Gulf Shores is a direct Gulf-front condominium community at 255 The Esplanade North on Venice Island in Venice, Florida. Located directly on the beach in the 34285 ZIP code, this 10-story building offers 68 condominium residences with Gulf views, direct beach access, a heated swimming pool, clubhouse, covered parking, and a highly walkable location near Venice Beach and historic Downtown Venice.
Built in 1973, Gulf Shores is an established Venice Island condominium where every residence includes two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The west-facing orientation provides views across the landscaped grounds, swimming pool, Venice Beach, and Gulf of Mexico, making the building especially appealing to buyers looking for true beachfront living rather than simply being near the beach.
Condos at Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores contains 68 condominium residences within a 10-story reinforced-concrete building. Most units offer approximately 1,266 to 1,340 square feet of living space, although some residences have larger configurations or enclosed areas that result in additional square footage.
Each condominium includes two bedrooms and two bathrooms along with an enclosed Gulf-facing lanai. Depending on floor level and position within the building, residences may provide broad views of Venice Beach, the Gulf of Mexico, landscaped grounds, the community pool, and surrounding Venice Island.
Interior finishes vary considerably because individual owners have renovated their residences at different times. Buyers may find updated kitchens and bathrooms, impact-resistant windows or doors, remodeled flooring, custom cabinetry, newer appliances, hurricane shutters, and other owner improvements.
Because Gulf Shores was constructed in the early 1970s, buyers should review the condition and improvements of the individual condominium along with current association financials, insurance, reserves, structural reports, and condominium documents.
Direct Gulf-Front Living
The defining feature of Gulf Shores is its location directly on the Gulf of Mexico. Residents can walk from the building grounds directly to Venice Beach without crossing a major roadway or driving to a public beach parking area.
Private access to the shoreline provides convenient opportunities for swimming, walking the beach, searching for fossilized shark teeth, watching Gulf sunsets, and enjoying the coastal lifestyle for which Venice Island is known.
All residences are oriented toward the Gulf side of the property, and the condominium association describes each unit as having an enclosed lanai overlooking the pool, gardens, Venice Beach, and Gulf of Mexico.
Gulf Shores Community Amenities
- Direct Gulf-front location
- Private beach access
- Heated community swimming pool
- Clubhouse and gathering areas
- Landscaped gardens and common areas
- Elevators
- Covered assigned parking
- Private storage
- Community laundry facilities
- Outdoor shower
Association services may include items such as exterior building maintenance, grounds maintenance, pool maintenance, common-area insurance, management, sewer, trash, cable or internet services, and reserves. Buyers should verify current fees and included services because condominium budgets and assessments can change.
Gulf Shores Rental & Pet Policies
Current MLS information identifies a minimum lease period of three months and requires association approval for rentals. Rental rules, frequency restrictions, application requirements, and other leasing policies should be confirmed through the current condominium documents before purchasing.
Current listings also identify Gulf Shores as a no-pet condominium. Buyers who have pets should verify the current association rules and any legally required exceptions before making a purchase decision.
Gulf Shores Location on Venice Island
Gulf Shores is located at 255 The Esplanade North, immediately along Venice Beach on the western edge of Venice Island. The building’s location combines direct Gulf frontage with convenient access to historic Downtown Venice.
Venice Avenue, restaurants, boutiques, cafés, Centennial Park, Venice Theatre, the Venice Farmers Market, grocery stores, medical services, and other everyday conveniences are nearby. The location makes walking or bicycling practical for many Venice Island destinations.
Nearby Beaches & Attractions
Venice Beach is directly outside Gulf Shores, while additional coastal destinations include the South Jetty, Brohard Beach, Caspersen Beach, Maxine Barritt Park, and the Venice Fishing Pier.
Residents can also enjoy historic Downtown Venice, Venetian Waterway Park, the Legacy Trail, boating, fishing, kayaking, golf, restaurants, shopping, cultural venues, and seasonal events throughout the Venice area.
Similar Venice Island Communities
- Golden Beach – An established Venice Island beach community with single-family homes, condominiums, and private Gulf access.
- Che Vista – A boutique 15-unit condominium community across The Esplanade from the Gulf with garages, a heated pool, and select Gulf views.
- Carriage House – A small Venice Island condominium community near Venice Beach and historic Downtown Venice.
- Cornwell on the Gulf – A tiny single-family enclave with private deeded beach access and fewer than 20 residences.
- Waterfront Venice Island – Explore Gulf-front, bayfront, Intracoastal, and canal-front homes and condominiums throughout Venice Island.
Photo Slideshow of Gulf Shores Venice Florida
Gulf Shores Condos for Sale | Venice Florida
Explore current Gulf Shores condos for sale below. With only 68 residences in this direct Gulf-front building, available inventory can be limited. Current MLS listings will appear below as condominiums become available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gulf Shores
Where is Gulf Shores located?
Gulf Shores is located at 255 The Esplanade North on Venice Island in Venice, Florida 34285. The condominium is directly on Venice Beach and the Gulf of Mexico, close to historic Downtown Venice.
Is Gulf Shores directly on the beach?
Yes. Gulf Shores is a direct Gulf-front condominium with access from the property to Venice Beach. Residents do not need to cross a major road to reach the Gulf shoreline.
How many condos are in Gulf Shores?
Gulf Shores contains 68 condominium residences in a 10-story building. The condominium association states that each residence has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an enclosed lanai overlooking the Gulf side of the property.
What amenities does Gulf Shores have?
Gulf Shores amenities include a heated swimming pool, clubhouse, landscaped common areas, elevators, covered parking, storage, laundry facilities, and direct access to Venice Beach.
Can Gulf Shores condos be rented?
Yes, rentals are permitted subject to condominium association rules and approval. Current MLS information identifies a three-month minimum lease period. Buyers should verify the latest leasing restrictions and application requirements with the association.







