5 Islands to Explore in Charlotte County

Located on the coast of Charlotte Harbor, Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park covers 46,000 acres (190 km2).

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!

Don Pedro Island State Park is only accessible by boat and is open from 8:00 am till sundown year-round.

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.

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