John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk

John’s Pass is an inlet located between Treasure Island and Madeira Beach, connecting the Gulf of Mexico with Boca Ciega Bay in Pinellas County, FL. The pass (opening) was created by a hurricane in 1848. Local legend states that it was named after John Levique, a pirate who made the first passage through it. John was said to have buried his treasure somewhere in the area and spent the rest of his life unsuccessfully searching for his riches.

The original 1927 bridge across the pass had been a favorite fishing spot in my youth. That first old bridge was replaced in 1971, just in time for my oldest son to break his collarbone riding his bike over it when he was about 15 – almost 30 years ago. Went right over the handlebars after hitting a bump. The 2nd bridge was replaced in 2013. Riding a bike over the newest one is less bumpy but considerably more dangerous.

A boardwalk was built on the site in 1980 by Wilson Hubbard, owner of the marina at the pass, giving folks more places to fish. Fast forward to present day tourism and you find John’s Pass Village, a tourist destination right there at the boardwalk, billed as a”quaint turn-of-the-century fishing village.”

John’s Pass Village is a shopping venue with over 100 merchants. You won’t find any quaint locals. However, the facades of these modern stores and restaurants are designed with a nautical Old Florida theme complete with tin roofs.

This is a retail strip shopping center where you can purchase souvenirs, decorator items, soaps, clothing that runs the gamut from t-shirts to quality name-brand items, and lots more. They specialize in all things Florida.

While you are visiting you can get out of the heat by stopping at a restaurant for a drink, an ice cream, or a meal. Many of the restaurants are open-air affairs where you can sit in the coolness but still see the boardwalk and water. Some have rustic outdoor decks and live music to complete that really beachy Suncoast vibe.

This is a great place for water-related activities, too. Out on the boardwalk you can rent a boat or jet ski, go parasailing, watch dolphins or go on a shelling tour.

Or just watch the local fishing fleet and the seabirds. If you want to go the beach, it’s just a short few blocks walk to the west!

Parking is no problem as there is a large parking garage and lots of on the street parking as well. All parking is paid for at the kiosks and they are serious about it. Just know that you have to follow the parking rules on the signs or you will be ticketed.

Image from John’s Pass Seafood Festival website.

If you are planning a visit later in the year, the John’s Pass Seafood & Music Festival is an annual event that takes place in October. This is the 2nd largest seafood festival on the east coast with 3 days of fun, non-stop music and great seafood. Truly an event not to be missed!!