Punta Gorda Overview
Punta Gorda is the jewel of Charlotte County and is the only incorporated city in Charlotte County. Much of Punta Gorda (translated "fat point" in Spanish) is a broad peninsula protruding into the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor. The city has retained its old Florida charm and is recognized as a State Historic District along with several sites on the National Register. Punta Gorda's heritage can be traced back to the 1880s when it was a quiet fishing village. Today you can take a stroll through “Fishermen’s Village” which once was the main point of fishing commerce and is now home to a collection of 28 shops and restaurants.
Situated at the mouth of the Peace River, Punta Gorda still has old mansions, but the city is also enjoying a remarkable revitalization of its downtown. The goal is to develop Punta Gorda into a boater’s destination with numerous construction projects taking place along the waterfront. This development is being done while enhancing the old town charm using brick sidewalks and period lighting. The entire area can be traversed on the “River Walk” which connects the entire downtown area.
The re-development of Punta Gorda has attracted two new hotels: The Wyvern and The Sheraton Four Point. Lashley Park and the Marina have a new complex of shops and a very cool old Florida style Crab Shack restaurant. These new additions complement a host of shops, restaurants and hotels already in Punta Gorda. While you shop enjoy the heritage of murals that decorate the sides of many downtown buildings – more than 20 in all. The murals showcase Punta Gorda's wide range of history and add a unique flavor to this beautiful city.
One of Punta Gorda’s first visitors was Ponce de Leon while on his quest to find the fountain of youth. His visit is memorialized at Ponce de Leon Historical Park which has fishing piers, nature paths, a boat ramp and picnic area along the Peace River. Also located here is the Peace River Wildlife Centre, which is a rehab facility for injured, sick and orphaned animals. Punta Gorda has two other waterfront parks, Gilchrest Park and Lashley Park, which have great facilities. Events including major concerts and “The Red Fish Cup” tournement covered every year by ESPN are hosted at these parks.
For a quiet seaside community, Punta Gorda has a lot to offer. And here’s the best part! Punta Gorda Isles and Burnt Store Isles are two examples of some of the best neighborhood waterfront values in the country! If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 941-661-9773.
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