Venice Costa Brava: Waterfront Condo Living Near Historic Downtown Venice

by Hunt Brothers Realty

 

 

Venice Costa Brava is an established condominium community on Venice Island in Venice, Florida, offering convenient access to historic Downtown Venice, nearby beaches, shopping, dining, and coastal recreation. Located along Saint Augustine Avenue, the community features two multistory condominium buildings, a heated swimming pool, clubhouse, shuffleboard facilities, and residences with views that may include the surrounding city, pool, Roberts Bay, or distant Gulf waters. Built in 1974, Venice Costa Brava is particularly appealing to buyers who value an established island location and the convenience of condominium ownership. Although some residences offer attractive water views, Venice Costa Brava is not a direct Gulf-front or private-beach condominium community. Its defining advantage is the combination of island living, proximity to downtown, and access to the broader Venice waterfront lifestyle.

Quick Answers About Venice Costa Brava

Where is Venice Costa Brava located?

Venice Costa Brava is located along Saint Augustine Avenue on Venice Island in Venice, Florida 34285. Condominium addresses include 232 Saint Augustine Avenue, with community records also identifying 244 Saint Augustine Avenue. The property is situated near historic Downtown Venice, just north of the city's main shopping and dining district.

Is Venice Costa Brava a waterfront condominium community?

Venice Costa Brava offers water views from certain residences, including views toward Roberts Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. However, the buildings are not directly on a private Gulf beach. Buyers should distinguish between a condominium with a water view and one that includes direct waterfront frontage or deeded water-access rights.

When was Venice Costa Brava built?

Venice Costa Brava was built in 1974. The established buildings have undergone maintenance and improvements over time. Buyers should verify the condition and renovation history of individual residences and shared building components.

How many condos are in Venice Costa Brava?

Community records identify approximately 126 condominium residences within Venice Costa Brava. The development consists of two multistory buildings served by shared amenities and common areas.

What types of condos are available?

Venice Costa Brava includes one-bedroom and two-bedroom condominiums. Recent property listings commonly feature two-bedroom, two-bathroom layouts with approximately 900 to 1,050 square feet, although individual floor plans and reported measurements vary.

Does Venice Costa Brava have a swimming pool?

Yes. Venice Costa Brava features a heated outdoor swimming pool with a surrounding sundeck. The community also offers shuffleboard facilities and a clubhouse with gathering spaces.

Is Venice Costa Brava within walking distance of downtown?

Yes. The community is located close to historic Downtown Venice, including the shops, restaurants, cafes, and public gathering areas surrounding Venice Avenue. Actual walking times depend on the destination, route, and individual mobility.

Are pets and rentals allowed?

Published community descriptions indicate restrictive pet and leasing policies. Some historical information describes a no-pet policy and leasing restrictions involving minimum ownership and rental periods. Buyers should obtain current written rules from Venice Costa Brava Condominium Association before relying on any historical policy.

Where Is Venice Costa Brava on Venice Island?

Venice Costa Brava occupies a convenient location along Saint Augustine Avenue, close to the heart of historic Downtown Venice. The surrounding neighborhood includes established residential properties, local businesses, cultural destinations, and public spaces.

Venice Island is separated from mainland Venice by portions of the Intracoastal Waterway and is known for its historic street layout, Mediterranean Revival architectural influences, Gulf Coast beaches, and walkable downtown district.

The location provides access to several popular destinations:

  • Historic Downtown Venice and Venice Avenue.
  • Centennial Park and downtown community events.
  • Venice Theatre and other cultural attractions.
  • Venice Beach and public Gulf access.
  • Venetian Waterway Park and regional cycling routes.
  • Restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and everyday services.
  • The broader Roberts Bay and Intracoastal Waterway area.

Buyers researching the neighborhood can also explore other Venice and Sarasota County communities through Hunt Brothers Realty.

What Makes Venice Costa Brava Different?

Venice Costa Brava combines the convenience of a multistory condominium development with an established Venice Island setting. Unlike communities located directly along the Gulf shoreline, Costa Brava places residents close to downtown shopping, dining, and entertainment while still offering convenient access to beaches and coastal recreation.

Its distinguishing features include two condominium buildings, elevators, a heated swimming pool, assigned parking arrangements, and shared recreational spaces.

