Indian Shores & Indian Rocks Beach FAQs
Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores are peaceful, perfect destinations for a low-key beach escape. Here's everything you need to know about vacations here.
Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores are under-the-radar beaches where there's rarely more than a few people.
Compared to the livelier beaches to the north and south, the shoreline in Indian Shores and Indian Rocks Beach is perfect for relaxing. There’s also great shopping and dining a short distance from the gentle waves. Explore more details about these communities.
Where is Indian Rocks Beach/Indian Shores?
A short drive from Clearwater Beach to the north and John’s Pass Village in Madeira Beach to the south, Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores are directly west of Largo and Seminole. The best ways to get here from the mainland include Park Boulevard and Walsingham Boulevard.
What are the main attractions in Indian Rocks Beach?
Indian Rocks Beach is known for its peaceful beaches, quaint shops and restaurants along Gulf Boulevard. Seaside Seabird Sanctuary is an avian hospital that sits right on the beach in Indian Shores; visitors can go see the resident owls, parrots, cormorants, pelicans and other rescued birds the nonprofit facility rehabilitates. There are also family-friendly activities like Splash Harbour Water Park.
Are there designated beach access points in Indian Rocks Beach, and where can I park to go to the beach?
Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores offer dozens of designated beach access points with parking facilities conveniently located nearby. Visitors can find parking lots adjacent to popular beach access points such as 17th Avenue Park, 12th Avenue Park, and Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve as well as Tiki Gardens Indian Shores Beach Access. Additionally, most hotels in the area provide parking for their guests.
Learn more about beach parking in St. Pete-Clearwater.
Is Indian Rocks Beach suitable for swimming?
With clear water, gentle surf and gradual slopes, the water in Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores is perfect for swimming.
Can visitors go-shell hunting in Indian Rocks Beach?
Yes, shell hunting is a popular activity in Indian Rocks Beach, especially during low tide when numerous shells wash ashore.
What hotel and lodging options are available in Indian Rocks Beach?
Part of what makes Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores so laid back is that there are not many busy resorts. Visitors will find vacation rentals, condominiums and mom-and-pop hotels like retro-chic Sunburst Inn along Gulf Boulevard. Full-service hotel options include Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Harbourside.
What dining options are available in Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores?
Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores have a variety of dining options, including seafood restaurants like Guppy’s on the Beach, cozy cafes like Indian Shores Coffee Co., and casual eateries serving American cuisine such as the Kooky Coconut and Slyce Pizza Bar. With its own fishing fleet that goes out daily for the catch-of-the-day, Salt Rock Grill is a culinary landmark overlooking the Intracoastal waterway. See more dining in Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores.
Are there any parks or nature preserves to explore in Indian Rocks Beach?
Yes, visitors can explore Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve via a walkway that goes along a mangrove forest. Kolb Park also features green space, pickleball courts, playground equipment and more. Plus, you can explore the shoreline by paddleboard or kayak via one of the rental companies that operate here.
What are some family-friendly activities in Indian Rocks Beach?
Indian Rocks Beach offers many family-friendly activities, including hours’ worth of all-ages thrills at Splash Harbour Water Park, mini-golf at Smuggler’s Cove Adventure Golf, and visits to Seaside Seabird Sanctuary.
Are there any local art galleries or studios in Indian Rocks Beach?
Yes, visitors can check out the Beach Art Center, where art classes are available for students of all ages who want to learn watercolors, pottery, and other art forms.
Are there any opportunities for beachfront yoga or wellness activities in Indian Rocks Beach?
Yes, visitors can participate in beachfront yoga classes, meditation sessions, or wellness retreats offered by local instructors like Yoga on the Beaches in Indian Shores. Visitors can also take surfing lessons with Sister Jo’s Surf School.