Laurel Nokomis offers an exceptional waterfront lifestyle with miles of navigable canals, multiple bay access points, and no fixed bridges to the Gulf of Mexico. Located perfectly between Sarasota and Venice, this established community provides diverse waterfront options from canal homes to direct bayfront properties, with housing prices ranging from the $400,000s to multi-million dollar estates.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laurel Nokomis
Where exactly is Laurel Nokomis located?
Laurel Nokomis is situated just south of Sarasota and Osprey, and just north of Venice on Florida's Gulf Coast. It's strategically positioned to provide easy access to both cities while maintaining its own distinct waterfront character.
What types of waterfront properties are available in Laurel Nokomis?
Laurel Nokomis offers diverse waterfront options including direct bayfront homes on Blackburn Bay, Lions Bay, Donna Bay, and Roberts Bay. Additionally, there are numerous canal-front properties and homes along Shakett Creek, all providing boatable water access.
Do homes in Laurel Nokomis have Gulf access?
Yes, all waterfront properties in Laurel Nokomis have access to the Gulf of Mexico. The community is separated from the Gulf by Casey Key, but boaters have access through the Venice Inlet with no fixed bridges to navigate.
What is the price range for waterfront homes in Laurel Nokomis?
Waterfront homes in Laurel Nokomis range widely from the $400,000s for properties needing renovation to well over $1 million for newly built or completely renovated bayfront estates. This price diversity makes the area accessible to various budgets.
What amenities are available in the Laurel Nokomis area?
Different communities within Laurel Nokomis offer varying amenities, including community marinas, clubhouses, fitness centers, and pools. The area is also conveniently located near shopping, dining, and entertainment options, particularly for communities west of the Trail.
Is Laurel Nokomis a good area for boaters?
Laurel Nokomis is ideal for boaters with its extensive waterway network. Residents enjoy quick access to the Intracoastal Waterway, which connects to Sarasota Bay to the north and the Gulf of Mexico through the Venice Inlet to the south, with no fixed bridges restricting boat height.
Are there new construction options in Laurel Nokomis?
While many homes in Laurel Nokomis were built decades ago, there are newer construction options. Some older homes on prime lots have been torn down and replaced with modern residences, while other buyers choose to purchase older homes with the intention to renovate or rebuild.
Introduction to Laurel Nokomis: Florida's Waterfront Paradise
Nestled between Sarasota and Venice on Florida's stunning Gulf Coast lies a waterfront community that offers the perfect blend of accessibility, beauty, and boating lifestyle. Laurel Nokomis has quietly established itself as one of the region's most desirable waterfront destinations, providing residents with the authentic Florida lifestyle that many dream about when considering relocation to the Sunshine State.
What makes Laurel Nokomis special is its extensive network of waterways. Unlike some Florida communities where waterfront can be limited or restricted, this area boasts multiple bays, miles of navigable canals, and open water access that creates endless opportunities for boaters and water enthusiasts. Here's what you need to know about this exceptional waterfront location that combines the charm of Old Florida with the conveniences of modern coastal living.
Laurel Nokomis: A Waterfront Town with Everything You're Looking For
Laurel Nokomis stands out as an exceptional choice for waterfront living on Florida's Gulf Coast. With over 40 years of experience living on this coast and 17 years in real estate (preceded by 25 years as a deputy detective and school resource officer), David Zachos has intimate knowledge of this area and considers it one of the premier waterfront destinations in the region.
What makes Laurel Nokomis particularly appealing is its strategic location. It sits just south of Sarasota and Osprey, and immediately north of Venice. This positioning provides residents with easy access to the amenities and attractions of these neighboring cities while maintaining a distinct and peaceful waterfront character of its own.
For those who prioritize water access in their Florida lifestyle, Laurel Nokomis delivers exceptional versatility. Most of the area is separated from the Gulf by Casey Key, creating a natural barrier that provides protected waterways while still offering Gulf access. The Intracoastal Waterway connects boaters from the south through Casey Key, with access to Sarasota Bay and points north, as well as Tampa and the Gulf of Mexico through the Venice Inlet.
