Gay Punta Gorda

The only incorporated city in Charlotte County, Punta Gorda is located in the southwest area of Florida, between Sarasota and Fort Myers. With a population of only around 16,000, it is a very small city that resembles a medium-sized town. Punta Gorda is a delightful location within a comfortable driving distance from Tampa, Orlando and Miami.

The name Punta Gorda means 'fat point'. It is a perfect description of this historic small town and hidden treasure of Florida, which protrudes out into the water where Charlotte Harbor and the Peace River meet.

What do you want to discover?

What's the Gay Scene Like?

Best Time to Visit Punta Gorda

Top Things to See and Do in Punta Gorda

MUST DO: Attractions & Activities

MUST EAT: Gay-Friendly Dining

MUST VISIT: Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife

Travel Safety Tips

Local Expert: Gay Scene in Punta Gorda

Punta Gorda welcomes LGBT visitors from anywhere around the world. The community is gay-friendly and this destination makes the ideal getaway for those who enjoy connecting with nature, participating in a weekend festival, dining in nice restaurants or just looking for a relaxed vacation. 

The annual Peace River Pride celebrates the gay community, history and culture where there are numerous drag performances from local artists, food trucks, music entertainment, vendors, games, beer, and more. For the past seven years, Charlotte County Pride has hosted the event, collaborating with ARAY (All Rainbow and Allied Youth) last year and having around 3,000 people. ARAY is a Charlotte County nonprofit that provides direct services to LGBTQ+ youth in need.

Best Time to Visit Punta Gorda

The best time to visit Punta Gorda is in March, November, and December when you can completely soak in the experience and the weather is favorable with the activities during these months in Punta Gorda. The weather and climate of Punta Gorda is suitable for a sun vacation.

Top Things to See and Do in Punta Gorda

1) Fishermen's Village 

2) King Fisher Fleet 

3) Babcock Wilderness Adventures 

4) Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary 

5) Boca Grande 

6) Peace River Wildlife Center 

7) Alligator Bay Distillers 

8) Laishley Park

9) Harborwalk 

10) Gilchrist Park

MUST DO Punta Gorda Attractions & Activities

Started as a deepwater sea port and railroad resort town, Punta Gorda has a fascinating, historical downtown area and a picturesque waterfront area with a large harbor, marinas and many waterfront parks. 

Aside from its historic district, Punta Gorda offers many natural attractions, waterside shopping and leisurely strolls along the Harborwalk and at Fishermen's Village on Charlotte Harbor.

Photo Credit: David Sussman

Once called “The Sportsman’s Paradise,” fishing is one of the top activities visitors do when they are in Punta Gorda. Charlotte Harbor is well-known for world-class fishing and serves as an important breeding ground for several kinds of fish. 

Aside from that, Punta Gorda is one of the country’s most bicycle-friendly cities. There are several bicycle paths throughout the city and if you don’t have your own, you can pick up a free yellow loaner bike. There are several pickup locations throughout the city and these are compliments of the volunteer organization named TEAM Punta Gorda.

MUST EAT Punta Gorda Gay-Friendly Dining

Located in the heart of downtown Punta Gorda, Trabue Restaurant offers fresh and modern American food. Trabue is a great change from the famous restaurants that line the streets of other cities. From the interior design to the service and menu, Trabue is truly one of a kind.

The Perfect Caper is another fine dining option in downtown Punta Gorda. They offer a menu with Asian fusion accented with French and American flavors. This casually elegant neighborhood restaurant is a cool and peaceful oasis on sunny Florida days. 

If you enjoy nachos, quesadillas, tortilla chips, burgers, sandwiches, and desserts with a south of the border flair, you'll enjoy Dean’s South of the Border in downtown Punta Gorda.

MUST VISIT Punta Gorda Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife

Located on the Peace River waterfront, Laishley Crab House has stunning views over the river from their outdoor dining deck.

Fat Point Brewing is a craft brewery located just outside downtown Punta Gorda. They are serving limited edition and special release beers out of the taproom.

The Ice House Pub is an authentic English styled pub, located in the heart of Punta Gorda.

Celtic Ray Irish Pub is an Irish restaurant and pub offering live entertainment and different food choices such as Irish, Indian, British cuisines and more.

Travel Safety Tips

Personal safety is an important factor when selecting a Florida vacation destination or new place to live. Punta Gorda is listed as one of the top 10 safest places in Florida. A lot of activities in the area and locals socializing suggest that it is a safe one.