Find The Chicken Church
One of the silliest things to do in Madeira Beach is to find the Chicken Church! Although thats not its actual name, that is what the Church by the Sea in Madeira Beach is affectionately known as.
The Church by the Sea features a Spanish-style tower with round windows on each side, and a cross on top. From certain angles, the tower unintentionally looks like a cartoon-style chicken, with big eyes and a little red beak!
Built in 1945, this non-denominational church still operates today. You can find the Church by the Sea on 137th Ave Circle in Madeira Beach.
We hope youll be charmed by Madeira Beach and enjoy all the things to do in this fun seaside town. From the pirate-themed attractions to the awesome bars and restaurants, we know youll have fun in Madeira Beach, FL!
Go On A Dolphin Quest Cruise
If you want to see dolphins in the wild, why not try a dolphin cruise? You can trust professional tour guides to know where these playful sea creatures can be found! Dolphin tours are another of the most popular things to do in Madeira Beach for families.
Climb onboard in Johns Pass Village and explore the blue waters of Boca Ciega Bay, where you can catch a glimpse of bottlenose dolphins. The captain and crew may teach you some things you didnt know about dolphins!
Plus, you can also admire the beautiful homes as you pass by Treasure Island, just south of Madeira Beach.
Book here: Dolphin Quest Cruise
Relaxing At Madeira Beach
Take a walk over to Madeira Beach, located right next to Johns Pass. This great little beach is clean and well-maintained. Smooth white sand and clear, warm water. Not too many crowds around even on a Saturday afternoon.
The beach was peaceful and much less noisy than others in the area. Great place to relax! Plenty of restaurants and shops on Johns Pass after your day spent on the beach.
Address: The cruise departs at Hubbards Marina
Parking: There is a large parking lot which only charges $1 per 30 minutes . We happily drove right into the garage as opposed to circling around finding parking meters at most other beaches.
Prices: Adult tickets are $29.50. Children 3-11 and under are 14.75. Under 11 is free. The senior rate is 26.50.
Cruise departure times: 11am-6pm on the hour. 11:00AM cruise on Sundays. To make a reservation: Call 393-1947. Or better yet, book online to ensure availability.
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General Pleasure Cruise Information
Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour runs daily from our main dock inside Johns pass from Hubbards marina. This is an hour and a half cruise that is fully narrated, and we guarantee dolphin sightings. While out on the water with us we also show you bird nesting islands, million dollar homes, and a commercial fishing village. Its a great little cruise thats very relaxing
Sunset Cruise . The sunset cruise is an hour and a half cruise that offers FREE beer and wine! We dont guarantee dolphin sightings on this cruise but we see them most of the time. We do however guarantee a beautiful view of the sunset with free beer and wine the entire cruise!
Egmont Key Ferry . The Boat departs from the Fort De Soto boat ramp out to Egmont key daily during peak season. It doesnt leave from or go back to Hubbards Marina in anyway. This is the ONLY trip we offer that doesnt run from our main dock inside Johns pass. This ferry ride to the island leaves at either 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM DAILY. While on the island, we offer snorkeling on the sunken ruins. The snorkeling is an additional $25 to rent snorkel gear.
* during slower season: we will not offer the 10am ferry boat departure, plus we will cut down on days schedule for example we typically wont offer Monday and sometimes even Tuesday trips . Reservations also become more important for all our trips during slower season.
For More information or any questions you may have please visit our FAQs page by
Dolphins Are Just Around The Corner
Going on a sunset dolphin cruise in Madeira Beach, FL is your best option if you truly want to meet dolphins up close. Due to the abundance of dolphins in the area, as it is their natural habitat, your encounter with these incredible sea creatures is guaranteed. Feel free to bring your camera along to take a snap of the dolphins nearby and to record all the fun things happening on the boat as well.
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Be One With Mother Nature
Take a break from your responsibilities for a day. At Sunshine Scenic Tours, get the chance to unwind, reconnect, and be one with nature. Our dolphin boat tours in Johns Pass will allow you to get the peace you deserve away from the noise and the pressure.
Be one with nature. Inhale the fresh air and get rid of the negativity. Get your dose of relaxation alongside the majestic swimmers of Johns Pass. Their signature smiles are sure to melt anyones heart. Here at Sunshine Scenic Tours, our priority is to give you the perfect escape.
Trained And Experienced Crew
At Sunshine Scenic Tours, our primary mission is to educate people about the sea, the dolphins, and the need to protect and conserve both. Our crew is familiar with all the history, facts, and local customs of Floridas coastal stretch. With our educational dolphin tours on Treasure Island, FL, youll learn more about dolphins and their environment.
We work hard to meet everyones needs. We have the most helpful, outgoing, and caring people on our team. Youll also be safe in the hands of our certified professional captains, ready to share their knowledge and answer your questions.
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Coffee At Sweet Brewnette
If youre looking to caffeinate before diving into all the fun things to do in Madeira Beach, Florida, stop by Sweet Brewnette. This quaint coffee shop, with local art and retro accents, serves up some delicious coffee and breakfast.
