Thanksgiving is about gratitude, family, and traditions. This year, our family of 16—12 adults, 4 kids, and 2 dogs—stayed at a beach house on Bolivar Peninsula, Texas, from Wednesday, November 27, to Sunday, December 1. As a Korean-Japanese intercultural coach living abroad, I value moments that bring families together. Bolivar Peninsula, with its peaceful beaches and relaxing vibe, was the perfect place for us to connect and make memories.

Where Is Bolivar Peninsula?

Bolivar Peninsula is located along the Texas Gulf Coast, just northeast of Galveston. It’s a narrow strip of land with miles of sandy beaches on one side and calm bay waters on the other. You can reach it by driving from Houston or taking a free ferry from Galveston, which is a fun experience on its own. The area is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and laid-back atmosphere, making it a hidden gem for those looking to escape the city.

About the Rental Houses

Bolivar Peninsula offers a variety of beach rentals, from cozy cottages to large houses perfect for family gatherings. Many of the homes are right on the beach, giving you easy access to the sand and sea. Our rental house was spacious and had enough room for all 16 of us, with a big kitchen and plenty of outdoor space for the kids and dogs to play. Most houses come with great views, comfortable amenities, and are pet-friendly, making them ideal for family vacations.

Wednesday: Arrival and Relaxing

We arrived around noon to warm weather and soft ocean breezes. The beach house was spacious, with enough room for everyone. The kids played, the dogs explored, and the adults caught up with each other. It was a calm and happy start to our weekend.

Thursday: Thanksgiving Day

We started the day with a homemade breakfast casserole made by my husband. Then, we worked together to prepare our Thanksgiving lunch with turkey, ham, corn bread dressing, yams, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, collard greens, green beans, and all the traditional dishes and deserts. Different family members cooked different dishes or brought different items. It was a nice collaboration.

In the afternoon, some of us took a long walk on the beach. The fresh air and quiet time together made the day feel special. That evening, we played games like Hipster and laughed until late.

Friday: A Relaxed Day

Friday was colder, but it was still a nice day. Some family members went shopping for Black Friday deals, while others stayed at the house to watch football.

I went for a 3-mile run in the afternoon when it was warmest. Meals were simple—Thanksgiving leftovers for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. At night, we played The Big Potato Blockbuster Game, which everyone enjoyed.

Saturday: Family Bonding

I started the day with a sunrise 12-kilometer run along the beach. The quiet and beautiful sunrise made it a perfect way to reflect and recharge.

For breakfast, my husband made pancakes from scratch, and we all gathered around the table. Later in the afternoon, we dressed in white shirts and blue jeans for a family photo by the water. Dinner was gumbo made by my sister-in-law, and we finished the day playing Quixx, a fun dice game.

Sunday: Farewell and Reflection

The final morning started with my 10,000-step walk on the beach at sunrise. It was a peaceful and reflective time to end the weekend. After a simple breakfast of leftovers of all kids of food, dessert, and snacks, we packed up and left by 10:30 AM. We drove away with happy memories of our time together.

Why This Trip Was Special

I see family gatherings like this as a chance to connect and create great memories. Bolivar Peninsula gave us the perfect space to relax and enjoy being together.

If you’re looking for a quiet and family-friendly getaway in Texas, I highly recommend Bolivar Peninsula. Its peaceful beaches and welcoming atmosphere are perfect for making special memories. The variety of beach rentals makes it easy to find a home that fits your family’s needs.

Thanksgiving Beach House Family Gathering: A Special Time on the Bolivar Peninsula