Indian Harbour Beach is a charming coastal town nestled along the eastern shoreline of Florida’s Space Coast. With its idyllic location between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, it’s no surprise that this community of just over 8,000 residents is celebrated for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
The town’s main attraction is its pristine sandy beach, which stretches for miles and invites locals and visitors alike to bask in the Florida sun, swim in the refreshing waters, or partake in water sports like surfing and fishing. Indian Harbour Beach is renowned for its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of larger Florida cities.
While the beach is undoubtedly the centerpiece of Indian Harbour Beach, the town also has several green spaces and parks, such as Gleason Park, which offers serene walking trails and picnic spots. The community’s commitment to outdoor living is evident in its bike-friendly infrastructure and opportunities for paddle boarding and kayaking on the Indian River Lagoon.
Additionally, Indian Harbour Beach enjoys a convenient location near larger urban centers like Melbourne and Cocoa Beach, where visitors can explore additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options while still savoring the peaceful charm of this coastal gem.
Indian Harbour Beach is a hidden paradise along Florida’s coastline, offering a tranquil and picturesque setting for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Sunshine State.
While it may not have as many attractions as larger cities, there are still several enjoyable things to do in the area. Here are the top 5 things to do in Indian Harbour Beach, Florida
Have A Beach Day
The main attraction in Indian Harbour Beach is, of course, its beautiful beach. Spend time swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores. The beach is also a popular spot for surfing and fishing.
There are multiple public beach parking areas. One of my favorite is Bicentennial Park. We stayed at the Lora Square Airbnb in Indian Harbour Beach and were able to walk a few blocks right over to the beach!!
During my last visit to this area, I found so many shells on the beach!
Picnic & Bike In The Park
There are multiple options in the immediate Indian Harbor Beach area for a fun day in the park. Here are just a few of the most popular options.
Gleason Park
Located in the heart of Indian Harbour Beach, Gleason Park is a peaceful oasis with a lake, walking trails, and picnic areas. It’s an ideal place for a family outing, a picnic, or a morning jog.
Seagull Park
This small park overlooks the ocean and is a great spot for relaxation. It features a wooden boardwalk, benches, and a gazebo where you can sit and enjoy the sea breeze, or watch for dolphins and other marine life.
Bicycle Riding
The town is bike-friendly, and you can rent bicycles or bring your own to explore the area. There are several bike paths and scenic routes, including the beachside A1A road. Start at one of these parks to get your ride going!
Paddle or Kayak The River
If you’re into water sports, you can try paddle boarding or kayaking in the Indian River Lagoon, which offers a chance to see local wildlife and enjoy the tranquil waters.
One of the most convenient places to launch your kayak or paddle board is Oars & Paddles Park! Here’s a map. Just type it into google to find the exact location.
If you have your own paddle board or kayak, just load up the car and drive over to this park. Easy access to hang out on the Indian River for the day.
If you don’t have your own paddle board but love to paddle, here’s a great inexpensive option for an inflatable paddleboard!
FunWater Inflatable SUP
Waterfront Dining
While Indian Harbour Beach itself may not have a wide variety of waterfront restaurants, there are some excellent options nearby in the surrounding areas, especially in Cocoa Beach and Melbourne. Here are a few waterfront restaurants near Indian Harbour Beach, Florida:
Squid Lips Overwater Grill (Cocoa Beach)
This popular restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating right on the Banana River. You can enjoy fresh seafood, sandwiches, and a wide range of drinks while watching the boats go by.
Grills Riverside Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar (Melbourne)
Located on the Indian River Lagoon, Grills Riverside offers a casual, tropical atmosphere with a diverse seafood menu. Their deck and tiki bar provide excellent views of the river and often feature live music.
Chart House (Melbourne)
Situated on the Intracoastal Waterway, Chart House is known for its upscale seafood and steak offerings. The restaurant provides a fine dining experience with beautiful water views.
River Rocks (Rockledge)
Just a short drive from Indian Harbour Beach, River Rocks overlooks the Indian River and offers a contemporary dining experience. Their menu includes a variety of seafood, steaks, and sushi, and the outdoor deck is perfect for enjoying the waterfront views.
Bonefish Willy’s Riverfront Grille (Melbourne)
This casual, family-friendly restaurant sits along the Indian River and serves a mix of seafood and American cuisine. You can dine indoors or on the deck for waterfront views.
Catch A Sunrise
Since Indian Harbour Beach is on the east coast of Florida, the sun will rise on the beach side every morning. Enjoy the sound of the waves while everyone else is still sleeping!
Oh and bring your dog! Indian Harbour Beach has a few dog friendly beach area where your pup can run in and out of the waves and live their best life.
If you’re a dog lover like me, follow @hertravelingtails for all the best dog friendly travel spots!
Recap of Indian Harbour Beach
While Indian Harbour Beach itself is relatively quiet, nearby towns like Melbourne and Cocoa Beach offer additional attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options if you’re looking for more to do in the area.
Plan your next relaxing Florida vacation to Indian Harbour Beach and you won’t be disappointed with the quaint beaches and local coffee shops.
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