Entire home

Beachfront Cottages (Gulf) at Beautiful Sandy Shores on Gulf of Mexico

Beachfront holiday home with kitchen and balcony

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4805 sq ft

Popular amenities

Beach view
Parking available
Dryer
Washer
Barbecue grill
Kitchen

Place, St. Petersburg - Clearwater Beaches
Place, Splash Harbour Water Park
Place, Sand Key Park
Airport, Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Garden

Dining area

About this property

Beachfront Cottages (Gulf) at Beautiful Sandy Shores on Gulf of Mexico

SANDY SHORES
has three beautiful cottages:
THE GULF
THE PATIO (#508989) and
THE GARDEN (see #508994)
and
has been in the Hall family for over 60 years, and is currently owned and operated by Myrtle Hall. Myrtle is German-born and moved to Indian Rocks Beach in 2000 when she married her late husband, Ned. Ned’s grandmother bought the Indian Rocks Beach property in 1946. Ned's father George Hall built the first, two-story building in 1952. The one-story Gulf Cottage followed in 1972. Ned's family lived here in the winter, and spent the summer in Ithaca, NY, where his father was the Golf Coach at Cornell University for over 40 years. Ned followed in his footsteps as a PGA Teaching Professional for over 25 years. He was teaching at the Clearwater Golf Club located in Clearwater, Florida when Myrtle, in Florida on holiday from Germany, met him in 1998. Myrtle and Ned, of course, had their wedding right in front of beautiful Sandy Shores!

Like Ned, Myrtle fell in love with this beautiful property and its rich family history. Ned and Myrtle started to rent out their cottages in 2005 after a complete beautification and enjoyed every minute of sharing this lovely property with their guests. Myrtle carries on the Hall family tradition of hospitality at Sandy Shores and adds her special brand of German warmth. Her attention to detail and cleanliness makes Sandy Shores a unique and charming retreat.

Surf, white sand and sun, coupled with quiet solitude, magnificent sunsets, and the shade of the Australian Pines make this the perfect getaway spot. You will enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in the world - perfect for a morning stroll or an afternoon shelling expedition, as well as beautiful-maintained accommodations. Sandy Shores is a slice of Old Florida at it's very finest.

The beach of Indian Rocks beach offers not only to the lovers of a quite vacation, but also for the ones, who enjoy some adventures and activities in this area. There are many exceptional restaurants within walking distance from Sandy Shores and some have offer life music.

Free Wireless/WIFI available
Visit our other properties at:
VRBO #508989 - Patio Cottage
VRBO #508994 - Garden Cottage

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washing machine

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

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Beautiful Sandy Shores
Captain chairs for the sunset

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi

Enjoy the Views of the Gulf of Mexico from the Covered Beachfront Balcony

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 21

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Although we love dogs pets are not allowed, sorry

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Feel free to smoke outside at any time!

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:

Load and start the dishwasher

Gather used towels and store extra beds

Remove personal items and take out the rubbish

Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys

Please turn the TV back to the Spectrum Cable channel

Please set the thermostat to 78 degrees.

Please put the used towels and bathmats in the laundry room. Thanks you, Myrtle

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Maximum occupancy 4 people Please have all visitors check in. Strictly enforced. Thank You.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

This property uses a grey water recycling system

Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Indian Rocks Beach

Located in Independence Square, a neighbourhood in Indian Rocks Beach, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the beach. Shoppers can check out John's Pass Village & Boardwalk, while everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of St. Petersburg - Clearwater Beaches and Sand Key Park. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Jack Russell Stadium or TD Ballpark. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

View more Holiday homes in St. Petersburg - Clearwater

Indian Rocks Beach, FL

What's nearby

St. Petersburg - Clearwater Beaches - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Splash Harbour Water Park - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
Indian Rocks Shopping Center - 3 min drive - 2.4 km
Sand Key Park - 13 min drive - 11.0 km
John's Pass Village & Boardwalk - 17 min drive - 14.7 km

