Located on the sunny Florida coast in Sarasota County, Caspersen Beach is the perfect place for your next vacation. While the nearby Venice Beach is popular with tourists, locals prefer Caspersen’s beauty and seclusion, and you should too! Here are seven activities you have to add to your vacation bucket list while you’re there.
1. Discover the Natural Landscape
The shoreline is a wonder on its own! Wander the nature trail that winds through the area’s unique habitats, including lush mangroves and a striking coastal hammock. Don’t forget to take the time to appreciate the walkovers that preserve the beach dunes for future visitors to enjoy!
2. Search for Shark Teeth
Long known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World,” the beach is home to fossilized prehistoric shark teeth that wash up on shore with the tide. If you bring a sieve, you can sift through the sand to find a piece of the past to take home. The shore also boasts a stunning variety of shells for anyone to add to their collection.
3. Cruise Downtown Venice
After a long day in the sun, spend the evening touring Venice. The historic downtown features 1920s architecture that is rich with history. While you’re there, pick up a unique souvenir or enjoy a delicious meal from one of the family-owned local businesses. Make sure you take advantage of the district’s free parking!
4. Hit the Water
It would be impossible to visit the coast without enjoying the ocean itself. The clear waters are perfect for swimming and all kinds of water activities, such as kayaking, sailing, or canoeing. The beach even has a canoe launch, making it the perfect place to start your adventure on the water.
5. Experience the Cultural Coast
Sarasota County is known as Florida’s Cultural Coast, so it’s worth it to hop in your vehicle and explore the arts that the area has to offer. Drive down to Englewood’s Lemon Bay Playhouse to catch a show, explore the massive darkroom and photographs at the Clyde Butcher Art Gallery, or visit one of Venice’s many other art galleries to take it all in.
6. Get a Taste of the Sea
With the ocean on its doorstep, it’s no wonder that the area is bursting with delicious seafood. Avid fishermen can take advantage of the Venice Fishing Pier and its bait shop to take home the catch of the day. If you’d prefer to skip fishing and get right to the food, nearby restaurants like Fins at Sharky’s will satisfy all of your seafood cravings.
7. Attend Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Sarasota County hosts dozens of festivals and community events. From inline skating marathons and wine festivals to art walks and film festivals, the county boasts a variety of crowd-pleasers. Make sure you check out the Sarasota County website to stay up to date on upcoming events.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the shoreline or want to experience the coastal area’s culture, Caspersen Beach has much to offer for your next vacation. While you’re in the area, stop by Englewood Ford and let their sales team help you find a vehicle just right for you!
