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Florida
301

Florida State Parks

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USA Parks
Florida
Southwest Region
Port Charlotte Beach State Park
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PORT CHARLOTTE BEACH STATE PARK
PORT CHARLOTTE BEACH STATE PARK
Port Charlotte Beach State Park is a family-friendly destination offering various recreational activities. It features amenities such as a heated swimming pool, tennis courts, picnic pavilions and playgrounds for children. The park also has fishing piers and boat ramps providing access to the Peace River leading into the Gulf of Mexico. Its sandy beach area offers stunning views at sunset while its tranquil environment makes it an ideal spot for bird watching or simply relaxing by the water's edge.

History of the Area
This park was established to provide recreational facilities for the local community. It offers various amenities like a fishing pier, boat ramp and picnic shelters.

The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times with archaeological evidence of Native American occupation. European settlers arrived in the 19th century but it wasn't until mid-20th century that development began on what is now known as Port Charlotte Beach Park.

In 1961, land acquisition started by Charlotte County Parks & Recreation Department which led to its opening two years later. The beachfront property quickly became popular among locals and tourists alike due to its scenic beauty and leisure activities offered.

Over time improvements were made including addition of playgrounds, tennis courts etc., making it an ideal spot for family outings or individual relaxation while enjoying nature's bounty.

Passes
Annual Entrance Passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year. Please call the park in advance to ensure availability. Those who are eligible for discounted or free passes may use this method to receive their pass. Annual Entrance Passes may be purchased online by visiting the FLORIDA STATE PARKS ANNUALENTRANCE PASSES web page.
Swimming
1. Port Charlotte Beach State Park offers a designated swimming area in the Peace River.
2. Lifeguards are not always on duty, so swim at your own risk.
3. The park's calm waters make it suitable for swimmers of all ages and abilities.
4. Swimming is allowed from sunrise to sunset throughout the year.
5. There are shower facilities available near the beach for rinsing off after swimming.
6. The warm Florida climate makes this an ideal spot for winter swims too.
7. Swimming aids like floats or noodles can be used but no inflatables due to safety concerns.
8. Beach wheelchairs are also provided by request making water access easier for those with mobility issues.



Boating
Boating options within this park include a boat ramp that provides access to the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor. Visitors can bring their own boats or rent one locally for fishing, sightseeing, or wildlife viewing. Kayaking is also popular in the area due to calm waters and abundant marine life. However, it's important to note that there are no rental facilities directly inside the park; visitors must arrange rentals from local providers outside of it.

Fishing
Enjoy fishing from the pier or shoreline, with species like snook, redfish and spotted sea trout available.

Try your luck at saltwater fly-fishing for tarpon.

For deep-sea enthusiasts, grouper and king mackerel are common catches offshore.

The park's mangrove-lined estuaries offer excellent opportunities to catch sheepshead fish.



Picnicking
1. Numerous picnic tables and grills are scattered throughout the park for a perfect family barbecue.
2. Shelters with seating areas offer shade for picnickers.
3. Enjoy waterfront views while dining at designated picnic spots near the beach area.
4. Picnic pavilions can be rented in advance, ideal for large gatherings or events.



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Directions
From North (Tampa):
- Head south on I-75 S.
- Take exit 170 for Kings Highway toward Port Charlotte/Charlotte County Airport.
- Turn left onto FL-769 S/Kings Hwy.

From South (Naples):
- Start by heading north on I-75 N
- Then take Exit 164 towards US17/Duncan Road
- Keep right at the fork and merge with Duncan Rd

Once in Port Charlotte:
From Kings Highway:
- Continue to Veterans Blvd.
- Turn right onto Veterans Blvd.
- Follow until Midway Boulevard intersection.

From Duncan Road:
- Merge into US41-North Tamiami Trail via ramp
- Make a U-turn after Conway boulevard

At Midway Boulevard Intersection/Tamiami trail :
- Turn eastward/right respectively,
- Continue till Harbor blvd then turn left/southbound,

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Florida
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Florida State Parks

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