Another important characteristic is the variety of views available from different floors and building orientations. Some residences overlook the pool and landscaped grounds, while others provide elevated perspectives toward Roberts Bay, surrounding neighborhoods, or distant Gulf waters.

Buyers should evaluate the actual view from each condominium rather than assuming that every residence includes waterfront scenery.

What Are Venice Costa Brava Condos Like Inside?

Venice Costa Brava residences feature practical condominium floor plans developed during the 1970s. Individual units have undergone different levels of updating, resulting in a range of interior styles and finishes.

One-Bedroom and Two-Bedroom Floor Plans

The community includes both one-bedroom and two-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom layouts are particularly common in current resale listings, with many offering two bathrooms and a combined living and dining area.

Recent listings document approximately 900-square-foot two-bedroom residences, while certain corner units and other configurations offer somewhat larger living areas.

Buyers should verify the heated living area, floor plan, and recorded square footage of each property.

Private Balconies and Enclosed Lanais

Many Venice Costa Brava condominiums include balconies or enclosed lanais accessible from the living area.

These spaces can provide views of the swimming pool, landscaped grounds, surrounding streets, or distant water, depending on the residence.

Balcony configuration, enclosure type, window systems, and maintenance responsibilities should be verified for the individual unit.

Renovated and Original Interiors

Some Costa Brava residences have been updated with newer kitchens, renovated bathrooms, modern flooring, and contemporary finishes.

Other units may retain more of their original design. Buyers considering an older interior should evaluate potential renovation costs, association approval requirements, and any applicable permitting obligations.

Even when a residence has been cosmetically renovated, a qualified home inspector should evaluate accessible plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling, and other relevant components.

Shared Laundry Facilities

Historical property descriptions identify shared laundry facilities on individual floors rather than laundry equipment inside every condominium.

This is an important consideration for buyers who prefer in-unit washers and dryers.

Buyers should verify current laundry arrangements and whether installation of private laundry equipment is permitted under association rules and building specifications.

Water Views and Coastal Living at Venice Costa Brava

The word waterfront can describe several different property characteristics, and buyers should understand how those distinctions apply to Venice Costa Brava.

The community is located on Venice Island near Roberts Bay and the Gulf Coast. Some upper-floor residences offer water views, but the buildings do not provide direct private Gulf beach frontage.

Individual condominium views may include:

  • The heated community swimming pool.
  • Landscaped common areas.
  • Historic Venice neighborhoods and streets.
  • Roberts Bay or nearby waterways from select units.
  • Distant Gulf views from certain elevated residences.

A condominium with a water view is not necessarily a waterfront property with direct shoreline access, boating rights, or private beach privileges.

Buyers should confirm the actual view, property boundaries, and any recorded access rights associated with the specific residence.

What Amenities Does Venice Costa Brava Offer?

Venice Costa Brava offers a traditional condominium amenity package centered on swimming, recreation, and shared gathering spaces.

Heated Swimming Pool and Sundeck

The heated outdoor swimming pool is one of Venice Costa Brava's most recognizable amenities.

Recent listings describe a poolside sundeck with lounge chairs, seating, and shaded areas. The pool provides a shared recreational space within the community.

Current operating hours, heating schedules, guest access, and maintenance arrangements should be confirmed with the condominium association.

Clubhouse and Social Activities

Venice Costa Brava includes a clubhouse used for community activities and gatherings.

Historical listings describe a small library, seasonal events, games, and social activities.

The availability of organized activities may change throughout the year. Buyers interested in community programming should request a current calendar from the association.

Shuffleboard Courts

Shuffleboard is another established recreational feature at Venice Costa Brava.

Historical property listings reference organized shuffleboard activities and community tournaments. Current scheduling and participation arrangements should be verified directly with the association.

Elevators and Assigned Parking

The multistory condominium buildings include elevator access, an important consideration for buyers comparing higher-floor residences.

Historical listings also identify assigned covered or garage-level parking and additional guest parking.

Buyers should confirm the specific parking assignment, access arrangements, and any restrictions affecting additional vehicles.

Outdoor Grilling Areas

Recent condominium listings describe shared outdoor grilling facilities available to residents.

The current number, location, and permitted use of grilling areas should be verified with the association.

Living Near Historic Downtown Venice

One of Venice Costa Brava's strongest location advantages is its proximity to historic Downtown Venice.

