Adventure without the waiting lines, as much or as little to do as your clients please, and a tropical pace of living ripped straight from a Jimmy Buffett song await less than three hours from Orlando's theme park gates, making Punta Gorda the perfect centrepiece or complement to any Florida itinerary
It is little wonder that Punta Gorda bills itself as Florida's best-kept secret. The destination happily punches far above its weight: despite boasting a population of around 20,000 (less than 10% of Orlando's!), its story as a winter sun destination for domestic snowbirds and year-round hotspot for international visitation is well-told, and evident across its National Register of Historic Places landmarks and century-old City Hall.
Suite stays
Newer developments, like Fishermen's Village, have been designed to fit in seamlessly with that old Florida charm. That development, home to more than 30 shops and dining spots, is the jewel in the city's tourism crown. The all-suite resort that occupies its second storey, The Suites at Fishermen's Village, gives guests a perfect home base in the heart of many of the city's attractions. The two-bed, two-bath apartment-style configuration makes it an ideal pick for couples or families looking for spacious beachhouse vibes—in-room kitchens are a budget-friendly addition for those in search of an affordable antidote to pricey theme park stays.
Across the water from the city's tourist centre, the Sunseeker Resort, which last year joined Hilton's Curio Collection, is an entire destination in its own right. Dreamy panoramic views of the nearby harbour await at Reflections Pool & Bar and the Level Blue Rooftop, each boasting tropical tipples, lush greenery and laid-back loungers. If that weren't relaxing enough, the Lorelei Spa is home to 10 treatments and a full-service spa and salon; ideal to wind down in after a day at the guest-exclusive Aileron Golf Club, an 18-hole/par 72 course.
Beyond the resorts
Outside of hotel gates, the destination boasts a whole host of outdoor activities that make the most of Florida's tropical climate. It is home to more than 500 miles of coastline, best explored by paddleboard, kayak or one of several sightseeing boat operators that promise the chance of close-up encounters with dolphins and manatees that call the Gasparilla Sound home.
The Charlotte Harbour Environmental Centre and Babcock Eco Ranch both offer guided eco-tours that unpack the area's biodiversity.
For those who favour sand over swamps, Englewood Beach is an accessible pick and, seasonally, is home to nesting sea turtles. Blind Pass Park is a favourite for fossilised sharkteeth hunters, providing the potential for an adventurous eco-souvenir.
The agent opportunity
With its proximity to Orlando—a destination which attracts almost a million Brits every year—Punta Gorda is an easy add-on for those looking to combat the queues and shake off the stress of a theme park holiday, or a dreamy tropical stay for those in search of the great outdoors at their own pace.
The destination is an easy win for agents: commissionable product extends from attractions and properties like Sunseeker (looped in with Hilton's wider loyalty and commission structure) to entire packages bookable with the likes of Ocean Holidays, which offers seven nights' villa accommodation and flights from £1,000 per person.
Agents can earn certified Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Specialist status via the destination's 10-page training chapter in partnership with VISIT FLORIDA. Upon completion, specialists can share a marketing showcase package to begin client engagement about the dreamy Gulf Coast destination.
