Indian Rocks Beach, Florida, is a quieter beach town compared to many other Florida beaches. Many call this the “locals beach” because you’re not going to find as many high rise buildings or chain restaurants lining the streets. Indian Rocks Beach is our favorite local beach and the one we visit the most. Today, you will learn all about what there is to do in Indian Rocks Beach, Florida, so that you can start planning your own trip!
Things to do in Indian Rocks Beach
Let’s get right to the fun! If you are visiting Indian Rocks Beach, it’s likely because you want to relax, soak up the coastal vibes, get some quality time in with your friends or family, and relax. Indian Rocks Beach will offer a more relaxed beach vacation than other destinations while still offering plenty to do! Win-win!
Go to the Beach
I know this is quite an obvious answer, but I love the beach too much not to include it. And if you are visiting Indian Rocks Beach, it’s probably safe to assume that you like the beach too (otherwise, it’s a weird place to visit!) As I mentioned earlier, Indian Rocks Beach will be quieter than other beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast. I don’t mean that you’re going to have the whole beach to yourself – it can still get quite busy! But comparatively it is much quieter. Indian Rocks Beach offers two miles of beach along Florida’s gulf coast.
Splash Harbour Water Park
If you need a break from the beach for a day, you can head to this water park. The all outdoor waterpark is located at the Holiday Inn and Suites hotel but you don’t have to be a guest to stay there. It is a good place to visit for any age. There is a splash zone for younger ages, slides for the older kids, and a lazy river.
Location: 399 2nd St, Indian Rocks Beach, FL 33785
Indian Rocks Beach Nature Trail
Did you know that there is a nature trail in Indian Rocks Beach, Florida? The path is a boardwalk and you can expect to see different types of birds, fish, and similar wildlife. Throughout the trail you’ll find informational signs on the different species so you know what you’re looking at. The path takes you through the mangroves to beautiful views of the intracoastal, and this was my favorite part. The trail is about a half a mile long. There is also a playground for your kids and a dog park for your dog kids at this location. It’s a very peaceful place to take a leisurely stroll.
Location: right off of Gulf Boulevard between 9th and 10th Ave.
Seaside Seabird Sanctuary
Technically, this is located in Indian Shores, but it’s that’s right next door! The sanctuary is a non-profit that helps care for and release injured birds and it’s actually the largest bird hospital in the United States. The sanctuary offers free admission, making it easy to visit on your next visit.
Location: 18328 Gulf Boulevard in Indian Shores.
Check Out Local Events
Indian Rocks is very community oriented with a lot of events depending on the time of year. Often, you will see this advertised on a banner as you enter the island but I recommend checking out the Indian Rocks city calendar of events and the Indian Shores events calendar to see what might be going on while you are visiting.
Welcome Center
Indian Rocks Beach is a quiet town, but there’s a lot to do within a short distance. The Welcome Center offers discounted tickets for several activities.
Location: 105 5th Ave N, Indian Rocks Beach, FL 33785
Where to Eat in Indian Rocks Beach
Beach Waves Grill We recently ate here for the first time and the food was great! It is actually our favorite place because not only was the food good, but every single employee was so welcoming and friendly. My husband and I both felt so appreciated as customers. This is one of our new favorite spots and it can’t be located much closer to the beach!
Guppy’s on the Beach – first, be warned that while it is very close to the beach, it is not directly on the beach. We go to Indian Rocks Beach at least once per week and almost every time, Guppy’s has a crowd of visitors and locals waiting to be seated because is a very popular place! It is a bit more upscale than your typical beach bar restaurant.
Crabby Bill’s has great beachy vibes and often has live music to match. The best way to describe Crabby Bill’s is fun! It’s a really great spot and you can show up as dressed up or as dressed down as you’re feeling for the occasion.
Candy Kitchen is a must-stop if you have a sweet tooth. This is a great destination for dessert after dinner or an afternoon snack. Candy Kitchen is a unique stop that anyone would love, but if you have kids in your group, I think they will especially find this place to be magical. There are a few Candy Kitchens throughout Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches.
JD’s has great live music with the vibe to match. Plus, their food is great! Just know that they are closed Mondays.
Coffee in Indian Rocks Beach
Ready Set Yo! This is our favorite place to grab a coffee. They have some of the most unique flavors and my favorite is the white raspberry iced latte. They also have protein shakes which would make the best snack or light lunch while you’re on the beach.
The Haus Coffee Shop is another delicious coffee shop! It is not located on the island like Ready Set Yo! but it’s located just over the bridge. My favorite drink is their iced cinnamon sugar latte (with the syrup, not the spice).
Best Places to Grab a Drink
Mahuffer’s is a unique and funky bar experience in Indian Shores, Florida. I love this place but it might not be for everyone. It is the ultimate dive bar where you will be surrounded by salvaged junkyard artifacts. You’ll either think it’s cool or you’ll think everything inside needs to go to, well, the junkyard. What I love is that Mahuffer’s makes no apologies for what they are. The bartenders are great and the beer is ice cold. They often have live bands as well. It’s a hole in the wall type of place enjoyed by all ages, locals, and visitors.
Anecdote Brewing Company I absolutely love breweries and was so happy when small town Indian Rocks got their own! Anecdote is still a newer brewery, it actually opened in the middle of the pandemic. They really had to adapt and overcome from day one which just makes me love them more. Grab a beer or a flight and enjoy the atmosphere or take a crowler to go. Either way you’ll be satisfied.
