Jolley Trolley
A charming, vintage-style trolley service connecting Clearwater's beautiful beaches and local attractions affordably.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother rides
Jolley Trolley
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother rides
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, vintage-style trolley service connecting Clearwater's beautiful beaches and local attractions affordably.
"Affordable and convenient for beach hopping, though ride comfort varies."
🎯 Plan Your Stops
Finding specific stops can be tricky; confirm locations beforehand. :world_map:
💰 Affordable Fares
Inexpensive fares, especially for seniors ($1.10). :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coastal Beach Access
Clearwater, St. Pete Beach, Dunedin
Hop between 13 beautiful beaches with ease, enjoying the sun and sand without the parking hassle.
Clearwater Beach Charm
Clearwater Beach Transit Center
A quaint way to reach the vibrant Clearwater Beach, perfect for exploring shops and dining.
Sand Key Beach Convenience
Sand Key Beach
Direct access to Sand Key Beach, offering a relaxing seaside experience with amenities.
Restaurant & Bar Stops
Various locations like Backwaters
Easily reach popular dining spots like Backwaters for great food and ocean views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Jolley Trolley
Ride Comfort and Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan Your Stops
Finding specific stops can be tricky; confirm locations beforehand. :world_map:
💰 Affordable Fares
Inexpensive fares, especially for seniors ($1.10). :moneybag:
💺 Ride Comfort
Seats can be hard; consider bringing a cushion for longer rides. :seat:
⏳ Be Patient
Delays can occur; allow extra travel time for connections. :hourglass:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan Your Stops
Finding specific stops can be tricky; confirm locations beforehand. :world_map:
💰 Affordable Fares
Inexpensive fares, especially for seniors ($1.10). :moneybag:
💺 Ride Comfort
Seats can be hard; consider bringing a cushion for longer rides. :seat:
⏳ Be Patient
Delays can occur; allow extra travel time for connections. :hourglass:
📱 Payment Options
Payment scanners can be finicky; have cash as a backup. :credit_card:
👍 Driver Assistance
Some drivers are very helpful with directions and stops. :mantippinghand:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Jolley Trolley offers an affordable and charming way to explore Clearwater's beaches, with many praising its convenience and helpful staff. However, some riders find the journey uncomfortable due to hard seating and vehicle age, and occasional delays or navigation issues can arise.
"We booked Jolley Trolley to provide transportation for the entire wedding weekend and it was truly one of the best decisions we made during the wedding planning process. Nevada was such a pleasure to work with prior to the weekend; she was quick to respond to questions and worked on the timeline with my planner! The trolleys arrived on time, were decorated as planned, and the drivers were so nice and aware of the road / area. I could not be more pleased and would hire Jolley Trolley again in a heartbeat! I highly recommend."
Allie
"I think Jolly Trolley is great. However, riding in one of those several times warrants some improvements. First of all, riders feel every bump. The wooden bench seats with no cushion on the back and 1 inch worth on the seat make for a rough ride. Then, you hear every rattle and bang for every bump encountered, It drowns out the weak music on the intercom. I asked how old these vehicles were, and the driver didn't know. I'd say at least- 20 years old! They look fancy on the inside, but it's not a glamorous ride. I'm only hoping they get updated someday. Revamp the suspension and give the riders the same cushion as the drivers."
Jeff Rodgers
"Jolley Trolley has amazing employees who go far above & beyond to help their patrons. I accidentally left my purse on their Trolley & was in a panic. I left a message with their dispatch after hours voice mail. Received a call the next morning & was told that my purse was found (by a very nice driver) & turned it in immediately. Not only were the entire contents in the purse, but the supervisor drove to the Dunedin Highland games at Highlander Park to bring it to me. I can't say enough how very grateful I am to all those involved in helping me recover my purse. The Trolley system is easy to use & runs consistently throughout the day from Palm Harbor to Dunedin, Clearwater & other locations. Fairs are very inexpensive. Seniors only pay
$1.10. I would highly recommend their service. Very honest & professional folks work here. Thank you for all you did for me. Everyone there I spoke to was exceptionally professional."
