Public Boat Launches in Southwest Florida

Public Boat Launches in Southwest Florida

Public Boat Launches in Southwest Florida (Updated 2025)


Below is a practical, county-by-county list of public boat ramps across Southwest Florida. I’ve focused on facilities that routinely accommodate trailered boats, with notes on typical water access. Always verify ramp status, parking fees, and any temporary closures before towing.


Lee County (Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Pine Island, Bonita Springs)


RampCity/AreaPrimary Water AccessNotesPunta Rassa Boat RampFort Myers/Sanibel approachSan Carlos Bay, Gulf accessHeavy weekend use; good for offshore and island runs.Matlacha Boat RampMatlachaMatlacha Pass, Pine Island SoundCentral for Pine Island Sound fishing.Pine Island Commercial Marina (public ramp)St. James CityPine Island Sound, San Carlos BayPopular for backcountry and island hopping.Lavender’s LandingBokeelia (Pine Island)Charlotte Harbor/Pine Island SoundNorth-end access toward Boca Grande.Imperial River Boat RampBonita SpringsImperial River to Estero BayRiver run to Estero Bay; tidal planning helps.Alva Boat RampAlvaCaloosahatchee River (fresh/brackish)Inland access; lock-aware trip planning.Davis Boat RampSan Carlos Island areaEstero BayQuick reach to Fort Myers Beach backwaters.Cape Coral City Ramps (saltwater)Cape CoralCaloosahatchee River/Gulf via canalsBurnt Store, Horton Park, Rosen Park; 24/7 unless under repair; city parking permit available.Cape Coral City Ramps (freshwater/unimproved)Cape CoralFreshwater canal system (no Gulf)Multiple unpaved launches for inland lakes/canals.

Lee County notes: County-operated ramps typically charge daily parking fees or honor annual passes; check current rates.


Collier County (Naples, Marco Island, Everglades)


RampCity/AreaPrimary Water AccessNotesBayview Park Boat RampNaplesNaples Bay, Gordon Pass (Gulf)Central Naples launch; busy on peak days.Cocohatchee River ParkNorth NaplesWiggins Pass (Gulf)Good for nearshore/Gulf on calmer days.Collier Boulevard Boating ParkIsles of CapriCapri Pass/Marco RiverAccess to Ten Thousand Islands.Caxambas ParkMarco IslandMarco Pass (Gulf), near Cape RomanoPopular with offshore and beach-run boaters.Goodland Boating ParkGoodlandMarco River/BackcountryExcellent for inshore and island trips.Port of the Islands Marina (public ramp)East NaplesFaka Union Canal to Ten Thousand IslandsLong backcountry runs; tidal awareness.Golden Gate Boat RampGolden GateGolden Gate Canal (freshwater)Freshwater only; no Gulf accessMargood Harbor ParkIsles of CapriCapri backwatersSmaller facility; backcountry focus.Ann Olesky ParkLake Trafford/ImmokaleeFreshwater lakeBass/crappie destination.

Collier notes: The county operates a permit system and daily fees at most saltwater ramps; check current rules before launching.


Charlotte County & Charlotte Harbor (Englewood, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda)


RampCity/AreaPrimary Water AccessNotesAinger Creek ParkEnglewoodLemon Bay/ICWProtected entry; inshore focus.Indian Mound ParkEnglewoodLemon Bay/ICWMultiple lanes; restrooms on site.Placida ParkPlacidaGasparilla Sound/ICWAccess toward Boca Grande Pass.El Jobean Boat RampPort CharlotteMyakka/Peace RiverRiverine route into harbor.Port Charlotte Beach ParkPort CharlotteCharlotte HarborTwo lanes; restrooms/parking.South Gulf Cove ParkPort CharlotteCanal to Charlotte HarborLock/canal system; plan timing.Harbour Heights ParkPunta GordaPeace RiverUp-river access; inshore runs.Darst ParkPunta GordaPeace RiverSmaller facility; local use.Riverside ParkPunta GordaPeace RiverBasic facilities; check draft.Ponce de Leon ParkPunta GordaCharlotte HarborShort hop to open harbor.

