Historic docks transformed at Fishermen’s Village
In Upper Charlotte Harbor, near the confluence of the Peace River, lies a colorful collection of waterfront restaurants, boutiques, a resort, a marina, recreational sports and special events.
In what was originally a pier that was used to transport ice by railroad, and was later the home of fish companies and boat shops, is now Punta Gorda’s ever-so-popular and all encompassing destination.
“Fishermen’s Village offers a waterfront setting on pristine Charlotte Harbor, independently owned and operated unique shops and boutiques, waterfront dining, day and sunset cruises, boat rentals, military museum, people watching, live entertainment, a free bicycle loaner program, special events and magnificent sunsets!” says Kathy Burnam, marketing/events manager.
You will find art galleries with local and national artists, jewelry stores, gift shops, retail stores with sports equipment and attire, and even specialty stores offering organic handmade soaps — the Naples Soap Company, and imported olive oils, spices — Bella Balsamic & The Pressed Olive. There are also casual dining options, such as Harpoon Harry’s with live music and a full service bar, as well as those that offer a finer dining experience — Village Fish Market and The Captain’s Table.
Recently added is the Little Minnows children’s clothing boutique, as well as a library and conference center for the Military Heritage Museum (free admission), also located at Fishermen’s Village.
In addition, there are plenty of activities and events. “We are hosting a couple of great musical groups in late April,” says Burnam. On Saturday, April 25, classics singer/songwriter Pat Surface will perform on center stage from 5-9 p.m. (free). On Sunday, April 26, MTD Music & Arts will present performances by its students, 2-4 p.m., center stage (free).
“Coming in May, Fishermen’s Village is hosting our third annual Key Lime Festival,” says Burnam, who says that it’s all about the lime — Key lime, that is. At the event, the merchants will feature Key lime products, unique vendors will adorn walkways, there will be live entertainment with Gator DJ, face painting by Metamasque, balloon creations with Jeff the Juggler, and entertainment by the Hot Flashz Dance Team and much more — all in a picturesque waterfront setting. The date is Saturday, May 16.
For those who want to enjoy sports and other waterfront activities, they won’t be let down either. Cruises and charters are available through King Fisher Cruises and Charters, along with boat, paddleboard and jet ski rentals, available through Holidaze Boat Rentals — both located on site at the marina.
If coming by boat, Fishermen’s Village offers a large courtesy dock on the west side. The dock is for day use only and space is first-come, first-served. “There is no need to call ahead for use of the courtesy dock. However, for overnight docking, a reservation should be obtained in advance of arrival,” says Jim Branch, harbormaster.
The marina was selected a National Marina of the Year in 2008, and has been named Best Marina in Charlotte County by both the Charlotte Sun newspaper and the Harbor Style magazine. The marina offers ValvTect marine non-ethanol gas and diesel, 141 slips, and welcomes liveaboards who can enjoy a heated pool, clay tennis courts, laundry facility, loaner bikes and a boater’s dayroom. The marina is also a designated Florida Clean Marina by Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection.
For those who would love to venture around Punta Gorda, either before or after a trip to Fishermen’s Village, they can travel via Surrey Bike — a 2-4 seat, 4-wheel bike with canopy that can be rented too via Holidaze Boat Rentals at Fishermen’s Village.
Of course, walking is an option. Fishermen’s Village is located within walking distance (about a mile) of downtown historic Punta Gorda.
The city was founded in 1884 on 30 acres of land, and now features historic buildings, retail stores, restaurants, along with Laishley Park Municipal Marina, Harborwalk and Linear Park. For more information: ci.punta-gorda.fl.us.
If you go
What: Fishermen’s Village
Where: 1200 W Retta Esplanade #57A, Punta Gorda
By boat it is located in upper Charlotte Harbor, near the confluence of the Peace River. Harbormaster monitors U.S. Coast Guard radio channel 16.
When: December through April: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily, noon - 6 p.m. Sunday
May through November: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily, noon - 5:30 p.m. Sunday
Contact: 941-639-8721
fishville.com
Event
What: The third annual Key Lime Festival
Merchants will feature Key lime products or specialties, unique vendors will adorn walkways, live entertainment with Gator DJ (11 a.m.- 3 p.m.), face painting by Metamasque (11 a.m.-3 p.m.), balloon creations with Jeff the Juggler (noon-3 p.m.), entertainment by the Hot Flashz Dance Team (2 p.m.)
Where: At Fishermen’s Village
When: Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.