North Jetty Park
(photo by Dick Stevens)

Located on the southern tip of Casey Key, North Jetty Park attracts surfers from miles around. Fishing is bountiful and it is a popular spot for picnics with a great view of boats passing through the jetties traveling back and forth from the Intracoastal Waterway to the Gulf of Mexico. Lifeguards are on duty.

Englewood Beach
(photo by Sandy Gwynn)

On the south end of Manasota Key in Charlotte County is Englewood Beach featuring picnic pavilions, grills, and volleyball. The beach is popular for shelling, fishing, and sunbathing. There are restrooms and several local restaurants and shops within easy walking distance. There are no lifeguards on duty.
 

To purchase any of these beautiful photos by Albertine Ellinwood, Dick Stevens or Sandy Gwynn, call Venice Gulf Coast Living Magazine at 941-488-5083.

Printed March 2009
Web March 2009

Caspersen Beach
(photo by Albertine Ellinwood)

Caspersen Beach is known for excellent shelling and sharks teeth. Located south of the Venice Airport on Harbor Drive, two thirds of the secluded beachfront remains in its natural state. Restrooms are available and it features a 1,100 ft. boardwalk and nature trail. There are no lifeguards on duty.

Nokomis Beach
(photo by Albertine Ellinwood)

Nokomis Beach is Sarasota County’s oldest public beach, located on Casey Key directly west of the Albee Road Bridge. Visit the concession stand or bring a picnic and watch the sun set from one of the pavilions. There is also a boat ramp, boardwalk, deck and restrooms. The public is welcome to the free drum circle that meets every Wednesday and Saturday starting an hour before sundown.

Venice Beach
(photo by Albertine Ellinwood)

Famous for shark’s teeth, great shelling, and scuba diving, Venice Beach features a reef containing fossilized materials located a quarter mile offshore. It is located at the west end of Venice Avenue, one mile west of the Tamiami Trail on the island of Venice. There are restrooms, a volley ball court, a concession stand and picnic tables. Lifeguards are on duty year-round.