Finding waterfront properties in Sarasota County can be difficult in 2019, particularly in sections such as Venice Island, a subdivision separated from the mainland by Roberts Bay and the Venetian Waterway. Located to the west of Harbor Drive and just south of the Valencia Residences, Cornwell on the Gulf in Venice is an exclusive gated community with direct access to the beach. Development of this neighborhood dates back to the late 1950s, and it has always been home to some of the most desirable real estate in Southwest Florida.

There are less than 20 properties in this community; they are arranged a one-way street that extends from the front gate all the way to the white sands of the private beach. The most desirable estates are the two that sit right on the beachfront, one of them was listed in mid-2019 for $3 million; we are talking about a four-bedroom home with four full bathrooms, swimming pool, an open-floor plan that overlooks the Gulf of Mexico, fireplace, granite countertops, wet bar, spa, fountains, and more. A more modest home with three bedrooms and two bathrooms was listed for less than $800K, a very reasonable price when considering that the private beach is less than two blocks away.

Gulf Manor, a sister community located next door to Cornwell, is similar in terms of privacy, manicured landscaping and beach access. Few listings come on the market between these two exclusive neighborhoods, and they tend to sell very quickly because they offer a lot to prospective buyers.

In addition to being able to stroll to the beach, residents of Cornwell on the Gulf can also walk or ride their bikes to Historic Downtown Venice, Centennial Park, John Nolen Park, and the nice pier at Chauncey Howard Park. The nearest Publix supermarket is just five minutes away at the Venice Shopping Center, and another one is just a couple of miles east in the Venice Commons Plaza.