Indian Rocks Beach / Indian Shores
Indian Rocks Beach – IRB! offers nearly three miles of beautiful and accessible beaches along the Gulf of Mexico which is a great tourist destination with a vibrant Key West-style vibe. IRB has several retail businesses and excellent restaurants all within walking distance.
Indian Shores, just south of IRB is also along the Gulf of Mexico and is the home of the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, dedicated to the care and release of injured native birds. High-end restaurants epitomize the beach town.
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Indian Rocks Beach / Indian Shores, FL Real Estate
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HOME PRICES |
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LOWEST |
AVERAGE |
HIGHEST |
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$421,200 |
$950,000 |
$6.7M |
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HOME PRICE per SQ. FT. |
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LOWEST |
AVERAGE |
HIGHEST |
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$423 per sq. ft. |
$722 per sq. ft. |
$ 1,620 per sq. ft. |
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AVERAGE HOME STATS |
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NO. OF BEDS |
NO. OF BATHS |
SQ. FT. |
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3 |
2 |
1,308 |
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Table of Contents
Nestled on a barrier island along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores are coastal communities that offer an exceptional quality of life in a prime location surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
If you’re looking forward to an unparalleled beachfront lifestyle, Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores are terrific choices. Located right next to each other, these barrier island communities offer a myriad of recreational opportunities for all ages, a laidback pace of life, and a small-town feel while still being close to the big city amenities of nearby St. Petersburg and Clearwater.
If you’re in the market for real estate in Indian Rocks Beach / Indian Shores, here’s a closer look at the area, including the type of homes available, the best attractions, and all of the things that make it an outstanding place to call home.
Indian Rocks Beach history at a glance
- In the 1500s, Indian Rocks Beach was inhabited by Tocobaga Indians, who discovered healing springs and an abundance of fish and wildlife in the area.
- Pioneer families first arrived in the Indian Rocks area on the mainland during the mid-1800s. The area provided several advantages including an ideal climate and soil quality for agriculture, an abundant supply of fresh water from the natural springs, and bountiful fishing opportunities thanks to the area’s proximity to bay waters and the Gulf of Mexico.
- In 1883, a crew of four sailed from Cedar Key seeking a spot to settle along the Gulf Coast. Two members, J.H. Hendrick and L.W. Hamlin, would homestead their chosen location, which would eventually become Indian Rocks Beach.
- Indian Rocks was close to another settlement, Anona, which was already established on the mainland in the mid-1800s. The Indian Rocks area became a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities after a road that led from the waterway to the vicinity of Largo was opened.
- Some of the earliest landmarks built in the area include the Indian Beach Hotel, the Indian Rocks Sundry Store, and a railroad spur that crossed the bay (which was eventually removed after several years due to declining use).
- The first bridge to Indian Rocks was constructed in 1916. A historical marker now designates the bridge’s original location.
- The Indian Rocks community experienced continuous growth and development in its early years, only to face setbacks due to World War II. Following the war, however, ex-GI’s and their families flocked to the area.
- Florida’s longest fishing pier and the multi-acre Tiki Gardens were built in the 1950s and 60s, drawing over 300,000 visitors a year to Indian Rock Beach.
- Today, Indian Rocks Beach is a vibrant community that has maintained much of its original character and charm. Together with the neighboring town of Indian Shores, the beach communities continue to draw countless visitors and new residents every year thanks to its family-friendly attractions and abundance of recreational opportunities.
Location
Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores are within Pinellas County, FL, and are part of the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metro area, more commonly referred to as the Tampa Bay area. The two communities encompass roughly three square miles combined and are home to more than 4,700 residents.
Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores are nestled on a barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway, with miles of beaches skirting between the two barrier island communities. Gulf Boulevard cuts from north to south across Indian Rocks Beach. North of the communities are Belleair Shore and Belleaire Beach, while Redington Shores is to the south. The city of Largo lies across the Intracoastal via the Walsingham Bridge.
Transportation
The beach communities are served by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), Pinellas County’s public transit provider. Both Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores have stops along the route of the Suncoast Beach Trolley, which runs from Park Street Terminal in downtown Clearwater to Gulf Boulevard and 75th Avenue.Climate
Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores experience a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot and humid summers and winters that are generally mild. The area gets about 237 days of sunshine every year and is subject to occasional tropical storms originating from the Gulf of Mexico.
Temperatures in the summer average in the mid-80s, while winters are mild with lows hovering around 52. April, March, and November are considered the most pleasant months in Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores.
Education
Public schools in Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores are administered by Pinellas County Schools (PCS), a highly rated Cognia-accredited school district. PCS serves more than 95,000 students from prekindergarten to grade 12 and has a student-teacher ratio of 19 to 1.