Getting around

St. Petersburg, FL (PIE-St. Petersburg-Clearwater Intl.) - 22 min drive

Restaurants

‪PJ's Oyster Bar - ‬5 min walk
‪Guilty Sea Sports Pub - ‬1 min walk
‪Vip Mexican Restaurant And Lounge Irb - ‬3 min walk
‪The Original Crabby Bills - ‬2 min walk
‪Jimmy Guana's - ‬4 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Beachfront Cottages (Gulf) at Beautiful Sandy Shores on Gulf of Mexico pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Beachfront Cottages (Gulf) at Beautiful Sandy Shores on Gulf of Mexico?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Beachfront Cottages (Gulf) at Beautiful Sandy Shores on Gulf of Mexico?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Beachfront Cottages (Gulf) at Beautiful Sandy Shores on Gulf of Mexico located?

Nestled on the beach, this Independence Square holiday home is within a 5-minute walk of St. Petersburg - Clearwater Beaches and Splash Harbour Water Park. Belleair Beach and Indian Rocks Shopping Center are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Abhijit R.

27 Dec, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Location

We stayed her during xmas. Its right on beach. Location is fantastic and we will comeback in summer.

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Krista K.

22 Jul, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Love this place!

I have found our fave vacation spot for our yearly trip! ♥️ can’t wait to go back for our 3rd year next year!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

tim z.

22 Dec, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome!

This place was awesome! A true home away from home - except with a much better location, view and climate ! My adult kids came over and loved it so much they intend on staying there in the near future also. As Arnold would say “I’ll be back” !!

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Teri B.

4 Jan, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Disliked: Check-in

Beautiful property

Had a great couple of days at Sandy Shores Gulf unit. The property was clean & direct views of the beach & Gulf. There was some confusion at check-in as the owner was on holiday but it was figured out quickly enough once the person who was there called her.

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maurice B.

1 Jun, 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Property!

Myrtle was great to work with! The property was beautiful and, of course, in a great location. Great location to food and other activities! Thanks for having us at your property

Stayed 4 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

David B.

2 Oct, 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise

Beautiful and private. The cottage was immaculate. We cannot wait to go back!

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Ruth B., Sioux falls, sd

25 Nov, 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise

This property is spectacular! It is right in the beach, great outdoor seating areas and gardens. Myrtle was so responsive and gave us a tour with tips, so gracious. Close to many great restaurants. The cottage was clean and well stocked.

Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kristine W., Lincoln, NE

3 May, 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best of Indian Rocks Beach!

You won't find a better place to stay in IRB. Myrtle clearly takes extreme pride in her property here at Sandy Shore Cottages. This was our third time staying here and it's consistently the best - best cottage, best view, best location and best host! I truly appreciate the care she puts in to everything and the cottages are spotless - you feel like no one has ever stayed there before you - like it's new and just yours. I love having on site laundry available and beach chairs and towels to use - very nice for out of state traveling. The location cannot be better - this is a very quiet part of the beach with minimal public access.

Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lance P.

15 Feb, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful time

It was nice not having someone above or next to us like a hotel. Music across the street was tolerable and ended early enough. Short walk out the door to the beach VERY nice. Bathroom NOT meant for folks with balance issues. Overall it was an excellent vacation. Host was available if needed but not a busy body.

Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brady K.

