Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Indian Shores, FL

  • Published 2022/09/28

Indian Shores, a beachfront town in Pinellas County, is a great place to visit when you are looking for a relaxing getaway with the whole family.

It features numerous parks, museums, and beaches that kids and those young at heart can enjoy.

If you are traveling soon, make sure to check out this quaint town filled with activities that can be enjoyed all year round.

To ensure that you do not miss any of the town’s top spots, here is a list of the best things to do in Indian Shores:

Watch the Sunset at Town Square Nature Park

Welcome sign of Town Square Nature Park

K. Ramirez / Shutterstock.com

Thinking of where to spend time on a lovely afternoon?

Why don’t you try going to Town Square Nature Park?

Get your camera ready and be amazed by the gorgeous views of the blue sky and the picturesque waters.

Enjoy the cool breeze as you watch different birds fly around the area.

For an unforgettable visit, walk along the wooden boardwalk until you reach the center of the mangroves and see the different types of fish and other wildlife up close.

The park also features an amazing view of the sunset, so if you have time, try not to miss it.

Learn More About Birds and Their Natural Habitat at Seaside Seabird Sanctuary

Baby pelican at Seaside Seabird Sanctuary

Jill Schrock / Shutterstock.com

Seaside Seabird Sanctuary is one of Indian Shores’ top attractions.

Walk around this beautiful beachfront property that features a 1.7-acre sanctuary, which is the home of almost 100 handicapped birds.

While you are here, expect to see different types of birds such as Gulls, Cormorants, Eastern Brown Pelicans, Oyster Catchers, and a lot more.

If you are an avid bird watcher, get ready as there are also wild birds that usually make an appearance here.

Go to the Sanctuary’s Education Center to gain a deeper understanding of wild birds, their natural habitat, wildlife rehabilitation, and avian medicine.

Before ending your trip, make sure to drop by the observation tower located in the Sanctuary’s Shade Garden to enjoy some cool breeze and the gorgeous view of the Gulf of Mexico.

Catch Your First Fish with FishTaxi Charters

Whether you are an experienced angler or someone who wants to try fishing for the first time, an afternoon boat ride with FishTaxi Charters is something that you should include in your itinerary.

Do not worry, as you will be assisted by Captain Ryan Wagner, the owner of FishTaxi Charters, during this adventure.

Captain Ryan has over 25 years of experience in commercial and charter fishing, so if there’s anyone who can give you a bit of advice on how to catch a fish, it’s him.

He is also very knowledgeable about the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and always makes sure that the Fish Taxi that you are using is well-maintained and safe to use, so there is no need to worry.

You can just relax, enjoy the beautiful view of the open waters, and have fun fishing!

Enjoy a Nightcap at Mahuffer’s

A night out in this beach town will not be complete without enjoying a cold bottle or two of your favorite beer at Mahuffer’s, which is known as the best dive bar in town.

If you want some cool tunes performed by live performers and a great ambiance, make sure to drop by.

Who knows? You might meet fellow travelers who might just become your lifelong friends.

Boasting an interior that features salvaged junkyard artifacts, this bar is so unique that you should not miss it.

It is open every day of the week until 2 am, so if you are looking for a fun place to visit, this is the place to go.

Go on a Family Adventure with Sea N Things

If you are traveling with your family and would like to go on an outdoor adventure, Sea N Things offer custom packages that might be perfect for you.

Kids who love animals will love their most popular package that includes a two-hour dolphin and sand bar trip, which is good for up to six people.

Planning a romantic weekend getaway?

Marvel at the sweeping views of clear waters and breathe in some fresh air while you sail through the sunset with Sea N Things’ “Sunset Cruising” package.

The Sea N Things Boat is complete with a bimini top for shade for a comfortable trip.

It also has a Bluetooth sound system to ensure that you can listen to your favorite playlist while you explore the sea.

Play Mini Golf with the Whole Family at Smuggler Cove Adventure Golf

Playing mini golf is another thrilling activity to try with the whole family.

Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf brings a whole new level of excitement to mini-golf as it offers courses that feature waterfalls, caves, and a ship, for more fun and challenging game.

