Punta Gorda, Florida, is a great destination to discover Florida’s wildlife, as it’s conveniently located near the Gulf Coast and Florida’s Wildlife Corridor. Babcock Ranch has been an important part of the natural landscape surrounding Punta Gorda since the 1800s, helping preserve the marshes, forests, and prairies where native plants and animals continue to thrive. Here are a few of our favorite things to do near Babcock Ranch.
Ride Through Babcock Ranch on a Swamp Buggy
One of the best things to do near Punta Gorda, Florida, for nature enthusiasts is to take a Swamp Buggy Eco-Tour through Babcock Ranch. Visitors can take a 90-minute trek through the historic ranch, where they can learn more about its history and wildlife from expert guides. It’s a fun way for guests of all ages to learn more about the pollinators, plants, reptiles, and mammals living on the property.
If you’re trying to decide between seeing Babcock Ranch on a swamp buggy or a walking tour, you can learn more about which is right for you here.
Discover Florida’s Gulf Coast
Punta Gorda is near some of Southwest Florida’s best beaches along the Gulf Coast. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or walk along the beach and find seashells of all shapes, sizes, and colors. If you’re looking for adventure, the Gulf Coast is also popular for fishing, kayaking, boating, and more.
Go on a Birdwatching Walk
Guests who want to slow down and get a closer look at nature can opt for a walking tour through Palmetto Prairie. This tour takes just under an hour but has plenty for nature lovers to enjoy.
The roughly one-mile hike has minimal elevation change but still offers rustic scenery and plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. The wetlands and prairies are home to the Red-Cockaded Woodpecker, one of Florida’s most elusive species. They are also home to many other species birdwatchers can photograph or spot in person, including Eastern Meadowlarks, Sandhill Cranes, and Swallow-Tailed Kites.
Watch Florida Come Alive After Dark
Many visitors head to Punta Gorda to enjoy the Florida sunshine, but there’s a lot to see after dark. You can find excellent stargazing on nature trails outside the larger cities, giving visitors a chance to see constellations, galaxies, and planets. Another thing to do near Punta Gorda, Florida, is to take a moonlight eco-tour. While wildlife is active during the day, visiting at night is a great way to see alligators, Florida panthers, bats, and other creatures that are less visible in daylight.
Experience Wildlife and Nature at Babcock Ranch
No matter when you visit, Babcock Ranch is a great place for an eco-adventure near Punta Gorda, Florida. Home to one of Florida’s oldest eco-tour trails, Babcock Ranch is a place where you can unplug, unwind, and connect with wildlife in the heart of Southwest Florida. Book an eco-tour at Babcock Ranch to experience nature, wildlife, and adventure for yourself!
