City of Punta Gorda, FL
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Punta Gorda is proud to be one of Southwest Florida's premier boating destinations. Our city is defined by its waterfront, from the expansive, world-class sailing of Charlotte Harbor to the miles of serene, residential canals. Whether you're a lifelong sailor, a passionate angler, or a casual day-cruiser, our waters offer an unparalleled experience.
Resting on the shores of the second-largest harbor in Florida, Punta Gorda provides access to the Peace River, the Myakka River, and the Gulf of Mexico via the Boca Grande Pass.
City Boat Ramps and Marina
The City maintains public-access facilities to get you on the water quickly and safely.
- Laishley Park Municipal Marina (120 Laishley Court) is located in Laishley Park on the shoreline of Charlotte Harbor and the Peace River. The Marina has 85 boat slips and a public boat launch, with ample public parking. It features a Day Room for a shower and cleanup and has Boater's Bathrooms which include showers. It also includes a large Community Room which is intended for use by community groups, private functions and civic and corporate meetings.
- Ponce de Leon Park (3400 Ponce de Leon Parkway) Situated at the city's western edge, this park's boat ramp is the perfect gateway to the Punta Gorda Isles canal system and Charlotte Harbor. It features a public ramp, dedicated trailer parking, and nearby amenities like fishing piers and a small beach area perfect for watching the sunset.
Liveaboard Amenities
For those who make the water their home, Laishley Park Municipal Marina is proud to offer outstanding amenities for liveaboard boaters (available for a fee). Our goal is to provide comfort and convenience, with facilities including:
- Private boater's bathrooms with showers
- On-site laundry facilities
- A day room for boaters to relax and socialize
- A retail ship store for supplies
- Convenient boat pump-out services
Our Waterways
Punta Gorda's unique boating landscape is dominated by two distinct yet connected water systems.
- Charlotte Harbor: This massive, protected body of water is a haven for sailors, power boaters, and anglers. It's renowned for its world-class fishing (especially for tarpon, snook, and redfish) and offers countless spots to explore, from secluded mangrove islands to sandbars perfect for a picnic.
- Residential Canal Systems: The city maintains over 50 miles of residential canals, primarily in Punta Gorda Isles (PGI) and Burnt Store Isles. Most of the PGI system features deep, wide canals with no fixed bridges, offering sailboat water access directly from your backyard to the harbor.
A Vibrant Boating Community
A love for water is a core part of our community's identity. Punta Gorda is home to numerous boating groups and clubs that foster friendship, safety, and advocacy.
- Punta Gorda Boaters Alliance: A non-profit organization representing thousands of local boaters, the Punta Gorda Boaters Alliance works to protect boaters' rights, promote safety, and advocate for our waterways. Skippers of yachts, fishing boats, and kayaks will find a friendly welcome.
- Isles Yacht Club: A prominent club within Punta Gorda Isles, the Isles Yacht Club features its own 45-slip marina and a full calendar of social events, cruises, and gatherings for its members.
- Punta Gorda Boat Club: Located on Retta Esplanade, this active club offers a wide variety of activities for its members, including power boating, sailing, and kayaking. Punta Gorda Boat Club is well-known for its calendar of social events, organized cruises, and dedication to community service.
- Gulf Shore Sailing (Learn to Sail): This organization is dedicated to teaching the art and joy of sailing to both children and adults. Gulf Shore Sailingoffer a wide variety of classes for all skill levels, from novices to experienced sailors, helping the community safely enjoy all that Charlotte Harbor has to offer. Already an experienced sailor? Volunteers are welcome to assist in their educational efforts.
Charlotte County-Punta Gorda Marine Disposal Information
The Clean Vessel Act (CVA) of 1992 prohibits the discharge of raw sewage into fresh water or within coastal salt-water limits. Boat pump out facilities provide a convenient way to properly dispose of boat sewage. Moored at the Laishley Park Municipal Marina, the SS Clearhead brings pump out services to the boater, providing added convenience.
