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Located along Florida’s Gulf Coast between Fort Myers and Tampa Bay, Venice is a coastal paradise with some of the best beaches in the whole state. It’s still somewhat of a hidden gem, but it draws beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs alike to its stunning shores.
While sunbathing and swimming are definite highlights, there’s far more to this small beach town than just lounging on the sand. From fishing piers and nature preserves to historical landmarks and unique local experiences, Venice offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Here are some of the best things to do in Venice, Florida.
Hit The Beach
Florida is synonymous with beautiful beaches, and Venice really lays it on thick. So naturally, your first stop should be the sandy shores of Venice Beach. This is a great spot for all the classic beach day activities, from sunbathing and swimming to watersports and beach combing.
Venice Beach is also a great spot for shelling and searching for shark teeth, and it’s actually known as the shark tooth capital of the world! Happy hunting!
Other beaches in Venice worth visiting include Caspersen, Nokomis, and South Brohard (one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the area).
Visit The Venice Beach Fishing Pier
No trip to Venice is complete without a stroll along the iconic Venice Beach Fishing Pier. Stretching 700 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, the pier offers stunning panoramic views of the water and is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. If you don’t feel like dragging your own gear along with you, you can rent poles and tackle along the pier for a reasonable price.
Even if you’re not into fishing, a visit to the pier is one of the best things to do in Venice. You can watch a colorful sunset, and enjoy the views of the crystal clear water. If you’re lucky, you might even see dolphins swimming in the distance.
Explore Historic Downtown Venice
Venice’s historic downtown area is brimming with charm, making it a must-see destination. Designed with Mediterranean flair, downtown Venice features postcard-perfect streets lined with palm trees, boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes.
Venice Avenue, the main street, offers a mix of specialty stores and local eateries. This street also hosts regular events throughout the year, like the Venice Art Walk and weekend farmers markets.
Make A Stop At The Venice Museum And Archives
While you’re downtown, pop into the Venice Museum and Archives. This is one of the best things to do in Venice for history buffs, or really anyone interested in taking a look at that “Old Florida” vibe that once thrived in this small seaside town.
The museum has a variety of exhibits that showcase the history and heritage of the area, including the city’s early days a planned retirement community to its eventual development into the vibrant coastal town we see today. There are also historical documents, photographs, and memorabilia to check out while you’re here.
Take A Riverboat Tour Along The Myakka River
Experience the unspoiled shores of the Myakka River on a riverboat tour. Myakka River State Park is one of the state’s oldest and largest state parks, with diverse habitats and ecosystems that allow birds, alligators, and other wildlife to flourish.
The park offers riverboat tours every day (weather-dependent), with a local guide to offer information about the flora and fauna you’ll spot along the way. After the tour, you can stick around the park and do some hiking, kayaking, or biking.
Enjoy Waterfront Dining
Nothing beats waterfront dining while you’re next to the ocean, and Venice has plenty of options available. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or simply want to enjoy a drink with a view, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Sharky’s on the Pier is a local favorite and it’s located right on the beach, which makes it a convenient choice after a day of fun in the sun. Another great option is Pop’s Sunset Grill, which sits along the Intracoastal Waterway and serves up a variety of seafood dishes, burgers, and cold drinks in a relaxed, tropical atmosphere.
Paddle Out To Snake Island
If you’re up for an adventure, rent a kayak or paddleboard and make your way to Snake Island, a small mangrove-covered island located in the Intracoastal Waterway. Popular with boaters and kayakers, Snake Island is a peaceful spot where you can enjoy a day of picnicking, swimming, and exploring.
The island’s remote location makes it a perfect escape from the crowds, and its calm waters are ideal for paddling. You could also bring your snorkeling gear to check out the marine life around the island or simply relax on the shore and take in the natural beauty of this hidden gem.
Hang Out At The Jetty
One of the best things to do in Venice is to spend a few hours at The Jetty. Venice’s North Jetty Park is a lively spot where both locals and visitors alike come to enjoy the waterfront. The jetty extends out into the Gulf and is a popular place for fishing, dolphin watching, and catching views of boats entering and leaving the Venice Inlet.
The park also has picnic areas, playgrounds, and concessions, making it a family-friendly destination. For surfers, the waves near the jetty provide some of the best surf spots in the area.
Go Bird Watching At The Venice Area Audubon Rookery
Located on a small lake that serves as a nesting spot for a variety of wading birds, the Venice Area Audubon Rookery is a perfect off-the-beaten-path activity for nature lovers visiting the area. The rookery is particularly active during the winter months when birds like herons, egrets, and anhingas nest on the small island in the center of the lake.
The site is easily accessible and provides excellent opportunities for photography and birdwatching. Even if you’re not an avid bird watcher, the rookery offers a tranquil setting to enjoy unspoiled nature at its finest.
Hike The Trails At Jelks Preserve
For a more active way to reconnect with nature while in Venice, take to the trails at Jelks Preserve. The preserve is home to an assortment of native plants and wildlife, and over eight miles of trails take you through pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and along the banks of the Myakka River.
As you meander through the trails, you’ll likely encounter various wildlife, from gopher tortoises and white-tailed deer to various species of birds and butterflies. Admission to the preserve is free, making it one of the best things to do in Venice if you’re on a budget.