15 Best Things to Do in Indian Rocks Beach, Florida

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If you’re looking for a place on Florida’s Gulf Coast that’s all about pure relaxation, Indian Rocks Beach might just be your slice of paradise! It has a laid-back vibe that makes it the perfect spot to unwind, but don’t worry—there are also plenty of exciting things to do in Indian Rocks Beach that will keep you happily busy.

Unlike the bustling scenes of Clearwater Beach or St. Pete Beach, IRB is a bit of an underrated gem—quiet, laid-back, and full of local charm. Beyond the beach, IRB offers awesome restaurants, fun boat tours, and fantastic day trips to nearby gems! I lived in the area when I first moved to Tampa Bay, and I still love visiting—it’s truly one of my favorite spots for a peaceful day by the water!

Fun Things to Do in Indian Rocks Beach, Florida

1. Relax at the Beach

The beach is rightfully the main attraction in Indian Rocks Beach! With soft white sand, crystal-clear waters (on good days), and often fewer crowds than nearby spots like Clearwater Beach, it’s great for catching rays and unwinding.

Don’t forget to spot the sweet little sign at 5th Avenue Beach Access Park, reminding everyone to “leave nothing but your footprints”—a perfect motto for this tranquil beach!

2. Do a Private Boat Tour With A Boat Day

For an epic boat day in Indian Rocks Beach, look no further than A Boat Day! They offer private charters that cater to you and your crew. Choose from deck boats or funships, I recommend the funship option—it includes a waterslide!

With a capacity for 6-10 guests and a friendly captain to guide you (shoutout to Captain Marcos!), you can island-hop, snorkel, or search for dolphins. If you’re up for an adventure, don’t miss the slide—it’s a blast once you get going!

This is hands down my favorite activity on this list of things to do in Indian Rocks Beach.

3. Rent a Yacht

Elevate your experience with a luxury yacht! Renting Magic Moment through Florida Yacht Life feels like a dream day on the water. This 75-foot yacht offers 2-8 hour charters for up to 12 people, perfect for special occasions or just treating yourself and your friends to a fantastic day.

Whether it’s a birthday, bachelorette, or just a fun day out, this yacht gives a touch of luxury to your beach adventure in IRB.

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

Nothing beats the charm of a beach picnic! We booked ours with Picnics Perfected, and they absolutely nailed it. Imagine wine, charcuterie, and a sunset—no detail was overlooked.

You can even add a photographer like Aleisa Sigmon to capture the fun! Whether it’s a special occasion or just a random Tuesday, it’s one of those “treat yourself” moments worth experiencing.

5. Check Out a Local Coffee Shop

For the perfect beach coffee break, Pipo n Betty’s is a local gem! Located right by the shore, this spot serves Joffrey’s coffee (a Tampa Bay fave) and has everything from fresh-baked pastries to smoothies. It’s just right for a pre-beach fuel-up or a post-yoga refresher.

6. Yoga on the Beach

Speaking of yoga. Stretch it out with Yoga on the Beach every Tuesday and Thursday at 6 PM or Saturday at 9 AM. Saturday classes even come with a coffee meetup afterward, making it the perfect combo of fitness and community.

Plus, once a month, they host a sunset potluck with food and wine—it’s laid-back, local, and the ideal way to meet fellow beach lovers.

7. Check Out an Indian Rocks Beach Bar

For an essential beach bar experience in Indian Rocks Beach, look no further than Crabby Bill’s. Known for fresh seafood and a breezy vibe, Crabby Bill’s is perfect for a casual night out with live music, tropical cocktails, and a crowd that knows how to keep things fun. This local hangout has earned its spot as a community favorite, capturing the relaxed essence of the area and making it one of the best things to do in Indian Rocks Beach.

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 cocktails 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. Visit a Local Brewery

Just a short walk from the beach, Anecdote Brewing Company brings together a chill vibe and unique beer flavors that’ll satisfy any craft beer lover. With creative brews like the fruity Blackberry Gose, tangy guava-infused Pink Paradox, and the adventurous “That Morning Taco” lager, Anecdote’s variety is anything but boring! It’s a family-friendly spot too, so you can kick back, try a flight, and soak in the beach town atmosphere.

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

If you’re craving a change from beach scenery, Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve is a scenic gem! Located near Kooky Coconut, this half-mile boardwalk trail winds through lush mangroves and leads to stunning views of the Intracoastal. It’s a quick, easy walk where you might spot birds, crabs, and maybe even a few reptiles. And if you’re in the mood for more, the beautiful (and free!) Florida Botanical Gardens in nearby Largo is worth the trip.

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, right next to the Holiday Inn, offers slides, a lazy river, and play areas for a splashy day of fun. It’s a hit for all ages, and Holiday Inn guests score a discount on admission. With lively attractions and a carefree vibe, this spot is perfect for families and friends looking for some water-filled excitement!

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. Kayak or Paddleboard

Get on the water with a kayak or paddleboard rental from Island Marine Rentals! They have a range of rentals, including bikes and scooters, with flexible timeframes from one hour to a week. Want to explore other areas? They provide transport straps and dollies to make it easy to bring your gear to nearby parks or beaches.

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

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!

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.

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 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