Punta Gorda FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Punta Gorda, Florida.
1. Fishermen's Village
RIVERSIDE MARINA & SHOPS
Fishermen's Village is a bustling waterfront promenade on the Peace River, featuring a marina, eclectic shops, and diverse dining options. Visitors enjoy scenic boat tours, sunset sails, and easy access to water sports rentals amidst charming tropical vistas. Its unique blend of boutique shopping and vibrant waterfront atmosphere make it a top local and tourist destination.
2. Laishley Park
HARBORSIDE GREEN OASIS
Laishley Park sits along the scenic Peace River and offers a public boat ramp, fishing pier, splash pad, and open green spaces ideal for picnicking and waterfront relaxation. The park is popular for its walking trails and direct water access, making it a favorite spot for casual boating and outdoor events. Its calm riverfront setting provides a peaceful escape with beautiful sunset views over the harbor.
3. Ponce de Leon Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION RETREAT
Ponce de Leon Park offers a small sandy beach on Charlotte Harbor, a boardwalk, boat ramp, and picnic areas, making it a family favorite for waterfront fun. The park is also home to the Peace River Wildlife Center, adding unique wildlife encounters to its recreational appeal. Visitors enjoy fishing, kayaking, and watching dolphins and seabirds in a laid-back, natural setting.
4. Port Charlotte Beach Park
MAN-MADE RIVER BEACH
Port Charlotte Beach Park features a man-made sandy beach along the Peace River, with swimming areas, boat ramps, fishing piers, and sports courts. The park is popular for family gatherings and water recreation, offering calm waters for paddling and wading. Its expansive amenities and riverside setting make it a convenient waterfront destination for nearby residents and visitors.
5. Englewood Beach
GULF COAST FAMILY BEACH
Englewood Beach is a classic Gulf of Mexico beach known for its soft white sand, clear blue waters, and relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The beach features volleyball courts, picnic areas, and gentle surf ideal for swimming and shelling. Its picturesque sunsets and accessible facilities draw both locals and visitors for all-day fun by the sea.
6. Stump Pass Beach State Park
NATURE-FOCUSED BARRIER ISLAND
Stump Pass Beach State Park occupies the southern tip of Manasota Key, offering unspoiled natural beaches, hiking trails, and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, shelling, and kayaking. Visitors are drawn to its tranquil shoreline and the chance to spot manatees, dolphins, and nesting sea turtles. Its secluded vibe and natural beauty provide a peaceful coastal escape.
7. Don Pedro Island State Park
SECLUDED BARRIER ISLAND BEACH
Don Pedro Island State Park is reached by boat or ferry, offering serene beaches, clear waters, and rich wildlife along an unspoiled barrier island. The park is favored for swimming, kayaking, shelling, and picnicking in a quiet, natural setting. Its unique appeal lies in its relative seclusion and the sense of getaway just off the mainland.
8. Boca Grande Beach
HISTORIC ISLAND SHORES
Boca Grande Beach on Gasparilla Island boasts miles of pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing. The island is known for its charming small-town vibe, iconic lighthouse, and world-class tarpon fishing. Its tranquil environment and beautiful natural setting make it a favorite destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
9. Manasota Beach
SHELLING & SWIMMING SPOT
Manasota Beach is a laid-back Gulf beach known for excellent shelling, gentle surf, and wide sandy shores perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach features convenient amenities such as parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it easy for families and groups to spend the day. Its relaxed atmosphere and frequent dolphin sightings make it a local treasure.
10. Peace River
KAYAKING & NATURE RIVER
The Peace River, winding through Punta Gorda, offers peaceful paddling, fishing, and boat tours amid lush natural scenery and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore quiet inlets, hunt for fossils, or take a leisurely cruise to spot birds and alligators. Its gentle currents and scenic banks provide a tranquil waterfront adventure distinct from the Gulf beaches.