When in Punta Gorda, we found that a stop by Fishermen’s Village is a must. In short, it’s a resort, marina, shopping area and entertainment complex rolled into one.

We have visited Punta Gorda in the past, but only have blogged about their wonderful historic section. That being said, this is a part of the trip you really want to include.

Fishermen’s Village from one of its many parking lots.

Then & Now

The origin of Fishermen’s Village dates back to the turn of the century. Actually, the 20th Century. It stands on the site of the Maud Street City Docks which were built in 1928 to replace the old King Street pier. That’s where the fish packing plants were located.

In 1980, Fishermen’s Village was constructed as an integral part of the historic Punta Gorda community. As we toured the facility, we found row upon row of shopping and dining,

Outside there is a large marina featuring fishing charters, Charlotte Harbor boating excursions, boat rentals and villa vacation rentals. Additionally, there are live entertainment and special events. 

Helen M is one of the tour boats that runs out of Fishermen’s Village.

The Helen M and The Charlotte Lady are two of the vessels run by King Fisher Fleet who specialize in sightseeing and fishing excursions. Another group sailing out of Fishermen’s Village is Holidaze Boat Rentals. They have nearly a dozen different vessels including center console, pontoon and deck boats. Also available for rent are kayaks, paddleboards and even a four-seater surrey bike (for land lubbers).

Shopping

Inside is a shopper’s paradise. The manifest includes 15 different gift and specialty shops with another 11 boutiques.

There are lots of great stores inside Fishermen’s Village including Caribongo.

From The Wash Basin, an artsy gift shop with hand-painted walls and floors, to the very fun Laff Out Loud – a center for games, puzzles, toys, nostalgia and Pop Culture Collectables – there’s something for everybody at this waterfront mall.

Boutiques include Trader Jack’s – the home of casual coastal wear and performance fishing gear, the ladies’ sandals, handbags and accessories of The Ruby Slipper and Palms on the Pier. They feature name brands such as Brighton, Vera Bradley, Tribal Sportswear, LuLu B. Clothing to name a few.

Hungry?

All that shopping can make you hungry. Don’t worry, we found four different restaurants – plus another three specialty food and drink outlets.

One of the specialty shops is the 1950s themed coffee and ice cream shop.

There’s the self-explanatory Good Ole Days Coffee and Ice Cream Shop. Or perhaps you might prefer nostalgic candies, gourmet chocolates, home made fudge or popcorn at the Simply Sweet Confectionery Cafe. They also boast the best gelato around.

Anchoring the restaurants at Fishermen’s Village is the dynamic duo of Harpoon Harry’s and The Captain’s Table. They bill it as “fun dining and fine dining.”

Harpoon Harry’s is the fun part. A restaurant and sports bar, they have been overlooking Charlotte Harbor for better than a quarter century. They have appetizers from gator bites to lobster ravioli. There’s also soups and salads, sandwiches, baskets, steam pots and even a raw bar.

It’s a great view off the deck at Harpoon Harry’s at Fisherman’s Village

Upstairs is the fine dining. The Captain’s Table offers unsurpassed views of Charlotte Harbor – especially at sunset. From their starters, to their greens, land fare and sea fare dishes are prepared with care by their award-winning chef. Private dining also is available.

In the end, there is something for everyone at Fishermen’s village. There’s a wide range of gift shops and boutiques, small eateries, wonderful restaurants and plenty of opportunities to get out on the water. Whether it’s daytime shopping or the nightlife during one of their special events, Fishermen’s Village is a must see.

You can find out more here.