Solana is a quiet community along the Peace River near downtown Punta Gorda
The small Gulf Coast suburb of Solana sits along the Peace River in Charlotte County, providing its residents with relative seclusion in an Old Florida setting, while also offering easy access to modern amenities. This community of fewer than 1,000 is home to South County Regional Park, and within minutes of Historic Downtown Punta Gorda.
Attractively priced inland homes make up the bulk of housing options
The housing options here are an eclectic mix of sizes and styles. Ranch-style designs stand out among the midcentury homes that dot the region. Among older homes, colorful cottage-style designs add curb appeal to the natural setting. A handful of large homes with exclusive amenities, such as pools and private boat docks, grace the riverfront on the community’s north side. Manufactured homes also can be found. Prices range from the low $100,000s to the low $300,00s. However, some small manufactured homes sell for less than $50,000, and a collection of large waterfront homes exceed $1 million. Insurance rates are likely to be affected by the high risks of flooding and wind damage during hurricane season, which runs June through November.
Easy access to the river, harbor and Gulf
Boaters, anglers and outdoors enthusiasts have easy access to the river. There are public boat ramps at Darst Park in the neighboring community of Cleveland and Laishley Park in downtown Punta Gorda. The river is at its widest in this area as it prepares to flow into Charlotte Harbor, which connects directly to the Gulf of Mexico. Canoers and kayakers can take the river in the other direction as its narrows and winds its way through more rural areas. South County Regional Park covers more than 80 acres in the southwest corner of the community. The park is anchored by a community center with a large gymnasium, and its outdoor amenities include several ballfields, tennis and pickleball courts, a heated pool and an 18-hole disc golf course. The community is also home to the Punta Gorda Elks Lodge, which hosts social events and activities at its building along the riverfront.
Historic Downtown Punta Gorda is a popular shopping and dining destination
Last Chance Saloon is a popular gathering place here, but those searching for more options head to Historic Downtown Punta Gorda with its collection of boutique shops, art galleries and restaurants along the waterfront. There’s also a weekly Saturday farmers market. Popular dining and entertainment destinations include Leroy’s Southern Kitchen & Bar, Carmelo’s Italian Ristorante and Celtic Ray Public House. Nearby Fishermen’s Village is a bustling retail and dining center built around a public marina. A Winn-Dixie is located minutes away in Cleveland. Shopping centers can be found along U.S. Highway 41, which runs through downtown Punta Gorda, on both sides of the river.
Charlotte County School District rated A-minus by Niche
Students are served by the Charlotte County School District, which earns an A-minus from Niche. Two elementary schools, Punta Gorda Middle School and Charlotte High School are all within minutes of the community. The middle and high schools are adjacent to one another. The high school will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026.
I-75, Tamiami Trail offer convenient travel options
Interstate 75, which runs along the community’s eastern edge, and nearby U.S. Highway 41, known locally as Tamiami Trail, offer quick access across the water into Port Charlotte. AdventHealth Port Charlotte is a 15-minute drive via Tamiami Trail. AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care at Punta Gorda is a smaller medical facility adjacent to the community. Heading south on I-75, Fort Myers is about 30 miles from the community, and Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers is about 40 miles away. Limited, lower-cost commercial flights are available at nearby Punta Gorda Airport.
Written By
Matt Pallister