Travel and Transportation in Madeira Beach, Florida
Getting to and around Madeira Beach, Florida is easy and convenient. Whether you’re flying in, driving, or exploring locally, this Gulf Coast beach town offers multiple options for reaching your destination and enjoying the area with minimal hassle.
Flying into Madeira Beach
The main airports serving Madeira Beach are:
Tampa International Airport (TPA)
The largest nearby airport, about 20 miles away, serving most major airlines and offering a wide range of flights.
St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
A smaller airport just 10 miles from Madeira Beach, convenient for budget airlines and regional travelers.
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
Located further south, a regional option for travelers exploring the Gulf Coast.
Once you land, transportation options include rideshares, shuttles, trolleys, or renting a car for exploring nearby beaches and attractions.
Driving to Madeira Beach
Madeira Beach is easily accessible by car via Gulf Boulevard, which runs along the Gulf Coast, connecting St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, and Clearwater Beach. Driving gives you freedom to explore nearby beaches, attractions, and dining options. Free parking is available at most beaches and at Johns Pass Village & Boardwalk.
Rideshare and Local Transport
For convenience, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Madeira Beach. Many visitors also rent a golf cart for a fun and easy way to explore the area. Pickup spots along Gulf Boulevard and near Johns Pass make getting a ride quick and simple.
The Madeira Beach Trolley
One of the most budget-friendly and popular ways to get around is the Suncoast Beach Trolley, operated by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA). It connects Clearwater Beach, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, and Johns Pass Village, with frequent stops along Gulf Boulevard.
Route
Gulf Boulevard from Clearwater Beach to St. Pete Beach
Stops
Frequent stops on both sides of the street for easy hop-on/hop-off
Cost
Budget-friendly, low fares with day passes often available
Info
Check PSTA schedules or use transit apps for real-time updates
Free Beach Ride & Island Hopper
Another local option is the Free Beach Ride, a tip-based shuttle using vans for direct, personalized rides along the beaches. It operates from Pass-A-Grille through Treasure Island to Madeira Beach.
Walking and Biking
Madeira Beach is very walkable. The boardwalks along the beach and Pinellas Trail provide scenic routes for walking, jogging, and biking.
Public Transit
The PSTA bus system provides local service throughout Pinellas County, connecting Madeira Beach to surrounding areas for visitors who prefer public transit.
Tips for Getting Around
- Suncoast Beach Trolley: easy, affordable hops between beaches and Johns Pass.
- Free Beach Ride or Island Hopper: tip-based vans for door-to-door trips.
- Uber and Lyft: quick rides to restaurants, bars, and attractions.
- Rent a golf cart: fun and flexible for the beach and boardwalk.
- Walkable: Johns Pass Village and Boardwalk are close to most stays, including Sandy Shores Condo.
- Driving: plenty of parking at beaches, attractions, and restaurants.
Getting the Most from Your Madeira Beach Visit
With so many ways to travel around Madeira Beach, visitors can enjoy the white sand beaches, explore nearby towns like Clearwater Beach and Treasure Island, and experience local dining, water sports, and shopping without any hassle. Whether you prefer public transit, rideshares, or driving yourself, Madeira Beach makes it easy to access all the Gulf Coast has to offer.