Although many of the beaches in the Cultural Coast are of Florida’s shoreline are along barrier islands, this is not the case with Venice Beach.   While framed to the North and South by jetties, the area is not divided by water to the East and therefor not an island or “key“.   It is conveniently accessed directly off the mainland through the charming town of Venice, Florida along with the unique stores and restaurants to be found along the quaint streets.

While not known as a “postcard perfect white sand covered beach” as some of the more northern beaches found in Florida’s Emerald Coast, Venice Beach is still comfortable to walk on during your beach-combing adventure.  There are smaller shells, coral and the ever popular fossilized shark teeth to be found in abundance along the wrack line where they wash in with the gentle coastal tide.  The surf consists generally of about a 6 inch wave (maybe an occasional 1 foot “whopper”) and provides comfortable shallow water for wading or snorkeling on while searching for treasures from the sea.

Those visitors to this Florida Gulf Coast area should also check out the South Jetty Park to the north of Venice Beach (“South” relates to the jetty, not the direction to get there) or if seeking to get away from crowds, check out the page here on Florida Nature Guide on Caspersen Beach Park which is located to the South of Venice Beach.   This state park has been a well kept secret for years and is a popular destination for those in the know about the area.  Unlike many of Florida’s state parks, there are no fees (as of our last visit in November, 2011).  The park was undergoing some significant construction improvements to add to the amenities and creature comforts of its visitors but the shoreline was unaffected.  There are planned or completed improvements to the trails and boardwalk along with new restroom facilities and improved picnic facilities at the least.