By Nanette Wiser
Created by a hurricane on September 27, 1848, Pirate John LeVeque made the first passage through the newly created pass. Today, this quaint turn-of-the-century fishing village in Madeira Beach features 100+ shops, eateries, bars, attractions and a local fishing fleet, dolphin watching and shelling tours, boat rentals, parasailing and jet skiing. There’s metered on-street and multi-level garage parking. PN’s Cover Story showcases one of the most popular attractions, The Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center.
The Village may get “wet zone” status, where people can carry their alcoholic beverages on the public right of way in 2022. And the Bell Tower may be enlarged, and a permanent main stage installed to create a gathering place in John’s Pass. Also on the horizon January 20-23, the Village hosts the annual John’s Pass Seafood Festival’s 40th anniversary which includes Flavors of the Gulf Beach. Here are some of our faves:
EAT/DRINK Bring home a tasty treat from The Beef Jerky Outlet or The Spice & Tea Exchange. Cuban Paradise Cigar and Café or Addicted to the Bean serve java and treats. Thirsty tourists love Mad Beach Brewery’s crafts and fare as well as Florida Wine Shop. Hungry? For seafood, stop in at Friendly Fisherman, Sculley’s, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company or Walt’z Fish Shak. For sports and chicken wings, Hooter’s is the spot while pizza lovers can indulge at DeLosa’s Pizza. Wherever you dine, save room for dessert at Kilwin’s on the Boardwalk for the very best Ice cream, handmade fudge and specialty chocolates, which make great Valentine gifts.
SHOP You’ll love browsing the stores purveying shells, souvenirs, apparel, jewelry, hats, décor and more. The Lazy Lizard, Overhead Surf Shop, and Wild Time Caribbean Trading Company showcase Floribbean style. For jewelry, ogle the goods at The Landing and The Bronze Lady. For your fur baby, it’s Paw Paws Pet Boutique. Check out Windward’s kites, flags, chimes and spinners; Lori’s Soap & Sponge Market and DD Collectables.
PLAY For music, Bamboo Beach Bar & Grill or The Hut host live bands and cold drinks. Across the way, Crabby’s On The Pass is the local hangout. For the kids, Beach Fun & Games is the spot with classic arcade machines of Skee-Ball and air hockey or the Dance Dance Revolution Supernova.
