Punta Gorda is a hidden treasure of a small city along the Peace River with a historic downtown district, thriving nightlife scene, award-winning independent restaurants, pristine parks, and easy access to the waters of Charlotte Harbor.
Whether you prefer action-packed outdoor adventure or wining and dining by candlelight, here are some ideas that prove you don’t have to go far to craft the perfect date for you and your sweetheart.
The Couple Who Wines & Dines
There are plenty of beautiful, locally-owned restaurants with stellar food that will meet and exceed all your romantic dinner date ideas in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach. Below are just a few of our favorites:
Carmelo's Italian Ristorante
Considered by many to be the best date-night restaurant in the area, the award-winning Carmelo's Italian Ristorante serves authentic Italian dishes in an amazing array of flavors, from twists on traditional favorites to old family Sicilian recipes. Experience the ultimate romantic outdoor date in their string-lit garden, where you’ll swoon at the soulful melodies from a solo guitarist.
Perch 360
Located on the rooftop of The Wyvern Hotel, Perch 360—and their new SkyDeck—overlook Downtown Punta Gorda and the Charlotte Harbor and offer unparalleled view. Cozy up in a private cabana and enjoy signature cocktails and 
boutique wines, a tapas-style, sharable menu, and live music under the stars, for a wonderful and romantic experience.
The Perfect Caper
Chef Jeanie Roland, nine-time Florida Trend Magazine "Golden Spoon Award" winner, uses refined French techniques and Asian influences to create unique cuisine that keeps patrons coming back again and again. Her unique vision and expertise with local ingredients, fresh fish, and organic or all-natural poultry and meats means magical meals at The Perfect Caper.
The Outdoorsy, Adventurous Couple
Few things are more satisfying than a cold drink and a good meal after an adventure, especially when that adventure involves the water, the beach, eco-tours in the beauty of our nature spaces, hiking, biking, and just being outside. Find your next couples adventure:
Punta Gorda Harborwalk
Punta Gorda's Harborwalk is a 2.5 mile pathway that curves along the Charlotte Harbor shoreline and offers the most diverse date experience of all. From nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts to bar hoppers and sports fanatics, there is something for everyone. Along your stroll, you’ll discover mangrove forests, fishing piers, parks, restaurants, shopping and bars. With so much to do, you could create an all-new experience every time you go.
Babcock Ranch Eco-Tours
Take a ride on the wild side. On the Babcock Ranch Eco-Tours, you’ll embark on a swamp buggy excursion through four different ecosystems while learning about the Florida Cracker heritage. Get up close with native wildlife including alligators, whitetail deer and even a Florida panther.
Boating & Watersports & Beach Time
There’s something magical about being on the water with the one you love. Kayak or canoe rentals and stand-up paddleboarding, sightseeing excursions and sunset cruises are some of the best ways to experience paradise firsthand. Whether island-hopping or lazing on a beautiful beach, shell-hunting, fishing, wildlife watching, or soaking up a world-famous Florida sunset, you’ll cherish these memories for years to come.
Get Some Wheels on the Road
Punta Gorda is proud to be a bike-friendly city, and even offers several spots where you can hop on a free loaner bike to explore the area. Find more details on our Biking page.
The Cultured Couples & History Buffs
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is bursting with world-class art installations and galleries, live music and performance, and history. You'll find all manner of culture to enrich your trip:
Historic Downtown Punta Gorda
Nearly every block of historic Downtown Punta Gorda features murals that pay homage to the rich heritage of this waterfront town. Download a mural map and take a self-led photography tour. Take a break with a refreshing drink at Downtown Kava, located in the Punta Gorda Historic Railroad Depot & Antique Mall.
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens
Submerse yourselves in a sanctuary of art and nature at this breathtaking garden park. The Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens covers 27-acres of preserved wetlands, transformed to showcase world-class art sculptures and over 3,500 botanicals such as orchids and hibiscus gardens. Take in the beauty, fresh air and artistic inspiration hand-in-hand.
Performing Arts
Catch a play by the Charlotte Players at their own theatre or find a concert from the Charlotte Chorale or a full operatic performance from the Gulfshore Opera (October through April). For an evening of laughs, check out nationally-renowned comedy acts at Visani Italian Steakhouse and Comedy Theater.
No matter your interests and your vibe as a couple, you'll find plenty to delight both of you in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach. See you soon!
