Hotels in Indian Rocks Beach

Surrounded by the Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf of Mexico, Indian Rocks Beach, Florida, is part of Pinellas County. Wherever visitors choose to stay in the area, they're in close proximity to beautiful beaches and leisure activities like kayaking and wind surfing in nearby Tampa, Saint Petersburg and Clearwater. Whether kicking back on the stretches of sands, partaking in seasonal events or enjoying the delicious local fare, visitors will find that life's a beach hereOpens in a new window.

Things to see and do

Beaches and water sports

The location of Indian Rocks Beach on Florida's Gulf Coast makes it a prime spot to enjoy all of the water sports and outdoor recreation of Tampa Bay, the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway. Indian Rocks Beach offers wide beaches covered in soft white sand and the turquoise shades of the Gulf of Mexico. As a bonus, free beach access parking can be found in some areas.

John's Pass Village at nearby Madeira Beach is a fishing village-themed complex of shops, restaurants and water sports rentals. Travelers can embark on a sunset sightseeing cruise, watch taffy being pulled at the candy store, or enjoy drinks and dinner on the deck. You might even spot a dolphin or two in the harbor.

Theme parks and attractions

The African-themed adventure park of Busch Gardens Tampa offers travelers the thrill of roller coasters and rides and the fun of animal encounters and wildlife habitats. Cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, lions and other wild animals make their home at Busch Gardens Tampa. Park sections include Morocco, Nairobi, the Serengeti Plain and Egypt. Splish, splash and slide the day away at Busch Gardens' sister water park, Adventure Island, located right around the corner.

If you're looking to learn about the water after you frolic in it, The Florida Aquarium in Tampa features marine animal exhibits that include habitats from wetlands, the coral reef, beaches and bays. Ecosystems of Florida and around the world are represented, and travelers can get close to sharks, penguins, tropical fish and even ring-tailed lemurs, in addition to the hissing cockroaches and chameleons of Madagascar.

Special Events

Indian Rocks Beach Holiday Lighted Boat Parade

Held in December, the Indian Rocks Beach boat parade brings a tropical touch to the holidays. This is a judged event in which boat owners dress up their boats in dazzling lights and decorations. Residents and visitors can enjoy the festivities from along the shoreline.

Oktoberfest on the Beach

German music, dancing, beer and wine, food vendors and children's activities bring the history and heritage of a German Oktoberfest to the beach. A stein-carrying and keg-throwing championship provide unique fun. Visitors can also get started on Christmas shopping by perusing the jewelry, pottery, glassware and other handmade items that the vendors have on show. You're sure to find a one-of-a-kind item for everyone on your gift list.

Taste of Indian Rocks Beach

The Taste of Indian Rocks Beach event features live music, entertainment, and more than 20 local restaurants offering samples of their food and beverage items. There are also chili, wine and beer vendors on-site. Held in November, proceeds from Taste of Indian Rocks Beach benefit local charities and the food bank.

Greenfest at Indian Rocks Beach

With a focus on eco-friendly, local, and sustainable products and services, Greenfest takes place on St. Patrick's Day weekend in March. Conservation groups participating in the event include the Sea Bird Sanctuary, the Pinellas County Extension and the Surfrider Foundation. Live music, food and beverage vendors and children's activities make this a fun, and informative, experience for all ages.

Travel Information

Tampa International Airport (TPA) is about a 30-minute drive from the Indian Rocks Beach area. Indian Rocks Beach hotels include cozy lodgings and beachfront inns that offer a warm stay with moderate nightly rates.

Best time to stay

The warm breezes off the Gulf of Mexico provide pleasant weather and sunny skies all year long, so it's never a bad time to grab the sunscreen, break out the bathing suit and work on that tan.