The Sunshine State is the number one destination for the UK traveler heading to the United States. With the weather, quality and variety of courses, and ease of access to the major Florida hubs from the UK, it is not surprising that golf is a major part of that attraction.   But venture a little further afield from usual haunts and you discover a rich seam of Golf courses waiting to be discovered. While they may be relatively unknown to the UK visitor, they have long been recognized by US and Canadian traveler as being among the best of the best.   A short drive northwest of Tampa takes you to Punta Gorda / Englewood Beach. This wonderful gem reminds us why we fell in love with Florida. With a mixture of uncrowded beaches and nature and wildlife in abundance, it highlights the qualities that cause people flock back to Florida time and again.  It is also the perfect backdrop to play some of the best golf you will find anywhere.   With access to over 15 well-designed and thoughtfully laid out courses in the vicinity, all beautifully maintained, players of every ability will find their perfect spot. And after a day on the course,  relax and watch spectacular sunsets over a cold beverage while enjoying wonderful food.   Here are just five examples   Riverwood Golf Club regularly ranks in the top 10 on “Best of” Florida golf course lists. This 18-hole championship course boasts a gorgeous layout amidst beautiful natural terrain. It is challenging as you would expect from a course of this quality, but exceptional course management, layout and course conditions mean this is a joy to play. And the onsite restaurant is itself an award winner.   Babcock National Golf Club features a distinctive Gordon Lewis layout over 460 Acres. The 18-hole course is more than 7,000 yards long, it was completed in 2020 and is part of a brand-new planned community. It may be new, but it has consistently attracted plaudits from the golf world, players and journalists alike. Currently a public golf course, its perfect surfaces are a pleasure to play 365 days a year.   Rotonda Golf & Country Club is unique, with five distinct golf courses and a total of 99 holes. The Hills will test a golfer’s accuracy with its well-placed water hazards, each of Long Marsh’s 27 holes has its own character, The Palms boasts multi-tiered greens and two of Florida’s most demanding holes, Pinemore is a paradise of rolling fairways, and The Links, with its triple tiered greens and multi-fingered sand traps, will test club selection and skill. With all 5 accessible all year round the keen golfer may never have to venture any further.   Twin Isles Country Club is a Par 72, 18-hole championship course featuring plenty of water features and wide fairways that provide challenges for both high and low handicappers. Many bird species call the course home and often provide interesting displays. Entertainment is also high on the list in the Country Club with events, competitions and themed evenings part of the after-Golf mix.   Aileron Golf Club is a private course, in the sense it is only available to guests of the amazing Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor. This championship level Par 72, 18-hole course is easily accessible by guests, with shuttle service directly to and from the course. Featuring a brand-new clubhouse, onsite restaurant, pro shop, and much more. The Sunseeker Hotel itself is situated between Punta Gorda and Englewood Beach area is a brand-new resort hotel with over 20 dining options within the hotel complex two pools, one on the ground level the other at roof level, an adult only pool area and bar and dining.   Not Just Golf   Punta Gorda / Englewood Beach has craft markets and festivals to visit, beautiful unspoiled beaches, sensibly priced food beverage and hotel accommodation, water sports, river and harbour cruises and so much more, it will make any golfing trip truly memorable, for all the right reasons.