The downtown district offers a combination of restaurants, cafes, boutiques, cultural destinations, and public gathering spaces. Its pedestrian-friendly streets and established architecture create a distinctive environment within the Sarasota County coastal market.

Venice Avenue Shopping and Dining

West Venice Avenue is the heart of the historic downtown district. The street and surrounding blocks include locally operated shops, restaurants, coffee shops, and other businesses.

For Costa Brava residents, these destinations are nearby without requiring a trip to mainland Venice.

Business availability and operating hours can change, so residents should verify current information for specific destinations.

Centennial Park

Centennial Park is located at 200 West Venice Avenue in the center of downtown.

The park includes a gazebo, landscaped gathering areas, benches, picnic facilities, and an interactive fountain.

The gazebo and surrounding park spaces are used for community activities and special events, adding to the appeal of living near downtown Venice.

Venice Theatre and Cultural Attractions

Venice Theatre is located near the downtown district and has long been an important part of the city's cultural environment.

The broader downtown area also offers art-related activities, seasonal events, and community gatherings.

Buyers interested in specific performances or facilities should verify current programming and venue access directly with the organizations involved.

How Close Is Venice Costa Brava to the Beach?

Venice Costa Brava is located approximately one mile from Venice Beach, depending on the starting point and route.

This proximity allows residents to enjoy the Gulf Coast without owning a residence directly on the beach.

Venice Beach is a public coastal destination near the western end of Venice Avenue. It provides access to the Gulf of Mexico and opportunities for beachcombing, walking, swimming when conditions permit, and sunset viewing.

Additional coastal destinations in the Venice area include Caspersen Beach, the Venice Fishing Pier, and other public shoreline access points.

The City of Venice parks and beaches directory provides information about public recreation facilities and beach access.

Venetian Waterway Park and Outdoor Recreation

Venice Island offers recreational opportunities beyond the beach.

Venetian Waterway Park provides paved pathways along portions of the Intracoastal Waterway, supporting walking, jogging, and cycling.

The broader Venice area also connects with the Legacy Trail, a regional multiuse pathway extending through Sarasota County.

These recreational options contribute to the appeal of living near downtown Venice, particularly for residents who enjoy outdoor activities and exploring the island.

How Does Venice Costa Brava Compare With Other Venice Island Condos?

Venice Island includes a variety of condominium communities, each offering different building styles, locations, amenities, and ownership considerations.

Venice Costa Brava vs. Gulf-Front Condominiums

Direct Gulf-front condominiums provide immediate proximity to the shoreline and may include private or deeded beach-access arrangements.

Venice Costa Brava offers a different experience, emphasizing downtown convenience, shared amenities, and potential water views from select units.

Buyers should compare actual views, beach-access rights, building condition, insurance arrangements, association assessments, and total ownership expenses.

Venice Costa Brava vs. Smaller Low-Rise Condominiums

Smaller low-rise communities may offer fewer shared amenities and different parking or accessibility arrangements.

Venice Costa Brava provides a multistory building environment with elevators, a heated pool, clubhouse, shuffleboard, and shared laundry facilities.

Buyers who prefer ground-level entry or smaller building configurations may wish to compare additional Venice Island communities.

Venice Costa Brava vs. Mainland Venice Condos

Mainland Venice offers condominium communities with different housing styles, recreational facilities, and proximity to shopping and transportation corridors.

Costa Brava's primary distinction is its Venice Island location near the historic downtown district.

Buyers can explore additional neighborhoods through Hunt Brothers Realty's community directory.

What Should Buyers Know Before Purchasing at Venice Costa Brava?

Purchasing a condominium at Venice Costa Brava involves evaluating the individual residence, the association's financial condition, building maintenance, insurance, and current ownership rules.

Because the buildings date to 1974, inspection and reserve information deserve particular attention.

Condominium Association and Governing Documents

The community is governed by Venice Costa Brava Condominium Association, Inc.

The association is registered as an active Florida nonprofit corporation. Buyers can review its corporate registration through the Florida Division of Corporations.

Before purchasing, buyers should request current copies of the association's:

  • Declaration of condominium and amendments.
  • Bylaws and rules and regulations.
  • Current operating budget.
  • Reserve information and applicable reserve studies.
  • Recent financial statements.
  • Board meeting minutes.
  • Current assessments and special assessment notices.
  • Insurance coverage information.
  • Applicable inspection and engineering reports.
  • Pet, rental, renovation, and parking policies.

