The small communities of Indian Shores and Indian Rocks Beach are beloved by locals and visitors for their slower pace and beautiful beaches.
Indian Shores & Indian Rocks Beach
Renowned for laid-back beaches and great dining, Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores are where you want to go if you want a quiet vacation that isn’t too far away from activity hubs like Clearwater Beach or John’s Pass. The quieter beaches here are perfect for those seeking serenity with a side of good food and drink.
Hit the Beach
The main attraction, of course, is the lengthy stretch of beach that skirts these barrier island communities. If you’re not staying at one of the many beachfront condominiums where you can walk right out onto the sand, there are plenty of parking areas and beach accesses available. The beach is long, and borders other barrier island beach towns, so it’s easy to walk for miles looking for shells in the sand and dolphins in the surf.
On your beach stroll, be sure to stop by Seaside Seabird Sanctuary. You can walk up right off the beach, or if you’re arriving by car, there’s a parking lot accessed off Gulf Boulevard
Water birds of every color and size, such as this Great White Egret, can be seen along the beaches and bays of St. Pete/Clearwater.
Things to Do
Check out Splash Harbour Water Park, which is part of the Holiday Inn Harbourside Hotel. Kids and kids at heart can get tubular on the 42-foot-high waterslide and go for a float on the lazy river. The littlest ones will love the kids’ splash zone. When tummies start to rumble, head to Jimmy Guana’s for a bite. Adults can get a tasty tropical beverage at Cruzan Rum Shack. There’s also mini-golf and an indoor game room (in the unlikely event that it rains).
See All Things to Do in Indian Shores & Indian Rocks BeachRent a boat, kayak or paddleboard to explore our crystal-clear, warm Gulf waters.
On the Water
Looking to get out on the water? Find boats, kayaks and paddleboards at Island Marine Rentals (they also rent bikes and scooters for exploring on land). Or, rent kayaks from Coconut Kayak Tours (they’ll drop off your kayaks at your desired spot - the beach or Intracoastal Waterway). On the Intracoastal side of Gulf Boulevard, Nekton Surf Shop rents kayaks and bikes – and fashionistas will love their selection of beachy-chic clothing (think breezy sundresses from brands such as Roxy, Billabong and O’Neill).
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Dine Here: Salt Rock Grill
Check out this great video of local fav, Salt Rock Grill, and discover a world of fresh flavors.
Top Places to Eat
Indian Shores and Indian Rocks Beach seem like quiet, mostly residential communities... but the culinary scene is hopping here! Check out some of your best options for dining out.
See All Indian Shores & Indian Rocks Restaurants
If you're a fan of dive bars, Mahuffer's is a place you'll want to check out. This veteran watering hole filled with salvaged junkyard artifacts is a local landmark.
Places to Stay
Most of the accommodations in Indian Shores and Indian Rocks Beach are beachfront condos. However, you’ll spot a resort or two, including Holiday Inn Harbourside (with its aforementioned water park), a family-friendly resort with on-site food and drink.
An intimate spot that offers full kitchens in its one- to three-room suites, Barefoot Beach Resort is great for couples or a family getaway. Traveling with a furry best friend? Sand Glo Villas is a collection of 11 pet-friendly beachfront villas equipped with full kitchens. Looking for beachy charm? You’ve found your perfect spot at Sarah’s Seaside, where six historic, pastel-colored cottages welcome guests with luxurious touches throughout (also check out its sister properties: Indian Rocks Inn, The Fillmore and The Narrows).
For an Old Florida experience in which you’re sure to make lifelong friends, stay at Laughing Lizard Bed & Breakfast. It’s just steps from the beach, and perks include breakfast and an afternoon wine tasting.
See All Places to Stay in Indian Shores & Indian Rocks Beach
