Port Charlotte is a stunning city along the Charlotte Harbor and Peace River. The lively and colourful city is the gateway to diverse outdoor adventures. Being a blend of an interesting rich past and modern attractions and adventure, it is an ideal place to visit as a weekend destination. Here are the 12 best things to do in Port Charlotte.
Best Things to Do in Port Charlotte
1. Have a Great Time at Port Charlotte Beach Park
You are assured of watching a breathtaking sunset throughout the year at Port Charlotte Beach Park. The park provides several amenities including canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming, boating, and horseriding. It has tennis, volleyball, and bocce courts. The park also has a big playground area where diverse sports can be played. It has a heated swimming pool where you can have a leisurely swim in the winter. The picnic tables are covered and perfect to have a good family picnic.
2. Visit Tippecanoe Environmental Park
This 380-acre park was established in 1995 to protect a variety of habitats including floodplain forests, scrubby flatwoods, salt marshes, mangrove swamps, etc. The habitats are home to several amphibians, wading birds, reptiles, bald eagles, ospreys, gopher frogs, indigo snakes, tortoises, and others. Take a walk along the natural trail to watch the birds, wildlife, and diverse plants. You can explore the park or just stretch your legs and relax admiring the picturesque scenery. The place is a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
3. Relax at Bayshore Live Oak Park
The park located along the Charlotte Harbor is tranquil and an ideal spot for relaxing and a leisurely walk. The scenery is spectacular and you are sure to enjoy a walk in the scenic background. The sunset view is amazing from here. A covered picnic area with built-in grills, a kids’ playground, and a small beach make it the best place to relax with your family. Get some fresh air and unwind in the serene environment.
4. Watch Wading Birds at Ollie’s Pond Park
It is a beautiful park to take a walk and watch the wading birds including ducks, spoonbills, ospreys, herons, anhingas, gators, pelicans, and many more. The birds are amazing and it is a paradise for bird watchers. The walking path is well-maintained. The walk around the pond takes about an hour. There are benches along the path where you can sit down and relax enjoying the beautiful scenery, the lovely birds, and occasional alligators. You are assured of peace and escape from outside noise at Ollie’s Pond Park. It is a dog-friendly park and you can take your canine friend.
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5. Try Scuba Diving at Fantasea Scuba
Are you new to scuba diving, a diver with limited skills, or an expert? Whatever be it, Fantasea Scuba is an excellent place. If you are a fresher you can learn it here. If you have limited skills you can improve and if you are an expert you can make it your career with a course here. The instructors are dedicated and knowledgeable. You are sure to get professional training and important tips. You can flaunt your scuba diving certificate with pride.
6. Play and Watch Outdoor Sports at Centennial Park
Centennial Park is an outdoor park with baseball courts, a golf course, volleyball courts, basketball goals, pickleball courts, softball and soccer fields, and a fitness centre with numerous cardio equipment. You can watch a baseball match or a golf game. There are several ponds with birds and wildlife. It is a fantastic place to walk, hike, jog, and run. You can relax listening to the water ripping and the birds chirping and watching the breathtaking sunset. The park is well-maintained and is one of the best family-friendly parks in Port Charlotte.
7. Have Fun With Family and Friends at Kiwanis Park
This park is a magnificent place to have fun with your family and friends. You can play, fish, and picnic with them, or you can just stroll around and relax. It also has a fabulous view of the Charlotte Harbour. You can feel your mind unwinding when you relax watching the boats on the water. There is a kids’ playground with swings, slides, and climbing structures.
8. Explore the Myakka State Forest
Straddling along the Myakka River, this forest protects several thousand acres of wetlands and uplands. The salt marshes attract a lot of wildlife and birds including deer, alligators, bobcats, tortoises, grey squirrels, and many more. The forest offers several miles of tracks for hiking, biking, and riding. With a special permit, you can go hunting and primitive camping. You can also go for kayaking and canoeing.
9. Enjoy Outdoor Fun at Englewood Beach
It is a pristine beach with crystal clear blue waters, soft white sand, lots of shells, and a stunning sunset view. The sun and the warm water beckon you to take a dip in the sea. If you are tired of the salt water you have the public pool to take a swim. From boating to golfing the beach offers many outdoor activities. If you are lucky you can see a sheer variety of ocean birds.
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10. Shop at Captain Ted’s Tackle
It is a haven for anglers. You can find all types of fishing accessories from rods, reels, and lines, to apparel. The shop is owned by fisherman Jeff Kincaid. He is eager to answer your questions and is ready to give you all the essential tips and advice about fishing and fishing products. With an incredible environment and reasonable prices, it is one of the most sought-after shops in Port Charlotte.
11. Have a Picnic at Spring Lake Park
This less-crowded park features picnic tables, canoeing, boardwalks, walking and hiking trails, a fishing pier, and grills. It is a nice place to walk, fish, or just relax with your family. The views from the boardwalk are awe-inspiring. Pack a picnic and spend some quality time with your family.
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12. Let Your Kids Splash at McGuire Park
If you are looking for a place to keep your kids busy you should try McGuire Park. With plenty of shade and picnic tables, you can relax on your own or increase your physical fitness with the diverse exercise equipment. You also have a basketball and tennis court to play and enjoy with your family.
Conclusion
Port Charlotte is packed with natural beauty and fun activities. It should be your go-to place for your next weekend trip. Pack your bags and get ready to have the best fun you deserve.