Buyers should obtain these documents directly from the association or its authorized management company.

HOA Fees and Included Services

Venice Costa Brava owners pay condominium assessments that support shared property expenses and association operations.

Recent listings have reported monthly fees in the mid-$600 range, but these figures are historical listing examples rather than guaranteed current assessments.

Buyers should verify the current assessment amount, payment schedule, included utilities, insurance arrangements, reserve contributions, and any additional charges.

Special assessments and planned capital projects can materially affect total ownership expenses.

Building Maintenance and Recent Improvements

Recent 2026 property listings describe building improvements that include roof replacement in 2024, exterior painting, awning work, and screen-door updates.

These reports provide useful background, but buyers should verify the actual scope of completed work, contractor documentation, warranties, permits, and any remaining obligations.

An improvement described in a listing should not be treated as confirmation that all building components have been inspected, repaired, or replaced.

Milestone Inspections and Structural Reserve Requirements

Florida law establishes structural inspection and reserve requirements for qualifying condominium buildings.

Because Venice Costa Brava consists of older multistory buildings, buyers should specifically request applicable milestone inspection reports and structural integrity reserve studies.

The 2026 Florida statute governing condominium milestone inspections explains the statewide inspection framework.

Buyers should confirm the building's compliance status and review relevant findings with an appropriately qualified structural engineer, architect, inspector, or Florida real estate attorney as appropriate.

Flood Zones and Insurance

Venice Costa Brava is located on Venice Island near coastal waterways. Buyers should verify the flood-risk classification and insurance requirements for the specific property.

The FEMA Flood Map Service Center provides official flood-map information.

Condominium buyers should also determine which building components are insured under the association's master policy and which require individual unit-owner coverage.

Insurance availability, premiums, deductibles, exclusions, and coverage limits vary. Buyers should obtain property-specific quotes and review coverage with a qualified insurance professional before purchasing.

Pet Restrictions

Published community descriptions indicate that Venice Costa Brava has historically maintained restrictive pet policies, including descriptions stating that pets are not permitted.

Buyers should not assume that historical restrictions reflect the current rules or resolve questions involving legally required accommodations.

Current requirements should be verified through the condominium association. Legal questions involving accommodations or interpretation of governing documents should be reviewed with a qualified attorney.

Rental Restrictions

Historical community information describes leasing restrictions that may include a minimum ownership period before renting, limits on rental frequency, and minimum lease terms.

One published community profile references a two-year ownership period before leasing and a three-month minimum rental term, subject to additional restrictions.

Because these provisions can change, buyers should obtain current written leasing requirements before purchasing a condominium for seasonal rental or investment purposes.

Condominium Financing

Condominium financing can involve project-level requirements beyond an individual buyer's income and credit qualifications.

A lender may review association finances, reserves, insurance, inspection findings, litigation, and other building characteristics.

Buyers should discuss Venice Costa Brava with a qualified mortgage lender early in the process. Loan eligibility and terms depend on the borrower, lender, loan program, and condominium project.

Total Cost of Ownership

The purchase price is only one component of condominium ownership.

Buyers should evaluate:

  • Purchase price and financing expenses.
  • Monthly condominium assessments.
  • Property taxes.
  • Individual insurance coverage.
  • Utilities not included in association fees.
  • Interior maintenance and repairs.
  • Potential special assessments.
  • Transfer and application fees.
  • Any other property-specific ownership expenses.

Property tax consequences depend on the owner and property. Buyers should consult the appropriate county offices and a qualified tax professional regarding their circumstances.

Is Venice Costa Brava Suitable for Full-Time or Seasonal Ownership?

Venice Costa Brava may appeal to buyers seeking either a full-time residence or a seasonal condominium on Venice Island.

For full-time owners, proximity to downtown shopping, dining, and recreation can provide everyday convenience.

For seasonal owners, the heated swimming pool, elevator access, and condominium ownership structure may offer an alternative to maintaining a detached home.

However, condominium ownership does not eliminate all maintenance, insurance, storm preparation, or property-monitoring responsibilities.

Buyers should also confirm occupancy and rental restrictions before making plans for seasonal use or leasing.

