FLORIDA PLACES AND DESTINATIONS:
PORT CHARLOTTE
Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets. Located halfway between Sarasota and Naples on the Southwest Florida Gulf coast, activities on the naturally beautiful and environmentally pristine area range from canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, sailing, fishing and boating to strolls on the beach, shelling, exploring historic communities, shopping and dining.
Port Charlotte can be found in central Charlotte County, where beaches, river passages and preserves create a natural retreat. Here, visitors will find all manner of water recreation, from kayaking and fishing to diving and sailing.
For those after more sheltered pursuits, the permanent exhibits at the Charlotte County Historical Center explore the full spectrum of Charlotte County history, from prehistoric times to the post-WWII development boom.
The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1932 by Spanish conductor and composer Guillermo de Roxlo, has grown into one of the premier musical institutions in the Southeast, giving 115 performances each season and reaching an annual attendance of over 250,000 listeners.
Charlotte County retains its peaceful nature and small town charm. Charlotte Harbor, Florida’s second-largest open water estuary, is filled with peaceful coves and bays, providing endless opportunities to tackle a tarpon, captain a kayak or commandeer a canoe. This tranquil coastal community boasts over 830 miles of shoreline including river passages, mangrove-edged aquatic preserve and sandy beaches. The Peace River is ideal for canoeing and kayaking, with dense mangrove tunnels and wildlife. Along the shores paddlers can spot deer, wild hogs and extensive bird life. Anglers come from around the world to experience fishing for tarpon, redfish and snook in the estuary; and grouper, snapper and king mackerel in the Gulf. Fishing is spectacular throughout the year.
Golfers have many courses from which to choose, all with unique design features of natural settings and wildlife along with challenging play. Courses range from executive to championship each with scenic vistas and spectacular landscapes.
The Gulf Island beaches in Charlotte County are some of the least crowded and most beautiful in the state.
Photo: Visit Florida