Be amazed while you play because all courses offer obstacles that are completely different from the others.

Also, to add more mystery to the game, the holes in the courses are intertwined, so you have no idea where your ball will go.

That’s not all: Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf also features live alligators that guests can feed.

Surely, no matter the occasion, a visit here will be a memorable one.

Feel the Sunshine at Barefoot Beach Resort

The vacation homes at Barefoot Beach Resort are situated on five acres of riverfront land with a view of the Intracoastal, allowing you to relax in a quiet, intimate environment while taking advantage of home amenities.

Their furnished suites provide all of the newest conveniences, such as full kitchens with luxurious countertops and complimentary wi-fi.

The Barefoot Beach Resort can arrange a fishing trip to the Gulf to try to land that reward tuna, amberjack, grouper, snapper, or cobia.

Additionally, guests may get massages as they enjoy soft music, lit candles, and the masseuse working their magic on their exhausted, stressed-out bodies.

A day of rest and beauty planned by Barefoot Beach Resort will be one you will never forget!

While on vacation in the beautiful, tropical destination of Indian Shores, take advantage of all the conveniences and luxuries of the resort.

Grab a Refreshing Drink at Caddy’s

Located between the Intercostal and the Gulf of Mexico, Caddy’s Indian Shores offers stunning vistas and a superb seafood buffet.

Due to its flavor-filled meals, tropical setting, welcoming staff, and frozen beverages, Caddy’s Waterfront Dining is a local favorite and a tourist paradise!

A breakfast buffet, appetizers, salads, house specialties, desserts, beverages, and more make up their extensive menu.

Shrimp baskets, seafood mac n cheese, seafood platter, and many other dishes are some examples of house specialties.

It is ideal for meetings and conferences, holiday parties, and other events.

Enjoy a choice of cocktails, regional beers, and your beloved wines while unwinding to their live sunset performances or midday acoustic concerts.

Unwind with Island Marine Rentals

At Island Marine Rentals, you’ll find the region’s biggest collection of tri-hull pontoons and Hurricane Deck sailboats.

They provide boat, paddleboard, kayak, bike, and scooter rentals.

You may comfortably unwind and appreciate cruising the lovely bays and Gulf of Mexico to numerous beaches and tropical islands in America with GPS, stereos, canopies, and bathrooms on board.

You could see dolphins traveling through Florida’s Intracoastal waterways or the Gulf of Mexico.

They offer an experience suitable for you, whether you prefer several hours of entertainment or an entire day’s vacation!

Take in the sunrays, beach, and waves of Florida.

Make Use of the Amenities at Legacy Vacation Resorts

Legacy Holiday Resorts is dedicated to providing family trip adventures that will help guests make lifelong memories while respecting the environment, their fellow guests, and the local community.

Families of all sizes may find accommodations to meet their requirements, from studios with kitchenettes to hotel-style rooms with large living spaces and fully functional kitchens.

Families may enjoy using leisure amenities like swimming pools, saunas, hot tubs, fitness facilities, outdoor decks, children’s play areas, and mini golf courses while they aren’t out touring the area.

Outdoor grilling stations and fire pits are ideal for barbecues and provide a practical and economical substitute for eating out.

Make up the ideal getaway, and Legacy Vacation Resorts will make it happen!

Try Various Food Choices at Aloha To Go

To this day, Jen is one of the few local women who owns and runs her food truck.

She founded Aloha To Go.

As a result of the positive comments and reactions to Jen’s mouthwatering Hawaiian BBQ, she decided to start a restaurant in Indian Shores, Florida.

Poke Bowl, Big Kahuna Combo, Huli Huli Chicken, Ono Teriyaki Beef, Loco Moco Burgers, Chicken Katsu, and many more delightful food choices.

Come by and have a meal at Aloha To Go after enjoying time to yourself in the heat or surfing at the Indian Shores.

Bring delicious cuisine for your friends and family to complete a great weekend!

Other Things To Do Nearby

Visit Sand Key for a Relaxing Day with the Family

Bird flying over Sand Key Park

Levranii / Shutterstock.com

For a relaxing day, visit Sand Key, a quiet neighborhood in Clearwater, Florida.

