A Brief History of John’s Pass

John’s Pass is one of those places that is every water lover’s paradise.

John’s Pass is a quaint village located in Madeira Beach, Florida. As a coastal town, visitors can find year round beautiful weather and breathtaking scenery. Fit with a delightful personality from residents and business folk, visitors will have much to be find in this small village.

With a boardwalk and wealth of water-related activities – like jet ski rentals at Woody’s Watersports – there are many activities to enjoy. You also can spend as much time as needed relaxing on the pristine beach.

So just how did the little slice of heaven known as John’s Pass become such a wonderful village? Let’s take a glance at the unique history of how this village began.

As escaped Southern slaves found refuge with the displaced Native Americans in the South, they formed a band of people known as the Seminoles. This group planned to fight back against the South, which sought to remove them. Gen. Andrew Jackson gave the approval for eradicating the Seminoles from the South in exchange for permitting planters more land to farm in Florida.

Two “pioneers” who took advantage of the right to farm more land, Joseph Silva and John LeVique, set out on a conquest to discover more property and, after getting caught in a storm, washed ashore an unfamiliar and untouched northerly opening.

The two men trekked through this new pass between Treasure Island and Madeira Beach. In honor of the voyage and discovery by LeVique, this little piece of beautiful land was named John’s Pass.

Each year, LeVique is remembered for his incredible and unexpected voyage to John’s Pass with a celebratory festival. This three-day, pirate-themed festival invites participants to dress the part in pirate attire. This year’s festival – the 15th annual celebration – is expected to be held in May. Check the official John LeVique Pirate Days site to get the latest information as details are finalized.

While you’re visiting John’s Pass, don’t forget to partake in adventurous water-related activities provided by Woody’s Watersports. From waverunners to jet skis, there is something suitable for all to enjoy fun in the sun on the water. We will have plenty of equipment available for the John LeVique Days Festival – and all throughout the year! Learn more or make reservations during your stay!