View of Boardwalk from road bridge
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John's Pass Village & Boardwalk

4.7
·2k reviews·Madeira Beach, United States

Historic fishing village with over 100 shops, restaurants, and exciting boat tours on Florida's coast.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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View of Boardwalk from road bridge

John's Pass Village & Boardwalk

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic fishing village with over 100 shops, restaurants, and exciting boat tours on Florida's coast.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"John's Pass Village and Boardwalk is a must-visit when you're in the area! Great restaurants, a fun and laid-back vibe."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Use the ParkMobil App

Easily pay for parking with the ParkMobil app for a hassle-free experience. :iphone:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking exploring the village and boardwalk. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boardwalk & Village Exploration

Boardwalk & Village Exploration

Wander through over 100 shops and restaurants, enjoying waterfront dining and unique retail experiences.

TikTokInstagram
Boat Tours & Dolphin Watching

Boat Tours & Dolphin Watching

Embark on exciting boat excursions, from dolphin watching cruises to deep-sea fishing adventures.

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Fishing Opportunities

Fishing Opportunities

Cast a line from the pier or book a charter for a chance to catch snapper, grouper, or even tarpon.

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Seafood Dining

Seafood Dining

Savor fresh seafood with on-dock dining options, including popular spots like Boardwalk Grill.

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Planning Your Visit

Post-Hurricane Recovery & Reopening

John's Pass is actively recovering from recent hurricanes. While many shops and restaurants are open, some areas may still be under construction. Check local updates for the most current status before your visit. TikTok

Parking & App Convenience

Parking can be tricky. Consider using the ParkMobil app for easy payment in regular spots. Premium parking is also available. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Beautiful views and cruises
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, more activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @angiesushiii Does this count as one thing to do or several things? #traveltiktok #foodtiktok #florida #madeirabeach #johnspass #ihateithere #thigstodo #fyp #foryou #floridianwhohatesflorida
@thetelltaletart
30.4K likes • 448.1K views

🎯 Use the ParkMobil App

Easily pay for parking with the ParkMobil app for a hassle-free experience. Reddit :iphone:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking exploring the village and boardwalk. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

John’s Pass is looking better than ever! Located in the Tampa Bay region on Florida’s West Coast in Madeira Beach, John’s Pass offers a village full of shopping, dining options, and a boardwalk with many boating excursions, waterfront restaurants, and more! Next time you’re looking for a fun day along the water, visit @johnspass in Madeira Beach, Florida! 🤩 Make sure to keep up with @Things To Do...
@thingstodo.florida
17.2K likes • 637K views
Step into the quaint fishing village of John’s Pass in Madeira Beach, Florida! This famous pass was created by a hurricane in 1948 and was named after a pirate named John who first sailed through it. Today it’s one of Pinellas County’s top tourist attractions filled with waterfront restaurants, shops, boat tours, and old Florida charm! Next time you’re looking to spend the day on or along the w...
thingstodotampabay
2.2K likes • 51.9K views

🎣 Book Boat Tours in Advance

Popular tours, especially sunset cruises, can fill up quickly. TikTok :ticket:

🍦 Don't Miss the Ice Cream

Several parlors and candy stores offer sweet treats perfect for a beach day. Reddit :ice_cream:

John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk, Madeira Beach, Florida
lauriew55
11 likes • 1.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Use the ParkMobil App

Easily pay for parking with the ParkMobil app for a hassle-free experience. Reddit :iphone:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking exploring the village and boardwalk. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

🎣 Book Boat Tours in Advance

Popular tours, especially sunset cruises, can fill up quickly. TikTok :ticket:

🍦 Don't Miss the Ice Cream

Several parlors and candy stores offer sweet treats perfect for a beach day. Reddit :ice_cream:

☀️ Check Hurricane Updates

Stay informed about recovery efforts post-hurricane for the latest on open establishments. TikTok :newspaper:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

John's Pass Village & Boardwalk is a highly recommended destination offering a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and water activities. Visitors praise its lively atmosphere, diverse attractions, and the resilience shown post-hurricane. Some note that parking can be a bit pricey and that certain areas might still be undergoing reconstruction.