The Unique Water Geography of Laurel Nokomis
Multiple Bay Options for Waterfront Living
One of Laurel Nokomis's distinguishing features is its multiple bay options, creating numerous possibilities for bayfront living. The area encompasses:
- Blackburn Bay on the northern portion
- Lions Bay and Donna Bay in the middle section
- Roberts Bay on the southern portion
These open bays provide spectacular water views and direct access to the wider waterway system, giving residents the quintessential Florida waterfront experience.
Extensive Canal Network
Beyond the bayfront options, Laurel Nokomis features an extensive network of canals. These miles of navigable waterways mean that even homes not directly on the bay can still have water access and boat dockage. The canal system is well-maintained and provides protected dockage while still offering easy access to the larger waterways.
Shakett Creek
Shakett Creek represents another water access option in the Laurel Nokomis area. This natural waterway provides a scenic boating route through some of the area's most beautiful natural settings while still connecting to the wider waterway system.
The key advantage to all these waterfront options is accessibility. No matter where you find a waterfront home in Laurel Nokomis, you're only a short boat ride from the Gulf of Mexico. This immediate access to both protected waters and open Gulf makes the area particularly appealing to serious boaters and fishermen.
Housing Options in Laurel Nokomis
The housing stock in Laurel Nokomis presents both challenges and opportunities. Because the area was developed many years ago, many of the homes are older. However, this creates several interesting options for buyers:
- Completely Renovated Historic Homes: Some of the area's older homes have been lovingly restored and updated with modern amenities while maintaining their original charm.
- New Construction on Prime Lots: In many cases, older homes on spectacular waterfront lots have been torn down and replaced with gorgeous new residences built within the last 10-15 years.
- Renovation Opportunities: For those with vision, it's still possible to find that perfect waterfront lot with an older home that can be either remodeled or torn down to build new. These "diamond in the rough" properties represent some of the last opportunities to create a custom waterfront dream home in this established area.
This mix of housing stock means that Laurel Nokomis can accommodate various budgets and preferences, from those seeking a move-in ready luxury home to buyers willing to undertake a renovation project in exchange for securing a prime waterfront location.
Top Waterfront Communities in Laurel Nokomis
While Laurel Nokomis has many appealing neighborhoods, three stand out as particularly desirable for waterfront living. Each offers a different lifestyle and amenities, catering to various preferences and priorities.
Sorrento South: Intimate Waterfront Community with Marina Access
Sorrento South represents an exceptional option for waterfront living in Laurel Nokomis. This smaller, intimate neighborhood consists of about 100 homes, creating a close-knit community feel that many Florida transplants desire.
What makes Sorrento South special:
- Diverse Waterfront Options: Approximately half the neighborhood is waterfront, with some homes directly on the bay and others on canals.
- Marina Facilities: For residents not directly on the water, the community offers a 41-slip marina, allowing anyone in the neighborhood to have boat access through leasing a slip.
- No Fixed Bridges: One of the most significant advantages is the absence of fixed bridges between the community and the Gulf of Mexico, allowing vessels of any height to navigate freely.
- West of the Trail Location: Sorrento South is positioned west of Tamiami Trail (US-41), providing more direct access to Sarasota and Venice through local streets.
- Easy Beach Access: Residents can easily access Casey Key Beach and waterfront dining using side streets, making it golf cart, walking, or biking friendly.
- Quick Gulf Access: Boaters from Sorrento South have approximately 2 miles of mostly open waterway to reach the Venice Inlet and Gulf of Mexico.
This combination of features makes Sorrento South a top pick for those seeking a balanced waterfront lifestyle that combines boating accessibility with proximity to mainland conveniences.
The Inlets: Gated Community with Resort Amenities
The Inlets offers a different approach to waterfront living, focusing on security and community amenities alongside water access.
Key features of The Inlets include:
- Gated Security: As a gated community, The Inlets provides additional peace of mind for residents, particularly those who may not live in Florida year-round.
- Established Development: Built around the 1980s, the community consists of just under 250 homes, creating a substantial yet still manageable neighborhood size.
- Wide Price Range: Home prices vary significantly, from properties needing renovation in the $400,000s to completely updated luxury homes over $1 million, accommodating different budgets.
- Excellent Boating Access: Residents enjoy a short canal ride of about half a mile to Lions Bay, and from there approximately 3/4 mile to the Venice Inlet.