Among the top-rated public schools in and around the area include:
- Anona Elementary
- Oakhurst Elementary
- Mildred Helms Elementary
- Bauder Elementary
- Ponce de Leon Elementary
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH / INDIAN SHORES REAL ESTATE
Those seeking Indian Rocks Beach / Indian Shores real estate options will be able to find condos, large luxury beach homes, and neighborhoods within biking distance to various beaches. The area is renowned for vacation beach rentals.
The real estate market in the area consists of a mix of multi-family properties, condos, townhomes, and single-family homes, offering plenty of choices for a variety of lifestyles.
Prospective homebuyers can choose from elegant architectural styles such as Ranch, Beach Bungalow, Mediterranean, Coastal Cottage, Cape Cod, and a variety of contemporary styles. Many homes offer a perfect balance between privacy, comfort, style, and livability, providing an outstanding quality of life for residents.
Owning Indian Rocks Beach / Indian Shores real estate gives you easy access to all of the best attractions and destinations the beach communities have to offer. You’re always minutes away from the beach, opening up endless opportunities to enjoy the sand and the surf. A dazzling array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues are always nearby, which seamlessly blends the convenience of small-town living with big city comforts.
Many of the finest homes in these gulfside communities offer a rare opportunity to savor an unparalleled Florida waterfront lifestyle. There’s an extensive selection of Indian Rocks Beach / Indian Shores real estate options steps away from the Gulf of Mexico. Many take full advantage of the magnificent water vistas and are equipped with a range of features designed to make coastal living a breeze. You’ll be able to find homes with desirable features such as:
- Lush tropically landscaped yards along the beach
- Sprawling patios perfect for entertaining
- Oversized sliding doors and windows framing panoramic water views and glorious sunsets
- Covered sundecks with heated pools and spas
- Private docks with lifts
Ready to browse the best selection of Indian Rocks Beach / Indian Shores real estate options? Start your search by taking a look at our Featured Properties.
NOTABLE ATTRACTIONS AND DESTINATIONS IN INDIAN ROCKS BEACH / INDIAN SHORES
Outdoor activities
Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve
Off of Gulf Boulevard, between 9th and 10th Avenue
One of the best places to enjoy a scenic stroll is Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve, a picturesque paradise with a boardwalk that loops through a lush mangrove forest en route to the beach.
This is a great place to visit for families with young children. The boardwalk is mostly flat and is very easy to use with a stroller. There’s a playground in the preserve as well as several restaurants nearby, perfect for brunch after your morning walk.
Seaside Seabird Sanctuary18328 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores, FL
Covering about 1.5 acres of beachfront along the Gulf Coast, Seaside Seabird Sanctuary serves as a safe haven for more than a hundred permanently disabled birds including hawks, pelicans, cormorants, gulls, sandhill cranes, blue jays, owls, and oystercatchers. The sanctuary is home to a diverse population of wild birds as well, which you can spot while strolling the grounds.
Seaside Seabird Sanctuary also features an Environmental Education Center where you can learn about the region’s native marine and estuarine environment. There’s also an observation tower where you can take in panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico while observing native Florida birds in their natural habitat.
Parks and beachesWhether you’re in the mood for a morning run, looking forward to spending time outdoors with the family, or just in need of some fresh air, you’re always minutes away from the area’s scenic outdoor venues.
In addition to enjoying quick access to miles of pristine sun-kissed beaches, there’s a plethora of parks that are well-suited for a wide range of outdoor activities. Public parks throughout Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores are equipped with a variety of facilities including basketball courts, tennis courts, ball fields, playgrounds, jogging paths, and pet-friendly amenities.
Visit this page for locations and information on Indian Rocks Beach’s public parks.
Family-friendly attractions
Splash Harbour Water Park
399 Second Street, Indian Rocks Beach, FL
Take your family on an unforgettable experience by zooming down slides, relaxing on the lazy river, and enjoying a wide variety of activities at Splash Harbour Water Park, Indian Rocks Beach’s premier water park!
In addition to its array of slides, swimming pools, and water attractions, the park features other fun amenities as well, including a treasure hunting zone, an arcade, and a tropical-themed 18-hole miniature golf course.
Indian Rocks Historical Museum203 4th Avenue, Indian Rocks Beach, FL
Housed in a historic beach cottage in Chic-A-Si Park, the Indian Rocks Historic Museum features an extensive collection of exhibits and displays that provide a glimpse of the rich history of Indian Rocks Beach.
A trip to the museum is an opportunity to take a step back in time and experience the evolution of the area, from prehistoric times to the days of pioneer settlement, and until the modern motel and condo eras. Highlights of the museum include a pictorial timeline, a collection of Native American artifacts, replicas of historic cottages, and a Tiki Gardens exhibit.
Beach Art Center1515 Bay Palm Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach, FL
Since its opening in 1978, the Beach Art Center has played an integral role in enriching lives, providing inspiration, and cultivating the artistic skills of residents from the island beach communities.
