As the summer season dwindles down in most of the other areas of the country, here on Florida’s Gulf Coast the summertime beach vibe lives on all year long. The fun in the sun, Gulf of Mexico waters, and local activities keep right on going all the way through December and continue on into the New Year. That’s why right now is a really good time to plan your year-end Florida beach vacation. Come celebrate the holiday season with us this year! Whether it’s now or later, here are 8 of the best things to do right near your Indian Rocks Beach vacation rental. Enjoy!

1. Relax on the Gulf of Mexico Beaches.

The warm and sparkly Gulf of Mexico waters and the white sandy beaches are the main attraction here. It’s not hard to figure out why visitors, vacationers and residents spend a lot of time there. Beach days are the best days, of course! Come and relax on the sand, watch the shorebirds soar, and take a deep inhale and exhale as your body, mind and spirit begin to feel instantly at ease. This is right where you need to be. 

2. Explore Indian Rocks Beach.

The local Gulf Coast towns are just waiting to be explored. Indian Rocks Beach has a lot to offer you and your family from its friendly downtown to its beautiful parks and beach accesses—and everything in between. Get to know it better next time you’re here. One way to get started on that right now is to read our previous post: 10 Things You May Not Know About Indian Rocks Beach. 

3. Explore Indian Shores.

The town of Indian Shores and its beaches are also worthy of your time. Once a part of Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Shores now has a unique coastal flavor all its own. Enjoy the quaint local restaurants, coastal wildlife, family-friendly activities and events just to name a few. Check out some of our favorite things to do and 10 things you may not know about Indian Shores, Florida here.

4. Check out the local events.

Are you really on vacation if you don’t check out the local events that are happening all around you? We think not! You’re really missing out if you don’t allow yourself time to join the community fun, family-friendly events and activities that happen all throughout the year. You can check out the Indian Rocks Beach city calendar of events, the Indian Shores events calendar, and be sure to follow Plumlee Realty’s blog since we highlight the local happenings on a monthly basis. 

5. Experience the Florida Gulf Coast attractions.

Some of the most popular Florida Gulf Coast attractions are not very far from your Indian Rocks Beach vacation rental. Busch Gardens Tampa, Adventure Island, Seaside Seabird Sanctuary, Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park, the Florida and Clearwater Aquariums, the Chihuly and Dali Museums, the Florida Botanical Gardens, and Pier 60 are only some of the many places to put on your vacation to-do list. Check out the Beach Welcome Center for area information, discounts, and everything you need to know before you go. 

6. Plan a day trip.

Whether your day trip includes on of the Gulf Coast attractions mentioned above, a big local event like the Strawberry Festival or Florida State Fair, a shopping excursion to the nearby malls and outlet stores, an on-the-water tour or excursion, or a coastal drive to one of the nearby Florida towns and beaches—your day trip can be anything you want it to be. Plan your adventure and check out the sights along the way. Here are some unique and exciting adventures you can have during your Gulf beach vacation.

7. Enjoy Florida’s natural side.

Leave some time to immerse yourself in nature while you’re here. The beach is a beautiful place to be, but have you explored the local parks, trails and nature areas? You should! The Nature Preserve is located right in Indian Rocks Beach and is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Meander along the boardwalks, quietly observe the birds and animals from the viewing areas, and enjoy the serene and picturesque salt marshes and mangroves.

8. Make the most of your Indian Rocks Beach vacation rental.

You chose your specific Indian Rocks Beach vacation for a reason. Leave some downtime in your vacation time to actually get to enjoy the amenities and atmosphere of your vacation-home-away-from-home. Relax in your rental, swim in the pool, cozy up for a family movie night, soak in the hot tub, and put all of those amazing vacation rental offerings to good use. Don’t forget about the Plumlee Perks available to you during your stay, too. Life is short and your vacation is even shorter so go ahead and make the most of each and every moment… before they soon become memories.