Houston Tourism Boost Expected as $700M Margaritaville Resort Advances in Galveston

A major Gulf Coast project is taking shape as the planned $700 million Margaritaville Resort in Galveston prepares to launch cottage pre-sales and begin early construction work. The large-scale development, located on Galveston's West End, is expected to draw significant regional traffic from Houston and strengthen the coastal tourism economy.

Large Resort Project Moves Ahead

The developers behind the new Margaritaville Resort say they are entering the next phase of planning and will soon begin selling vacation cottages tied to the property. The project spans hundreds of acres and includes a full-service hotel, entertainment venues, restaurants, retail areas, and extensive outdoor attractions.

Construction crews are expected to begin early site work in the coming months. The timeline for vertical construction will align with pre-sales, permitting, and final design work.

The resort joins a growing list of major investments reshaping Galveston’s shoreline. Although the property sits outside the city of Houston, the market for visitors, business travel, and second-home buyers remains heavily Houston-based.

Why It Matters for Houston

This resort could influence the wider Gulf Coast economy. Houston residents already make up a large share of Galveston’s tourist base, and the development may increase weekend travel, service sector demand, and hospitality spending.

Local companies in construction, engineering, architecture, and logistics may also see contract opportunities as the project ramps up. Because the development includes both hotel rooms and for-sale cottages, it may appeal to Houstonians looking for coastal real estate within a short drive.

Regional employers may benefit as well. As hiring begins, the project will need staff across construction, maintenance, retail, and hospitality. That could open new roles for workers who commute between Houston and the island.

What’s Next

Pre-sales for the resort’s cottage units are expected to launch soon, with the developer planning to release additional details on pricing and timelines. More renderings and site plans will follow as the project advances through design and permitting.

After early preparation begins, full-scale construction is expected to roll out in phases. The developer has not yet published an opening date, but the size of the project suggests a multi-year buildout.

This article is a summary of reporting by The Business Journals. Read the full story here.