  Florida is known and loved by many, it’s obvious why the Sunshine State is the US the number one destination for the UK traveler. Drive a short distance northwest of Tampa and you will find Punta Gorda / Englewood Beach. This wonderful gem reminds us why we fell in love with Florida, with its mixture of uncrowded beaches, nature and wildlife in abundance. Add relaxed dining, wonderful local arts and crafts fold in spectacular sunsets and you will fall in love with Florida all over again.   What an insider tip?... It won’t break the bank. The town of Punta Gorda has an abundance of lodging options that will fit all budgets without compromising on quality, restaurants, bars and venues providing the finest, freshest Florida cuisine at sensible prices.   There is much to see and do here are some examples:   Charlotte Harbor   If you like towns filled with natural beauty and historical charm, then Punta Gorda ticks all the boxes. Situated along scenic Charlotte Harbor, the second largest bay in Florida, most of the hotels, restaurants parks and bike paths are on the waterfront. The bay area is a wonderful safe location to have fun on the water and indulge the senses on the shore.   Visit Fishermen’s Village   Shop, Dine and enjoy live entertainment, depart on sunset cruises around the harbor or spend some time on a floating Tiki Bar. Fishermen’s Village is a resort and local hangout that features waterfront shopping, dining, marina and unique accommodation that was born out of a fishing heritage and reimagined in the late seventies.   Vibrant Arts and Local Artisans and History   The Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Gardens are an inspired combination of modern art set in natural beauty and Punta Gorda is briming with opportunities to satisfy the artistic and inquisitive. The Visual Arts Center hosts local artists who come together in a shared space creating, sharing and selling unique artistic pieces. The Artisan Atelier is another modern creative space, studio and gallery, browse the modern art works or experience fine art at The Sea Grape Gallery. The Punta Gorda Historical Railroad Depot houses a Black History exhibit and an antique mall, and the Military Heritage Museum is a fascinating insight into a proud military heritage. The town has a trail dedicated to the 30+ Murals that decorate the walls and an audio app that can be downloaded to follow the trial and hear the history of how and why these were created.   Finish The Day   Nothing puts an exclamation on a day and sets up a great night, like watching a gorgeous sunset, and eating some of the finest food the area has to offer, and expertly cooked. Wash it down with locally produced beverages and enjoy a perfect end to a day of relaxing on a beach or exploring the many charms of Punta Gorda. There are craft markets and festivals to visit, Restaurant Weeks that allow you to experience many of the best local establishments, eating 2 or 3 courses at a fixed price. And over 70 Parks and Preserves to enjoy. And in November this year the Florida International Airshow takes place in Punta Gorda, filling the skies with breathtaking aerial displays.   Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, rediscover Florida as it used to be

  Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is a charming natural paradise located on the idyllic Southwest Gulf Coast. A short 2-hour drive from Tampa takes you back to the old Florida that people long for.   This coastal community surrounding the state’s second largest harbour and sits conveniently between Tampa and Naples. Long relaxing days among the beach communities, which are uncrowded and pristine, would be enough for most people. Searching for fossilized shark’s teeth, collecting shells or swimming in the crystal-clear waters, under vast blue skies. This is Florida, characterized by almost year-round sunshine. Recharging after wonderful days of exploring the areas nature paths or discovering over 830 miles of beautiful unspoiled shoreline.   Spending time sipping cocktails in beachfront cafes, or exploring Punta Gorda’s quaint local shops, visiting its museums or immersing yourself in the vibrant art and crafts of the area.   For others Punta Gorda and Englewood beach is an opportunity to get on the water and with so many alternatives, here are just a few options:   Stand-up Paddleboarding, Kayaking and Canoeing   Now firm favorites among the more energetic, Punta Gorda and Englewood Beach are a haven for water sports enthusiasts. With Nearly 200 miles of Charlotte Harbor Blueway Trails available to explore and local outfitters to supply all gear and guides, converts and novices alike can experience the area’s outstanding beauty. Embarking on a guided eco-tour or charting your own course, these peaceful water activities can also provide encounters with the area's diverse wildlife and pristine ecosystems.   Jet Skiing   Exhilarating jet ski rides along the Gulf's crystal-clear waters are a great way to explore the coastal scenery from the water, there are numerous local options to rent skis. Feel the wind in your hair as you zoom past picturesque shores, experiencing the ultimate rush of speed and freedom amidst the stunning coastal scenery.   Fishing Charters   Embark on the fishing expedition of a lifetime with experienced local guides who know the best spots to reel in the big catch. Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is known as being the “Tarpon Fishing Capital of the World.” Whether you’re angling for Blackfin Tuna, Cobia, Barracuda, Mahi Mahi, Amberjack, Snapper and Grouper, Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach offers abundant opportunities for a great catch.   Snorkeling & Scuba Diving   Getting out on the water is great, but if you’re a scuba or snorkeling enthusiast, getting in (and under) is even better. Happily, the destination has an assortment of professional dive shops in the area, ready to refill tanks, conduct classes, lead dive excursions, and more. In addition to comprehensive equipment repair and rental, these shops also carry other fun stuff like skim boards, masks, snorkels, and fins. If you’re already certified, a dive trip to explore the artificial reefs in Charlotte Harbor and the nearby Gulf of Mexico.   Parasailing   Take to the skies and behold panoramic views of Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach with thrilling parasailing adventures. Soar high above the coastline, suspended by parachutes, and savor the sensation of weightlessness as you glide effortlessly through the air.   There are many more options allowing you to get onto the water, sunset cruises, tiki boat adventures or just getting beside the beach while experiencing a vibrant waterfront dining scene.   The area encompasses the areas of Boca Grande, Don Pedro Island, Englewood-Cape Haze, Little Gasparilla Island, Manasota Key, Knight Island, Placida, Babcock Ranch, Port Charlotte, Charlotte Harbor and Punta Gorda. With so many activities on the beach, off the beach and in the surrounding area, this picturesque destination offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation.

  Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach in Florida recently carried out a training session for the international team and product managers at the Barrhead Travel Headquarters in Glasgow.   The comprehensive training included in-depth product knowledge about the area, which is situated on the Southwest Gulf coast of Florida. It included its many outdoor experiences from beaches to boating, fishing to golf, nature discovery to shelling and collecting fossilized teeth. The presentation also included the variety of accommodation available, including the five-star Sunseeker resort which opened in December 2023, and the ease of access from international airports such as Fort Myers and Orlando.   Aimee Blenker, Director of Sales for Punta Gorda/ Englewood Beach comments: ‘Punta Gorda / Englewood Beach is a gem in the Florida offering, and we are delighted to have been given the opportunity to provide training to key staff at Barrhead Travel, recognising their pre-eminent position in that sector of the UK travel market. We look forward to working with them and other agencies to fulfil the needs of the UK and Irish inbound travelers”   This is the first session in a roll-out of training which is expected to include a full training session in Barrhead Travel’s Northern England facility and a series of 30-minute slots at the travel agent’s weekly team meetings.

  A Florida Family Destination with so much to See and Do   Punta Gorda / Englewood Beach is a wonderful gem situated just a short drive from Tampa and a reminder of why families from the UK have come to love Florida. Why not see the other side of Florida and experience nature without breaking the bank.   Beach time, sunshine and 5 Family Adventures to experience in Punta Gorda / Englewood Beach.   Glass Bottom Rentals   There’s nothing like a serene paddle through crystal clear water, but it’s even better with Glass Bottom Rentals because you can see all that compelling sea life through the bottom of the kayak! Offering guided tours and rentals of clear and regular kayaks, canoes, and standup paddleboards, so you’re sure to find your perfect paddling vibe.   Peace River Wildlife Center (PRWC)   PRWC works tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate injured or sick wildlife and provides a forever home to animals who cannot be released. Of course, learning about wildlife is always worthwhile, but getting to see the animals up close is even more exciting, and well worth the family trip .   Iguana Land   With over 230 species, Iguana Land is the world’s largest reptile experience. Featuring everything from snakes and, of course, iguanas, to tortoises, turtles, chameleons, monitors, and more, this is a fascinating trek for anyone. Animal encounter experiences, rescue animals, and if you are up for it some up-to-close and personal time with fascinating creatures.   Babcock Ranch Eco-Tours   For a fun (and funny!) mix of history and nature, try a Babcock Ranch Eco-Tour. Your guide will share intriguing stories and insights while you enjoy a ride on a “swamp buggy” (converted school bus) and see all kinds of animals, from historic Cracker Cattle and alligators to deer, wild turkeys, birds of all kinds, and more.   "Any Beach at Sunset"   Nothing puts an exclamation on a day and sets up a great night, like watching a sunset. Beach time is a must, and all our beaches are the perfect place to watch those daily sky shows. This is Florida at its finest, and whether it is a family enjoying the ending of the day after a long relaxing beach experience, or an intimate romantic cocktail as you watch the gorgeous sunset, you will be set up for the next day and a new set of adventures in Florida’s best kept secret.

  Punta Gorda / Englewood Beach is a wonderful gem situated just a short drive from Tampa and a reminder of why families from the UK have come to love Florida. With an eye on family finances let this amazing location take the strain away from the big park experience in the south.   Here are 5 Reasons Families Love to Visit Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach   Secluded Beaches   Nothing says “Florida family vacation” like quality beach time, and we’ve got plenty of beautiful, uncrowded sandscapes for any family. Everyone will love playing in the water, finding shells and fossilized shark teeth, and building sandcastles.   Travel tip:  There are even free beach toys available to borrow at Englewood Beach.   Pristine Nature   From exploring wild and unspoiled nature preserves to romping in our many parks, there are myriad ways to get your family out and about around here. Wildlife abounds wherever you go, from the cute little lizard you may see in a restaurant courtyard to the dolphins you’re likely to see when on the water to the amazing array of birds, well… everywhere!   Endless Waterways   With so many options including miles and miles of Blueway Trails which are perfect for paddling and two major rivers— the Peace and Myakka—to explore, and the second-largest estuary in Florida, Charlotte Harbor. Activity on the water is great family fun and won’t break the bank.   Hiking and Biking Trails   Blessed with a myriad of nature and biking trails, long endless summer days, and sun kissed adventure is at your fingertips.   Travel tip:  There are free loaner bikes available at several spots in Punta Gorda so why not take advantage of this with your family and explore the beautiful harbour and surrounding spots.   Unforgettable Attractions   The area is full of unique attractions offering the kinds of experiences that help families make lasting memories here are a couple of examples:   Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens is fun for the whole family with their exclusive—and often whimsical—world-class sculptures and unique botanicals. Kids will also love the butterfly pavilion and feeding the Koi.   Fans of lizards, turtles, tortoises, and snakes will never want to leave Iguana Land, the world’s largest reptile zoo.   Kidstar Park is just plain fun, with go-karts (for both adults and kids!), an arcade, mini golf, a climbing maze, onsite restaurant, and more.   Added to this,  there are over 120 independent restaurants in the area, from vegan spots to steakhouses,  crab shacks to high-end gourmet establishments Traditional pubs featuring tried-and-true bar bites and modern restaurants offering creative fusions, with many of these restaurants also offer kid menus and/or kid-friendly food options, so everyone can find something to enjoy.   Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is one of the ultimate family-friendly destinations in Florida. Come on down to create some great and long-lasting family memories. See you soon!  

Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, the natural paradise on Florida’s South-west Gulf Coast, has an array of new amenities coming in 2024. Look out for a new hotel, a luxury tiki boat and new restaurant openings in 2024.   New hotel The 65 room/six storey hotel, as yet unnamed, is scheduled to open at the end of the year. It will include its own brewery and an indoor-outdoor bar with a courtyard on the sixth floor. It will be situated opposite Punta Gorda’s only Irish pub, ‘Celtic Ray Public House’ and is owned by the same company.   New Tiki boat

• ’The Oasis’, by Punta Gorda Adventures, will be the most luxurious tiki boat experience in the destination when it launches this month. It will feature plush lounge seating, upgraded lights, and an impressive sound system. The boat, which can cater for up to 36 people, is perfect for larger groups or single guests looking for a fun time.

  New restaurants Whiskey Joe’s restaurant will be situated opposite the new, 785 room Sunseeker Resort hotel which opened in December. The groundbreaking for Whiskey Joe’s recently place. Situated on a fine stretch of sandy beach, there will be indoor/outdoor dining, an open-air palapa bar offering tropical cocktails, live music and firepits and beach volleyball. This becomes the family-owned company’s fifth location in Florida. Two new, but very different restaurants, have just opened under the same roof. Penny’s Diner is a Fifties-style diner with traditional black and white flooring, turquoise booths and a jukebox. Penny’s Speakeasy offers fine dining and recreates a bygone era with antique furniture, twenties-style light fittings, an upright piano and exudes the aura of a vintage wine and bootleg cellar. Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach offers brings the best of Florida’s outdoor experiences and a laid-back lifestyle. From beaches to boating and fishing to golfing, visitors can enjoy both relaxation and adventure in a scenic subtropical outdoor setting. The nearest international airports are Orlando and Tampa. Calendar of Events | Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte & Englewood (pureflorida.com)

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  Aimee Blenker, representing Punta Gorda, FL, discusses tourism and community engagement. She praises the local tourist board for ensuring tourism benefits the community by making the destination appealing for both residents and visitors. The area's outdoor focus is highlighted with the slogan "best side is outside," showcasing a range of activities like state parks, ranch tours, and water sports. Blenker addresses environmental concerns, particularly the impact of climate change and hurricanes on the coastal community. Unique sustainability measures include an island accessible only by ferry and the use of golf carts, emphasizing responsible tourism practices and environmental awareness.