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Get ready to discover the laid-back charm of Indian Rocks Beach, the quieter cousin of Clearwater Beach! Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Indian Rocks Beach exudes a welcoming local vibe that’s sure to capture your heart.
Having lived just across the bridge from IRB myself, I’ve experienced firsthand its relaxed atmosphere and hidden treasures. In this guide, I’ll be sharing all the insider tips on the best things to do in Indian Rocks Beach, drawing from my personal adventures and deep familiarity with this coastal gem.
Whether you’re seeking serene beach days, flavorful local cuisine, or off-the-beaten-path attractions, Indian Rocks Beach has something special in store for every visitor. Let’s dive in and explore the magic of this beloved beachside community!
Table of Contents
Fun things to do in Indian Rocks Beach, Florida
1. Relax at the beach
The beach is rightfully the main attraction here. Enjoy the white sand and clear waters with half the crowd of Clearwater (usually, but not always). Find the adorable (and important reminder) sign pictured below at the 5th Avenue Beach Access Park.
2. Do a private boat tour with A Boat Day
If you’re looking for an EPIC boat day in Indian Rocks Beach, you gotta check out A Boat Day. They have a few different options for the type of boat you can rent. Select either one of their deck boats or a funship and rent them anywhere from 4-8 hours. I highly recommend choosing one of their funships which includes a waterslide!
The boats occupy anywhere from 6-10 people and the charters are private meaning it’s just you, your crew, and your captain (we loved our captain— shoutout to Captain Marcos).
Spending a day with A Boat Day was truly one of the funnest boat days I’ve had. I was worried I would be scared to do the slide, but once I did it I didn’t want to stop! Aside from the waterslide, you can island hop, go shelling, snorkeling, or just cruise for dolphins!
3. Rent a yacht
Life is just better on a boat. We had SO MUCH fun chartering Magic Moment through Florida Yacht Life I don’t know that I’ll ever be over the day.
Magic Moment is a 75 ft. luxury motor yacht that offers 2, 4, 6, and 8-hour charters for up to 12 people. This is especially perfect for bachelor/bachelorette and birthday parties, but truly no occasion is too small for a fun day on the water with your crew.
They have so many add-ons too if you want to take the experience to the next level. From DJs to bartenders to a private chef! They even can have Pop, Sip, & Celebrate Planning deck out the boat for your special occasion!
4. Have a beach picnic
I think everyone should have a beach picnic at least once in their life! After ours, I’m honestly about to have one once a week because it was so amazing!
Picnics Perfected did such a wonderful job of setting up the dreamiest picnic for our girls’ night. We had wine, charcuterie, and a beautiful sunset. She has everything you could need from games to blankets.
As a bonus, you can have a photographer (Aleisa Sigmon is AMAZING!) capture your moments. This is great for special occasions of course, but it’s also great on just a random Tuesday evening 😉
5. Do a day trip to Clearwater Beach
Take a day trip to Clearwater Beach, and start at one of their amazing breakfast spots.
IRB does have some boat tours and water activities, but Clearwater Beach does have a lot more options. And if you’re in the area and have never been, Clearwater Beach is worth spending a day at! Check out this post for all Clearwater Beach activities!
6. Yoga on the beach
I don’t know about you, but doing yoga on the beach has been on my “things I want to do” list for quite some time now! We unfortunately weren’t here the days they have classes, but I’m going to try to make my way over!
Classes are every Tuesday and Thursday at 6 PM, and Saturdays at 9 AM. After the Saturday class, they even walk to a nearby cafe afterward to enjoy coffee and a bite together. And once a month they also have a potluck after yoga and watch the sunset with food and wine— how fun!!
7. Check out an Indian Rocks Beach bar
Widely acclaimed as one of the best beach bars in the area, Crabby Bill’s offers a perfect blend of laid-back vibes, delectable seafood, and a lively atmosphere. As a local favorite, this iconic destination not only delivers mouthwatering dishes and crafted co*cktails but also exudes a welcoming atmosphere that instantly makes you feel like a part of the community.
With its inviting ambiance, fresh catches of the day, and an idyllic backdrop that seamlessly fuses with the rhythms of coastal life, Crabby Bills is more than just a bar – it’s a cherished local gem that captures the essence of Indian Rocks Beach and invites you to unwind, connect, and relish in the simple pleasures of beach town living.
8. Grab a brew at Anecdote Brewing Company
Anecdote Brewing Company is an awesome family-friendly brewery in Indian Rocks Beach. They have quite a variety of brews, sure to suit anyone’s fancy. I did a flight and tried their Blackberry Gose, guava Gose, and “That Morning Taco” which was a flavored lager.
I don’t typically do lagers, but how could I resist with a name like that? That particular beer was brewed with lime, cilantro, and smoked ancho peppers! The flavors were subtle and nice. My favorite was the Pink Paradox though (the guava Gose)!
9. Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve
This cute spot just gives a nice change of scenery. It’s located right by Kooky Coconut! It’s a scenic little half-mile boardwalk trail that takes you through mangroves and out to get views of the intercoastal.
You may even see some cool birds, reptiles, and crabs along your walk! If you want something a little more naturey, you can always take a little drive to the Florida Botanical Garden in Largo, which is gorgeous, and it’s free!