"Nice place to shop and eat! several shops still under construction from the hurricane so when they are up and running that will add a few more places! Parking is 4.95 per hour in regular spots premium parking was a lot more. Download the ParkMobil app makes it so easy to pay! Kid friendly, bike friendly Ice cream shops to enjoy as well."

Kathy Dunno

"Different kind of "boardwalk" it has everything from shops, to restaurants, an arcade, a couple ice cream parlors/ candy store to even a boat dock where you can see dolphins or take a sunset cruise. If you like to fish, you can fish off the pier or even swim the whole area isn't more than 5 feet deep. If you're an advanced fisherman you can go on a deep sea fishing expedition where you go out for 39 hours. I can guarantee you will find something you will like at johns pass."

Angie Monzon

"We have been here a couple of times. Some really good restaurants that offer on dock dining. There are good number of boat tour services available as well. If you are lucky, you might see some dolphins as well."

arpit bansal

What People Like

Great shops and restaurants
Fun boat tours
Lively atmosphere

What People Dislike

Parking fees
Post-hurricane construction

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

John's Pass Village & Boardwalk is located in Madeira Beach, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking options available. Many visitors also arrive via boat or as part of a day trip from nearby St. Pete Beach or Clearwater. TikTokInstagram

While direct public transportation might be limited, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) operates bus routes that can get you close to Madeira Beach, from where you can take a short ride or walk to John's Pass. Instagram

The village and boardwalk are very walkable. Comfortable shoes are recommended as you'll be exploring numerous shops and restaurants. Instagram

The boardwalk and most of the village are generally accessible, though some older sections or shops might have limited accessibility. It's advisable to check specific venues if you have concerns. Reddit

Yes, John's Pass has a boat dock where visitors can arrive by private boat. It's a popular spot for boaters exploring the Intracoastal Waterway. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to walk around John's Pass Village & Boardwalk. You only pay for what you purchase, whether it's shopping, dining, or activities. TikTok

Most shops and restaurants have varying hours, typically opening around 10 AM and closing between 6 PM and 9 PM. Boat tour operators also have their own schedules. It's best to check individual business hours. TikTok

It's highly recommended to book popular boat tours, especially sunset cruises or dolphin watching excursions, in advance, particularly during peak season, to secure your spot. TikTok+1

While not always advertised, keep an eye out for local deals or holiday promotions, especially if you're shopping locally. Instagram

Parking is available in designated lots. There's an hourly fee, and premium parking options exist. Using the ParkMobil app is recommended for easy payment. Reddit

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Boating

You can fish directly from the pier at John's Pass, which is known for attracting various species like snapper and grouper. For more serious anglers, deep-sea fishing charters are readily available. TikTok+1

John's Pass offers a wide array of boat tours, including dolphin watching, sunset cruises, pirate ship adventures, and deep-sea fishing expeditions. TikTok+2

Yes, jet ski rentals are often available at John's Pass, providing an exhilarating way to experience the water. TikTok

Anglers at John's Pass can commonly catch snapper, grouper, mackerel, and snook. Tarpon are also occasionally landed. TikTok+1

Absolutely. Numerous fishing charter companies operate out of John's Pass, offering trips for all skill levels, from short excursions to multi-day deep-sea adventures. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

John's Pass features over 100 shops offering a diverse range of items, including souvenirs, beachwear, apparel, gifts, and unique local crafts. TikTokInstagram+1

You'll find a variety of dining options, from casual waterfront restaurants and seafood shacks to ice cream parlors and candy stores. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, John's Pass has many family-friendly restaurants with diverse menus that cater to all ages, including options with outdoor seating and kid-friendly activities. Reddit

Seafood is a highlight, with many places offering fresh catches. The Boardwalk Grill is known for its lobster rolls. TikTok