Folks love Sweet Brewnettes breakfast croissants and frittatas. If you want to try a twist on a classic, get the chicken waffle sandwich! Of course, they also have fresh-squeezed Florida orange juice, either on its own or in a mimosa.
If you go for brunch on Saturday morning, you may also get the extra treat of live music!
Stunning Private Boat Charters
If you prefer a smaller group for your dolphin cruise on Treasure Island, Sunshine Scenic Tours offers private boat tours customized for you and the people you love. Corporate events are also welcome. Whether its for business or just a social gathering, we make sure your time and money are worth spending with us.
With so much to see and experience, we offer several cruise schedules every day. If you choose to go more privately for special events like birthdays, wedding proposals, or bachelor parties, we can arrange a customized trip just for you!
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Sunshine Scenic Tours Sunset Cruise
- Duration: The cruise departs at 7:00 PM and lasts for approximately 75 90 minutes around Boca Ciega as you watch the sunset unfold in the Gulf of Mexico
- Seating: Cushioned benches in the center and around the cruises perimeter
- Capacity: 35 guests
- Infants: Free for ages 2 and under
- Children: $18.99 for ages 3 to 20
- Seniors: $23.99 for ages 65 and up
- Adults: $25.99 for ages 21 to 64
We recommend booking in advance to secure your spot. Arrive an hour early to find a parking spot and to get your boarding pass in the gift shop. If we do not reach the minimum number of passengers until the departure time, we may have to reschedule the trip. The cruise returns to the dock right away following the sunset.
Dolphin sightings are not always guaranteed, but being able to view the sunset at Boca Ciega Bay aboard our sunset cruise is worth the trip.
Dont Miss Out On An Opportunity To Join Us For This Fun And Relaxing Cruise
The sunset cruise leaves from Hubbards Marina inside historical Johns Pass. Our big blue dolphin watching nature cruise and eco tour boat also runs our sunset cruise with free beer and wine. This trip is a relaxing hour and a half cruise through the back protected bay waters then on the way home you get a front row seat for the sunset as the boat cruises along the beautiful gulf beaches showing you the beautiful beach hotels during the golden hour on your right with a gorgeous sunset to your left.
During the sunset cruise we turn the music up a little louder and enjoy the festivities while captain announces information about the wildlife and surrounding areas. We dont guarantee dolphins on the sunset cruise but we do see them often and if you drink enough free beer and wine who knows what you might see!
All tours are fully narrated, informative and fun. Boats are U.S. Coast Guard certified. For your convenience, refreshments, snacks and restrooms are available on board. Boats offer covered, comfortable seating along with open decks and easy ramp access.
Our Sunset Cruise with Free Beer and Wine, is a Smoker Friendly Trip. THERE WILL BE SMOKING ON THIS TRIP.
If you are looking for a Non-Smoking Family Friendly Trip might we suggest that you look into our Dolphin Watching Cruise Nature and Eco Tour. With multiple tour times and abundance of sea life, it is the perfect choice to see the local waters, sea life and more!
Departure Schedule:
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Observe Floridas Wildlife In Their Natural Habitat Up Close Aboard Our Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise & Eco Tour
Join us at Hubbards Marina for West Floridas ORIGINAL and most exciting Dolphin Watch and wildlife Encounter. The Big Blue Boat is the largest, safest, and most stable dolphin watch boat in the Tampa Bay area. Offering comfortable seating, restrooms, and an onboard snack-bar with cold soft drinks, beer, chips, candy, and snacks.
Stroll on board and enjoy a real Florida experience! Make beautiful sights memorablebring a camera and binoculars, cash for drinks and snacks. Reference books on sea life, wildlife, and history are available inside our gift shop as well.
All tours are fully narrated, informative and fun. Our vessels are U.S. Coast Guard certified.
- Adult
DOLPHIN GUARANTEE.
If you DO NOT see any dolphins on your trip, we will give you another chance to come back out for FREE.
It is nature and sometimes the wildlife does not cooperate with us, You came on a trip to see Dolphins, so come back for FREE and see them.
The Dolphin Watching Cruise Nature and Eco Tour is a Family Orientated Trip with emphasis on small children and the elderly, for that reason, WE DO NOT ALLOW SMOKING ON THIS TRIP. If you are looking for a smoker friendly trip we suggest that you look into our Sunset Cruise with Free Beer & Wine.
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Four Fun Filled Family Activities For One Low Price
No one covers so much coastline scouting for dolphins to jump and play in our single-hull boat wake. A great photo opportunity! Once at Egmont Key, you are free to explore this tropical island with ruins dating to the 1700s a working lighthouse, shelling where an abundance of sea shells constantly wash onshore. Then we will take you snorkeling in the clear waters of Egmont key.
We have 3 single-hull boats going out twice a day, carrying 125 people.