13 Jul, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

My fiancé and I could not have drawn up a better vacation than the one we experienced at Sandy Shores. We stayed in the Gulf cottage which has an incredible view of the gulf, and is the closest option to the water. Genuinely almost everything you need is included, so we didn’t have to worry about bringing all of our beach belongings down. Myrtle is even better than the reviews we read (all positive, of course) due to her willingness to help, and love for her cottages. She definitely takes pride, and it shows with how clean and immaculate the place was. This was by far the easiest vacation we have experienced, and it truly hurt to leave. We will stay here every vacation in the future if possible, and are beyond thankful for the opportunity Myrtle presented us. Additional cliff notes for those like me that want to know everything that is included: You can expect comfortable beach chairs, along with lounging chairs to lay down on for the beach. There are multiple toys (boogie boards, paddle ball, noodles, etc), umbrellas, beach towels, towel clips, you name it. She has a trash service, laundry room, smart tv, Alexa, and so on. If you’re looking for a calm, comforting family vacation, I would find time to book one of Myrtle’s cottages as you won’t find a better alternative in the area (especially since Trip Advisor votes Sandy Shores #1 in specialty lodging for 9 years in a row).

Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne P.

2 Dec, 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thanksgiving at Sandy Shores

2020 has been a challenging year for all. We decided to spend our holiday on Indian Rock’s Beach at Sandy Shores. Myrtle has a created a peaceful and private vacation getaway. We stayed on the beach. We enjoyed coffee in the morning, running on the beach, finding coquinas in the surf and cocktails in the evening while sitting on the sand. I would highly recommend this serene vacation in one Florida’s nicest beaches. Lots of shopping and nice restaurants within walking distance. We even took our daughter to the water park across the street, on the intercoastal.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kelly B.

27 Jun, 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

EXCELLENT!!!

Often things look better in pictures and then when you check in, you wonder if you’re at the wrong place. This was ABSOLUTELY NOT what it was like here. The actual place was so much better than the pictures. EXTREMELY clean, great location and Myrtle was wonderful. Prompt to return messages. When we got there, she met us and showed us all around the property and the cottage we were staying in. I really like that she lives on the property. I can truly see why she has all 5 star ratings! We hope to return there again in the future.

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

26 Jun, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our first vacation in a while

We stumbled upon Sandy Shores while looking for vacation ideas. The host and property had glowing reviews so we took a gamble and booked We were told to email Myrtle a week before our stay and to call her when we were about 30 minutes away. She met us at our room and proceeded to give us a tour of the property. She then told us that if we needed anything at all then she was only a phone call away. Then we were on our own The property has EVERYTHING! We had packed all kinds of chairs and umbrellas and we never even had to unpack them. Our room was clean and comfortable! The property is filled with comfortable seating, beautiful plants and a variety of small lizards and birds! It was a little slice of paradise We’ll absolutely be back!

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Pat K.

5 Aug, 2018

Another trip to Paradise

We are a little late posting our raving reviews! This was our 4th stay in a row staying at Mrytle’s wonderful awesome cottage! As usual the cottage was in immaculate condition. If you truly want to feel you have been on a vacation, the gulf cottage will not disappoint you! The landscaping makes you feel like you are in a tropical paradise. However, you get the best of two worlds because the cottage provides your own little oasis and only a few steps back out into the street and Indian Rocks awaits with many fine restaurants within walking distance. We love being able to sit at the dining room table and looking out through the dunes and watching the ocean. Each evening you are treated to some of the most spectacular sunsets you will ever see! We can’t wait to get back for our 5th stay. We know you will enjoy your vacation as much as we do!

10/10 Excellent

Diane J.

30 Oct, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Another amazing stay at Sandy Shores.

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Aydin F.

3 Aug, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

such a beautiful cottage to stay that owned by a very good people, it’s located right in front of the ocean, our family really enjoyed staying there!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie H.

4 Jul, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Feels like you are visiting your favorite cool Aunt’s house

We so enjoyed our stay at Sandy Shores. Myrtle is so kind and the best host. The view is amazing - the beautiful sandy beach is right there. A sea turtle dug a nest last night on the exact spot we were lounging all day yesterday. The cottage is perfect for 2 and stocked with the necessary items and plenty of extras. And clean - so tidy and nicely decorated. There are so many dining options an easy walk away and a convenience store right across the street. The locals were exceptionally friendly. This was such a positive experience! We will definitely be back to see Myrtle and her beautiful flowers.