Definitely! John's Pass is a great place to find unique souvenirs, t-shirts, and local crafts that capture the Florida beach vibe. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots along the boardwalk with the fishing boats, the drawbridge, and the sparkling water. Sunset views are particularly picturesque. TikTokInstagram

Yes, dolphin watching tours offer excellent opportunities to photograph these marine mammals in their natural habitat. TikTok

Absolutely! The western-facing boardwalk provides beautiful vantage points for capturing vibrant sunset colors over the Gulf of Mexico. TikTokInstagram

Visitors often capture photos of the bustling boardwalk, colorful shops, fishing boats, marine life, and the iconic drawbridge. TikTokInstagram

Generally, photography is welcomed. However, always be mindful of private property and other visitors when taking pictures. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

John's Pass is a fantastic destination for families. The boardwalk offers a variety of kid-friendly activities, including ice cream parlors, candy stores, and an arcade. Boat tours, especially dolphin watching, are a huge hit with children. The shallow waters near the boardwalk also make it a safe place for younger ones to splash around. Reddit

Many of the restaurants offer kid's menus, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. It's easy to spend a whole day here, with plenty of opportunities for fun and memorable experiences for the entire family. TikTok

🎣 Anglers and Fishing Enthusiasts

For those who love to fish, John's Pass is a must-visit. You can cast a line directly from the pier, which is known for its abundance of fish. If you're looking for a more serious fishing adventure, numerous charter boats are available for deep-sea excursions. TikTok+1

Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, the opportunities to reel in a catch are plentiful. The variety of fish species in the area adds to the excitement of a fishing trip here. TikTok

🛍️ Shoppers and Foodies

With over 100 shops, John's Pass is a haven for shoppers seeking unique finds and souvenirs. From beachwear to local crafts, there's something for everyone. TikTokInstagram

Foodies will rejoice in the diverse culinary landscape. Waterfront dining, fresh seafood, and sweet treats abound. Exploring the various restaurants and sampling local flavors is a key part of the John's Pass experience. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into John's Pass History

John's Pass is more than just a tourist spot; it's a historic fishing village with a fascinating origin. The pass itself was dramatically created by a powerful hurricane in 1948, carving out a new channel through the coastline. Legend has it that the pass was named after a pirate named John who was one of the first to navigate its waters. This natural event transformed the area into a prime location for fishing and maritime activities. TikTok

Over the decades, John's Pass evolved from a simple fishing inlet into a vibrant hub. Today, it stands as one of Pinellas County's premier tourist attractions, blending its old Florida charm with modern amenities. The village boasts over 100 merchants, offering a unique shopping and dining experience that draws visitors from all over. The resilience of the community is evident in its recovery after recent hurricanes, with businesses actively rebuilding and reopening. TikTokInstagram+1

Adventures on the Water

The waters surrounding John's Pass are a playground for water enthusiasts. Numerous boat tour operators offer a variety of excursions, catering to different interests. Dolphin watching tours are incredibly popular, providing a chance to see these playful creatures in their natural environment. Sunset cruises offer a romantic and scenic experience, with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. TikTok+1

For the more adventurous, jet ski rentals are available, allowing you to zip across the waves and explore the coastline at your own pace. Fishing is also a major draw, with options ranging from casual pier fishing to booking a full-day deep-sea fishing charter. The deep channels and strong currents make it a prime spot for catching a variety of fish, including snapper, grouper, and mackerel. TikTok+2

Shopping and Culinary Delights

John's Pass Village is a shopper's paradise, featuring over 100 unique stores. You can find everything from beachwear and resort apparel to handcrafted souvenirs and local art. It's the perfect place to pick up mementos of your Florida vacation or discover unique gifts. TikTokInstagram

The culinary scene at John's Pass is equally diverse. Waterfront restaurants offer fresh seafood with stunning views, making for a memorable dining experience. Whether you're craving a casual bite at a boardwalk grill, a refreshing ice cream cone, or a more upscale dinner, there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the local seafood specialties. TikTokReddit

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