Places to Stay / Districts / Balinese Neighborhood
Balinese Neighborhood
Balinese Neighborhood on Galveston Island Texas
Condos Near the Balinese Neighborhood
Balinese Neighborhood - Seaside Community
Balinese Neighborhood Amenities
- Direct Beach Access
- Beachfront Community
Galveston Beaches and Attractions Nearby
Galveston Restaurants and Bars Nearby
Balinese Neighborhood - A Tale of Elegance and Intrigue
Nestled on the Gulf of Mexico’s edge in Galveston, Texas, the Balinese Pier Neighborhood is more than just a collection of homes; it’s a place where history, culture, and a touch of magic converge. With the ruins of the famous Balinese Room as its backdrop, this unique district has a rich past that continues to influence the present. From the captivating tales of the Balinese Room to the diverse real estate options, this neighborhood offers a glimpse into Galveston’s storied heritage.
A Brief History
In the annals of Galveston’s history, few names evoke as much allure and mystique as the Balinese Room. Located on a 600-foot pier extending from the Galveston Seawall over the Gulf of Mexico, this establishment held many roles over the years.
The story of the Balinese Room began in the early 20th century when Sicilian barbers turned bootleggers, Sam and Rosario Maceo, took over a small restaurant known as “Chop Suey” at the intersection of 21st Street and Seawall Boulevard. In 1929, they transformed it into “Maceo’s Grotto,” marking the birth of a series of entertainment venues along the Galveston Seawall, which included dance clubs and bathhouses, some secretly doubling as illegal casinos.
The Balinese Room, as it is famously known today, came into existence in 1942. This transformation occurred in the wake of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, leading to the adoption of an exotic Balinese theme and significant modifications to the decor. The once-200-foot pier expanded to a majestic 600 feet, reaching out into the Gulf of Mexico. The back room of the Balinese Room concealed the most modern gambling equipment, making it a haven for high rollers and elite patrons.
Balinese Room and the Story
Bringing In Renowned Entertainers
During its heyday, the Balinese Room hosted some of the most renowned entertainers of the era, including Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, George Burns, The Marx Brothers, and many others. Its exclusive clientele featured luminaries such as Howard Hughes, Sophie Tucker, and wealthy oil barons from nearby Houston. The Balinese Room was not just a nightclub; it was a cultural hub, a place where the brightest stars of the time converged to entertain and be entertained.
The Saga of the Balinese Room and the Law
The Balinese Room’s allure extended beyond its entertainment. It became known as a hub of mob activity, operating in plain sight in violation of Texas gambling laws. However, the Maceos had significant influence within local government and law enforcement, rendering charges against the establishment practically nonexistent.
It wasn’t until 1956, when Will Wilson was elected as Texas Attorney General, that the tide began to turn against the Balinese Room. Wilson campaigned to “close down Galveston” and its illegal casinos, enlisting the Texas Rangers to enforce the law. The Rangers set up shop near the club and conducted frequent raids, but the Balinese Room’s unique layout, including its lengthy pier, provided ample time to conceal evidence. The club even had a tradition of playing “The Eyes of Texas” to announce the Rangers’ arrival.
In 1961, Hurricane Carla dealt a blow to the Balinese Room, damaging its structure. Over subsequent years, the building gradually deteriorated.
Balinese Neighborhood Real Estate
The Balinese Room’s Rebirth and Hurricane Ike’s Fury
In the 1970s, oil tycoon Johnny Mitchell purchased and reopened the Balinese Room, transforming the casino into a dinner club and disco. It once again became a hotspot for celebrities and local patrons alike. However, after Mitchell’s passing in 1996, the Balinese Room and its pier eventually came under the ownership of the State of Texas.
A local attorney named Scott Arnold secured a 60-year lease on the pier and, in 2001, breathed new life into the Balinese Room. The iconic establishment reopened its doors, becoming a venue for live music, parties, and weekend dining. The pier itself housed a salon, retail shops, and even a massage therapy room with a glass floor, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf below.
While much of the Balinese Room’s original structure had undergone modifications or decayed over the years, the large ballroom retained its South Seas interior decor, which was lovingly restored to its 1940s splendor. The hallway leading to the pier featured autographed photos of past performers and other memorabilia, preserving the club’s rich history.
However, tragedy struck on the early morning of September 13, 2008, when Hurricane Ike made landfall. Despite its elevated position above the seawall, the Balinese Room could not withstand the storm’s surge, waves, and fierce winds. The iconic establishment, which had weathered so many storms, was reduced to rubble, leaving only the famed red door as a poignant reminder of its grandeur.
The Balinese Room’s Legacy and Enduring Appeal
The Balinese Room may have closed its doors in 1957, but its legacy endures in the hearts and memories of Galvestonians and visitors alike. The historic building remained suspended over the beach waters for five decades, drawing crowds of onlookers, fans, and the curious. Even today, the allure of this unimposing structure, with its notorious past, continues to captivate the imagination.
What made the Balinese Room so magnetic was its legendary status and enigmatic history. It offered not only decadence and illegal thrills but also a pair of brothers, Sam and Rose Maceo, who were larger than life and very much in charge.
Balinese Pier Neighborhood: A Real Estate Tapestry
Beyond the mystique of the Balinese Room, the Balinese Pier Neighborhood boasts a diverse range of real estate options. The community has grown around this historic landmark, offering homes that cater to various tastes and lifestyles.
Homes in the Balinese Pier Neighborhood reflect a blend of architectural styles, each telling its own story. While some properties may embrace a classic Galveston Victorian aesthetic, others feature more contemporary designs. This diversity allows residents to find a home that suits their preferences, whether they’re drawn to the charm of historic architecture or the modern amenities of newer constructions.
Real estate in the area comprises single-family homes, condos, and apartments, catering to a broad spectrum of homebuyers and renters. The proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the allure of living near such a historically significant site make this neighborhood a sought-after destination for those who appreciate the unique character of Galveston.
Additionally, the Balinese Pier Neighborhood’s location along the Galveston Seawall provides easy access to the beach, making it an appealing choice for those who relish seaside living. The neighborhood’s accessibility to the beach and other Galveston attractions adds to its desirability, making it a prime spot for both permanent residents and vacation homeowners.
A Neighborhood Immersed in Galveston’s Heritage
The Balinese Pier Neighborhood in Galveston, Texas, stands as a place where the past intertwines with the present. The legendary Balinese Room may have vanished, but its memory continues to shape the neighborhood’s identity. With its diverse real estate options, from historic homes to contemporary residences, this district embodies the spirit of Galveston—a place where history and modernity coexist, creating a vibrant and unique community by the Gulf of Mexico.
Balinese Neighborhood, Condos, and Short Term Rentals
Balinese Neighborhood is located within the Seawall District where you can find short-term rentals available within the district. There are also Condos available in the area which offer condos for sale and long-term and short-term rentals. Many of these places offer stunning views of the Gulf and all are in close proximity to everything to do in Galveston.
