Charlotte Harbor Freedom Swim

There’s a tradition in Punta Gorda, and while it is a light-hearted affair, it’s not for the light-hearted. The 2024 Charlotte Harbor Freedom Swim is an open swim in which over 1,000 folks take to the water with or without swimfins, kayaks, canoes, innertubes, paddleboards, rafts, or inflatable boats.

If you are not a strong swimmer, you may want to watch from the sidelines. And there’s plenty of opportunity for some fun spectating. Participation is free, and no reservations are required. However, you must sign in the day of the swim.

If there were rules, they’d go something like this: Use common sense, show courtesy to others, and be safe by not swimming alone. Each participant is responsible for their own safety and support team, and children are not allowed to participate without an adult. Various government agencies will be on-site to ensure public safety.

The swim itself is estimated to take between 40 minutes and 3 hours. It’s recommended that participants park at Fishermen’s Village since the swim ends at Harpoon Harry’s.

Event details subject to change. Click source links for latest information.