Venice Florida Archives - Page 2 of 6

Boat Rental in Florida – Pure Water Fun!

Birgit Laniewski Nature, Venice Florida 2018-10-152018-10-15Florida, HolidayInVenice, Rentaboat, VacationInVenice, VacationSoup, Venice, whattodo

A boat tour along the beautiful coastline of Florida is a great experience for vacationers. Discover Florida from the water and see a whole different world. Find idyllic, natural beaches, discover the diverse island world or take a trip on the Caloosahatchee River.

Enjoy dolphins or turtles swimming by and admire the many colorful birds. The boat trip on Florida’s southwest coast will certainly be a highlight on your vacation.

Incidentally, renting a boat is quite easy in Florida: you only need your valid car driver’s license and you should be at least 21 years old. If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you would need to purchase a “Florida Boating Safety Identification Card” in advance. You can purchase this life-long card with an online course here: https://www.boat-ed.com/florida/. With each rental you will receive a detailed introduction.

Our Venice area is perfect for a boat trip, so there are plenty of good boat rentals for all kinds of watercraft.

Furthermore we have dear friends that own a boat anchoring in Gasparilla, about half an hour south of Villa Happy Gator, and that they rent out to travelers at a very special and low rate. We gladly provide the contact info to our guests. Of course a profound introduction and fully comprehensive insurance is included. Please ask us for more information.

Where to eat around Venice: Waterfront dining at Pop’s Sunset Grill

Birgit Laniewski Family, Restaurants, Venice Florida 2018-09-092018-09-09Florida, foodie, HolidayInVenice, PoolvillaVenice, vacationhomevenice, VacationInVenice, VacationSoup, Venice, waterfrontdining

Pop’s Sunset Grill in Nokomis is THE place to take your friends and family for a taste of Old Florida. It has become one of Western Florida’s favorite landmark over the past 30 years. Guests love the casual atmosphere and fresh local fare.

Have a Cesar’s Salad or some bay scallops while enjoying the beautiful Intracoastal Waterway and the fabulous natural wildlife. Sip a delicious cocktail with the scenic view of boats and ships sailing by. Mostly at weekends, they offer some of the best live local entertainment in the Venice and Nokomis area. Be sure to check the calendar!

All of their items are prepared fresh in their kitchen daily. If you have any questions regarding ingredients and would like to modify your meal for dietary, allergy or some other reason, ask the friendly staff. They will do their best to accommodate your request or assist you with alternate menu suggestions.

Please visit the website popssunsetgrill.net for opening hours, events and menu.

Villa Happy Gator Venice Florida – Talking about Eco-Friendliness

Birgit Laniewski Family, Nature, Venice Florida 2018-08-062018-09-07eco-friendly, environment, Florida, HolidayInVenice, nature, VacationInVenice, VacationRentalVenice, VacationSoup, Venice, whatson

We love Florida and its wonderful nature – that’s why at Villa Happy Gator we want to do our utmost to ensure that our precious nature is as little affected as possible by our house and its care.

Our technical equipment is up to date and regularly maintained by specialist companies. Thus, the air conditioning works very economical and effective while maintaining high comfort. Our pool is a saltwater pool and therefore usually comes without any chlorine addition. The result is crystal clear water, which is good to the eyes and skin with a pleasant smell.

Pest Control is indispensable in the warm humid climate of Florida. But there are gentle methods that are good for the environment and for humans. We chose a system that even carries the USDA Organic label: “The Sentinel” – small, green containers that are placed around the house to form a protective barrier. Only in very rare situations, something stronger has to be used.

Our lawn is free from regular pesticide spraying. The lively vegetation attracts many colorful birds that we have here in South Venice.

Garden, walk- and driveways are kept clean by hand. In cooperation with our gardener we are in the process of testing an ecological weed killer to reduce the effort a bit.

Our cleaning team also is very sensitive. Vinegar and soda are common companions when cleaning.

Sarasota County is top in recycling. Paper and plastic are collected separately. Our guests will find sufficient containers as well as detailed instructions for the correct sorting.

The city of Venice and Sarasota County have recently adopted ambitious plans to reduce their impact on the environment, which we support.

In addition, we examine promising ecological projects in the area, whether we decide to sponsor them. We are always looking for new ideas to make Villa Happy Gator even greener. We thank our guests that have been very supportive and appreciate our efforts.

South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve – Great for Nature Lovers

Birgit Laniewski Family, Kids, Nature, Sports, Venice Florida 2018-07-292018-09-05familyfuninvenice, Florida, hikers, hiking, hikinginvenice, HolidayInVenice, natureinvenice, VacationInVenice, VacationSoup, Venice, whattodo

Here in South Venice we are fortunate to have a real gem for nature lovers right at our doorsteps: the South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve with its 222 acres of protected land along Lemon Bay.

