The Merry Pier
The Merry Pier is named after Captain Kenneth B. Merry, a resident of Pass-a-Grille since 1900. Captain Merry lived in Pass-a-Grille for 83 years.
The pier has been an important part of Pass-a-Grille since 1902 when the Merry family opened a general store on the end of the dock that he and his wife built at the end of 8th Avenue. It was the first store on the Gulf Beaches and originally sold bait and tools and rented boats, while eventually adding groceries. Today, the pier is now owned by the city of St Pete Beach. The pier is a popular fishing spot for visitors and the locals with well-stocked bait and tackle shop.
Recently, the Merry Pier underwent an extensive 6-month renovation that cost about $1 million for a new deck, pilings, electrical, plumbing and lighting along with other upgrades. The last renovation was in 1979 when the city almost condemned it before a donation rally saved the project.
The dock is a great place to hang out and enjoy the variety of birds and marine life that visit us every day. It is also popular for fishing, and boating excursions to Shell Key island which is nearby. The brand new pier is now modern and fully-functional as a boat launching destination once again.
The Merry Pier is just a few streets down from our historic bungalows. If you are looking to visit Pass-A-Grille please visit our website at southernpagbeachhousebungalows.com or email tylers@southernpagbeachhousebungalows.com for a quote. We are proud to be apart of this historical island community!
My Uncle Kenneth Merry was a beautiful man. If course we called him and his wife Momma and Daddy Merry. He was so good to my family and Christmas at their house was always so special. I hope Pass a grille will always think of him dearly. He did a lot for Pass a grill and was very much loved. The last time we saw him he took aboard the Miss Budweiser because they lived right next door. I miss you Daddy Merry!