Sarasota County (Venice, Osprey, Sarasota City)


RampCity/AreaPrimary Water AccessNotesBlackburn Point ParkOspreyICW near Casey KeyMotorized and non-motorized ramps.Higel Marine ParkVeniceVenice Inlet/ICWMotorized ramp; restrooms on site.Marina Park & Boat RampVeniceICW (downtown Venice)Central location; mixed amenitiesCentennial Park Boat RampSarasotaSarasota BayDowntown-adjacent urban access.Ken Thompson Park Boat RampCity of SarasotaNew Pass/Sarasota BayPopular for Gulf and nearshore.

Sarasota notes: The county manages 13 motorized and 29 non-motorized water access sites; the selection above highlights widely used motorized ramps.


One statewide resource you can use


- Florida Public Boat Ramp Finder (FWC): The official map-based inventory of public ramps across Florida; useful for last-minute checks on locations and amenities.

Quick planning tips


- Arrive early on weekends/holidays. Popular ramps (Punta Rassa, Bayview, Placida) fill by mid-morning.
- Mind the tide and wind. Estuary and pass conditions can change quickly; check marine forecasts before launching.
- Have backups. Keep an alternate ramp in your plan within 15–30 minutes in case primary parking is full. https://agentsgather.com/public-boat-launches-in-southwest-florida/

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What to Buy in Golden, Colorado? Condos vs. Single-Family Homes

Image
Condos vs. Single-Family Homes: What to Buy in Golden, Colorado When it comes to buying property in Golden, Colorado, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether to invest in a condo or a single-family home. Both options come with their own sets of advantages and disadvantages, and your choice will largely depend on your lifestyle, financial situation, and long-term goals. This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision. Golden Colorado The Appeal of Condos in Golden Lower Costs Generally, condos are more affordable than single-family homes, making them an excellent choice for first-time buyers or those on a budget. Amenities Condos often come with amenities like swimming pools, gyms, and security services, which can enhance your quality of life. Maintenance Another advantage is that you're not responsible for exterior maintenance, as this is typically covered by the homeowners association (HOA). The A...
Read more

Networking for Real Estate Agents: Why AgentsGather.com is a Game-Changer

Image
The Imperative of Networking for Real Estate Agents: Why AgentsGather.com is a Game-Changer AgentsGather In today's hyper-competitive real estate market, the importance of networking cannot be overstated. Networking is not just a buzzword; it's a vital business strategy that can make or break a real estate agent's career. This article aims to shed light on the critical role that networking plays in the real estate industry and why AgentsGather.com is an indispensable tool for agents looking to excel in this arena. The Necessity of Networking in Real Estate Building Trust and Credibility Networking helps real estate agents build trust and credibility, which are the cornerstones of any successful business. When you network, you're not just exchanging business cards; you're establishing relationships that can lead to partnerships, referrals, and long-term clients. Market Knowledge Networking also provides agents with invaluable market knowledge. By interacting with oth...
Read more
Homes for Sale in Evergreen, Colorado If you're in the market for a new home, Evergreen, Colorado, should be at the top of your list. This picturesque mountain town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, modern amenities, and a community-oriented lifestyle. This article aims to provide you with all the information you need about homes for sale in Evergreen, CO, and why this could be the perfect place for your next real estate investment. Why Evergreen, Colorado is a Prime Real Estate Location Evergreen is not just another mountain town; it's a thriving community with a lot to offer. Located just a short drive from Denver, it provides the perfect balance between secluded mountain living and the conveniences of a big city. The area is known for its low crime rate, excellent schools, and a plethora of outdoor activities, making it an ideal place for families, retirees, and everyone in between. - Evergreen Colorado - Golden Colorado - Denver Colorado - Real ...
Read more