Aside from connecting Boca Ciega Bay to the Gulf of Mexico, John’s Pass is a top tourist destination in Madeira Beach, known for its beautiful scenery and varied wildlife.
With over 100 merchants inhabiting John’s Pass, it’s one of many fishing villages turned top tourist attractions. There’s something for everyone, including essentials, gifts, and souvenirs. Visitors can also indulge in exciting and relaxing water activities, like fishing boat charters, paddle boarding, and more.
The unique shopping experience and various water sports it offers visitors isn’t the only thing that makes John’s Pass a must-see. It also has a rich past. Here are some key facts about John’s Pass to help you get acquainted.
The History of John’s Pass
Silva and Levique were on their way back from New Orleans after disposing of a green turtle cargo in New Orleans when they encountered a powerful hurricane. The shoreline was literally being rearranged before their eyes by torrential rains and winds, which made it impossible for them to recognize any landmark.
They decided to hide in a cove to weather out the storm. Once the winds died down, Levique began looking for an inlet into Boca Ciega Bay. He knew several waterways around the bay but used a new one created by the hurricane. It was between Treasure Island Beach and Madeira Beach.
This discovery was made on September 27, 1848, and the area remained unchecked for the next 100 years. This continued even after Florida’s establishment. Its wildlife was continuously poached, which made conservation efforts urgent.
William Hubbard convinced the city officials in 1980 to build a boardwalk on a waterfront public development, then added a few old-world-themed shops along the sidewalk. In 40 years, John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk became what it is today.
John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk
John’s Pass, Florida, is home to over 100 restaurants and shops, like John’s Pass Grille, Locked-Up John’s Pass, and Yogurt City.
You can also enjoy fishing charters and other water activities during the day; tons of merchants rent complete equipment and safety gear for parasailing, kayaking, and boating. In the evenings, bars offer live band music and various tropical drinks you can try.
According to the top dolphin cruise in John’s Pass, the village and boardwalk areas also host many festivals throughout the year, like:
John’s Pass Seafood Festival
This festival is one of the most popular festivals hosted in John’s Pass, and it’s the East Coast’s second-largest seafood festival. It’s open to all ages and features hundreds of vendors from the area, arts and crafts demonstrations, and other family-friendly activities.
The festival isn’t just about seafood; it also helps raise money for charities. Municipal authorities, the city, and many companies sponsor the festival.
John Levique Pirate Day Festival
This festival is held each May in honor of John’s Pass’s founder, John Levique. It attracts thousands of people with many stalls, entertainment, food, and plenty of pirate-themed merchandise and fair rides.
One of the festival’s highlights is a pirate battle that features sword fighting, musketry, and walking the plank, all while thunderous cannons fire from the boardwalk and railings.
Where To Find John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk
John’s Pass Village is part of Madeira Beach’s township, and it’s a short walk away from the Gulf’s beaches. It’s also 15 minutes north of St. Pete Beach and easily accessible via Clearwater or Largo to the North.
Tampa Bay is located less than 30 miles from the I-275 S, while Madeira Beach is 10 miles away from St. Petersburg/Clearwater International Airport and 20 miles away from Tampa International Airport.
Are There Parking Spaces in John’s Pass?
Parking shouldn’t be a problem when you visit John’s Pass. There’s plenty of metered parking in front of the village and a modern parking garage at the village’s southwest corner. It’s at 179 Boardwalk Place, W.Madeira Beach (FL 33708). You’ll find it on the east side of Gulf Boulevard, just after crossing John’s Pass Bridge. It’s open daily from 6 AM to 12 AM.
Is John’s Pass Pet-friendly?
Madeira Beach currently has pet restrictions. Only small dogs on leashes are allowed into the village and boardwalk. Some businesses may also impose blanket restrictions.
Dogs should be leashed in public areas, regardless of how friendly businesses and people are. This is for the safety and well-being of both pet owners and their pets.
The Big Idea
John’s Pass is a one-of-a-kind place to visit around Madeira Beach. Aside from over a hundred vendors and unique shops, John’s Pass offers various activities to do, day or night. It also hosts many festivals and events throughout the year and is full of interesting wildlife.
John’s Pass is relatively easy to find, with so many ways to get there. Parking also won’t be a problem, since there are many parking areas around the village. However, the village enforces pet restrictions for everyone’s safety.