Englewood, FL

Englewood, Florida is a small community located in both Sarasota and Charlotte counties on the Gulf Coast. The area was initially home to Native American tribes, including the Calusa and Seminole peoples. European settlers began to arrive in the 19th century, primarily from New England.

In the late 1800s, pioneers began settling in what is now Englewood, attracted by the area's natural beauty and abundant fish and wildlife. One of the first settlers was Josephine Lockhart, who built a home on Manasota Key in the 1880s. She is considered the founding matriarch of Englewood.

The early settlers engaged in various industries, including farming, fishing, and logging. The area's access to the Gulf of Mexico and its rich estuaries made it an ideal location for fishermen, and the fishing industry became a significant part of Englewood's early economy.

In the early 20th century, Englewood started to grow as more people discovered its natural beauty and mild climate. Development accelerated after the construction of the Tamiami Trail in the 1920s, which provided easier access to the area. The completion of the first bridge to Manasota Key in 1959 further increased accessibility and spurred residential and commercial growth.

During the mid-20th century, Englewood attracted many retirees and winter residents from the northern U.S. seeking a warm climate. This led to the development of numerous retirement communities and the growth of Englewood's tourism industry.

Englewood has managed to maintain its small-town charm and natural beauty despite the growth. The community is known for its beautiful beaches, including Englewood Beach, Blind Pass Beach, and Stump Pass Beach State Park. The Lemon Bay Historical Society actively preserves and promotes the area's history through exhibits and programs.

Today, Englewood is a thriving community with a population of around 16,000. It continues to attract visitors and new residents with its warm climate, outdoor recreational opportunities, and laid-back coastal lifestyle.

Manasota Key Beach

A beautiful and serene beach known for its clear waters and white sand. It offers amenities like picnic areas, barbecue grills, and a playground.

Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center

A nature lover's paradise that features walking trails, a butterfly garden, a fishing pier, and educational programs about the local ecosystem.

Englewood Farmers Market

Held every Thursday morning, this market offers fresh produce, local crafts, and a variety of food vendors. It's a great place to support local businesses and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere.

Olde Englewood Village

This historic district is home to charming shops, unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. It is a hub for arts and culture, hosting various events and festivals throughout the year.

Cedar Point Environmental Park

A 115-acre nature preserve with walking trails, boardwalks, and observation areas. It is an ideal spot for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and picnicking.

Blind Pass Beach

Located on Manasota Key, this beach is known for its quiet atmosphere and natural beauty. It offers visitors a chance to collect seashells, swim, or simply relax in tranquility.

Ann Dever Memorial Regional Park

This park features multiple sports fields, a playground, and a dog park. It is a great place for outdoor activities like jogging, picnicking, playing sports, or spending time with your furry friends.

Stump Pass Beach State Park

Situated at the southern tip of Manasota Key, this park is popular among nature enthusiasts. It offers pristine beaches, hiking trails, and opportunities for swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Lemon Bay Playhouse

A community theater that showcases a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and comedy shows. It is a great place to enjoy local talent and support the arts.

Englewood Area Historical Museum

Learn about the history and culture of Englewood through exhibits, artifacts, and local stories. The museum offers a glimpse into the area's past and its transformation over the years.

Englewood, Florida, located on the Gulf Coast, experiences a humid subtropical climate. The summers in Englewood are long, hot, and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s°F (29°C) to the low 90s°F (32°C) between June and September. It is not uncommon for temperatures to exceed 90°F (32°C) during this period.

Winters in Englewood are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s°F (18°C) to the low 70s°F (21°C) from December to February. Frost is rare, and temperatures rarely drop below freezing, making Englewood an attractive destination for "snowbirds" escaping colder northern climates.

Englewood experiences a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being June through September. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, and Englewood is also prone to occasional hurricanes, particularly during the Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June to November.

The Gulf of Mexico influences Englewood's climate, providing pleasant sea breezes and moderating temperatures. This makes Englewood an appealing place for outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, and enjoying the nearby beaches.

Overall, Englewood, FL, offers a warm and tropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors seeking an enjoyable coastal atmosphere.

Englewood, Florida, is a small coastal town situated in Sarasota County on the Gulf Coast. It is known for its beautiful beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and abundant recreational opportunities. Englewood is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in Englewood:

Old Englewood Village

Located in the heart of Englewood, this charming neighborhood features historic buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It is the cultural hub of the town and hosts various events throughout the year.

Englewood Isles

Situated around a series of canals and waterways, Englewood Isles is a waterfront neighborhood with many homes having direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway. It offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and villas.

Manasota Key

A barrier island situated just off the coast of Englewood, Manasota Key boasts some of the most pristine beaches in the area. It is a popular residential area with a mix of luxurious beachfront estates, condominiums, and vacation rentals.

Grove City

Located on Lemon Bay, Grove City is known for its small-town charm and rich history. This neighborhood offers a mix of waterfront properties, including older Florida-style homes and newer developments.

Cape Haze

Cape Haze is a residential community situated along the peninsula of Placida. It is known for its natural beauty, with many homes offering stunning water or golf course views. The area is home to several golf courses, nature preserves, and a marina.

Rotonda West

Positioned just to the east of Englewood, Rotonda West is a master-planned community known for its numerous canal-front properties and access to several golf courses. It is a popular choice for retirees and families alike.

Lemon Bay

Located along Lemon Bay, this neighborhood offers a mix of residential properties, as well as some commercial and recreational facilities. Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center are popular spots for outdoor activities.

These are just a few examples of the diverse neighborhoods that make up Englewood, Florida. Whether you are looking for a beachfront retreat, a waterfront property, or a peaceful residential community, Englewood has options to suit various preferences and lifestyles.