Loving the Outdoors in Punta Gorda

By Cherie George

The area offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, from forests and savannah to water activities; some tucked away, some right downtown! Here are some of my favorites:

• Fred C. Babcock / Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area – is Florida’s oldest Wildlife Management Area and protects 80,772 acres, just south and east of Punta Gorda in Charlotte and Lee Counties, Florida. The area is accessed from its own exit off of Interstate 75. Beautiful area to bicycle, walk, kayak or fish for those that love the outdoors.  Weekend camping is also available.  Located at 29200 Tucker’s Grade. View More Info
• Ponce De Leon Park/Beach – Located on the western tip of Punta Gorda, at the end of Marion and Ponce de Leon Parkway, this little gem of a park overlooks Charlotte Harbor. Park amenities include a boat ramp, fishing piers, boardwalk through the mangrove, a small playground, an open-air chapel area, and a picnic pavilion.  The  white, sandy beach is popular for a local ‘day at the beach’, as well as spectacular sunset spot. View More Info
• Peace River Wildlife Center (PRWC) – located within the Ponce de Leon Park is a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation and education center tucked neatly into the mangroves overlooking Charlotte Harbor. Drop in anytime they’re open to see eagles, water fowl, hawks, herons, pelicans and more, up close. You might be lucky enough to see Luna, the albino owl. There are lots of docents on hand to explain and answer questions. There’s a nice little gift shop too. View More Info
• The Harbor Walk – Bike, walk or run; it is a 2.4-mile, multi-use, recreational trail located in Punta Gorda which runs along the Charlotte Harbor and the Peace River. Pick it up anywhere from Fishermen’s Village to Trabue Park, across from the Shorepoint Health Punta Gorda Hospital. View Maps
• Holidaze Boat Rental – Located at Fisherman’s Village on Marion Avenue in Punta Gorda, the Holidaze rental fleet features 10 late-model boats between 17’ and 25’ in length and covers all of your cruising and fishing needs. Rent Center Consoles, Pontoons, Deckboats, Kayaks, or 4 Stand-up Paddleboards  (SUPs)!  You will want to explore the beautiful waters and secluded beaches of Charlotte Harbor, enjoy a day on the water, pull up at one of the dockside restaurants, or fish in some of the best fishing areas in the U.S. View More Info