Rosemary Vaughan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Finding specific Jolley Trolley stops can sometimes be challenging. While there are many designated stops, some travelers have reported difficulty locating them, especially in areas like Dunedin. It's recommended to check the official PSTA (Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) website or app for route maps and stop locations before you travel. :world_map:
Yes, the Jolley Trolley is a convenient way to reach Clearwater Beach. It stops at the Clearwater Beach Transit Center, making it easy to access the beach and surrounding attractions. :beachwithumbrella:
Absolutely! The Jolley Trolley and Suncoast Beach Trolley services can take you to a total of 13 beaches along the coast, offering extensive access to the beautiful Florida shoreline. :ocean:
The Jolley Trolley offers a route from Dunedin to Clearwater Beach. However, some travelers have experienced difficulties finding the correct pickup spot and encountered significant delays on this route. It's advisable to allow ample travel time and confirm your departure point. :bus:
The Jolley Trolley primarily serves the coastal areas of Pinellas County, including Clearwater, St. Pete Beach, and Dunedin. It is not typically a direct or convenient option for airport transportation from major airports like Tampa International Airport (TPA). Ride-sharing services or dedicated airport shuttles are usually more suitable for that purpose.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Jolley Trolley fares are very inexpensive. Seniors, in particular, pay only $1.10 per ride. This makes it a budget-friendly option for exploring the area. :ticket:
While the Jolley Trolley has payment scanners for phone payments, some users have reported issues with the readers not scanning their phones. It's a good idea to have cash or a physical card as a backup to avoid any payment hassles. :iphone:
Yes, seniors receive a discounted fare of $1.10 per ride. It's always a good idea to check the PSTA website for any other potential discount programs or passes that might be available for frequent riders. :discount:
Tickets can typically be purchased onboard the Jolley Trolley or through the PSTA app. There's usually no need to buy tickets far in advance, but having exact change or using the app can streamline the boarding process. :oncoming_bus:
The Jolley Trolley generally runs on a consistent schedule throughout the day, but hours can vary by route and season. Some routes, like the one in Manayunk, have specific hours for events. It's best to check the PSTA schedule for the most up-to-date operating times for the specific route you plan to use. :clock10:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Jolley Trolley offers a unique, quaint aesthetic, but the ride can be rough. Some passengers report feeling every bump and hearing rattles due to the older vehicles. Bringing a cushion for the wooden bench seats is recommended for a more comfortable journey. :automobile:
While specific accessibility features can vary by vehicle, public transportation systems like PSTA generally aim to be accessible. It's advisable to contact PSTA directly or check their accessibility information for details on specific trolley features like wheelchair lifts or designated seating. :wheelchair:
The Jolley Trolley is primarily designed for local transit and beachgoers, so large luggage might be cumbersome. Small bags, beach gear, and personal items are generally acceptable. For extensive travel with large suitcases, other transportation methods might be more practical. :handbag:
Yes, the Jolley Trolley provides a charming and scenic way to see the coastal areas of Clearwater, including its beaches and some local businesses. It's a great option for a relaxed exploration of the area. :camerawithflash:
The Jolley Trolley has a strong reputation for honesty and professionalism among its employees. If you lose an item, contact their dispatch as soon as possible. Many passengers have reported their lost items being found and returned promptly, sometimes even with employees going above and beyond to return them. :lost_phone:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific policies can vary, it's generally best to avoid eating full meals on public transportation. Light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages in closed containers are usually permissible, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of other passengers and keep the trolley clean. :apple:
Yes, many Jolley Trolley stops are conveniently located near popular restaurants and bars. For example, the stop at Southbeach for Backwaters offers great food and views, and the trolley can take you to various dining options in Clearwater Beach and Dunedin. :forkandknifewithplate:
The Jolley Trolley serves various routes that pass by numerous restaurants and dining establishments. While it may not stop directly at every single restaurant's entrance, it can get you very close to many popular spots in Clearwater Beach, Sand Key, and Dunedin. :restaurant:
