About this rental
The "Shack on the Sand" sits right on the beach between 4th and 5th Avenues. Our 8 unit
building has a gravel parking lot with a reserved space for each unit. There are 3 visitor spots
along the wall.
virtual tour located on my web site. Shackonthesand
Our entire property is non-smoking and non vaping. All of the units are individually owned. My unit the "Shack on the Sand" is on the lower left. It will sleep 3 there is an extra charge for a third guest. The posted rates are for double occupancy. The "Shack" is a Saturday to Saturday rental. The minimum time is 1 week.
The rates vary greatly from season to season. Returning guests receive a $50 discount from May to January. This is the kind of place that welcomes returning guests like family. The joke is if what you want isn't in the unit you don't need it. Ann, the owner lives 6 minutes away and you may call her to find something or ask her to bring it over. The TV's are mounted on the walls and Netflix is available. There is a nice selection of CD's and a small player/radio.
Beach towels and chairs are provided. Books with information about the area are in the book case as well as a shelf of novels that you may take home with you. The wifi title and pass word are in the unit. Guests are invited to go through all of the drawers and cupboards.
The "Shack on the Sand" is clean, comfy and uncommon.
Unique Benefits
The most unique benefit of the "Shack" is the fact that it
is DIRECTLY ON THE BEACH and it is GROUND LEVEL.
No Stairs!
There are windows the length of the unit so it is bright and airy.
The little front porch has a table and chairs for out door dining.
Amazon Prime is available, ask Ann
Why Kids Love It
THE BEACH
Area Information
Gulf Blvd runs the length of the barrier island from Clearwater Beach to St Pete's Beach, about 30 miles. It is dotted with one beach town after the other. The best kept secret is the beach trolley. You may pay one fare and ride all day.
You can visit the Sea Bird Sanctuary, John's Pass,the galleries in Pass-A Grille and stop for lunch at the Don CeSar Hotel. Then head north to Clearwater Beach and catch sunset at pier 60. Most evenings you will want to watch sunset from right here at 410 Gulf Blvd while sitting on the couch, the porch or at the water's edge.
Some people plan to visit Busch Gardens in Tampa or spend a day in Orlando, but many times they end up just sitting on the porch or the beach with a good book. The condo library has several books titled "One Tank Trips" They were put together by a local TV station and are filled with wonders to visit that are close by.
Guests are encouraged to walk over to the Indian Rocks Museum in Chief Chic-A-Si Park. It is housed in a former beach cottage donated to the city. Admission is free, it is staffed by volunteers Wednesday through Saturday from 10am to 2pm. Check the Indian Rocks Beach (IRB) online calendar if you want to visit during a city wide festival.
Indian Rocks Beach is small town America. There is a lot of community spirit and the people are happy to be here whether to live or vacation.
If you visit Saint Petersburg for the fancy water front shops and museums be sure to visit the funky part of Central Avenue. You can spend an hour creating a wine glass or a clay bowl. You should visit Haslams Book Store and eat at the Berg nearby. Mama cooks a wonderful Greek salad with potato salad in the middle and her lemon chicken soup is perfection.
There are many more wonderful things to see, taste and do but some folks only leave the beach to charter a fishing boat. Crabby Bill's will cook your catch any way you want it.
Attractions Within Walking Distance
The Indian Rocks Museum
Bicycle rental
Paddle board rental
Charter fishing boats and captains
city docks
Chik a See Park
Water Park
7 different restaurants
Post Office
Beach items Store
Ice Cream Store
Local Brewery
Favorite Places To Eat
Guppy's
The Ice Cream Parlor
Jakes
Salt Rock Grille
Maggie Mae's breakfast and lunch
Crabby Bill's
The Sand Pearl in Clearwater Beach
Inside Scoop
E&E Steak Out has wonderful food
The Taste of IRB is in November
Volunteers help keep the beach accesses and bus stop shelters clean and pretty
We have a Master Gardner that volunteers tirelessly.
