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42 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE C Crossing the small bridge arching over the intracoastal water way into Venice you immediately feel the small-town charm. Venice's downtown tree-lined avenues are packed with quaint shops, art galleries and cozy restaurants, all owned and operated by locals. Many of the locals started out as part-time visitors themselves before turning their favorite vacation spot into home base. Downtown Venice offers plenty of places to stay, from modern hotels that blend into the historic Northern Italian Renaissance architecture to bed and break fasts built into classic island homes. Walk out the front door and you can stroll to dinner before tak ing in a show at the Venice eatre, one of the largest community theaters in the countr y. Drive south past downtown Venice and you will enter shady residential streets with ancient oaks lining the brick streets. e area is also home to several world-class golf courses and stunning nature preser ves only a short drive away. A nd, for the main araction, visit the beaches. e largest, most unspoiled stretch of public beach in all of Sarasota starts at the Venice Fishing Pier and ends at Caspersen Beach. A long uninterrupted miles of sandy beach, spectacular views stretch to the north and south with no development to obstruct the brillant sights of the Gulf of Mex ico. One section of the beach is devoted to man's best friend, Paw Park and South Brohard Beach, where dogs can dig , run and sun themselves alongside their owners. You will notice people digging through the sand along the edge of the waves look ing for the triangular, fossilized sharks teeth brought to the area from deep waters of local currents. With lile effort, you can start your own collection of pointy keepsakes that have made Venice the "Shark 's Tooth Capital of the World" and fostered an annual festival that brings aficionados to the area ever y April. e Sharks Tooth Festival features more than 100 Florida artists in a family-friendly celebration of art, music and beach. Soak in the calm atmosphere of the vast scenic beaches, watch the k ids hunt for a toothy treasure, then head back to the cozy town that's just a short drive away. Venice isn't just another one of Sarasota's many pocket cities, it's a slice of paradise with charm all it's own. WHERE TO EAT Enjoy our great seafood and a festive atmosphere at the famous waterfront restaurant, Sharky's On The Pier. WHAT TO DO Enjoy a free concer t in Centennial Park in Venice. Happy Time Band performs at 3 p.m., every Tuesday and Gentlemen Of Jazz performs every Wednesday. PLACES TO STAY The Banyan House Historic Bed and Breakfast is located in one of the grand old Florida homes of Venice offers upscale and luxurious Victorian rooms and amenties. Sharky's on the Pier is one of the most popular waterfront destinations in the area. You will find good food, great music and breathtaking views. VENICE D est inat ion

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