Pictures/Videos are worth a thousand words! Cant wait to see yours!
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Dolphin Watching In Madeira Beach Florida
- Written by: Maureen Therese
A trip to Floridas Gulf Coast would not be complete without catching a glimpse of a few dolphins. Taking a cruise is your best option for viewing these beautiful mammals up close.
Hubbards Marina, located on Johns Pass in beautiful Madeira Beach, is the perfect place for your first dolphin cruise. Laid-back, friendly hour and a half cruises are offered daily year round. The chance to view dolphins in their natural habitat is a much different experience than viewing them at a zoo. All of the dolphins you will see in the pictures below are Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins.
The dolphins are very fast, so it was difficult to get quality pictures. Also, the dolphins never jumped out of the water, hence, the majority of the time we were only able to get a quick glimpse of a fin.
However, there were plenty of dolphin fin sightings along the way as you can see below.
An up close view of the fin
As you can see, the dolphin is out of the water a bit more in this picture. This is one of the rare instances where we could see a bit of the dolphins face.
A few other great dolphin sightings. And check out those gorgeous colorful houses in the background. What a beautiful backdrop!
Fortunately, sightings are guaranteed so you will never leave unhappy! To be honest, I was surprised by the number of sightings. I would have been happy to have seen just one whereas we saw more than a dozen. We were lucky enough to see several groups of dolphins swimming along.
$429 For Up To Six People
The cruise begins at picturesque Boca Ciega Bay where there is an abundance of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins to be seen, and even the occasional manatee. The tour continues past wildlife sanctuaries and fascinating mansions.
Your journey includes stops for snorkeling, exploring, shelling, or relaxing at the world famous sandy beaches of Shell Key.
Feel free to bring your own drinks and snacks to enjoy on the islands.
The tour ends with a stop and a complimentary Rum Punch, Bud Light, soft drink, or water at the famous Tipsy Tiki Bar in Johns Pass.
***The Captain may modify the schedule or stops due to weather or safety concerns.
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Dolphin Watching Cruise And Nature Eco Tour
Observe florida’s wildlife in their natural habitat aboard our dolphin watching and eco tour trip
Join us at Hubbards Marina for West Floridas ORIGINAL and most exciting Dolphin Watch and wildlife Encounter. The Big Blue Boat is the largest, safest, and most stable dolphin watch boat in the Tampa Bay area. Offering comfortable seating, restrooms, and an onboard snack-bar with cold soft drinks, beer, chips, candy, and snacks.
Stroll on board and enjoy a real Florida experience! Make beautiful sights memorablebring a camera and binoculars, cash for drinks and snacks. Reference books on sea life, wildlife, and history are available inside our gift shop as well.
All tours are fully narrated, informative and fun. Our vessels are U.S. Coast Guard certified.
Sail On A Pirate Cruise
One of the more unique things to do in Madeira Beach is climbing aboard and setting sail on a pirate ship! This cruise will be fun for the whole swashbuckling family!
Youll board this two-level pirate ship in Johns Pass Village, from where it will sail around the beautiful nearby waters. Be entertained by the views, as well as the crew of pirates, for the next hour and a half.
If you want to drink up with your hearties, refreshments are available for purchase on board.
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Hubbard’s Marina Private Charters
Are you looking for the perfect Private charter boat for your group of between 1-120 people to have the whole boat for yourselves?
We would LOVE to have you join us for a private charter experience! We have six custom built, USCG inspected charter boats to choose from. The Hubbards Marina Charter boats are widely known as the most professional and productive charter boats in West Florida, a reputation that has been earned by delivering our guests outstanding service, fun in the sun and exceptional catches of fish.
This is the perfect way for your group to get on the water, with expert captain and crew members to assist you on your trip. When you book a charter with Hubbards Marina, everything is taken care of for you. If fishing, we take care of the fishing licenses, with our vessel license, as well as rods, cut bait and fish cleaning at the end of the trip. If booking a pleasure cruise, our charters include a friendly and professional staff, captain and mate to ensure you a beautiful and fun filled day on the water.
Our expert charter concierges service can help you pick the best trip to accommodate your groups needs and assist you from start to finish. We can even assist in full food and beverage packages if you desire.
A private charter with Hubbards Marina means endless memories and fun for all on the water.
Book A Charter Now!
Our Dolphin Tours On Treasure Island Fl
At Sunshine Scenic Tours, our dolphin tours on Treasure Island, Florida, cater to all your excursion needs. We want to make your trip exciting and worry-free. Experience a 90-minute wildlife cruise through the spectacular waves during our dolphin tours on Treasure Island, FL. Our boat rides can accommodate 35 passengers, so feel free to invite every member of your family and your friends.
While bottlenose dolphins are the star attraction of the Treasure Island tour, we may also cruise Boca Ciego Bay and the Gulf of Mexicoan ideal trip for getting close to the island and the wildlife thriving in the area. If you dont see any dolphins during the cruise, we will give you a voucher to use on your next trip.
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