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Vanessa M.

17 Jun, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Slice of beach heaven!

This is a hidden gem! The cottages are cozy and very clean, and the property grounds are the most beautiful around! Myrtle takes great pride in her cottages and it shows! 5 stars!!!

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angela S.

28 May, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful!!

We had the best time here! It was so beautiful. The room had everything you would need. The view was amazing. Loved the short walk to the ocean! Myrtle was such a gracious host! We would definitely stay here again!

Stayed 7 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gary R.

5 Jan, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Joyous

Everything was as advertised and even better. PERFECT location on the beach. Just walk out the door and see the Gulf. Unit was laid out nicely. We were somewhat worried about the damage from recent hurricanes, but there was zero effect on the resort and the town has cleaned up quickly. Thank you, Myrtle!

Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robert W.

5 Dec, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Easy, Breezy Stay on the Gulf Coast

This was a repeat week long stay at Gulf Cottage for my wife and me. This time our adult daughter spent 3 nights on the sofa. This cottage is right on the beach for great views, sunsets and walks on the beach. It is a great location with easy walks to several very good restaurants and convenient to shopping. We made use of the kitchen several evenings and found it well stocked and functional. Myrtle, the Hostess is very thoughtful and available if needed. So, thanks for everything,Myrtle. We will be back next year!

Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey Y.

6 Aug, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Jeff Y.

My wife and I spent a week at Sandy Shores. It was one of our best beach trips ever. From the moment we arrived, the host, Myrtle made us feel at home. The property is a beautiful garden setting located less than one minute to the wonderful Indian Rocks Beach. The lodging is clean and everything you need for a great day at the beach is provided. We can't wait to return!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dave J.

24 Jul, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We love it here!!

Wonderful place, inside and outside! Myrtle is the best host and fantastic person!

Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Haley C.

20 Jun, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

2024 vacation

This is my second time returning to this property! Such a beautiful spot. The views, sunsets and location are top notch here. Myrtle is such a sweetheart and so welcoming. She makes you feel right at home. My boyfriend has never seen the beach before and he said seeing the gulf for the first time was more than just an experience, it’s a memory he will forever remember because of this location. Being able to wake up and make a cup of coffee, walk out and hear the waves was so relaxing and a refreshing start to the morning. You’re in walking distance to several restaurants and shops. We hardly even used the car. The sunset here was really something! Every night you can watch the sun sink below the water and if you’re lucky like we were, you’ll be able to see some dolphins just past the shore line! We will definitely be returning to this beautiful spot and really look forward to chatting with Myrtle again!

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kris S.

5 Jan, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Sandy Shores IRB

Our stay at Sandy Shores was great. The accommodations were awesome, the view is beautiful, the location is good and the host Myrtle is great! We would definitely stay at Sandy shores again!

Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023

About the host

Hosted by Myrtle Hall

Sandy Shores has been in my late husband, Ned's, family for over 60 years. Ned's Grandmother bought it in 1946 and his Father built the first two story building in 1952 and the Gulf Cottage followed in 1972.
I live onsite so I am available during your stay. I've also worked for 12 years in a local bank. One of the things my guests repeatedly tell me, is that they can see my love for Sandy Shores in the cleanliness and beauty of the property. I take pride in knowing my attention to detail ensures my guests have the most comfortable stay. And, for my German visitors, I enjoy speaking German to help you feel at home.

Why they chose this property

We started to rent out our cottages in 2005 after a total beautification and enjoying ever since every minute of sharing this lovely property with all our guests.

What makes this property unique

Rest in our secluded gardens, enjoy the shade under our beautiful Australian Pine Trees and watch the Gulf of Mexico and the fantastic sunsets from your living room and dining area. You can't get any closer to the beach.
The GULF Cottage is the only one on my property which has a total GULF VIEW.