JOHN'S PASS VILLAGE AND BOARDWALK

A quaint late 19th century fishing village with over 130 stores, restaurants and attractions galore, this is John's Pass Village. To fully appreciate it, a brief historical review is necessary. In the summer of 1848, George Watson was appointed to make the first official survey of South Florida. Considered worthless, the Gulf Beach Islands were not included in the survey. However, Watson met Juan Levique and Joe Silva, sea turtle hunters settled in the actual Madeira Beach and Treasure Island, and with whom he became friends. He made a personal visit to these sites. The hurricane of September 1848 considerably modified the coast and created a new cut between the Gulf of Mexico and Boca Ciega Bay. Juan, who was the first to see the new pass, gave it his name: Juan's Pass, which was probably Americanized into John's Pass. By 1875, a small bridge was built over the new passage and stores began to spring up around it. Rebuilt in 1927, the bridge was replaced in 1971 by Gulf Boulevard. The village formed east of Gulf Boulevard and began to revitalize the area. Today, John's Pass Village & Boardwalk is a popular and admittedly touristy attraction. The walk is charming and offers nice views of the bay. The St. John's Pass Seafood Festival in January is one of the most popular festivals in the state.