- Community Amenities: The neighborhood features a clubhouse, fitness center, and community pool, creating opportunities for social interaction and activities.
- West of the Trail Convenience: Like Sorrento South, The Inlets is positioned west of Tamiami Trail, providing quick access to shopping at Publix, dining options, and entertainment without having to navigate major traffic.
The Inlets represents an excellent option for those who want a more structured community environment with amenities, while still maintaining the waterfront accessibility that makes Laurel Nokomis special.
Shakett Island: Exclusive Private Island Living
For those seeking the ultimate in privacy and waterfront prestige, Shakett Island stands as Laurel Nokomis's premier option.
What makes Shakett Island exceptional:
- True Island Living: As a small gated community on a private island, Shakett Island offers unparalleled seclusion and exclusivity.
- Limited Availability: With only 22 homes total, this represents one of the area's most limited neighborhoods.
- 100% Waterfront: Every single home in the community is waterfront, eliminating any "second tier" properties.
- Spacious Lots: All home sites are over half an acre, providing substantial privacy between neighbors.
- Spectacular Views: Homes feature wide-open water views perfect for capturing famous Florida sunsets.
- Newer Construction: Most homes were built in the 2000s or newer, meaning they typically have the modern features and amenities buyers expect.
- Community Green Space: The island features dedicated community areas for kayak launching or social gatherings.
Shakett Island represents the pinnacle of waterfront living in Laurel Nokomis, combining modern homes, spacious lots, and unmatched privacy with direct water access.
Why Choose Laurel Nokomis for Your Florida Waterfront Lifestyle
When considering waterfront communities on Florida's Gulf Coast, Laurel Nokomis offers several distinct advantages that set it apart from other areas:
Strategic Location
Laurel Nokomis sits perfectly positioned between Sarasota and Venice, giving residents easy access to both cities' amenities while maintaining a more relaxed, less congested environment. This strategic location means you're close to:
- World-class dining in downtown Sarasota
- Cultural attractions including theaters and museums
- Venice's charming downtown shopping district
- Multiple beaches including Siesta Key, Venice Beach, and Casey Key
- Medical facilities including Sarasota Memorial Hospital
Authentic Florida Waterfront Living
Unlike some newer master-planned communities that can feel manufactured, Laurel Nokomis has developed organically over decades, creating an authentic Florida feel that many relocators seek. The established landscaping, mature trees, and varied architectural styles create character that can't be replicated in newer developments.
Boating Versatility
The waterway system in Laurel Nokomis offers exceptional versatility for boaters. Residents can choose between:
- Cruising the protected Intracoastal Waterway
- Exploring multiple bays for fishing and water sports
- Heading out to the Gulf for offshore adventures
- Navigating north to Sarasota or south to Venice
All this is possible without dealing with the fixed bridges that restrict boat height in many other Florida waterfront communities.
Value Proposition
While waterfront property is never inexpensive, Laurel Nokomis often represents better value than comparable waterfront communities in areas like Siesta Key or Longboat Key. The variety of housing stock also means there are options at different price points, making waterfront living more accessible.
Established Community Character
As an established area with decades of history, Laurel Nokomis has a settled, comfortable character that appeals to many relocators. The neighborhoods tend to be stable, with a mix of year-round residents and seasonal owners creating a balanced community feel.
Considerations When Buying in Laurel Nokomis
While Laurel Nokomis offers exceptional waterfront living opportunities, there are several factors potential buyers should consider:
Age of Housing Stock
As mentioned earlier, many homes in the area are older, having been built in the 1970s through 1990s. While this creates renovation opportunities, buyers should be prepared for:
- Potential updates to electrical and plumbing systems
- Modernizing kitchens and bathrooms
- Addressing Florida-specific concerns like roof age and hurricane protection
- Updating HVAC systems for modern efficiency
Flood Zones and Insurance
As a waterfront community, most of Laurel Nokomis is in a designated flood zone, requiring flood insurance in addition to standard homeowners' policies. Buyers should:
- Verify the specific flood zone of any property they're considering
- Obtain insurance quotes before committing to purchase
- Consider elevation certificates and how they impact insurance rates
- Understand how recent insurance legislation in Florida might affect coverage and costs
Boating Considerations
For serious boaters, several factors should influence property selection:
- Water Depth: Canal depths vary throughout the area, so confirm that your vessel's draft is compatible with the water depth at low tide.