Amenities
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Rates
| Rate Period | Nightly | Weekend Night | Weekly | Monthly | Min Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Aug 10 - Dec 21 2024 | $1,200 | 7 nights | |||
Dec 21 2024 - Jan 04 2025 | $1,300 | 7 nights | |||
Jan 04 - Jan 25 2025 | $1,500 | 7 nights | |||
Jan 25 - Apr 05 2025 | $2,600 | 7 nights | |||
Apr 05 - Apr 26 2025 | $1,500 | 7 nights |
Fees:
cleaning fee: $150
Tax Rate: 13%
Notes:
Rates reflect a Saturday to Saturday stay for 2 guests. Extra guests from 1/1 to 4/23 are $50 per person max 3 nights
Extra Guests from 4/23 to 12/24 are $150 per person per night. (direct family units may be discussed) Unit limit is 3 persons.
Returning guests receive a $50 discount except during "high season": Feb,March April till after Easter.
Availability
Last updated on September 18, 2024
Location
Hosted by Ann Wilson
Member since 2017
Year purchased: 1992
About the host: I grew up in Michigan and since then have lived in several states.
In 1992 both of my sons were in college. I was living with my widowed brother while finishing research for my MA. I wanted to live on the beach for a few months before returning north to work. Thus Sonny (my brother) and I (Sis) were driving along Gulf Blvd. after looking at a rental in Redington. I saw a real estate office and told him to "turn in here" . Since he was my brother not my husband he turned into Imperial real estate. This was the beginning of a continuing love affair with my "Shack on the Sand"
Since that day, I finished my Master s, the boys graduated from college, my brother passed, I retired from my career as a speech and language pathologist. I have no grandchildren.
I have written a book of ideas for language development for children to age 7. I was a storyteller and presented workshops in 6 states about blending storytelling and language development. I once had the opportunity to storytell in Ireland. Now I have a small book of short tales about local flowers. This is available in the "Shack".
I used live with a black poodle about 3 miles from the "Shack on the Sand". Sadly Fritz passed 10/11/21.
Why this property? Unit #3 at 410 Gulf was for sale, I was searching for a place to rentl but took a look anyway. I walked in, looked out the front sliders said "This is it!"
I then sat on the couch and lost myself in the view.
I was able to assume the mortage. I lived at 410 for a couple of months before returning north to work. I rented the property long term to a realtor for 3 years, then turned it into a weekly vacation rental.
It was love at first sight and I have loved my "Shack on the Sand" for 30 years. I have changed floors, windows, lighting and doors. I am on my 4th round of appliances, 3rd air conditioner, and have lost count on the silver, dishes, linen, beds and furniture.
I have come to love Indian Rocks Beach because of its' small town atmosphere, civically active citizens, museum, post office and library.
Guestbook comments from the host:
Frequently Asked Questions
How close is the "Shack" to the beach?
The "Shack on the Sand" is ground level and directly on the beach. You may sit on the covered porch and watch the beach or walk down the short path to the wide sandy beach.
When should I visit the "Shack"?
A week on the beach is wonderful any time of year. To decide when to come is up to you. If money is your first consideration you should visit between Easter and Christmas. If escaping winter is on your mind you will compete with the rest of the north for a high season week. The "Shack" is an attitude not just a place. It is a destination not a stop over.
snow is your concern come from November to April.
What do I need to bring for my visit.
We pride ourselves in the belief that "If it isn't here, you don't need it". You can survive a week on the beach with tee shirts and shorts.
How far away are groceries?
The Publix Plaza is a mile or so across the bridge and CVS i/2 block away carries canned goods, boxed goods and refrigerator goods.
Photos
Reviews
Marica Petrovska G.Amazing cottage on the beach
The cottage is right on the beach, walk out bare foot and walk until your heart is content. Sit on the deck or in the living area with the doors open and breath in the gorgeous breeze from the direct ocean. The water is calm and perfect for swimming or lounging in the ocean. Get breakfast within walking distance at any number of cafes or restaurants. It’s a quaint little romantic and popular place with wonderful food, restaurants and shopping. Feels like a tropical oasis. The accommodation is comfortable, everything you need in comfort. Highly recommended.