Sand Key, which is only 7.5 miles away from Indian Shores, features a park with a playground, picnic areas, and a beach, perfect for travelers of every age.

People enjoying the sun at Sand Key

Linda White Wolf / Shutterstock.com

Pack a delicious snack, your favorite book, and some refreshing drinks and just sit back and relax with your loved ones in the picnic area.

View of a Bird in Sand Key Park

Norm Lane / Shutterstock.com

If you are feeling hot, you can take a dip in the water to cool off from the warm weather.

For a more fun way to explore the area, you can rent a bike here.

Sunset over Sand Key

Drew Horne / Shutterstock.com

Stroll Around Florida Botanical Gardens

Bridge at Florida Botanical Gardens

Aaron Alvarez / Shutterstock.com

Located in Largo, which is the third-largest city in Pinellas County, Florida Botanical Gardens offers tours and various activities for visitors who want to learn more about flora, fauna, and natural resources.

Only 5.4 miles away from Indian Shores, the Florida Botanical Gardens is a must-see for travelers of all ages.

A butterfly at Florida Botanical Gardens

Heather Mahaffey / Shutterstock.com

Walk around this 100-acre park while enjoying the beautiful views of lush greenery.

If you are traveling with your fur babies, do not worry, as they are welcome here as well.

Pathway lined with trees at Florida Botanical Gardens

Peter Titmuss / Shutterstock.com

Just make sure to put them on a leash when you’re dropping by.

For an exciting visit, you can join activities, such as the “Florida-Friendly Bingo,” which includes seven scavenger hunt bingo cards that feature items that you need to look out for while strolling around the park.

A vibrant flower at Florida Botanical Gardens

Aaron Alvarez / Shutterstock.com

If you want to be educated about the park and what it offers, you can check their website to schedule a private tour.

The park is open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.

The waters of Florida Botanical Gardens

Heather Mahaffey / Shutterstock.com

Enjoy the Sea, Sun, and Sand at Treasure Island

Scenic view of Treasure Island

Harry B. Lamb / Shutterstock.com

Thinking about going on a road trip with the whole gang?

Then, you are in luck because there are also plenty of great sites that are worth seeing near Indian Shores.

Topping the list is Treasure Island, which is only 11 miles from Indian Shores.

Located along the Gulf of Mexico, Treasure Island features beaches with long stretches of white sand and clear waters.

Sand-sculpting at Treasure Island

Ken Schulze / Shutterstock.com

For a relaxing weekend getaway, spend some time lying down on the sand and enjoying the calming sound of the waves crashing on the shore.

Drink a refreshing beverage while feeling the warmth of the sun.

After a quick dip on the beach, make sure to drop by Gators Café & Saloon, the “World’s Longest Waterfront Bar.”

Have a delicious meal and a glass of your favorite cocktail for a quick energy boost before heading home.

Treasure Island packed with people

RandomHartz / Shutterstock.com

Learn About Pinellas County’s History at Heritage Village

Grocery store at Heritage Village

Drew Horne / Shutterstock.com

It’s always nice to know something new about the place you’re visiting.

If history interests you, then you should definitely include Heritage Village in your itinerary.

Located in Largo, this tourist attraction is usually just an 11-minute drive from Indian Shores.

For a glimpse of Pinellas County’s history, visit Roy Helms Gallery, which houses “Pinellas Passport,” the Village’s permanent exhibit.

A caboose at Heritage Village

Khairil Azhar Junos / Shutterstock.com

They feature collections that seek to inform visitors about how coastal living, agriculture, and community life impacted the county’s history.

Walk around the village and look out for demonstrations that are held here throughout the year.

If you’re lucky, you might be able to witness live demonstrations in the smokehouse and blacksmith and woodworking areas.

A house at Heritage Village

Khairil Azhar Junos / Shutterstock.com

Go on an Outdoor Adventure at John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk

Shops along John's Pass Village & Boardwalk

Jerome LABOUYRIE / Shutterstock.com

Another nearby spot that you should not miss is John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk.

Bring the whole family with you as there is something fun to do here for everyone.

