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 | Southwest Florida Beaches & Waterfront ParksWaterfront ParksLaishley ParkLocated In downtown Punta Gorda the park looks out onto the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor. This waterfront area offers places to sit and watch the boats go by. You can also suntan, but as far as sand it is not here. There is a new Marina and very long boardwalk, great for fishing with absolutely beautiful views. Gilchrist ParkLocated on the opposite side of 41 from Laishley Park this waterfront park has much to offer for people of all ages. With a boardwalk, gazebo, park benches, lovely landscaping, restrooms, tennis courts, a sand playground and a hall. The hall, gazebo and park are all available for rental. A beautiful location for a many a wedding it has been and absolutely beautiful place to watch the sunset. Don Pedro Island State ParkDon Pedro Island in Boca Grande is part of an extensive chain of barrier islands extending along the Gulf Coast of Florida. Don Pedro Island is located west of Cape Haze, and is only accessible by boat. Located in Charlotte County between Knight Island and Little Gasparilla Island, Don Pedro Island has approximately one mile of beach that has been acquired for use as a state recreation area. Shelling is a popular activity at the park, especially during the winter months. Visitors are reminded that the taking of live shells is prohibited. A picnic pavilion, restroom facility, tables and grills are available on the island. There is also wildlife viewing, some of the protected animal species that may be seen on the island are the West Indian manatee, gopher tortoise, southern bald eagle, least tern, royal tern, sandwich tern and the American oystercatcher. Park Activities include: Boating - Docks available for day use only are located on the bay side via a channel from the Intracoastal Waterway. Fishing - Fishing is available on both the Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf of Mexico and can yield catches of flounder, snook, trout, redfish, snapper, whiting, sheepshead and tarpon. The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year. For more information call (941) 964-0375. Ponce De Leon ParkThis beautiful spring is named for Juan Ponce de León, who led the first Spanish expedition to Florida in 1513-as legend has it-in search of the "fountain of youth." Visitors might well regain their youth by taking a dip in the cool, clear waters of Ponce de Leon Springs where the water temperature remains a constant 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The main spring is a convergence of two underground water flows, and produces 14 million gallons of water daily. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along two self-guided nature trails through a lush, hardwood forest and learn about the local ecology and wildlife. Rangers also conduct seasonal guided walks. Picnicking is a popular activity at the park; grills and pavilions are available. Anglers will enjoy fishing for catfish, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and panfish. Located one-half mile south of U.S. 90 on County Road 181A. For further information call The Florida Park Service Information Center at 850-836-4281. Amenities: Landscaping, benches, litter receptacles, drinking fountain and statues. There is an admission Fee of $3 per person |
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