Venice, South Venice, Nokomis, Laurel, and Osprey are five communities that are nestled along Florida's southwestern coast. The waters of the Gulf of Mexico moderate the temperatures of summer and winter for a perfect year-round climate. The scenic stretch of Sarasota County coast line basks in the sun most of the year and temperatures seldom drop below 70 degrees.

From Osprey, which is the northernmost community to Manasota Key, below South Venice, fourteen miles of white sand beaches lure sun worshippers and searchers for sea shells and the prehistoric shark teeth which have earned Venice the title of Sharks Tooth Capital of the world. Every August, Venice draws thousands of visitors to its superb waterfront with the community-wide Sharks Tooth and Seafood Festival. Venice, a water wonderland, enjoys the Gulf , bays, and other waterways that offer opportunities for swimming, surfing, fishing, and boating - a constant source of recreation for residents and visitors alike.

In 1994, the population of the City of Venice, was estimated at about 19,000; that of greater Venice are at 87000. The five communities cover a total of 80.3 square miles. Thirty-five miles of beaches line Sarasota County's coast. At the heart of Venice is the Downtown Historic District combining the best of past and present while enjoying a modern outlook.

Venice is one of the few cities on Florida's west coast that is not separated from the Gulf by a barrier island. Construction of the Intracoastal Waterway in 1963 made an island of the Venice municipal and commercial district and helped maintain the pattern of growth that continues today. Preserving the original character of Venice, the city created the Historic Venice District and an Architectural Review Board to ensure that new construction or modification of existing buildings conform to the northern Italian Renaissance style of the city's original architecture. Designation as a Florida Main Street City by the State further assures the city's heritage will be preserved.