The popular Pelican Bay anchorage lies just south of Boca Grande Pass, and indents the eastern side of Cayo Costa island. This undeveloped barrier isle is a Florida State Park, and we have always found it to be absolutely delightful!
On the other hand, I’ve seldom been able to find more than 4 1/2 feet at the entrance at MLW. My good friends at the Isles Yacht Club in Punta Gorda have recorded detailed navigational records as to the best way to enter Pelican Bay.

We followed the directions here and managed to ease into the anchorage. We have a 5′ 8’³ draft and entered on a tide that was 0.9′ above MLW. Our lowest depth reading was 6′. We anchored in 7′ to 8′ of water and enjoyed the park and the anchorage. (10/31/2009)
s/v John Galt
Tayana 37

Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For The Pelican Bay Outer Anchroage

Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For The Pelican Bay Park Service Dock Anchorage

Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchroage Directory Listing For The Pelican Bay – Punta Blanca Island Anchorage