Car Rental in Punta Gorda

The south-west Gulf Coast is a corner of Florida to be treasured. Things move at a gentler pace here than in Miami or the main resorts. But, you’re still getting the same beautiful Florida sunshine and lying on the same soft, golden sand.

Punta Gorda lies a little north of the more famous towns of Naples and Fort Myers, on the I-75 interstate highway. Follow that road south as it swings east, passing through the Big Cypress National Preserve on its way to Fort Lauderdale, the Atlantic Coast and Miami. Stay on it as it goes north, to reach Venice and Tampa, before heading through the centre of the state on its way into Georgia.

Driving in Punta Gorda is memorable with harbourside stretches, state parks, fresh springs and golden beaches lining the roads. Route 41 crosses the Peace River to the north, connecting you with Charlotte Harbor. The north-east part of Punta Gorda has a simple grid layout, while the south-west is more residential, with streets built around waterways, lending it a unique charm.

Speed limits in Punta Gorda will be clearly signposted. If you’re heading out to see more of Florida, limits vary by road type, with a top speed of 70mph (112km/h) on rural stretches of the interstates. Those same roads will usually have a minimum speed of 50mph (80km/h). Remember wearing seatbelts is compulsory in the US and that you can make right turns on a red light at intersections, as long as there’s no sign prohibiting it and the way is clear.

Punta Gorda is the place to be if you want to skip the crowds and the lines, but still enjoy that classic Florida flavour. Best of all, if you want to visit the bigger resorts and cities, you’re only a short drive away in your rental car.

The Old Florida feel

Punta Gorda is a refreshing step back in time. The sensitively restored historic district’s palm-lined streets are a pleasure to walk along. The tin-roofed houses have a southern feel, while the town is peppered with waterways and harbourside walks. Visit the A.C. Freeman House, a museum on West Retta Esplanade, to experience a fine example of a Victorian-era home.

If you’re here for the fishing, head to Laishley Park Municipal Marina, where you can moor your boat or look for a rental. There’s also a fishing pier here if you’d prefer to stay on dry land.

Fishermen’s Village is the liveliest part of town, home to stores, resorts, restaurants and bars, all affording you a perfect view of the harbour. It’s ideal for souvenir shopping, with gifts carrying on the nautical theme. Dining is definitely casual here – whether it’s chicken wings or stacked burgers at Scotty’s Brewhouse, or coconut shrimp and crab cakes at Harpoon Harry’s.

A Gulf in class

The nearby Gulf Coast resorts are perfect for a day trip from Punta Gorda. Naples is a low-rise and sophisticated resort with one of Florida’s best beaches. Find a prime sunbathing spot or explore the town itself, with its museums, nature centre and botanical gardens.

Cross the Sanibel Causeway to the lovely island of Sanibel, which has been unspoiled by mass tourism. Half of it is a wildlife refuge, while the other half is filled with handsome sand dunes. Lighthouse Beach Park has a beautiful late 19^th century lighthouse, while sunset lovers flock to Bowman’s Beach, which rarely gets overcrowded. The island packs a lot into a small area – you’ll also find a quaint historical village, shell museum and incredible wildlife.

For the ultimate in chilled-out coastal life, drive north-west to Venice. Sunseekers rejoice - there are 22 kilometres of beaches here. There’s also a fishing pier and friendly restaurants, but mostly this town is all about relaxation. If the kids are in need of adventure, send them to search for fossilized shark teeth, which are often found on the stretches of sand here, most commonly on Caspersen Beach.

Book car rental in Punta Gorda to experience the magic of one of Florida’s hidden gems.