Charlotte Harbour

Written by: Lynne Brooks
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Charlotte Harbour on the Cape Haze Peninsular.

Charlotte Harbour nestling by the Gulf of Mexico in Charlotte County is home to two freshwater rivers, the Myakka River and Peace River both of which flow into Charlotte Harbour and Lemon Bay and on into the ocean.

Charlotte Harbour’s bay is located at the bottom of the Cape Haze peninsular and is second in size to Tampa Bay. It is an important ecological bay that is off the beaten track of the well known Florida and hides an area that is often referred to as “Old World Florida”. A good way to experience this waterway is by kayaking, for those of you less brave, larger boats are available to hire, or take a guided cruise.

Punta Gorda is one of the oldest communities on the bay and started life in the 1800’s. It was here the wealthy built summer homes to escape the sultry heat of the north. These mansions line the waterfront by Gilchrist Park which now is a gathering point for the locals where impromptu and planned musical evenings take place.

Downtown Punta Gorda has been renovated and now has an interesting mix of shops, galleries and cafes. Towards the end of the Gilchrist Park is Fisherman’s Village where harbour cruises and fishing charters leave from. The afternoon cruise is an opportunity to see the bay and its surrounding communities, coupled with a commentary by the Captain on the history of the area. Sunset cruises and fishing charters leave from the village but do require reservations. Afterwards take time to stroll through the now restored buildings, home to a mix of shops; stop for lunch and watch the sun glistening on the water, or stay for dinner and watch the sunset over the harbour.

Across the bay is Port Charlotte which is a modern city and is the newest. It is a family community with a beach park, bordering the harbour.This small beach offers, recreation facilities, a fishing pier and swimming pools. Port Charlotte is also home to one of the largest malls in south west Florida, found on the corner of US41 and State Rd 776. The town has an array of small businesses, shops and restaurants and is the largest town in Charlotte county and is the seat of local government for this county.

Heading further north from Port Charlotte, you will traverse small communities and an abundance of golf courses until you reach Englewood, another delightful old world Floridian town, nestling beside Lemon Bay.

Dearborn Street is in the heart of the Historical district of Englewood and is lined with art galleries, gift shops, coffee houses and restaurants. Check the local papers for dates and times of events held here on a regular basis; from hot rod evenings to gift fayres.

I do not think you will be disappointed by time spent on the Cape Haze peninsular, it has something for everyone. The area is rich in nature and has a laid back approach to life, a chance to stop and rest from life’s all too hectic pace.