10. Splash Harbour Waterpark
Splash Harbour Waterpark is located adjacent to the Holiday Inn. With its array of water slides, lazy rivers, and interactive play areas, Splash Harbour is a fun thing to do in Indian Rocks Beach for families, friends, and water enthusiasts of all ages! I know they had me at Lazy River!
The park’s vibrant atmosphere and expansive aquatic playground promise a day filled with laughter, splashes, and unforgettable memories. If you’re staying at the Holiday Inn you get a discount on admission.
11. Get active in the ocean
Rent a boat, kayak, or SUP from Island Marine Rentals! (They also have bike and scooter rentals as well). You can rent kayaks and SUPs anywhere from 1 hour to 1 week.
Along with that, they provide transportation straps in case you want to take them to a local park or a different area, as well as a Dollie for you to transport to the beach down the road.
12. John’s Pass
A short drive away from the tranquil shores of Indian Rocks Beach lies the vibrant and bustling haven of John’s Pass. This charming coastal village is a true gem that encapsulates the essence of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
From its iconic boardwalk that weaves through a picturesque marina to the myriad of quaint shops, inviting eateries, and recreational activities, John’s Pass offers a captivating blend of relaxation and adventure.
Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront, indulging in fresh seafood delights, or embarking on thrilling water excursions, this lively destination presents an array of experiences that cater to every taste and preference. The palpable energy of John’s Pass, infused with a sense of camaraderie and leisure, makes it a perfect complement to the serene beauty of Indian Rocks Beach.
The great thing about John’s Pass is there are so many great tour options here! One of my personal favorites is the tiki boat tour, but they also have a pirate adventure cruise, shelling cruise, and deep sea fishing adventure.
13. Enjoy fresh seafood
There are plenty of amazing Indian Rocks Beach restaurants to choose from! Guppy’s on the Beach is one of my favorite lunch spots, and PJ’s is a great option if you’re looking to have a seafood feast!
If you want to switch things up, get one of the best Cubans in Tampa Bay from the Kooky Coconut! And be sure to get coffee from Pipo n Betty’s.
And if you don’t mind heading a little further down the beach, check out the restaurants in Belleair, or Sweet Sage Cafe on Redington Beach it’s the cutest, most whimsical, eclectic cafe. Who doesn’t want to enjoy their breakfast in a garden oasis? To see more of this spot’s charm click here.
14. Go jetskiing
Embark on an exhilarating aquatic adventure in Indian Rocks Beach by booking a jet ski rental with We Get You Wet Water Sports. Discover the thrill of skimming across the pristine Gulf waters as you take the reins of your watercraft.
Feel the wind in your hair, taste the salty spray, and experience the rush of freedom as you navigate the waves. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-time explorer, their top-notch equipment and friendly staff ensure a safe and unforgettable experience.
If you’re looking for an exhilarating activity where you’re soaked in pure aquatic fun be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Indian Rocks Beach!
15. Take a day trip
If you have more than a couple of days in Indian Rocks Beach, you should explore some of the other awesome areas in Tampa Bay! St. Pete, Tampa, and Clearwater are there are so many amazing areas to explore, and each is so different from the last!
My personal favorite may be Dunedin. It’s similar to IRB, but there are even more fun activities and a little more bustling!
Where to stay in Indian Rocks Beach
Because this is more of a local’s beach, the accommodations in this area are often a little… dated. Some of my favorite rentals in the area can be found here! The beachfront condo is stunning, has panoramic views of the Gulf, and sleeps 5,
Click here for some hotel options.
Holiday Inn
We enjoyed our stay here. The location was perfect (tucked right behind Crabby’s), and it had putt-putt, a waterpark, and a restaurant in it. Putt putt and Jimmy Guana’s (the restaurant) came in handy when it was raining! The rates were also affordable. (I just love staying at IHG hotels, as I usually book with points from my IHG rewards card!)
Check out my ultimate guide to travel credit cards to learn how to unlock and rake in all of the benefits and perks!
Sunburst Inn
The Sunburst Inn is located right on the beach in Indian Shores, and is another excellent option! This charming boutique hotel, recently featured on HGTV’s 100-Day Dream Home: Beachfront Hotel, has undergone a remarkable renovation, and the results are absolutely adorable!
With 12 uniquely designed rooms, each offering its own distinctive style and character, The Sunburst Inn is a haven of comfort and relaxation. As you step onto the property, you’ll be greeted by several amazing amenities that will enhance your stay.
🏨THE CUTEST PLACE TO STAY🏨
Grab one of the complimentary bikes or paddleboards and explore the beautiful surroundings. Unwind on the pristine beach with the provided chairs and umbrellas, or gather around the fire pit for cozy evenings under the stars.
The hotel also offers grills, perfect for a beachside barbecue with friends! From the stylishly renovated rooms to the abundance of thoughtful amenities, The Sunburst Inn is the epitome of beachfront bliss. Come experience the magic and create unforgettable memories on the stunning shores of Indian Shores.
I hope you enjoy your visit to Indian Rocks Beach! Let me know which Florida beach I should check out next in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @guidedbydestiny to see more Florida adventures 🙂
Check out my storefront Florida packing list and some other posts before you go:
Free things to do in Tampa
Fun breweries in Clearwater
Best restaurants in Clearwater Beach
Florida packing list
