Punta Gorda Travel Guide

Welcome to Punta Gorda!

Located on Charlotte Harbor, approximately 24 mi (39 km) north of Fort Myers in southwest Florida, the city of Punta Gorda, or Fat Point in Spanish, was originally founded as the Town of Trabue by Colonel Isaac Trabue in 1882. The town began to thrive in the 1890s when it became a significant cattle-shipping port and profitable fishing village. The feisty community overcame a devastating fire in 1905, constructing stronger buildings with brick and concrete, and fought bravely against the elements again when Hurricane Charley caused extensive damage to the city in 2004—once more emerging stronger with impressive restorations and new, state-of-the-art buildings.

Punta Gorda's laid-back tropical vibe radiates from palm trees, the sparkling harbor and year-round Florida sunshine. Fishing is the recreational activity of choice and plenty of boat charters and tours provide access to world-class opportunities on the Gulf of Mexico. Landlubbers will find the city is adorned with numerous parks and nature trails, while murals throughout the downtown area illustrate the city's rich history and culture, which is further evident in various historic buildings such as City Hall, the Punta Gorda Ice Plant and fine Victorian mansions like the Augustus C. Freeman House. Unique shops and tantalizing restaurants abound in downtown Punta Gorda, many of which are found at Fishermen's Village—a hive of activity on the waterfront. And visitors can get a good taste of community spirit at outdoor events held throughout the year, including the annual block party in April and December's Lighted Boat Parade.

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