About Punta Gorda, FL Welcome to Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands! a tranquil getaway on Florida's Southwest Gulf Coast. As Florida’s premier eco-tourism destination, we are off the beaten path and away from the crowds. A place where the pace of life moves with the rhythm of the tides and hospitality is measured in warm, friendly greetings. Charlotte Harbor offers world-class boating, fishing, and sailing in one of SAIL Magazine’s “10 Greatest Places to Sail.” Abundant nature explorations, include paddling on hundreds of miles of Blueways trails, exploring five National Wildllife Refuges and discovering prime birding opportunities for spectacular photography excursions. Relax on our uncrowded beaches and enjoy unique shopping and dining experiences and a thriving arts community. Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands – Come take advantage of our good nature. Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands includes the areas of Boca Grande, Don Pedro Island, El Jobean, Englewood-Cape Haze, Little Gasparilla Island, Manasota Key, Palm Island, Placida, Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda. FISHING! Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands is quietly emerging as one of the world’s top sport fishing destinations. Charlotte Harbor, Florida’s second-largest open water estuary, is formed by the blending of saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico with freshwater from the Peace and Myakka rivers. This supports an important ecological breeding ground for numerous fish such as tarpon, snook, redfish, barracuda, cobia and grouper. Fly fishing brings dedicated anglers to the Charlotte Harbor area in search of their own personal records or International Game Fish Association world records. GOLFING! Recently named the third best place in America to live and play golf by Golf Digest, Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands prides itself on its array of courses, which can be played throughout the year. Golfers can choose from more than 16 magnificent golf courses, ranging from executive to championship level, each with scenic vistas and spectacular landscapes.