Our beaches, outdoor adventures, restaurants, and other fun activities in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach are perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway

Spending time together is always special and if you’re the type of couple looking to spend more time outdoors embracing all the natural splendor or enjoying serene moments while bathed in the Florida sun, you might be an Outsider couple. Here on the Charlotte Harbor Gulf Island Coast, we say Outsiders Welcome.

Here are the top five activities Outsider couples like yourself are going to love in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach:
 

1. Adventures in Paddleboarding

There might not be a better way to see the variety of plants and wildlife on display along our shores than from a standup paddleboard (SUP). An excellent activity for couples of any age (seriously, you seniors are going to feel like kids again), this is the perfect blend of relaxing and exciting. Of course, you’re more than welcome to rent a board and explore the miles of Blueway Trails on your own, but for the ultimate Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach SUP experience, schedule a tour with a local guide to enjoy a peaceful tour of our area’s waters while learning about local plants, wildlife, and ecosystems.

Check out some of the visuals below for inspiration:



Even if you think you’re not the most coordinated person to pick up a paddle, the relaxed and friendly atmosphere created by knowledgeable tour operators will help almost anyone stand up with confidence. Also, falling over into the beautiful water will provide your significant other with a significant laugh, and isn’t that what a vacation is all about?

 

2. Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens

Couple enjoying Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens in Punta Gorda/Englewood BeachFound alongside the beautiful Peace River, this gorgeous 27-acre waterfront oasis encompasses several ecosystems, including marshlands, wetlands, mangroves, uplands, a tidal basin, and an island amphitheater. The Peace River Botanical  Sculpture Gardens are home to a variety of unique plants, flowers, trees, and art installations ranging from stunningly lifelike sculptures to abstract and thought-provoking pieces.

Not only that, they were recently named the #1 Hidden Gem in all America by Tripadvisor, so walking hand in hand through this oasis is a must for any outdoor and art enthusiasts. Even if you’ve been before, you’ll want to return as new flowering trees and plants bloom throughout the year and new sculptures are added. Make your visit even more special by attending one of their events! Outsider couples will enjoy exploring the gardens on the boardwalks and docks, stretching on for thousands of feet, providing optimum viewing of the park’s breathtaking sculptures and vibrant botanicals.
 

3. Romantic Sunset CruisesCruisin' Tikis Charlotte Harbor Sunset Cruise

Bring a perfect end to a perfect day with your loved one by taking in a magnificent sunset from a relaxing cruise on a charter boat. Tour companies like King Fisher Fleet, Crusin' Tikis Charlotte Harbor, Lemon Bay Dolphin Tours, and Punta Gorda Adventures offer sunset cruises of the harbor and Gulf  designed to set the mood for romance. Our Gulf of Mexico sunsets light up the sky with an array of vibrant, beautiful colors that you have to see to believe. While sunsets can be enjoyed from the beaches, waterfront restaurants, and hotel balconies, seeing the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying a soothing boat ride is by far the best way to do it. 
 

4. Waterfront Dining

Couple enjoying outdoor dining at The Captain's Table in Punta Gorda/Englewood BeachMaybe not the first activity that comes to mind when you imagine enjoying the beautiful outdoors of Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach with your sweetheart, but dining, especially waterfront dining with outdoor seating, is a great way to experience our outdoors. Restaurants such as Farlow’s on the Water, The Lighthouse Grill at Stump Pass, Laishley Crab House, and The Captain's Table offer incredible, Gulf-fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, delicious dishes, and plenty of outdoor seating so you’re never too far from our best side…outside. For an even more amazing view, try Perch 360, to take in the whole of downtown Punta Gorda, the bridges, and the harbor.
 

5. Beaches, Beaches, Beaches

Couple enjoying the beach on Don Pedro IslandPunta Gorda/Englewood Beach is home to a plethora of way to get out and enjoy nature, but for many, all those incredible outdoor experiences combined come in second to the area’s award-winning beaches. No matter if you lounge on the sand, swim or snorkel the light waves of the Gulf of Mexico, search for fossilized shark teeth, or build a sand castle, a beach day with the person you love means an amazing time. We have several wonderful options, but Englewood Beach is easy to get to, laid-back, and uncrowded. It's also within walking distance to a variety of beach restaurants, so it's the perfect spot for a relaxing day..

No matter what you choose to do, you and your significant other will find plenty to enjoy in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach.