The Venice Inlet, where the jetty is located, is a primary transit point for recreational and commercial vessels between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway.
Venice is known as the 'Shark Tooth Capital of the World,' and the sand at this beach is a reliable source for finding prehistoric shark teeth.
The jetty acts as a structural barrier to prevent sand erosion and maintain the depth of the shipping channel.
South Jetty Beach is a public coastal access point located at the mouth of the Venice Inlet in Venice, Florida. The site is defined by a long, concrete jetty that separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Intracoastal Waterway. Visitors frequent the area to watch boat traffic entering and exiting the inlet. The beach area is noted for its high concentration of fossilized shark teeth found in the sand. On-site facilities include public parking and adjacent park amenities. The area is part of a larger waterfront complex managed by the City of Venice. Strong currents exist near the jetty, necessitating caution for swimmers.
At the tip of the concrete jetty looking back toward the shoreline during sunset.
Bring a sand sifter or a small hand shovel to improve your chances of finding shark teeth.
Wear water shoes if walking near the jetty, as the concrete can be uneven and rocky.
Arrive early during weekends or holidays, as parking fills to capacity quickly.
Do not attempt to swim or wade near the jetty walls, as the currents and boat wakes create hazardous conditions.
No glass containers allowed on the beach; stay behind posted safety barriers near the jetty rocks.