Definitions of the region vary, though its boundaries are generally considered Starting north with the south of the Tampa Bay area, west of Lake Okeechobee, and mostly north of the Everglades and to include Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties.
This area is an Environmental Gem. For many people, getting close to nature is one of the main reasons they move to the area. The natural beauty of Southwest Florida is special and unique, filled with nature preserves, pristine white sandy beaches, and the beautiful turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. It is Paradise with year around sunshine.
It’s a beautiful place with incredible wildlife, lush mangrove estuaries and the breathtaking Everglades ecosystem. Add to that incredible shopping, dining, and other attractions, and it’s no wonder Southwest Florida is one of the top vacation spots in Florida.
It is not just a vacation spot; people are moving to this area from all over the country to enjoy the beauty all year round. All year sunshine, beaches, golfing, boating and first-class fishing opportunities.
Let’s focus on the areas of Sarasota County and Charlotte County.
Starting with one of the biggest cities, Sarasota, FL. It seems the city attracts a younger crowd. Mostly because of its famous beaches, downtown and colleges in town. You have plenty of places to enjoy a cocktail with friends or wine and dine in one of the many restaurants. Also known for its Art history, like the Ringling Museum and is home to diverse community of artists.
Moving south along the coast, passing a few smaller towns, you will find the city of Venice, FL, shark tooth capital. Also known for Venice Beach, with its offshore coral reef, Caspersen Beach and North- and South Jetty. Part of Venice is home to a lot of gated and/or maintenance free communities. Most of them offer community activities and for sure Golf.
Heading east from Venice, you will find North Port, one of the fastest growing cities in the area. Before entering North Port, you will pass Wellen Park, a huge new planned development for approximate 20,000 homes including assisted living. Downtown Wellen Park offers shops and restaurants, Sundays Farmers Market. North Port is also home of the Atlanta Braves Spring Training at Cool Today Park.
Going back to the Gulf of Mexico, south of Venice you will find Englewood. Englewood is an old town with the unique charm of some old homes. Historic Dearborn Street with some local shops, seasonal Farmers Market and for sure multiple beaches, Blind Pass Beach, Manasota Key, Englewood Beach and Stump Pass.
Here starts the Cape Haze Peninsula, the Gulf of Mexico on one side, the Myakka River, and Charlotte Harbor to the other side. Surrounded by water makes it unique, and it is a Paradise to beach lovers, Boaters and Golfers. Besides Englewood there is, Grove City, Cape Haze, Placida, Rotonda West and South Gulf Cove (SGC). Tucked away like a hidden Gem. From here you can cross over to Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island, a place you want to visit.
Now let’s take a drive over the Myakka River on El Jobean Bridge to visit Port Charlotte. In Port Charlotte you will find a shopping mall and plenty of shops and restaurants. Soon you will be able to visit the Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor an escape to entertainment, fun and relaxation. This stunning waterfront resort offers 785 guestrooms ranging from premium hotel rooms to luxurious Sunsuites. You will find casual eats on the water to fine dining restaurants. Relax in one of the two luxury oasis-like pools, one on the rooftop and one on the ground level.
Heading further south over the Peace River into Punta Gorda, a paradise for fisherman and boaters. The western part is designed for Boaters and Golfers. You will enjoy the restored historic district, or a stroll along Harborwalk and a visit to Fisherman’s Village.
All these areas are easy to reach from I-75. There are also multiple Airports nearby, like Tampa, Sarasota, Punta Gorda and Fort Myers.