Campeche Cove - Galveston, TX

Campeche Cove was one of the first areas to be inhabited in Galveston county, originally by the Akokisa and Karankawa tribes. The first European settlers arrived with the landing of pirate, Louis-Michel Aury to fight against the Spanish with Mexico; he was later ousted by the infamous pirate, Jean Lafitte.

In the 19th century, the area served primarily as a military base and then as a major port for shipping in the Gulf. It remained this way until the hurricane of 1900 wiped out the majority of the island and shipping moved further up north to Houston.

To get a glimpse of history, visit the 1892 Bishop's Palace on Broadway, and the Moody Mansion, bought by the Moody family just days after the hurricane.

Festivals abound here such as The Annual Brewmasters Craft Beer festival and Galveston Oktoberfest. Make sure to visit The Strand Historic District around Fat Tuesday each year, and experience Galveston's own Mardi Gras celebration.

Dining options abound for the residents of Campeche Cove, and you don't even have to drive far to get to any restaurant.

When you want to sample fresh seafood, head to Jimmy's on the Pier, over on Seawall Boulevard. This restaurant sits right on the Gulf, and it serves fish that is caught just off the shore. Its website even has a fishing report to give you an idea of what to expect on any given day. Well-cooked food coupled with breathtaking views of the Gulf make Jimmy's a favorite among locals. Before you make plans to visit, check JimmysOnThePier.com; hours of operation are subject to the local weather conditions.

For a healthy twist on a standard soup-and-salad lunch, head to Eat Cetera on 25th Street. The restaurant opens daily at 11 a.m., Monday through Saturday, and closes at 4 p.m. during the week and 7 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Locals love the friendly service and beautiful presentation of each dish, with the smoked salmon salad being a favorite. Pair a cup of African peanut soup with a fresh-made panini for a light, energizing lunch.

To sample good Italian fare, visit Sapori Ristorante on Stewart road. This small restaurant serves authentic northern Italian dishes, such as crisp bruschetta, fresh salads, pork fillets, pastas and tiramisu. Its warm interiors and mouthwatering food make it an excellent place for a date or to dine with your entire family.

Galveston Island's emphasis on tourism has led to the opening of bars and dance clubs that cater to the nightlife needs of its tourists. It provides the locals with plenty of nightlife choices without traveling too far. The Crazy Oaks Bar on Stewart Street proffers beautiful views of sunsets on the Gulf amid large oak trees. This laid-back dive bar serves stiff drinks, interesting cocktails and beer on tap for its customers.

Campeche Cove is well-connected by Island Transit buses with multiple stops and routes available, and a street car system runs through the downtown Strand area.

While many people own cars for travel to the mainland and jobs in the city of Houston, Campeche Cove and the island itself remain extremely walkable and bike-friendly, although you'll want to be aware of tourists who might not be familiar with the area. Be careful with parking because some lots, especially those near Galveston Pier are expensive. Parking remains free along the sea wall and on most side streets.

Uber and multiple cab companies serve the island with advanced notice, and I-45 provides a straight shot to Houston and beyond in under an hour.

Galveston Island State Park provides the perfect place to camp, walk or run along trails overlooking the Gulf. Lots of open spaces and beautiful views make this place a popular spot among locals with many planning birthdays and reunions here. This place charges a fee, depending on what activity you want to do.

Lindale Park on Marine Drive provides the only public playground and dog park on the island, although dogs on leash are permitted on all of the island's beaches. Lindale has a large playground for kids with a swing set for older children. It also has tennis courts, soccer fields and basketball courts.

Campeche Cove and the island of Galveston itself offer events just about every weekend. Visit the Strand Historic District at Christmas time for the Dickens on The Strand celebration, where 19th century Victorian London comes to life, before heading over to take in the amazing light display at Moody Gardens.

Campeche Cove sits at 1.8 percent lower than the national average cost of living, thereby making it affordable for most people. This affordability reflects on all walks of life as a single bedroom apartment rents for a monthly average of $660, and a pint of beer costs an average of $4 at the local pubs. Gas prices also sit at 9.67 percent lower than the average national cost. If you utilize Island Transit, a one-way fare for an adult costs $1.

Several shopping plazas and restaurants line 61st Street, just a few minutes from the neighborhood. Galveston Place contains a Randalls grocery store, Tuesday Morning, and Office Depot. Jump over to 65th Street to visit Marshalls, Ross, and Shoe Depot.

To enjoy local shopping, head to the Admiralty on the Strand. This shop sells unique sea décor and handmade items not found in large retail chains. Its handmade jewelry and purses are popular too.

For an authentic antique shopping experience, go to Hendley Market on the Strand. Incredible finds there include antique items such as vintage photos, handmade soaps, rugs, books and jewelry. Friendly staff and reasonable prices also add to the charm of shopping here.

For your grocery needs, head to Kroger on Seawall Boulevard or Seven Seas Grocery on Termini-San Luis Pass Road. For fresh produce, head into Galveston's downtown district Galvestons Own Farmers Market on Post Office Street. The market opens every Sunday from 9 am to 12 pm June through September and 9 am to 1 pm October through May.