Punta Gorda Florida - Things To Do & Attractions In Punta Gorda FL

Punta Gorda, 30 minutes north of Fort Myers on Florida’s Southwest Coast, is a family-friendly getaway offering saltwater and freshwater adventures, waterfront shopping, award-winning cuisine, family-friendly attractions, and plenty of old-Florida charm.

Known as one of the top sport-fishing destinations in the world, Punta Gorda is situated along the Peace River where it meets Charlotte Harbor, making it an ideal destination for water recreation, including yachting and sailing. Paddlers and fossil hunters are drawn to the tranquil river, and anglers of all kinds can find what they’re looking for, whether it’s largemouth bass in the river or tarpon, cobia, grouper, or red drum in Charlotte Harbor.

When it comes to shopping and dining, there’s no need to leave the Punta Gorda waterfront. Harborwalk is a hub of activity along 2.5 miles of Charlotte Harbor shoreline  that leads to Fishermen’s Village, where visitors can find a variety of gift, clothing, and specialty shops as well as restaurants serving fresh coastal cuisine with sweeping views of the water. Families with children and pets will enjoy a visit to Laishley Park, also located along Harborwalk, which has an interactive fountain and 400-foot fishing pier.

At Punta Gorda’s parks and attractions, outdoor recreation and family time go hand in hand. Spend time at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, located along the Peace River, get up-close looks at the animal residents of Iguanaland and Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary, spot dolphins on a sunset cruise, and explore Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center to learn about plants, animals, and ecosystems of the area.

Plan your trip at Punta Gorda Englewood Beach.

 

FAMILY FUN

Spot dolphins from an eco-tour and see animals up close at a wildlife sanctuary.

• Family-friendly things to do

MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

See live performances by the Punta Gorda Symphony and visit the galleries and museums.

• Art galleries
• Museums
• Historic districts
• Performing arts

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Get on the water, cast a line, and explore the parks.

• Boating and watersports
• Fishing
• Parks and nature

WATERWAYS

Find world-class fishing, paddling, and watersports on Punta Gorda’s waterways.

• Peace River
• Charlotte Harbor

BEACHES

Punta Gorda is just 26 miles from Englewood Beach on Manasota Key.

• Beaches

PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES

Canine companions are welcome at Punta Gorda’s dog-friendly parks, stores, and restaurants.

• Salty Paws
• Hounds on Henry
• Harbour Heights Park
• Pet-friendly places to stay

ACCESSIBILITY

Punta Gorda’s accessible attractions include parks, eco-tours, and galleries.

• Accessible travel information
• Accessible attractions

DINING

Enjoy waterfront dining and stellar seafood with Punta Gorda’s award-winning food scene.

• Places to eat and drink

SHOPPING

Pick up fresh food and local goods at the farmers market and browse the fun stores of Fisherman’s Village.

• Places to shop
• Punta Gorda Farmers Market

SPAS AND WELLNESS

Relax with a spa day or yoga session.

• Salons and spas
• Yoga

SPORTS

The area is home to a wide array of athletic facilities and hosts tournaments and championships for sports ranging from BMX to professional pickleball.

• Golf courses and sports facilities
• Sporting events
• Tournaments and championships

PLACES TO STAY

Choose from hotels, vacation rentals, and resorts.

• Places to stay
• Sunseeker Resort