South of Charlotte Harbor is the City of Punta Gorda, the name meaning "broad point," which refers to the broad point of land jutting into the harbor. The area was named by Spanish conquistadors after explorer Hernando DeSoto landed at Live Oak Point on the Peace River in 1539.
The City of Punta Gorda was incorporated in 1887 and is the oldest area of Charlotte County. With a population of approximately 17,000, including Punta Gorda Isles and Burnt Store Isles, Punta Gorda has kept its charm as an historic waterfront town. The city has secured State Historic District status and its Streetscape Program is restoring the old Florida atmosphere to its central district streets with the addition of brick lanes, period street lamps, benches and shade trees. Residential areas feature Spanish style clapboard tin-roofed homes with airy verandas, gingerbread woodwork and raised floors that bear witness to the fishing village architecture of its past.
One will find a variety of recreational activities and places to visit while in Punta Gorda. Those who enjoy water sports can launch their boats from the newly constructed Laishley Park Marina and enjoy lunch or dinner at the Crab House. Every year, ESPN2 holds the Redfish Cup, which is considered to be the nation's premier saltwater fishing tournament.
Photo (left): The Freeman House in historical downtown Punta Gorda
Photo (right): Rooftop lounge at the Wyvern Hotel (taken by the St. Petersburg Times)