The center offers weekly classes led by accomplished artists and teachers, covering different media including pencil, watercolor, pastels, oil and acrylic paint, and photography. They have an extensive range of programs for children as well, such as the Creative Kids Summer Camp, kids’ pottery workshops, and kids’ and teens’ arts and crafts sessions. Shows and exhibitions are held throughout the year to showcase the work of members, local artists, and arts groups.
Visit this page for information on their classes and workshops, or check out schedules for upcoming exhibitions.
Events
There’s always something to look forward to when you’re living in Indian Rocks Beach / Indian Shores, as there’s a stellar lineup of events in store every year for visitors and residents of all ages.
Remember to mark your calendar for these exciting community events:
- IRB Beach Fest. One of the most anticipated spring events is the IRB Beach Fest, which treats residents to spectacular performances from local bands, fun activities and competitions, and delicious food and drinks from top-rated restaurants and food vendors.
- Oktoberfest on the Beach. Head to the beach for live music, mouthwatering food, artisan vendors, traditional German dancing, and keg throwing and stein carrying competitions. Oktoberfest on Indian Rocks Beach is a fun beach version of the classic German tradition!
- Indian Rocks Beach Hallowfest. Enjoy a thrilling Halloween celebration on the beach at Indian Rocks Beach Hallowfest. Activities and attractions include pumpkin carving, face painting, bouncy houses, a petting zoo, pony rides, train rides, and exciting games with prizes.
- Taste of IRB. Indian Rocks Beach’s annual food festival invites residents to an unforgettable evening of food, drinks, live music, and shopping. The food festival takes place at the Chic-A-Si Park every November and treats visitors to a smorgasbord of dishes, wines, and craft beers from the finest local restaurants.
- IRB Holiday Boat Parade. Get in the mood for the holidays by taking part in the festivities as local boat owners deck their boats in colorful lights and play holiday tunes as they make their way through the waterways.
These are just some of the events and celebrations you can look forward to in Indian Rocks Beach / Indian Shores! For schedules and more information, check out Indian Rocks Beach’s special events page here.
Dining
Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores features a vast array of enticing restaurants guaranteed to please every palate. Whether you’re looking for a perfect brunch spot, celebrating a special occasion, or just want to give your taste buds a treat, the restaurants in the area are sure to delight!
Below are some of the top-rated dining destinations for you to check out in Indian Rocks Beach / Indian Shores.
Salt Rock Grill19325 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores, FL
Salt Rock Grill is known for their mouthwatering steaks, fresh seafood, raw bar, and outstanding wine selection.
The restaurant consistently ranks as one of the top fine dining destinations in Indian Shores thanks to its delectable dishes and stunning views of the Intercoastal Waterway. Their steaks are some of the best in town, all made with hand-cut USDA prime and choice-grade beef sourced from top midwestern feeders and aged in-house to develop peak flavor and tenderness.
Keegan’s Seafood Grille1519 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach, FL
Indulge in fresh, award-winning seafood at Keegan’s Seafood Grille, a family-friendly favorite on Indian Rocks Beach for over 35 years. Using the freshest local ingredients, this top-rated seafood restaurant crafts delicious dishes just steps from the shore.
Unwind over lunch or dinner daily with Keegan’s renowned daily fish specials, innovative seafood creations, and an extensive kids’ menu, all served with their signature excellent service.
Indian Shores Coffee19221 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores, FL
Enjoying a steaming hot cup of joe from Indian Shores Coffee is the perfect way to start your day. They serve organic house-roasted coffee which pairs excellently with their freshly made pastries and treats, which guests can enjoy in their dining room with rustic décor or tranquil garden patio area.
Kooky Coconut760 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach, FL
A longtime favorite among many locals, Kooky Coconut is a cozy café located steps away from the beach. They serve a variety of beach-friendly fare including Cuban sandwiches, burgers, hotdogs, salads, burritos, and quesadillas, all of which are perfect for enjoying an al fresco feast while soaking in views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Kooky Coconut is a superb spot if you want to cool down with a refreshing treat after a day at the beach. They have a wide selection of ice-cold drinks and over 32 flavors of homemade ice cream.
Guppy’s on the Beach1701 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach, FL
Savor fresh local seafood, steak, and other flavorful dishes in a casual yet modern setting at Guppy’s on the Beach. Their seafood selection is one of the best in town, treating diners to an array of delicious culinary creations straight from the sea. They serve an assortment of tasty seafood fare including lobster bisque, truffle lobster mac and cheese, char-grilled Spanish octopus, tuna poke bowl, shrimp tacos, ceviche, and many more.
While each item on their menu is worth a try, among their standout palate pleasers is their local gulf grouper, a mouthwatering dish prepared multiple ways. You can either have it blackened with brandy mustard sauce, panko crusted with lemon caper butter sauce, or grilled and brushed with lemon olive oil.