- Dock Condition: Examine existing docks and seawalls carefully, as replacement or major repairs can be significant expenses.
- Distance to Open Water: Consider how far you'll need to travel at no-wake speeds before reaching areas where you can open up your boat.
- Bridge Clearance: While there are no fixed bridges to the Gulf, some canal homes may have bridges to navigate before reaching open water.
Future Development
While much of Laurel Nokomis is already developed, buyers should investigate:
- Any planned infrastructure projects that might affect traffic patterns
- Potential commercial development along major corridors
- Changes to zoning that might impact neighborhood character
- Environmental initiatives that could affect waterways and water quality
Seasonal Considerations for Laurel Nokomis Living
Like most of Florida's Gulf Coast, Laurel Nokomis experiences seasonal population changes that affect daily life:
High Season (November-April)
During winter months, the area sees a significant influx of seasonal residents and visitors. This results in:
- More active social calendars and community events
- Busier restaurants requiring reservations
- Increased traffic, particularly on major roads
- More boating activity on waterways
- Higher demand for services like contractors and boat mechanics
Summer Season (May-October)
The summer months bring a different rhythm to Laurel Nokomis:
- Less congested roads and waterways
- Easier access to restaurants and services
- More afternoon thunderstorms requiring boating awareness
- Higher temperatures and humidity
- Lower prices for certain services
For those planning to live in Laurel Nokomis year-round, understanding these seasonal patterns helps in adjusting expectations and planning activities accordingly.
Exploring Beyond Laurel Nokomis
One of the advantages of Laurel Nokomis's location is the ease of exploring nearby communities and attractions, both by land and water:
By Boat
- North to Sarasota: Cruise through the Intracoastal to reach Sarasota Bay, with waterfront dining options and mooring opportunities.
- South to Venice: A short trip brings you to the historic Venice fishing pier and multiple waterfront restaurants.
- Gulf Access: Through the Venice Inlet, boaters can reach the Gulf of Mexico for fishing, diving, or cruising along the coast.
- Casey Key: This exclusive barrier island is easily accessible by boat, with beaches and fishing opportunities.
By Land
- Downtown Sarasota: Just a 15-20 minute drive for world-class dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.
- Venice Island: A 10-minute drive to historic downtown Venice with its unique shops and Mediterranean architecture.
- Beaches: Quick access to Venice Beach, Nokomis Beach, and a short drive to world-famous Siesta Key Beach.
- Shopping: Convenient proximity to malls, shopping centers, and boutique districts.
This strategic position between Sarasota and Venice creates the perfect balance of convenience and seclusion that many Florida relocators seek.
Conclusion: The Unique Appeal of Laurel Nokomis
Laurel Nokomis represents a special opportunity for waterfront living on Florida's Gulf Coast. The combination of multiple bayfront options, extensive canal networks, and easy Gulf access creates a boater's paradise that's still accessible and convenient for everyday living.
While the area features some older homes, this creates both value opportunities and the chance to customize or rebuild to create your ideal Florida waterfront residence. The three highlighted communities—Sorrento South, The Inlets, and Shakett Island—offer different approaches to waterfront living, catering to various preferences and priorities.
For those seeking authentic Florida waterfront living with exceptional boating access and proximity to urban amenities, Laurel Nokomis truly offers "that unique Florida waterfront lifestyle town that you've been looking for."
Ready to Explore Laurel Nokomis?
If you're considering relocating to Laurel Nokomis or anywhere else on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast, the Zachos Realty & Design Group is here to help. With over 40 years of local expertise and a unique combination of real estate knowledge and award-winning design vision, we can help you find the perfect property that matches your lifestyle needs.
Contact us today:
- Phone: 941-500-5457
- Email: [email protected]
- Sarasota Office: 205 N Orange Ave Suite 202, Sarasota, Florida 34236
- Venice Office: 217 Nassau St S, Venice, FL 34285
Visit our YouTube channel "Relocation Experts | Florida's Gulf Coast" for more insider guides to Florida's Gulf Coast communities.
