Compared to Longboat Key and other coastal areas of Sarasota County, there really aren’t too many beachfront properties in Venice, and this is part of the planning goals of the city. As an effort to keep attracting visitors and seasonal residents, city planners want to give them as much beach acreage as possible; nonetheless, there are some beachfront real estate opportunities in Venice, and Valencia on the Gulf is one of the most attractive.

As one of the very few high-rise structures in Venice, Valencia on the Gulf was developed in the mid-1970s with the intent of giving all residents gorgeous oceanfront views. The three condo towers sit a bit higher than the shoreline, so you can still get nice vistas of the Gulf of Mexico from the lower levels; however, the views from the upper floors are more desirable and simply amazing.

There are only 120 Valencia condo units, and you can find some of them listed on vacation rental websites such as VRBO. The buildings are located just south of the main section of Venice Beach, so the strip of sand and sea is not overflowing with tourists, thus evoking the feeling of a private beach. The higher corner units tend to enjoy greater demand because views of the ocean are guaranteed from the balcony as well as the bedrooms.

Pricing at Valencia varies according to the height and orientation of the unit plus the motivation of the seller. In September 2020, a ninth-floor unit with two two bedrooms and two bathrooms was listed for $500K, a very reasonable price for the premium views of the Gulf. Living spaces range between 1,200 and 1,300 square feet.

Valencia on Gulf amenities include a heated swimming pool plus a fitness center featuring modern exercise equipment. A library, card room, and lounge are available for residents and their guests. Nearby attractions include Centennial Park, the Monty Andrews Arboretum, and the Historic Downtown District. You can take your pets to Brohard Paw Park just a few blocks south, and the Venice Shopping Center is a five-minute drive away.