John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk: A Charming Stop on Florida’s Gulf Coast

When we were looking for things to do along Florida’s Gulf Coast, John’s Pass kept showing up on our list. I’m so glad we decided to stop and check it out!

We didn’t have a lot of time to explore because a storm was rolling in, but even our short visit was enough to convince me that John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk is worth adding to your itinerary if you’re in the area.

A Little History

John’s Pass isn’t just a pretty waterfront village—it has an interesting history.

The “Pass,” as locals call it, was created by a powerful hurricane on September 27, 1848. According to local history, pirate John Levique was the first person to navigate through the newly formed passage, which is how it became known as John’s Pass.

Today, the area has been transformed into a lively waterfront destination filled with shops, restaurants, and activities. More than 100 merchants can be found throughout the village, offering everything from fishing and dolphin-watching excursions to boat rentals, parasailing, and jet-skiing.

Even if you aren’t interested in the water activities, it’s fun simply to walk around and take in the sights.

PARKING

We parked in the six-story parking garage at the southwest corner of John’s Pass, located at 179 Boardwalk Place W, Madeira Beach, FL 33708. At the time of our visit, parking was $6 for two hours.

While researching John’s Pass, I came across quite a few complaints about the cost of parking. I can understand why it might become expensive if you plan to spend the entire day there.

For a quick visit, however, two to four hours would give you plenty of time to walk around the village, browse the shops, and enjoy a meal.

Keep in mind: Parking rates and policies can change, so if you plan to spend the day there or book one of the water activities, I recommend checking current parking information before your visit.

DINING

You’ll find plenty of dining options at John’s Pass, which is pretty much what you would expect from a popular tourist destination.

There are familiar chain restaurants, including Bubba Gump and Hooters, along with plenty of local restaurants offering seafood, casual dining, and other choices.

We didn’t have time to explore many of the restaurants during our visit, but there are enough options to easily make lunch or dinner part of your visit.

THINGS TO DO

There is much more to John’s Pass than shopping and dining. The village is a hub for water activities and entertainment, so you can easily spend several hours exploring the area.

Some of the activities available include:

• Dolphin and wildlife cruises
• Deep-sea fishing and fishing charters
• Sunset cruises
• Boat and waverunner rentals
• Parasailing
• Pirate ship cruises
• Shelling and island excursions
• Wildlife and family attractions

If you’re not interested in getting out on the water, you can simply stroll along the boardwalk, watch the boats pass through the channel, browse the many shops, and enjoy a meal overlooking the water.

Tip: If you want to participate in one of the water activities, I recommend making reservations ahead of time, especially during busy travel seasons.

LOCATION

John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk is located in Madeira Beach, Florida, along the Gulf Coast.

It is about a 15-minute drive north of St. Pete Beach, depending on traffic, and is easily accessible from Gulf Boulevard.

John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk
12901 Gulf Blvd.
Madeira Beach, FL 33706

Phone: 727-238-3671

Website: John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk