Trying to decide between Treasure Island and Madeira Beach? You are not alone. Both offer white sand, sunsets, and easy Gulf access, but the day-to-day feel is not the same. In a few minutes, you will see how each stacks up for beach vibe, short-term rentals, transit, boating, schools, risks, and owner costs so you can choose with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Big-picture differences
Treasure Island: Quieter, more residential, and spread out along about three miles of shoreline. It is a good fit if you want laid-back living with local restaurants and a calmer pace. Locals often describe it as low key and neighborhood focused, with broad sandy stretches and easy sunsets. For a concise overview, see this guide to the Treasure Island vibe and beaches.
Madeira Beach: More compact and lively, centered on Johns Pass Village with shops, dining, marinas, tours, and a busy boardwalk scene. If you want walkable entertainment, boat charters, and visitor energy at your doorstep, Madeira Beach delivers. The city’s page highlights the Johns Pass Village and Boardwalk.
Housing mix and ownership
- Treasure Island offers single-family homes, older cottages, and mid-rise waterfront condos. You will find a mix of full-time residents, seasonal owners, and second homes.
- Madeira Beach has many condo and townhouse options in a smaller footprint, especially near Johns Pass, where tourism and visitor services are concentrated.
Public dashboards in recent years often showed Madeira Beach trending higher on typical values while both markets saw volatility. For specific comps, verify current local MLS data by neighborhood or building before you decide.
Short-term rentals and local rules
Short-term rental policy is a key trade-off.
- Treasure Island: The city differentiates where “tourist dwellings” are allowed versus restricted. Many residential zones limit change-of-occupancy counts and require licensing and tourist tax compliance. Review local guidance and confirm zoning before marketing a vacation rental. Start with this summary of short-term rental rules in Pinellas communities.
- Madeira Beach: Visitor activity is part of daily life, especially around Johns Pass. The city has flagged potential state preemption bills that could change how local short-term rentals are regulated. It is a policy space to watch. See the city’s update on proposed state legislation and local impacts.
Beach life and amenities
- Treasure Island’s beach has multiple distinct areas and a more relaxed feel, with neighborhood spots and low-key waterfront venues. You will enjoy wide sandy sections and quieter evenings.
- Madeira Beach is compact but bustling, with quick access to boardwalk dining, tours, and rentals. If you want energy and convenience, you will find it here.
Getting around without a car
You can skip some driving on both islands.
- The PSTA Suncoast Beach Trolley serves the Gulf beaches, including both cities, and connects to other Pinellas routes. Check the PSTA beach trolley information.
- Local, tip-based shuttles such as Free Beach Ride offer door-to-door trips for short hops, which can reduce the need for a second car. See how these services work on the Free Beach Ride FAQ.
Boating, marinas, and water access
If charter boats, fishing trips, or frequent tours matter, Madeira Beach has the edge due to established marinas and the activity hub at Johns Pass. Treasure Island offers boating access and slips too, but there are fewer large commercial operations compared with Johns Pass.
Risks, storms, and insurance
Both islands are low-lying barrier islands with mapped Special Flood Hazard Areas and storm surge exposure. Before you buy, check FEMA flood zones, base flood elevations, and evacuation zones for any address. Pinellas County’s tools make it easy to verify a parcel on the county flood map portal.
Recent storms have shown how weather can affect beach access, repairs, and short-term marketability. Plan for flood insurance if your lender requires it, and obtain wind and flood quotes early, especially for waterfront condos where building-wide premiums can impact budgets.
Taxes and owner costs to expect
If you plan to rent short term, Pinellas County collects tourist development taxes on short stays, and business licensing may apply. Review the county’s overview of tourist development taxes. Property taxes and exemptions are administered by the county. Florida does not have a state personal income tax, which can be attractive for some buyers.
Schools and services
Both areas are served by Pinellas County Schools. Madeira Beach has the Madeira Beach Fundamental K‑8 campus, while Treasure Island addresses typically feed into nearby schools based on exact location. Always confirm current school assignments with the district.
Quick lifestyle checklist
Choose Treasure Island if you want:
- Quieter, residential streets and wider sandy stretches.
- Neighborhood restaurants and beach bars without boardwalk crowds.
- A relaxed pace with easier parking and sunsets as your nightly routine.
Choose Madeira Beach if you want:
- Immediate access to Johns Pass, marinas, and tours.
- A walkable set of restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
- Strong visitor activity that can support short-term rental demand.
What to verify before you buy
- Flood zone, base flood elevation, and evacuation zone for the specific parcel.
- Short-term rental eligibility, zoning, and any licensing requirements.
- Insurance quotes for flood and wind, plus condo master policy health if applicable.
- Recent local sales comps and days on market for your exact micro-area.
- School assignment and transportation options if that factors into your decision.
Ready to compare homes on both islands?
You deserve local, high-touch guidance and clear answers before you commit. Reach out to Shore2Bay Realty to discuss neighborhoods, short-term rental fit, and a property-by-property risk review so you can move forward with confidence.
FAQs
What is the biggest lifestyle difference between Treasure Island and Madeira Beach?
- Treasure Island is quieter and more residential, while Madeira Beach is more compact and lively around Johns Pass with denser dining, retail, and marina activity.
Where can I confirm short-term rental eligibility before I buy?
- Review city zoning and licensing, and start with this overview of Pinellas short-term rental rules. Then confirm parcel-specific details with the city.
Do I need flood insurance for a home on these barrier islands?
- Many properties fall in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas. Lenders often require flood coverage in those zones. Learn the basics in this guide to flood insurance, then get quotes early.
How do I verify school assignments for Treasure Island or Madeira Beach addresses?
- Check the district’s tools and contact Pinellas County Schools directly. Start here for Pinellas County Schools resources.
Is there a way to get around without driving everywhere?
- Yes. The Suncoast Beach Trolley connects the Gulf beaches, and local tip-based shuttles serve short trips. Many residents use these for dining, errands, and nights out.
