The Wandering Disciple

The marine patrol of the Venice Police Department responds to an emergency in the Gulf of Mexico off Venice Beach. The Venice Police Department patrols the 16 square mile city using vehicle patrol, K-9 units, a bike team and the marine patrol unit. The department is accredited through the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation. (Photo: June 12, 2012)

A marine unit from the Venice Police Department responds to a call in the Gulf of Mexico. Established in 1927, the Venice Police Department protects 10 square miles in Southwest Florida. Their force of 45 officers provide uniformed patrol, K-9 services, Marine Patrol and support services. (Photo: June 12, 2012)

Venice, Florida: At the end of Venice Avenue on the island of Venice lies Venice Beach. Venice Beach is the centerpiece of several fine beaches located on the island of Venice. Venice Beach is known primarily for its abundance of shark teeth. Tourist come from all over to comb the sands looking for sharks teeth along the shoreline. It has earned Venice the nickname "Shark Tooth Capital of the World." Another popular attraction here is snorkeling. The clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico allow for great visibility of fish. There is a coral reef located about a quarter mile off-shore that is home to grouper, snapper and more. Snorkeling and diving is also a great way to get some of the larger fossilized shark teeth. Most people visit Venice Beach just to sit back and enjoy the beach. The beach is protected by lifeguards throughout the year and is the only beach on Venice Island to have lifeguards. It is also home to that famous Gulf of Mexico sunset. Combine that wi...