Punta Gorda and Englewood Beach Florida
Strolling the pristine, white-sand shores of Don Pedro Island State Park
Peace River views from Perch 360, a rooftop restaurant in Punta Gorda
Eta Aquarid meteor shower over the Babcock Webb Wildlife Management Area
Gulf-front yoga at Chadwick Park at Englewood Beach
The Tree Trellises installation at the Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens in Punta Gorda
An egret fishing alongside anglers on the Placida Pier
Group gearing up for a kayaking excursion at Don Pedro Island State Park
A gazebo overlooking the Peace River in Punta Gorda
Boaters docked for a chill day on the sandbar at North Gasparilla Island
Mural art depicting a sea turtle in downtown Punta Gorda
- Major Airports:
- Punta Gorda (PGD)
- Southwest Florida (RSW)
- Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ)
- States:
- Florida
Kilometers of tropical beaches and islands to explore
Fishing and Kayaking
Internationally known as a fishing destination, Sport Fishing magazine recently named Boca Grande Pass and Charlotte Harbor tops in the world for tarpon fishing. Known as “silver king,” schools of this magnificent fish return April through June to Charlotte Harbor, the “Tarpon Fishing Capital of the World.” You’ll find about 322 kilometers of paddle-friendly waterways waiting to be explored by kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard. Access diverse trails offering various levels, from novice to expert, and ranging from about one to 29 kilometers.
Golfing and Baseball
As if near-perfect weather weren’t enough, Golf Digest ranked Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach the "Third Best Place in America to Live and Play Golf." Two of the area's courses were awarded 4 1/2 stars, and 21 scenic courses range from executive to championship level. Charlotte Sports Park gives fans reason to cheer: spring training games with the Tampa Bay Rays. The area puts you in the center of Major League Baseball action.
Art and Music Festivals
Art spills into the streets of Punta Gorda with murals depicting the city’s history. Pick up a walking guide and a free loaner bicycle and pedal through downtown. Classes, workshops and exhibitions can be found throughout the Charlotte County. Find the perfect souvenir at one of the festivals hosting hundreds of artists, gourmet food and live entertainment. A favorite of locals and visitors alike is Punta Gorda’s Wine & Jazz Festival on the banks of the Peace River.
Local Cuisine
The dining scene in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach features an eclectic mix of fresh seafood shacks, charming sidewalk cafes and scenic waterfront eateries. Dining districts include downtown Punta Gorda, Fishermen’s Village and Englewood. Fishermen can ask select restaurants to prepare their freshly cleaned catch any delicious way. Whatever the craving, there’s a restaurant to satisfy every palate.
Fun Fact
More than 80 percent of the Charlotte Harbor shoreline in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is preserved land.
Known for giving Florida its name in 1513, Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon's expeditions included Charlotte Harbor. Legend says he returned here in 1521, whereupon he was wounded by a Calusa arrow and died shortly thereafter in Havana, Cuba.
Charlotte Harbor is the second largest natural estuary in Florida, offering over 320 kilometers of Blueway Trails (including mangrove tunnels and river passages) – perfect for paddling.
Experience Punta Gorda and Englewood Beach
Official Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Travel Site
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