The preserve is nestled in the densely packed suburb of South Venice, is a refuge for several protected animals and plants.

There are several miles of trails through coastal habitats including mangroves, tidal swamp, tidal marsh, coastal hammock and upland communities such as mesic and scrubby flatwoods. On your walk you will have the chance to meet a variety of wildlife such as gopher tortoise, Florida scrub-jay, bald eagle, river otter and an assortment of snakes, including the eastern coachwhip. Also bobcats have been seen there. Boardwalks afford visitors access across the recreated and restored wetland slough.

Be sure to wear sturdy shoes as sand spurs are very common. Also carry some water as you may walk longer parts of the trails in the open. With so much to discover, your walk could always take longer than planned. If you are lucky, a bunch of scrub jays will play their games with you.

The Preserve is divided in 2 parts. Each part has 2 entrances, all of them only minutes from your vacation home Villa Happy Gator:

Northern part:
5472 Kenisco Road + 1101/1199 Ocelot Road South Venice

Southern part:
1101/1199 Ocelot Road + 6200 Osprey Road South Venice

Detwiler’s in Venice – The Farmer’s Market Grocery Store!

Birgit Laniewski Family, Shopping, Venice Florida 2018-07-182018-07-29farmersmarketsinvenice, Florida, foodie, groceryinvenice, grocerystore, HolidayInVenice, vacationhomeinvenice, VacationInVenice, VacationSoup, veggiesinvenice, Venice

Detwiler’s on US 41 in Venice Florida is a one of a kind shopping experience. Immediately when stepping in you feel yourself on a large farmer’s market – only that it is inside. The policy of the store is to buy local whenever possible. They believe in supporting the community and local economy.

And they love Organic Produce! They say, there’s nothing better than fruits and veggies grown the way God intended. They hold their meat, seafood and deli procucts to the highest standard.

Each time I visit the store I am overwhelmed by the large produce selection. The colors, the scents, the absolute freshness – I buy always more than I intended.

You are looking for European cheese or bread? They carry delicious varieties.

The staff is super friendly and always helpful.

Detwiler’s is located at 1250 US Hwy 41 Bypass S, Venice, FL 34285. Feel free to visit their website for more info and for the weekly ad.

Mote – Marine Laboratory + Aquarium in Sarasota

Birgit Laniewski Family, Kids, Museum, Nature, Venice Florida 2018-06-292019-06-01Florida, HolidayInVenice, Marine, Marinemuseum, Mote, Sarasota, VacationInVenice, VacationSoup, Venice, whattodo, whattosee

„The Answers are in the Ocean“
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

If you are in the Venice area, be sure to visit this fantastic presentation of marine life in Sarasota!

Explore the secrets of the sea through touch pools, viewable-working labs and high-tech interactive exhibits that showcase the world-renowned research of Mote Marine Laboratory. See sharks, manatees and sea turtles, along with more than 100 other species of marine life.

They offer

Bay Walk and Talks
Birthday Parties
Breakfast Programs
Eco Boat Tours
Kayaking
Morning Rounds
Research Charters
Seahorse Lab Tours
Shark Encounters

You may also join one of Mote’s Science Cafés in a local restaurant and take part in lively discussions.

Families

Especially families love interactive, hands-on eco-adventures on the Sea Life Encounter Cruise. Eco Boat Tours are ideal for kids and a fun and fascinating extension of any visit to The Aquarium. Meet our marine natives — dolphins, manatees, osprey, eagles and other marine birds in their natural settings — and learn more about Florida wildlife from the ship’s biologist.

How about a Full Moon Paddle? Take a break from the sun and join them for an evening paddle as they explore Florida’s coastal waters at dusk. Discover the animals that bring Sarasota Bay to life at night while taking a relaxing paddle on the moonlit water.

Mote – Marine Laboratory&Aquarium started in 1955 with Dr. Eugenie Clark’s foundation of shark research and is now more than 200 employees strong, including more than 30 Ph.D. scientists. They conduct groundbreaking research with more than 20 diverse research programs focusing on today’s challenges as well as identifying and addressing future impacts. The advancement of this kind of research is vital to unlocking potential solutions to some of today’s most daunting global challenges.

MOTE

Marine Laboratory&
Aquarium

1600 Ken Thompson Parkway
Sarasota, FL 34236
Ph: (941) 388-4441

Website for info, hours and prices: https://mote.org/

Photos: credit to Mote Marine Lab

Yofresh – Delicious All Natural Yogurt in Venice FL

Birgit Laniewski Family, Kids, Restaurants, Venice Florida 2018-05-262018-06-29cafeinVenice, Florida, foodie, frozenyogurt, HolidayInVenice, icecream, icecreaminvenice, VacationInVenice, VacationSoup, Venice

This will be your favorite spot if you love frozen yoghurt! Step into this bright and cheery place and you will feel immediately special. There is always a smile to greet and a great song on the speakers to welcome you.

