The Allure of Peanut Island: A Hidden Gem in Florida's Intracoastal Waters
August 4, 2024, 5:12 am
Orlando Sentinel
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Location: United States, Florida, Orlando
Employees: 201-500
Founded date: 1876
Peanut Island is a slice of paradise nestled in the Intracoastal Waterway, just off the coast of Riviera Beach, Florida. This 80-acre oasis is a blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. With its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich past, it beckons visitors seeking a unique escape from the everyday grind.
Getting to Peanut Island is part of the adventure. The Peanut Island Shuttle Boat offers a convenient ride for $25 per adult and $12 per child. Dogs are welcome, making it a family-friendly option. Alternatively, the Palm Beach Water Taxi provides another route for $20 per person. For those with their own boats, Phil Foster Park is nearby, though parking can be a challenge on weekends.
Once on the island, the options for fun are plentiful. The main attraction is the snorkeling lagoon, where colorful fish dart among the coral. The best time to dive in is during the hour before and after high tide. Here, visitors can encounter rays, manatees, and even the occasional shark. For those who prefer to stay above water, paddling around the island is a must. Sandy shores provide perfect spots to pull up and relax.
Fishing enthusiasts will find their haven here too. A fishing pier near the campground offers a chance to cast a line and reel in a catch. For those who prefer to explore on foot, a 1.25-mile walking trail winds around the island, showcasing its natural beauty. Picnic tables and charcoal grills dot the landscape, inviting families to enjoy a meal in the sun.
As the sun sets, the island transforms. Daytime revelers depart, leaving behind a serene atmosphere. Only those with camping reservations can stay overnight. Peanut Island offers 17 campsites, each equipped with a tent pad, picnic table, and charcoal grill. While individual sites lack campfire rings, a communal firepit awaits those who want to gather around the flames. Here, the night sky comes alive with stars, and the sounds of nature create a soothing backdrop.
Peanut Island's history is as intriguing as its scenery. Originally known as Inlet Island, it was created in 1918 from dredged material. The island's name came from a plan to ship peanut oil, a venture that never materialized. During the Cuban Missile Crisis, a nuclear bunker was built for President John F. Kennedy, who vacationed nearby. Though the bunker is currently closed, plans are in place for its renovation and reopening.
Palm Beach County is committed to enhancing the island's facilities. Future improvements include educational exhibits in historic structures and the reopening of the Kennedy bunker for tours. This investment in the island's heritage ensures that visitors can appreciate its past while enjoying its present.
For those planning a visit, Peanut Island is open from sunrise to sunset. There are no shops or rentals on the island, so visitors should come prepared with supplies. Reservations for the shuttle and camping can be made online or by phone. A maximum of three nights can be booked, allowing for a longer stay in this tranquil setting.
Peanut Island is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re snorkeling in the lagoon, fishing off the pier, or camping under the stars, the island offers a chance to reconnect with nature. The gentle lapping of waves and the rustle of palm fronds create a symphony of relaxation.
As the sun rises over the island, it paints the sky in hues of orange and pink. This daily spectacle reminds visitors of the beauty that surrounds them. It’s a moment to pause, breathe, and appreciate the simple joys of life.
In a world that often feels chaotic, Peanut Island stands as a reminder of the tranquility that nature can provide. It’s a place where memories are made, laughter echoes, and the worries of the world fade away. For those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle, this hidden gem in Florida’s Intracoastal Waters is a must-visit.
So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and set sail for Peanut Island. Adventure awaits in this sun-soaked paradise. Whether you’re exploring the underwater world, hiking the trails, or simply soaking in the sun, Peanut Island promises an unforgettable experience. It’s not just a destination; it’s a journey into the heart of Florida’s natural beauty.
Getting to Peanut Island is part of the adventure. The Peanut Island Shuttle Boat offers a convenient ride for $25 per adult and $12 per child. Dogs are welcome, making it a family-friendly option. Alternatively, the Palm Beach Water Taxi provides another route for $20 per person. For those with their own boats, Phil Foster Park is nearby, though parking can be a challenge on weekends.
Once on the island, the options for fun are plentiful. The main attraction is the snorkeling lagoon, where colorful fish dart among the coral. The best time to dive in is during the hour before and after high tide. Here, visitors can encounter rays, manatees, and even the occasional shark. For those who prefer to stay above water, paddling around the island is a must. Sandy shores provide perfect spots to pull up and relax.
Fishing enthusiasts will find their haven here too. A fishing pier near the campground offers a chance to cast a line and reel in a catch. For those who prefer to explore on foot, a 1.25-mile walking trail winds around the island, showcasing its natural beauty. Picnic tables and charcoal grills dot the landscape, inviting families to enjoy a meal in the sun.
As the sun sets, the island transforms. Daytime revelers depart, leaving behind a serene atmosphere. Only those with camping reservations can stay overnight. Peanut Island offers 17 campsites, each equipped with a tent pad, picnic table, and charcoal grill. While individual sites lack campfire rings, a communal firepit awaits those who want to gather around the flames. Here, the night sky comes alive with stars, and the sounds of nature create a soothing backdrop.
Peanut Island's history is as intriguing as its scenery. Originally known as Inlet Island, it was created in 1918 from dredged material. The island's name came from a plan to ship peanut oil, a venture that never materialized. During the Cuban Missile Crisis, a nuclear bunker was built for President John F. Kennedy, who vacationed nearby. Though the bunker is currently closed, plans are in place for its renovation and reopening.
Palm Beach County is committed to enhancing the island's facilities. Future improvements include educational exhibits in historic structures and the reopening of the Kennedy bunker for tours. This investment in the island's heritage ensures that visitors can appreciate its past while enjoying its present.
For those planning a visit, Peanut Island is open from sunrise to sunset. There are no shops or rentals on the island, so visitors should come prepared with supplies. Reservations for the shuttle and camping can be made online or by phone. A maximum of three nights can be booked, allowing for a longer stay in this tranquil setting.
Peanut Island is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re snorkeling in the lagoon, fishing off the pier, or camping under the stars, the island offers a chance to reconnect with nature. The gentle lapping of waves and the rustle of palm fronds create a symphony of relaxation.
As the sun rises over the island, it paints the sky in hues of orange and pink. This daily spectacle reminds visitors of the beauty that surrounds them. It’s a moment to pause, breathe, and appreciate the simple joys of life.
In a world that often feels chaotic, Peanut Island stands as a reminder of the tranquility that nature can provide. It’s a place where memories are made, laughter echoes, and the worries of the world fade away. For those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle, this hidden gem in Florida’s Intracoastal Waters is a must-visit.
So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and set sail for Peanut Island. Adventure awaits in this sun-soaked paradise. Whether you’re exploring the underwater world, hiking the trails, or simply soaking in the sun, Peanut Island promises an unforgettable experience. It’s not just a destination; it’s a journey into the heart of Florida’s natural beauty.