Pass-A-Grille; Gulf town is Florida seaside at its best offering dining, beaches, shelling and shopping

Written by Rori on 07 June 2011

Ancient Indians and European explorers have called Pass-A-Grille home over the centeries. Photo by Rori Paul

The ancient Indians who lived, fished, worked and survived in this beautiful Gulf of Mexico setting knew what they were doing. Fishing, water, and amazing Gulf views make today’s Pass-A-Grille a wonderful spot to enjoy Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. Sit along the beach and watch the tide ebb and flow, partake of a meal at one of the many area dining spots, grab something fun to remember it by, or stroll the beach and choose from the millions of shells that have washed ashore.

Laura and I found our way here in the “colder” Florida winter months, a delightfully simple drive from Orlando, and while the streets seem to narrow more and more as you approach the outer island of Pass-A-Grille, that feeling of truly being in Florida sets you up for the amazing views once you get Gulf-side.

Venture over the sand-bridge to discover a beautiful beach and the Gulf of Mexico laid out before you. Photo copyright by Rori Paul.

For many, a visit to a Florida beach is high on the must-do list, so Pass-A-Grille decided to make theirs a great offering. Not so much a choice as they’re in a great spot, here you can see as far as the horizon, watch the birds overhead, and build things in the sand (we’ve seen a range of things from family-friendly to ‘what the heck is that’ on Florida beaches).

What we found to be among the most interesting and fun; shelling.
I had no idea you could find so many shells this far north. I’d always heard Sanibel and Captiva were Florida’s shelling hot spots (and they are), but along the beach of Pass-A-Grille we found literally millions of these favorite souvenirs. At the marina on the “other side” of this wide (picture about 3 blocks max) island, you can catch a boat out to one of the even more remote area islands to grab up the bigger, more “exotic” shells.

Park your car and stroll or bike around this tiny island hamlet, discovering the beauty of Florida's coastal towns. Photo copyright Rori Paul.

This is a strolling town, so grab one of the well-done parking spots (take note of the parking spot number and find the nearest automatic, ATM-like machines, they do take credit cards, and pay for your spot) then walk this tiny island for exercise, to see it all, and to work off your tasty meal.

There are dog friendly spots, indoor dining and plenty of patio or beach-side settings.

A few shops are around, including a couple boutique-y types. This is an artist’s paradise, so if you’re into photography, painting or drawing, bring your supplies.

Laura and I both love Florida's beaches, finding Pass-A-Grille to be delightful and full of fun shells. Photo copyright Rori Paul.

Wanna chill? Bring the beach blanket, chair or find one that’s not being sat in and watch the day pass by.

Pass-A-Grille is along the Gulf coast, an easy day trip from Orlando or Tampa and a pleasant setting for a couple hours or a day. Fort De Soto Park is nearby, so enjoy some time there, then pop over to Pass-A-Grille for lunch or dinner.

Pass-A-Grille is a wonderful combination of small shops and mom & pop restaurants and residential. The beach looks back on the tiny town. Photo by Rori Paul.

Shells are a wonderful, crunchy carpet along Pass-A-Grille's Beach. Pick some up for simple, wonderful souvenirs of your Florida Vacation. Photo by Rori Paul