This fishing village, which is only an 11-minute drive from Indian Shores, is popular for its restaurants, retail shops, and various water activities.

Daytime view of John's Pass Village & Boardwalk

Linda White Wolf / Shutterstock.com

If you are looking for an adventure, you can rent a jet ski from Mad Beach Watersports and course through the waves of the Gulf of Mexico.

For some local finds, there are over 100 stores and restaurants that you can explore at this complex.

If you are staying here for more than a day, make sure to visit the complex at night to enjoy some live music and refreshing cocktails.

Tackle shop at John's Pass Village & Boardwalk

Linda White Wolf / Shutterstock.com

Revisit Indian Rocks’ Past at Indian Rocks Historical Museum

Exterior of Indian Rocks Historical Museum

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Another place that history buffs will definitely enjoy is the Indian Rocks Historical Museum, which is only 1.5 miles away from Indian Shores.

The museum showcases artifacts that feature landmarks, which all played a significant role in the city’s history.

Back entrance of Indian Rocks Historical Museum

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

While you’re here, take time to learn about the shipwreck that occurred on the shores of Indian Rocks Beach by inspecting the artifacts displayed at the Mystery Shipwreck exhibit.

If you are looking for something to bring back home to remember the community by, you may drop by the gift shop to buy some books and calendars.

Rear exterior of Indian Rocks Historical Museum

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Have Fun Under the Sun at Splash Harbour Waterpark

Just a short drive from Indian Shores, Splash Harbour Water Park is a great site to visit whenever you are around the area.

Perfect for traveling families, this water park, which is just 1.5 miles away from Indian Shores, features amenities that can be enjoyed by all visitors, such as large water slides, a 600-foot long lazy river, and a splash zone, to name a few.

Have fun with your kids at the Treasure Cove Splash Zone, which features three slides, interactive water activities, and a dumping bucket.

If you want to unwind, there is an on-site sun deck with over 100 lounge chairs where you can just sit back, breathe in some fresh air, and enjoy the sun.

With lots of activities you can do here, you are bound to get hungry.

Do not worry, as there is Splash Harbour Snack Shack that you can dine at.

Go for a Relaxing Walk at Walsingham Park

The waters of Walsingham Park

Norm Lane / Shutterstock.com

If you want to stay active during your vacation, you can go to Walsingham Park in Largo for a fun way to keep moving.

Since this park is only 5.2 miles away from Indian Shores, traveling to this park will be a breeze.

For travelers who are with their families, including their pets, there is a dog park on-site to ensure that your fur babies are having fun while you relax and savor the fresh air.

If you are traveling with kids, you’d be delighted to know that there is also a playground here where they can run around and bond with other kids.

Daytime view of Walsingham Park

Norm Lane / Shutterstock.com

After a long day, you can take a breather by hiking in the 6-mile long trail while enjoying the beautiful views of lush trees.

Before heading home, spend some quality time over a meal with your loved ones at the picnic shelters with grills.

To make sure that guests are comfortable during their visit, there are restrooms available here as well.

Get Up Close with Aquatic Turtles at George C. McGough Nature Park

Boardwalk at George C. McGough Nature Park

Heather Joyce / Shutterstock.com

George C. McGough Nature Park, which is only a five-minute drive from Indian Shores, is a great place to visit with the whole family.

Also known as “The Turtle Park,” this tourist spot features live animal exhibits and different activities that kids can try.

Racoon at George C. McGough Nature Park

xmrex-67 / Shutterstock.com

Boasting a huge aquatic turtle population, this park is perfect for animal lovers.

If you are feeling cold during your visit but want to stay outdoors, you can enjoy the warmth from the fire pit, which you can rent from the park.

A turtle at George C. McGough Nature Park

Linda White Wolf / Shutterstock.com

Final Thoughts

With numerous attractions that showcase the beauty of nature, Indian Shores has become a sanctuary for travelers who want to relax their minds and rejuvenate their bodies.

Whether you want to spend a quiet afternoon at the beach or visit a museum for some interesting facts about the place, there is something here that offers what you are looking for.

For an unforgettable trip to Indian Shores, make sure to check out this list.

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