Venice
The area around Venice is rightly famous for its beaches. Beautiful white sand, clear turquoise waters and beautiful natural vegetation all combine to make this one of the most outstanding parts of coastland in the US. The historic and picturesque town of Venice, and the pleasant seaside community of Englewood, are ideal for those looking for a beach holiday in a lovely area combining a good range of attractions and entertainment with a laid-back atmosphere not found in some of the bigger cities. Port Charlotte, just a bit further down the coast, has many great beaches and a pleasant relaxed atmosphere.
Shopping & Dinning
Downtown, with its historic buildings and palm tree lined roads, is a great place to shop or just to wander. The range of specialist shops and boutiques are great for buying unusual gifts and souvenirs. If youre looking for bigger shops, Sarasota and Port Charlotte both have large malls and outlet stores. If youre looking for something to eat, Downtown offers some good snacks during the day. In the evening, head for the restaurants along the beach or along the Tamiami Trail (Route 41). Sharkey`s Beach Bar in Venice is a popular place in the evenings, offering great cocktails and music – a perfect place to watch the sun set.
Sports & Outdoors
The range of watersports on offer is impressive – the reef just off the shore of Venice Beach is popular with divers, and North Jetty Park is regarded as one of the best surfing beaches on this coast. Sailing is also a popular pursuit. Its also a great area for fishing; in particular, Punto Gorda, near Englewood and Port Charlotte, offers the best tarpon fishing in the world. Like so much of Florida, its a good place to be if you like golf – you can choose from several reasonably priced courses.