24 Hours on Beautiful Venice Island

If you think you know Sarasota, it’s time to cross the bridge and discover the timeless charm of Venice, which is celebrating its centennial in true Gulf Coast style. Lovingly known for its 1920s Venetian architecture, wide brick streets, boutique shops and direct beach access, this island city gem feels like a beautifully preserved postcard where Old Florida meets Northern Italian elegance. 

It is the perfect place to slow down and wander for a 24-hour escape—promising a perfect blend of rich history, delicious food and laid-back coastal vibes from morning till night.

Where to Stay

If you’re planning to stay overnight, a great island option is the Inn at the Beach. You’ll love its combination of central location and close proximity to the beach. Wake up early and enjoy the waterfront views before setting off on your relaxing Venice adventure. Another seaside resort providing stunning views includes the nearby Beachcomber in Venice, while options away from the Gulf includes Island Breeze Inn, Island Sun Inn & Suites and Venice Beach Villas. 

Good Morning

First things first, it’s time for breakfast. Known for its incredible baked goods and rich quiches, Croissant & Co is an excellent first stop. Guests can dine in, or take their breakfast to go. Don’t miss out on their almond croissants, baked fresh daily and perfectly flaky. We also recommend securing a little treat for later, as they have the most beautiful dessert case for guests to peruse. The real question is, how will you decide? 

Find more breakfast options along Venice Avenue, including local favorites like Mission Cafe & Coffee, Upper Crust Cafe & Bakery and Venice Island Coffee.

Beach Break

Now that you’ve filled yourself up at breakfast, it’s time to head over to the beach. Venice is known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World” due to the high volume of fossilized shark teeth that wash up on the beaches. Beyond fossil hunting, it’s an excellent spot for “shelling” as well! Grab yourself a sifter and a shell bag, and go searching for the perfect souvenir. 

Popular spots for shelling include Venice Beach, Venice Fishing Pier and Caspersen Beach Park.

Dry Off for Lunch

After a long morning at the beach, it’s time to head out for lunch. The waterfront views at The Crow’s Nest  are spectacular, and their lunch offerings are fabulous to boot. Known for fresh seafood, and traditional Floribbean cuisine, The Crow’s Nest also boasts a most excellent cheeseburger. We recommend making reservations if you want to dine upstairs and take in the views. For a decidedly laid back vibe, direct yourself downstairs to The Tavern. 

Try tasty lunch spots in the historic downtown area like Cafe Venice Restaurant & Bar, Abby's on Miami and Harbor Bistro.

Shop ‘Til You Drop

Head into town along Venice Ave, to take in the sights of Historic Downtown Venice from the main drag. Wander the streets and pop into local boutiques and art galleries to find out what island style is all about. Whether you’re searching for the perfect souvenir, are in the market for a new bathing suit or looking for a whole new wardrobe, the shopping on Venice Avenue has you covered. 

If you need to take a rest, enjoy the benches and gazebo at Centennial Park.  If you’re lucky, you may even pick a day during a casual, live concert.

Happy Hour

When the clock hits 5 p.m. and it's time for a frosty beverage, look no further than The Daiquiri Deck. With over ten different frozen daiquiri flavors rotating in their custom machines, the Daiquiri deck has sweet and delicious tastes sure to please everyone. Select one single flavor, or mix a few together to create your own signature sipping experience. 

Other locales on the island known for their happy hours include BrewBurgers, The Old Venice Pub and Cabo Breeze Mexican Grill & Tiki Bar.

Dinner

When dinner time hits, you’ll have your work cut out for you. The island of Venice has a burgeoning culinary scene with dozens of restaurants to choose from. We love the traditional Italian menu at Cassariano Italian Eatery. Highlights include the panzanella di granchio – a bread salad with fresh crab and avocado – as well as the ravioli de ricotta with gorgonzola and pears. 

Other elevated dinner options downtown include Longet, San Marco of Venice and Trattoria Da Mino.

If you’re craving fresh seafood with Gulf views, head down towards the pier to Fins at Sharky’s. Touting itself as a beachfront steakhouse with a serious seafood side, Fins offers beautifully curated dishes that match its gorgeous beachside surroundings. You’ll love anything from the raw bar and the Chilean Sea Bass.

Just next door, its sister restaurant Sharky's on the Pier, offers a more laid-back Tiki party vibe to listen to music and catch the remaining light of sunset. 

After Hours

If you’re still raring for more fun after dinner, check out the schedule at the Venice Theatre. Known as one of the largest and most active community theaters in the United States, Venice Theatre has been pleasing crowds since the 1950s. The schedule is jam packed so there is always something fun to enjoy. 

More fun after dark includes ticketed concerts and symphonies at the Venice Institute for Performing Arts. For free live music downtown, check out the Zebra Wine Bar & Piano Bar and TJ Carney's. 

As your day draws to a close, and you wander back to your hotel, don’t hesitate to take a final late night stroll through Venice's main streets or on the serene beaches before planning your next trip back.