site, though it only has a few cardio machines and one weight machine (no free weights). Families can utilize a free laundry room or borrow a free DVD from the front desk. The hotel provides the Lending Locker service where guests can borrow umbrellas, crock pots, mixing bowls, small grills, and more. Snacks can be bought at the Candlewood Cupboard. Guest should note that the hotel doesn’t have a breakfast option or full restaurant. A 24-hour business center with a printer, and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel are nice features for business travelers. Free parking is available on-site.