Enjoy a large selection of delicious all natural frozen yogurts with a variety of tasty toppings, fresh yogurts and fruit smoothies.

They even provide almond milk flavors – vegan and dairy free – which are my personal choice. You will also find gluten and fat free options.

Do you know how “Hit Lucky 13” will create a “Yo Smile” on your face? Put exactly 13 ounces into your cup and you will enjoy it for free! Give it a try!

FroYo Your Way!

Yofresh Yogurt Café
4197 Tamiami Trl S
34293 Venice (Florida)
+1 941-244-0394

Meet them on Facebook!

Golf in Venice Florida – Capri Isles is one of the best Offers in Sarasota County

Birgit Laniewski Sports, Venice Florida 2018-05-222018-09-13Florida, golf, golfinflorida, golfinvenice, HolidayInVenice, VacationInVenice, VacationSoup, Venice

Capri Isles might become your favorite course while vacationing in our Venice area.

The semi-private Golf Club offers challenges that are guaranteed to capture the interest of the serious golfer as also of the casual player. The character and playability of the 18 hole course was enhanced with numerous expansions, including the additions of strategic water features, fairway and greenside bunkers, configurations of greens, rerouted layout, additional yardage and four sets of tees.

You are welcomed by a friendly staff personnel, even the gators on the back nine seem to smile at you when you go by. The Club does an excellent job with the many golf tournaments they host.

Given the superb condition and affordable pricing, Capri Isles offers one of the best values in Sarasota County.

The restaurant at the Club House is open for breakfast, lunch, and occasional dinners.

Capri Isles Golf Club Features are:

– Full driving range

– Over-sized putting green

– Electric carts

– Pull carts

– Rental clubs

– Full pro shop

Capri Isles Golf Club belongs to “Golf in Venice”, an association of 3 Golf Clubs that provide outstanding court conditions. Members can use all 3 clubs, what is a great advantage.

For more info like directions, booking Tee Times or reserving lessons please go to their website GolfinVenice.

Capri Isles Golf Club is only a short drive from your vacation home Villa Happy Gator. Read more about Golf in Venice on our page “This and That”.

Enjoy the video:

Where to eat in Venice: Café Venice for exquisite Menus and Wine

Birgit Laniewski Family, Restaurants, Venice Florida 2018-05-112018-05-22cafevenice, family, Florida, foodie, HolidayInVenice, restaurantsinvenice, VacationInVenice, VacationSoup, Venice

Café Venice is a small, intimate bistro-style restaurant featuring an exquisite menu with American Cuisine with Homemade sauces, specialty side dishes, and delectable desserts paired with a fine wine selection. Whether you are looking for a casual spot to enjoy lunch and a glass of wine or an intimate location to celebrate your anniversary or special occasion, the staff at Café Venice will welcome you and ensure you have a great dining experience.

With their new outside terrace they offer outside dining as also a lighter menu whether you are enjoying an evening bike ride – or just want something light to munch on.

Come on over and enjoy a glass of wine, something on the lighter side and of course downtown Venice.

By the way: There is always a Happy Hour special, so make sure to check their website cafeveniceontheisland.com for the latest info.

Where to eat in Venice: Snook Haven at Myakka River

Birgit Laniewski Event, Family, Kids, Nature, Restaurants, Venice Florida 2018-04-302018-05-11boatrental, Florida, foodie, HolidayInVenice, myakkariver, restaurantsinvenice, VacationInVenice, VacationSoup, Venice

Experience Snook Haven, one of Florida’s most unique restaurants, tucked away on the banks of the Myakka River in a true Old Florida setting. Enjoy your meal in the dining room, or on the deck while taking in the peaceful view of the river and wildlife.

Snook Haven features a delicious Back Woods Smokehouse menu featuring ribs, chicken, pulled pork as well as fresh fish, and shrimp. They have over 30 different beers to choose from, including some of Florida’s own craft beers, and other international favorites. Snook’s outdoor stage is home to a rich history of local live music entertainment. Check out their monthly entertainment calendar to see who is performing. Come out for an afternoon of blues, country, rock music and more!

River Tours and canoe/kayak rentals

You are looking for activities? Book a River Tour or rent a canoe or kayak with Logan River Tours.

More info

Read more about the History of Snook Haven here. For opening hours and menu as well as for river tours and boat rentals please go to their website snookhaven.com.

„The Answers are in the Ocean“ Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium