Lindale Galveston, TX

Galveston was first settled around 1816. It was a French pirate by the name of Louis-Michel Aury that first arrived. He was sent to Galveston Island to help the new Republic of Mexico as the island's commissioner. The young republic had declared Galveston as their own, something Spain wasn't happy about. Unfortunately, Aury got into a fight with two Mexican commanders after they captured the port of Soto La Marina, and Aury left on his own with his ships to go back to Galveston. He was captured by Spanish troops and executed by firing squad.

While Aury was on his ill-fated adventure, another pirate named Jean Lafitte took control of Galveston. He made the tiny port his very own "pirate kingdom" and he lived here until 1821, when the US Navy forced him off the island. In the 1830s, Galveston served as the capital of the Republic of Texas. During the Civil War, the Battle of Galveston took place. Due to its importance as a port city, Galveston grew quickly toward the end of the 19th century.

Galveston is home to six historic districts and contains one of the nation's largest collections of 19th-century buildings.

Most of Lindale's restaurants are located along Seawall Boulevard. Here, you'll find local favorite Russo's New York Pizzeria. After a day at the beach, cool off with a smoothie or sno-cone at Bahama Buck's. Just off 4th Street, Dawn Donuts Galveston will get your morning started with a sweet treat and a cup of coffee. And when you crave pho, head to Pho 18. Other neighborhood favorites include the Sunflower Bakery & Café and Mosquito Café, both located near the East End Historical District, just outside Lindale.

Downtown Galveston, only minutes away, offers even more great restaurants and nightclubs. Be sure to try Eatcetera, a favorite gourmet café. After dinner, go dancing at the Buckshot Saloon -- live bands keep this dance hall rocking. If you prefer something a little less rowdy, head to Brews Brothers and enjoy a craft brew.

People in Lindale spend lots of time on boats -- charter boats, cruise ships, sailboats -- but you'll probably get around mainly by car. Ferry Road runs though Lindale, and Seawall Boulevard provides a scenic route to Galveston, hugging the ocean. Take Broadway Avenue J to the Pelican Island Causeway to reach Texas A&M University, located on Pelican Island.

Lindale Park is the main park in the neighborhood. This well-maintained park includes a fenced dog park, tennis courts, a basketball court, and a ball park. At the south end of the neighborhood, just past Seawall Boulevard, Stewart Beach Park features a white, sandy beach perfect for days of fun in the sun: swimming, beachcombing, and paddle-boarding. Chair and umbrella rentals and a snack pavilion are also available.

Living on the waterfront isn't cheap, and that's especially true in Lindale. Homes in the Galveston area cost about $141,000, slightly more than the state average of $132,000. Rentals in Lindale average about $820.

Along Seawall Boulevard, you'll find the typical beachside shops selling bathing suits and water gear, along with gift stores and the like. These include Jungle Surf Rentals, Safari Beach Company, and Wild Side. Ocean Food Store provides groceries and fishing supplies. For more shopping, head to Downtown Galveston and enjoy the fantastic boutiques and shops like Gracie's, Surf Styles, and Nautical Antiques and Tropical Décor.