Stayed: January 2024 Submitted: January 31, 2024
Niki G.A place of peace and insperation
Shack on the Sand was magical. The poetry around the condo was inspiring. We spent our days walking the beach looking for shells, visiting with locals and visitors, and watching sunsets.
Stayed: November 2023 Submitted: December 01, 2023
Owner response
Thank you for your enthusiasm. I am so happy that you enjoyed the writings left by other guests. I am glad that you took the time to write a review. It sounds as if you took perfect advantage of your stay. Ann
Lyn F.Location, Location, Location!
My husband and I stayed at the “Shack on the Sand” while other relatives stayed 2 blocks away. Very easy to walk to a lot of places. Great coffee, danish and egg sandwiches directly across the street at Pipo & Betty’s Bakery! We ate breakfast on patio watching the dolphins swim by. Happy Hours at Crabby Bill’s directly across the street as well. Sunsets amazing! Place was perfect for a couple. Very comfortable, quiet and peaceful and the VIEWS! Can’t wait to come back!
Stayed: June 2022 Submitted: June 14, 2022
Brenda W.Beautiful Sunsets
Love everything about it ☀️ The view the sunset and the location & new sliding glass door
Stayed: May 2021 Submitted: June 02, 2021
Owner response
Hello Brenda, This is Ann Wilson from unit #3. I have beautiful sunsets but my sliders are a few years old. All of my windows and side door are new. I think you must be talking about another unit. At any rate I'm glad you love our building. I have loved it since 1992.
Jeanne V.Shack on the Sand
Excellent location right on the beach! Property owner was very helpful and accommodating. Really encourage two weeks.
Stayed: March 2021 Submitted: March 17, 2021
Owner response
Thank you for taking the time to write a review. You're correct the location is perfect and I like the ground level to just walk out of with no parking garage or elevator to fuss with....
Susan R.Perfect for relaxing ... soothing ocean breezes!
What more could a couple of people need? Absolutely nothing ... ocean breezes, comfy bed, plenty of cooking needs & safe restaurants nearby ... and the walk to the beach - just a few steps! The soft sand is wonderful and shoes are not required ...Our host, Ann, is a delight and is just down the road. Relaxation is the word of the week and who knows... next time could be relaxation for a month! We shall return!
Stayed: February 2021 Submitted: February 23, 2021
Owner response
Thank you for the kind words. I am truly glad that you enjoyed your stay! I look forward to seeing you soon.
Carole M.A gem on the beach
This was a perfect place for my husband and me. Just the right size and the beach was just outside the door. I woke up early every morning and had my coffee on the porch looking at the beautiful beach and then walked down and spent all day sitting on the sand. We walked to a couple of great restaurants and drove to a few more. The TV had Netflix and we watched tv at night after dinner. Just a relaxing week in a lovely beach place. Thank you to Ann for making our stay so delightful.
Stayed: October 2020 Submitted: November 04, 2020
Kathryn M.Shack on the sand is amazing
We have been coming to Ann's condo for almost two decades. There is no place we would rather be for a relaxing stress free vacation. The condo is perfect! We say that if Ann does not have it in the condo then we probably do not need it! This is truly a gulf front condo. Location...Location...Location! this condo has the best location! the trolley stops in back of the condo, you are walking distance to a pharmacy, grocer, museum, post office, coffee shop, and some of the best restaurants around. ( our morning walks down the beach to the Lighthouse donut shop has become a sure and get the apple fritter) There is nothing better than walking out the sliders and sinking our toes in the warm sand. Beaches are beautiful, and sunsets are amazing. Ann even has torches and a table you can set up on the beach for a romantic dinner! This condo has become our "Heaven on Earth!". If you want to adventure beyond the area you can take the trolly up to Clearwater beach to the pier or down to Johns Pass. The trolley even goes down to St. Pete's beach! I could not imagine a year without visiting "the shack on the sand"! ( this shack is no shack!!)
Stayed: October 2019 Submitted: August 23, 2020
Contact Host
Sleeps 3
1 bedroom
1 bathroom
700 sq. ft.
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