How Can Buyers Find Venice Costa Brava Condos for Sale?

Venice Costa Brava is an established resale condominium community. Available inventory changes as individual owners list their properties.

When comparing available residences, buyers should consider:

  • Current asking price and recent comparable sales.
  • Building location and floor level.
  • One-bedroom or two-bedroom configuration.
  • Heated living area and total reported square footage.
  • Balcony or enclosed lanai configuration.
  • Pool, city, bay, or distant Gulf views.
  • Interior renovation history.
  • Heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical systems.
  • Parking and storage assignments.
  • Current condominium assessments.
  • Association reserves and inspection reports.
  • Insurance requirements.
  • Pet, rental, and occupancy restrictions.

A licensed real estate professional can help buyers compare available listings, review relevant sales activity, and evaluate differences between individual residences.

For help exploring Venice Costa Brava and nearby condominium communities, Hunt Brothers Realty can assist with the real estate aspects of a property search.

Additional Questions About Venice Costa Brava

Does every Venice Costa Brava condo have a water view?

No. Views vary by building, floor level, and unit orientation. Some residences overlook the pool or city, while select units offer views toward Roberts Bay or distant Gulf waters.

Does Venice Costa Brava have private beach access?

Venice Costa Brava is not a direct Gulf-front condominium community. Residents can visit nearby public beaches, including Venice Beach, but buyers should not assume that condominium ownership includes private beach rights.

Does Venice Costa Brava have elevators?

Yes. The community's multistory buildings include elevator access. Buyers should verify the location, condition, and accessibility arrangements associated with the specific unit.

Does Venice Costa Brava have in-unit laundry?

Historical community information identifies shared laundry facilities on individual floors. Buyers should verify current laundry arrangements and whether private washers and dryers are permitted.

Are Venice Costa Brava condos furnished?

Furnishings vary by listing. Some historical sales have included furnished residences, while others may be offered without furniture. Buyers should confirm exactly which items are included in the purchase contract.

What should buyers verify about the condominium association?

Buyers should review current governing documents, association assessments, reserve information, insurance arrangements, maintenance history, applicable inspection reports, and any planned capital improvements. Current pet and leasing restrictions should also be confirmed.

Final Thoughts: Venice Island Condo Living Near Downtown and the Water

Venice Costa Brava offers an established condominium setting in one of Venice Island's most convenient locations.

Its proximity to historic Downtown Venice, heated swimming pool, clubhouse, shuffleboard facilities, and elevator-served buildings provide a combination of recreational amenities and practical residential features.

Select residences offer attractive views toward Roberts Bay or distant Gulf waters, although the community is not directly on the Gulf shoreline.

For buyers seeking condominium living near downtown Venice, Costa Brava deserves consideration alongside other Venice Island communities. The right purchase depends on the individual residence, building condition, association finances, insurance arrangements, current restrictions, and total ownership costs.

Explore Venice Costa Brava With Hunt Brothers Realty

Interested in Venice Costa Brava condos for sale or comparing other condominium communities on Venice Island?

Hunt Brothers Realty can help you explore available properties, compare local real estate activity, and evaluate the location and housing features that matter most to your search.

Browse Florida Gulf Coast communities or visit Hunt Brothers Realty's website to begin exploring Venice Island real estate opportunities.

Important Information: This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Condominium features, water views, association fees, maintenance responsibilities, insurance arrangements, rental and pet restrictions, and listing availability may change. Buyers should verify current information with Venice Costa Brava Condominium Association, Inc., relevant property records, and appropriate qualified professionals before making purchasing decisions. Questions involving contracts, title, ownership rights, condominium governing documents, or legal restrictions should be reviewed with a qualified Florida real estate attorney when appropriate. Financing, insurance, tax, inspection, engineering, construction, and other property-specific matters should be evaluated with the relevant licensed or qualified professionals. Hunt Brothers Realty does not provide individualized legal, financial, tax, insurance, lending, inspection, engineering, construction, or other professional advice outside the scope of real estate brokerage services.

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Contact Hunt Brothers Realty

Hunt Brothers Realty
46 N. Washington Blvd, Ste 3
Sarasota, FL 34236

Phone: (941) 388-7017

Email: info@huntbrothersrealty.com

Website: www.huntbrothersrealty.com

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