John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk
Who was John?
In 1848, a French peasant-turned-pirate named John Levique was the first to travel through the newly created (due to a hurricane) pass and so the area came to be known as John’s Pass or to today’s locals as simply, “The Pass.”
Tours & More
This charming turn-of-the-century fishing village is the area’s most popular tourist attraction and more than 100 merchants call the family-centric Village home with restaurants, unique retail shops, boat rentals, dolphin watching, shelling tours, parasailing, and jet skiing. Conveniently located near St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Tampa, The Pass is just a short drive from the Orlando area and it is open every day. Here is all the information you need to know how to make the most of your time at John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk (JPV&B).
Shell & Beach Walks
The entire family will enjoy a guided walking eco-tour led by a Florida Coastal Master Naturalist. A Shell and Beach Walk lasts around 90 minutes and you’ll learn about shells and how to identify them. You’ll also learn about the local coastal environment including seabirds and sea turtles. The Walk ends around sundown and is a beautiful way to spend an afternoon on the beach. Use this as an opportunity to take in a fabulous west coast sunset.
On the Water
Who doesn’t adore dolphins? The Dolphin Quest tour cruises through the picturesque waters of Boca Ciega Bay on a 40-foot sightseeing tour boat. This is a great way to explore the intercostal. Relax and experience the legend of John’s Pass, see the beautiful homes of Treasure Island and encounter the area’s playful residents—bottlenose dolphins—as they swim, jump and entertain your family. You can also take fishing tours or spectacular sunset cruises.
Water Sports On and Above the Water
There’s no better way to enjoy the gorgeous waters of the Gulf of Mexico than by being on it. Except maybe if you’re above it! Get a birds-eye-view of the sparkling Gulf from above by parasailing 400 hundred feet in the air. One, two, and three people can fly at a time. Depending on the day, you may be able to see St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island and Madeira Beach all the way up to Clearwater Beach. A true aerial adventure the whole family will love. If you like to keep your feet “on the ground” or at least, in the water rent a jet ski and enjoy a 15-mile radius of crystal waters to explore. You may spot dolphins or turtles right under your feet! You can rent kayaks and paddleboards as well.
Dining
Since you will be spending an entire day at John’s Pass, you’ll need to refresh yourselves with meals, beverages, and snacks. There are plenty of venues to choose from whether you are looking for a quick bite or a sit-down-and-relax repast to recharge yourselves for your next adventure. There are a couple of restaurants you’ve heard of and several seafood restaurants where you can indulge the freshest seafood around. And when you are done eating, head to the shopping area to get mementos and souvenirs from your glorious day at John’s Pass.