20 Attractions to Explore Near Don Pedro Island State Park

Don Pedro Island is a brilliant shipwreck-diving haven and secluded beach escape. It’s home to two gorgeous beaches: North Beach and South Beach. All of this is nestled within a state preserve abundant with natural beauty and wildlife. Snorkelers love Don Pedro Island for its extensive variety of aquatic life, including sea turtles, barracudas, moray eels, snook, permit, spadefish and tarpon just to name a few. The waters are crystal clear and often feature visibility of up to 100ft!

Little Gasparilla Island is connected with Don Pedro Island to the north by a thin strip of beach and mangrove swamp.

The Boca Grande Causeway consists of three bridges and crosses Gasparilla Sound over 2.5 miles, providing the only vehicular access to the island.

The Cape Haze Pioneer Trail, is the perfect getaway for outdoor adventurers. Stretching 12 miles from Placida Harbor to Gasparilla Road and covering a variety of scenic landscapes ranging from wetlands to beaches, this trail offers something for all levels of hikers and bikers. From sunbathing on one of the many sandy shorelines to wildlife spotting in pristine wildlife habitats, trekkers will find plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty surrounding this coastal paradise.

Gasparilla Island gets its name from the legendary pirate captain José Gaspar ("Gasparilla" 1756–1821), who had his base on the island and purportedly hid his fabulous treasure there.

Stump Pass Beach State Park opened to the public in 1971 with no services. Picnic pavilions, a boardwalk, outdoor showers, and restrooms were added to the park in 2000.

Oyster Creek Environmental Park is located on Peace River and is a beautiful recreational spot for the whole family. With over 488 acres of wetlands and trails, you will be captivated by the natural beauty of aquatic plants, birds, fish and other wildlife that inhabit the area. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and fishing while also getting an up-close view of the many types of wildlife living in the park. There are plenty of amenities to make your visit comfortable.

Englewood Beach is a well-maintained destination that offers pristine white coastline, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets. Visitors to the beach can enjoy a variety of activities like swimming, bird watching, and snorkeling. The beach is also home to some unique wildlife such as Loggerhead sea turtles, which may be observed laying eggs in spring and summer months. If a more relaxed day is desired, visitors can simply lounge along the beach and bask in the beautiful natural surroundings.

The Cape Haze Pioneer Trail that served Gasparilla Island existed from 1907 to 1981.

Blind Pass Beach is the perfect spot for anyone looking for a sunny retreat with plenty to do. Not only does the beach offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, but it's also the ideal place to go fishing or explore nature by taking a walk along the shore. Visitors can also cool off at the observation deck and search for unique shells that have been washed up onto the beach. For those who prefer activities on land, there are countless biking and hiking trails as well as picnic areas.

Gasparilla Island State Park is a lovely beach-side park that offers tremendous opportunities for outdoor recreation. Relax by the white sandy waterfront or explore the subtropical rainforest habitat known as the Boca Grande Hammock. Visitors of the park can take part in a variety of activities from scuba diving and kayaking to fishing and bird watching. For landlubbers, many excellent hiking trails exist winding through mangrove forest and across ancient sand dunes.

Charlotte Sports Park is a art sports complex that boasts 7 youth fields for different sports activities and is home to the minor league team, the Charlotte Stone Crabs. In addition to baseball games, This Park can host a variety of events that range from concerts and festivals to weddings or team-building exercises. With its numerous amenities, passionate staff, and convenient locations near restaurants and shops, it's no wonder why this sports park has become a well-loved attraction.

Ponce De Leon Park is an 80-acre park offers stunning views of nature, with pinelands and grassy meadows providing a blissful experience for guests. Visitors have the opportunity to appreciate its scenery on walking trails, playgrounds and pavilions. There's also space for avid fishermen and boaters with a dock offering access to a lake teeming with fishes. campers can find tranquility in secluded campsites scattered around the lake or choose to have some fun at the expansive picnic area.

Peace River Wildlife Center offers educational tours to the public.

Port Charlotte Beach Park is a beach lover’s dream. The park features incredible sandy shores that span four miles, with plenty of chances to spot dolphins along the way. It’s the perfect place to take a break and swim in the tranquil, warm Gulf waters or cast a fishing line and hope for a nibble. There are many amenities like picnic shelters and grills perfect for grilling your fresh catch, as well as restrooms, summer concessions, and access to kayak rentals.

Port Charlotte Town Center is one of the premier shopping and entertainment destinations in the greater Charlotte County. With its vast selection of stores, restaurants, and even a movie theatre, it's no wonder why locals and tourists alike flock to this popular attraction year-round. Whether you're looking to take in some local flavor while browsing the various specialty stores or want to grab a bite to eat with friends and family, Port Charlotte Town Center has something for everyone.

Water from the Peace River is crucial to maintaining the delicate salinity of Charlotte Harbor, home to several endangered species, as well as commercial and recreational fishing.

On Pearl Harbor Day, 2001, the Military Heritage & Aviation Museum opened at its original location. The company has grown and moved twice since then, arriving at its current location in 2019.

Gilchrist Park is an inviting area for both locals and visitors alike. Its picturesque shoreline, scenic beach access, and wide array of recreational opportunities make it a great destination for those wanting to experience the beauty of the Gulf Coast. From fishing, bird watching, and swimming to barbecue areas, picnic tables, and nature trails, this Park has something that everyone can enjoy.

Harborwalk is a 2.4-mile (3.9 km) multi-use recreational trail located in Punta Gorda