From Shells to Sunsets: The Ultimate Guide to Experiencing Venice Beach Florida

Venice? Isn’t that in Italy? It sure is, but we also have a Venice in Florida. If you are looking for fun, beach adventure, you need to check out Venice Beach in Florida.

In this ultimate guide, we are going to dig into all the fun things to do on this part of the Gulf of Mexico south of Siesta Key. Whether you’re a shell collector, a sunseeker, or simply in need of some relaxation, this is the place for you.

Enjoy the clear, turquoise waters, dig your toes into the soft, powdery white sand, and search for seashells that line the shores. After a day on the beach, get ready to watch the sun as it sets over the Gulf.

Check rates & current availability for vacation rentals here: Venice Beach Vacation Rental Homes

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Pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and get ready for an unforgettable vacation destination you will return to year after year.

What is Venice Beach Florida Known For?

Venice Beach is a certified Blue Wave Beach. This is an environmental certification that confirms the beach is clean and healthy.

This is a huge deal. Of the many beaches in Florida, only about 45 have the Blue Wave Beach Certification.

There is a pavilion in the shape of sail you will definitely want to check out. This is where you will also find the restrooms. Parking is free and there are lifeguards on duty.

Venice Beach has 14 miles of coastline for you to explore. There is even an area for your fur friends to enjoy.

Check rates & current availability for vacation rentals here: Venice Beach Vacation Rental Homes

This beach is also well known for shark teeth. In addition to the shark teeth, the beaches of Venice are also home to an array of seashells, including sand dollars, conch shells, and colorful coquinas. Be sure to bring your gear and see what you can find!

Is It Safe To Swim in Venice Beach?

Yes you can swim in Venice Beach. This area is also home to quite a few sea turtle nests from May through October.

Top Beaches in Venice Beach Florida

When it comes to beaches, Venice, Florida, offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a fun day of water sports, you can do it here.

Check rates & current availability for vacation rentals here: Venice Beach Vacation Rental Homes

Here are some of the top beaches in Venice Beach:

Venice Beach: Located in the heart of the city, Venice Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. This expansive beach offers plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun.

Enjoy crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, and the soft, white sand is ideal for lounging. Venice Beach is also home to the iconic Venice Fishing Pier, where you can try your hand at fishing or simply take in the breathtaking views.

Caspersen Beach: If you’re a shell collector, Caspersen Beach is a must-visit especially if you want to search for shark’s teeth.

Check rates & current availability for vacation rentals here: Venice Beach Vacation Rental Homes

This beach is known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World,” for its abundance of fossilized shark teeth. Be patient so you don’t miss them.

There are also nature trails and picnic areas at this beach. Pack a lunch and enjoy the day.

Brohard Beach and Paw Park: For those traveling with furry friends, Brohard Beach and Paw Park is the perfect choice. This is the only off-leash, dog friendly beach near Sarasota.

The park also features a drinking fountain and shower for your friend, so your four-legged companion can stay cool and refreshed.

There are other beaches nearby, but these are my top 3.

Things To Do Venice Beach Florida

There are so many fun things to do in this part of the Sunshine State. The beaches are a given but below are a few more fun things to do:

Kayaking The Canals of Venice

Italy isn’t the only part of the world you can enjoy the canals. You can do that right here in Florida!

Check rates & current availability for vacation rentals here: Venice Beach Vacation Rental Homes

Kayaking and hiking are my two favorite ways to explore a new area. This is a great destination for an outdoor kayaking adventure.

Book a kayak tour and explore not only the canals, but the plants and wildlife native to this part of Florida.

Check rates & current availability here: Kayaking The Canals of Venice

Explore The Amish Community of Pinecraft.

Being from Ohio, I am used to seeing Amish buggies throughout parts of the state. The first time I saw Amish in Florida, however, was on a visit to Sarasota.

This is a fun way to explore this area when you are not on the beach. This community is on the outskirts of town and allows you to not only enjoy shopping for Amish wares but also to try their pies.

Check rates & current availability here: Explore Pinecraft Amish Community.

Downtown Walking Food Tour in Sarasota

Sarasota is roughly a 30-minute drive and has some of the most delicious food you won’t want to wait to dig into. One of the best and most fun ways to explore any area is through a walking food tour.

This tour will take you to five different local restaurants and includes your own personal tour guide who knows the ins and outs. Check rates & current availability here: Walking Food Tour Sarasota

Haunted Sarasota: Mummies, Murder & Mayhem!

For those that love a good fright, we have something for you too. I’m not one that likes these things, but I travel with many folks that do.

Enjoy an air-conditioned trolley ride where your guide will tell you all about Sarasota’s spooky history. You can even bring a beer or glass of wine with you.

Fun not only during Halloween’s spooky season, but all year long.

Check rates & current availability here: Haunted Sarasota: Mummies, Murder & Mayhem

Explore The Wildlife And Nature Near Venice Beach Florida

Venice, Florida, is not only known for its beautiful beaches but also for its diverse wildlife and natural habitats. Explore the wildlife and nature around Venice’s beaches at these locations:

Venice Area Audubon Rookery: If you love birds, this is a must-visit destination for you. This 100-acre preserve is home to a variety of wading birds, including herons, egrets, and spoonbills. Enjoy walking along the boardwalk and path along the pond. Be sure to bring your camera.

Check rates & current availability here: Venice Area Audubon Rookery

Jelks Preserve: Just a short drive from the beaches, Jelks Preserve gives you an upclose look at Florida’s unique ecosystems. This 614-acre preserve features hiking trails, boardwalks, and scenic overlooks. Keep an eye out for native plants, wildlife including boars, and even the elusive Florida panther.

Check rates & current availability here: Jelks Preserve

South Jetty Park: When you want to see dolphins, you want to head to South Jetty Park. Gorgeous views of the Venice Inlet and the Gulf of Mexico and also a great spot for dolphin watching.

Bring your binoculars! Check here: South Jetty Beach Park

Myakka River State Park: One of the largest Florida State Parks, Myakka River offers you a day filled with outdoor adventures. Watch for alligators, shore birds and more.

Take an E-Bike Tour, trolley tour or boat tour and see everything this park offers. Get more information here: Myakka River State Park

Where To Stay Venice Beach Florida

I always want to be on the beach no matter where I am. If there’s a water view, I want to see it. These are the top picks for accommodations in Venice Beach:

Inn At The Beach. This is a quaint little motel located on the beach. Affordable, includes breakfast and is in the middle of where you want to be.

Get current availability and pricing here: Inn At The Beach

Venice Beach Villas. This motel is not on the beach but a very short walk to get to it as well as to restaurants and shops. Nice, quiet location.

Get current availability and pricing here: Venice Beach Villas

There are a few other hotel chain options including Best Western and the Ramada.

You can get current availability on those here: Hotels Venice Beach

Finally, my top pick is to always look at vacation rentals and Venice Beach delivers on those as well. Whether you prefer to be in a condo that overlooks the Gulf or a private home, you have plenty to choose from.

Check rates & current availability here: Venice Beach Vacation Rental Homes

Venice Beach Florida is definitely one of the top picks for Southwest Florida. The following links will help you plan your perfect Venice Beach Vacation: