Punta Gorda, located 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 unique old Florida charm.

Punta Gorda is situated along the Peace River where it meets Charlotte Harbor, making it an ideal destination for water recreation, including sport-fishing, 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.