Many of the areas accessible by the Jolley Trolley, particularly Clearwater Beach, offer a wide range of family-friendly dining options. From casual seafood shacks to ice cream parlors, you'll find plenty of choices to suit families with children. :ice_cream:
The Jolley Trolley can be a great way to navigate between bars and restaurants, especially in areas like Sand Key and downtown Clearwater, allowing you to enjoy a night out without worrying about driving. Remember to drink responsibly. :beer_mug:
📸 📸 Photography
The Jolley Trolley offers unique vantage points for photography, especially along the coast. Capture scenic beach views, quaint street scenes, and the charming trolley itself against the Florida backdrop. :camera:
Yes, you can certainly take photos inside the Jolley Trolley. The vintage-style interior can make for interesting shots, and it's a great way to document your unique travel experience. :mirror_ball:
Routes that run along the coast, connecting the various beaches like Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach, offer the most scenic photo opportunities. The views of the Gulf of Mexico are particularly stunning. :tropical_fish:
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for photography. However, midday can also be great for capturing the vibrant blues of the ocean and the bright Florida sunshine. :sunriseovermountains:
Yes, the Jolley Trolley's distinctive design makes it a photogenic subject. Look for opportunities to capture it driving along scenic routes or parked at its depot. :red_car:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your day, keep in mind that while the trolley is convenient, it might not be the fastest mode of transport. Allow extra time for travel, especially if you have young children who may need breaks. The affordability of the fares makes it an attractive choice for families looking to save money on transportation while enjoying the coastal scenery.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the ride comfort might be a compromise, the ability to hop between multiple beaches and attractions without incurring parking fees or high transportation costs makes it a smart option. Just be prepared for potential minor delays and ensure you have backup payment methods, as digital scanners can be unreliable. Planning your route and stops in advance will maximize the value and efficiency of your Jolley Trolley experience.
🏖️ Beach Goers
Pack your beach essentials and enjoy the scenic ride. Stops are often located conveniently close to the shore, making it easy to transition from the trolley to the sand. Remember to check the schedule for the last trolley of the day if you plan on staying late to catch a sunset.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Jolley Trolley Experience
While the aesthetic is charming, it's important to manage expectations regarding ride comfort. Several reviews mention that the wooden bench seats and older suspension can lead to a rougher ride, with noticeable bumps and rattles. This is a common point of feedback, and some travelers suggest bringing a cushion for longer journeys. Despite this, the Jolley Trolley is praised for its affordability, with senior fares being particularly low, making it an accessible option for many.
Navigating the system can sometimes require a bit of planning. While there are numerous stops, finding the exact pickup point can occasionally be confusing for first-time users. Communication and clear signage at stops are areas where some passengers have encountered challenges. However, the drivers are often noted for their helpfulness, and the system is generally reliable for reaching key beach destinations and local businesses.
Navigating the Jolley Trolley System
Payment on the Jolley Trolley can also present minor hurdles. The onboard scanners for digital payments have been known to be temperamental. To avoid delays or frustration, it's highly recommended to have exact cash fare or a backup payment method readily available. This proactive approach ensures you can board without issue, even if the technology falters.
When planning your journey, especially if you have time-sensitive appointments like a boat departure, it's crucial to factor in potential delays. Reviews indicate that the trolleys can experience unexpected hold-ups, and communication about these delays isn't always consistent. Therefore, building in a buffer of extra time is a wise strategy for any trip taken on the Jolley Trolley.
The Human Element: Drivers and Service
However, the Jolley Trolley system also boasts instances of remarkable integrity and customer service. One review highlights an employee who went above and beyond to return a lost purse with all its contents intact, even driving to a separate event location to reunite the owner with her belongings. This dedication showcases the potential for outstanding service within the organization.
Overall, while the physical ride might have its drawbacks, the human element of the Jolley Trolley service can range from highly supportive to frustrating. Travelers are advised to approach their journey with a degree of flexibility and to appreciate the efforts of the many dedicated employees who contribute to the service.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit