With the start of summer just days away, it's time to start planning your escape from the scorching temperatures in Punta Gorda. From tranquil waters to shaded escapes, Punta Gorda offers a variety of activities to keep you cool and entertained throughout the summer months.
1. Rent Jet Skis
Did you know that you can now rent jet skis in Punta Gorda? There are a few companies who will allow you to take jet skis out of Laishley Marina or Ponce de Leon Park. Here are the links to some of those companies:
saltyswatersports.com/jet-ski-rentals/jet-ski-rentals-punta-gorda
puntagordajetskirentals.com
2. Head to the Beach
Punta Gorda is centrally located near some of the best beaches in the country. The best part of a summer beach visit? It’s less crowded! Here are a few of my personal favorite beach destinations:
Boca Grande (53 minutes from Punta Gorda)
Boca Grande is my favorite beach for many reasons: ease of parking, less congestion, and the natural beauty offered by Gasparilla Island are just a few. Known for its unspoiled shoreline, sugary white sands, and clear turquoise waters, Boca Grande Beach invites visitors to unwind and soak up the sun in a pristine setting.
Siesta Key Beach (1 hour from Punta Gorda)
Stretching along the barrier island of Siesta Key, this picturesque beach offers visitors a slice of paradise with its pristine shoreline and stunning sunsets. Whether you're basking in the sun, playing beach volleyball, or collecting seashells along the shore, Siesta Key Beach provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and recreation. After a day of sun-soaked fun, explore the charming village of Siesta Key, with its eclectic shops, waterfront dining, and vibrant nightlife, ensuring a memorable beach getaway for visitors of all ages.
Fort Myers Beach (1hr, 5 min from Punta Gorda)
Fort Myers beach offers a mix of recreational activities, village shops, and fun tropical bars - there is something here for everyone. For the adventurous souls, there's parasailing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding to enjoy, while nature lovers can explore nearby Lovers Key State Park or embark on a dolphin-watching cruise. As the sun sets, the beach comes alive with bustling waterfront restaurants, live music, and breathtaking views, making Fort Myers Beach the perfect destination for a memorable seaside escape.
3. Book a trip on the floating Tiki Bar
If you’ve recently visited a waterfront venue in Punta Gorda, it’s likely that you’ve spotted the small tiki bar floating by with enthusiastic patrons waving at those of us on land who wish that we, too, could enjoy the carefree experience of floating along the Peace River with a drink in hand. Bring your friends for a 90 minute pleasure cruise, sunset cruise, or private event.
Cruisin’ Tikis accommodates up to 6 guests: cruisintikischarlotteharbor.com/
Red Tiki Tours accommodates up to 13 guests: redtikitours.com/
4. Buy a day pass at Sunseeker Resort
If you want the resort experience that Sunseeker offers, without paying for a room, you can purchase a day pass and spend the afternoon ordering frozen drinks by the Reflections Pool overlooking Charlotte Harbor. Grab a bite to eat or enjoy live entertainment at one of the 20 different resort restaurants, with plenty of options for even the pickiest of eaters.
5. One for the young - or young at heart! Go to a waterpark!
About 40 minutes south of downtown Punta Gorda is Sunsplash Family Water Park, located in Cape Coral. Float around in the lazy river, complete an obstacle course in the pool, or face your fears on one of the nerve-wracking water slides. Take your kids or grandkids for a day of fun, and they will be asking to go back!
Whether you are a year round resident, or simply passing through, these fun activities will keep you busy and entertained during the hot summer months. So, pack your sunscreen, gather your loved ones, and embark on a summer adventure in the vibrant heart of Southwest Florida.
About the author: With nearly 10 years of experience as a full-time, licensed Realtor - and now a Broker-Associate - Makala is always looking for new and innovative ways to provide our clients with the best possible service. Makala obtained her Bachelor's in Education, and enjoys using her skills to educate buyers and sellers about the ever-changing market to make sound real estate investments. You may also find her showing property, staging new listings, and streamlining the team’s workflow.
Originally from the Finger Lakes area of New York, she moved to Florida at a very young age and currently lives in Punta Gorda. She enjoys visiting Punta Gorda's waterfront parks, attending food and art festivals in Fort Myers, and going dancing with friends.
