Gulf Coast Attractions
Fishing
Fishing is very popular in the Engelwood area, with Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island only 15 minutes away, for Florida's finest and greatest tarpon fishing and some of Florida's best small fishing. Throughout most of the year trout, redfish, snook, sheepshead, snapper and great bottom fishing are at your fingertips. During March and April the migrating fish (mackerel, pompano, kingfish etc) can be caught easily as they pass north; a southerly migration of the same takes place in September through to November and later. Fishing licences can be purchased locally, with rod hire and bait. There are an abundance of fishing waters including the Gasparilla Sound Aquatic preserve and many inland coastal waterways around Port Charlotte, together with two local fishing piers.
Boating
If you enjoy boating, various charter agencies offer fully equipped powerboats for your boating pleasure. Half day, full day or extended rentals are available. Dolphin and manatee sighting cruises are available in the area.
Beaches
You can sunbath, swim or snorkel on the beautiful beaches and in the glorious warm waters nearby. Englewood Beach, Boca Grand and Manasota beach are all within 20 minutes drive of the property. Venice Beach, a 25-minute drive from Englewood, is the shark tooth capital of the world, has been a favourite for visitors for many years. A quaint downtown shopping area is a must - look out for the numerous painted pigs!
Wildlife
If you enjoy bird watching or studying flora and fauna, the area is rich in beautiful birds - if you are lucky you may even spot a bald eagle. Manatee and dolphin sightings are frequent, as are appearances by native birds such as herons, osprey and pelicans. During the winter months, the area is home to many shorebirds such as snowy plovers and skimmers. Indeed, the whole surrounding area is classified as a bird sanctuary.
Sports
Passionate about golf? Golfing in the area is well catered for, with five championship golf courses on Rotonda alone. Rolling greens, lush fairways and cool breezes, invitingly framed by native pines, oaks and palms.
Hiking, kayaking and canoeing are also all available in the area. There is a local tennis club in Englewood and tennis courts and a children's playground in the middle of Rotonda, together with a cycle path. Biking is very popular with several nature trails in the vicinity for cyclists and walkers to enjoy. Bikes are available for hire at the property.
Shopping
If you enjoy some 'retail therapy' then shopping in the area is well catered for, with Port Charlotte nearby boasting a variety of shopping malls. Exclusive St Armand's Circle in Sarasota is a must, and north of Sarasota is the Ellenton outlet shopping mall, offering designer labels at great prices.