Top 5 Watering Holes You Don't Want to Miss

By Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau on Aug. 16, 2023

Live music and dancing at Celtic Ray Public House in Punta Gorda, Florida Around here, a watering hole can be defined as a great spot with water views...or any place offering cool—or ice-cold!—drinks in a stylish space.

In fact, there are so many great establishments that qualify, it may be hard to choose, so this list aims to start you off on the right foot. We invite you to visit and create your own list though!

Peruse our list and check out this inspirational video for our recommendations for the Top 5 watering holes not to be missed:

5. Celtic Ray Public House

As authentic as it gets, the Celtic Ray Public House is an Irish person's Irish pub, with plenty of amazing brews on tap—including Guinness, of course—and famously tasty Fish 'n Chips and Shepherd's Pie. Come for the food and drinks, stay for the camaraderie, welcoming atmosphere, and live music in the Beer Garden.

4. Magnolias on the Bay

With a constantly-evolving menu and their amazing location right on Lemon Bay—that’s also just steps from Englewood Beach—Magnolias is the place to go for a deliciously upscale yet relaxed experience. Watch the chefs prepare the food in the open-concept kitchen, cozy up to the bar, or sit outside and enjoy the views of the water.

3. TT's Tiki Bar

Everyone’s favorite spot to chill out with a refreshing cocktail and a tasty bite, TT’s is the place to go!

Enjoy live music and dancing, beach volleyball and other games, gorgeous sunsets and boat watching, and most important: your recommended dose of sandy toes

2. IceHouse Pub

Featured on "America's Best Restaurant" on May 7, 2025, the IceHouse Pub holds a lot of history and culture. They're also the embodiment of a British Public House! This authentic spot offers a welcoming vibe, 26 beer taps, traditional pub games like Shove a Penny, darts, and more, and a varied menu offering bona fide British pub food and American classics.

1. Village Brewhouse

Smack dab in the heart of Fishermen’s Village, at Center Court, sits the Village Brewhouse. Patrons are drawn to this spot for the creative menu, refreshing cocktails, excellent water views, frequent live music and entertainment, and their convivial vibe. They also have indoor seating so you can follow your favorite sports teams.

Plan to raise a toast at any (or all!) of these great restaurants to make your trip unforgettably delicious!

Author

Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau

The Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau was established in 1997. The Visitor & Convention Bureau supports local businesses by promoting Charlotte County as a premiere travel destination, domestically and internationally, to consumers, meeting planners, travel trade and sports-rights holders.
We advocate for and promote Charlotte County as a warm, welcoming, and beautiful destination with positive economic growth and a focus on the preservation of natural resources to build a sustainable future for visitors and residents alike.
Learn more on our About Us Page and visit our Events Page to stay up to date on happenings in the area.
Blog content is created and reviewed by our amazing staff, (locals of course!). Through our posts we share those “in the know” tips, the “where the locals go” info, and the “places not to miss” to inspire travelers to visit. We share our knowledge by highlighting activities and events, the area’s unique natural appeal, and our prioritizing of conservation, sustainability, and accessibility. Our social media, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube in particular, focus on all there is to do, see, and eat in the area. Social posts and videos are created and shared by the VCB, by visitors, and sometimes by sponsored travel writers (always disclosed).
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, the Charlotte Harbor Gulf Island Coast is Florida’s premier ecotourism destination, free from crowds and off the beaten path yet still offering the comfort and amenities discerning travelers seek. Our location on Charlotte Harbor means endless miles of natural shoreline and outdoor assets like beaches, nature preserves, and waterways of all kinds. Visitors can find unlimited outdoor pursuits like sailing, boating, world-class fishing, paddling, birding, biking, dining and arts. Come find out why “Our Best Side is Outside℠.”