The small waterfront community of Nokomis, tucked away on the Gulf Coast between Sarasota and Venice, is known for its picturesque coastline and laid-back attitude.
Nokomis Beach, Sarasota County’s oldest public beach, can be found just off the mainland on Casey Key. There, families can swim and enjoy the postcard-perfect beach, fish from the pier, and launch a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm, turquoise water. North Jetty Beach, which offers access to both the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway, is a popular spot for fishing, shelling, and swimming.
Other must-see parks and trails in the area include the Historic Spanish Point Campus of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, the Legacy Trail, a paved 10-mile bike path that connects the local communities, and Oscar Scherer State Park, which offers a host of outdoor recreation opportunities including glamping and camping.
After working up an appetite, visitors can dine on fresh coastal cuisine and listen to live music at Pop’s Sunset Grill, Captain Eddie’s Seafood, or Nokomo’s Sunset Hut or choose from a variety of other independent eateries in the area. More dining options as well as boutiques, galleries, and children’s activities can be found a few minutes south of Nokomis in bustling Historic Downtown Venice. While in town, fans of landscape photographer Clyde Butcher can check out his Venice gallery and studio on Warfield Avenue.
Plan your trip at Visit Sarasota.
BEACHES
Splash and play at Sarasota County’s oldest beach.
WATERWAYS
Fish, boat, and paddle the area’s waterways.
FAMILY FUN
Visit the beaches, playgrounds, and kid-friendly attractions.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
See live music, visit art galleries, and check out local events.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Explore the area by land and water.
ACCESSIBILITY
Visit the Sarasota area’s accessible parks and attractions.
DINING
Enjoy fresh seafood on the waterfront and listen to live music.
SHOPPING
Shop for antiques, outdoor gear, clothing, and more.
SPORTS
See a wide range of sporting events in the Sarasota area.
PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Bring your four-legged family member along to pet-friendly parks and restaurants.
PLACES TO STAY
Choose from hotels, vacation rentals, and more.
