It’s all about blue skies, blue seas, and some beautiful scenery when it comes to Peanut Island, Florida. This man-made haven is world famous for its history – John F. Kennedy chose the area as the site of a Coast Guard station and bomb shelter – and for its beauty. Just north of Palm Beach, this beautiful area is great for everything from camping to swimming to boating and more. If you want to get away from it all and experience the great outdoors, then you need to take the ferry or sail boat to Peanut Island, Florida. The following are just some of the many things expect from a visit to the area.
Though Peanut Island is a mecca for campers and those who want some fun in the sun, the great thing about the area is that there are modern conveniences and amenities to make one’s stay all the more comfortable. For example, there are restrooms, drinking fountains, and even a public phone. Thus, though you will be out and about in nature, you don’t have to literally rough it.
What to Expect
The area is great for those who want to partake in some water sports. For example, the swimming and snorkeling opportunities around the Peanut Island dock are incredible. Bring along your kayak or sailboat if you want some fun: the area is known for being great for such activities. You can even take a kayak tour of the Island and the areas around it. Talk about a unique tour!
If you are looking for a view to remember, then you should definitely take the time to take a walk around Peanut Island. From the north and west sides of the Island, you can be sure to see some beautiful views of the Riviera Beach and the Port of Palm Beach, among other unique sites.
If you want to see a unique slice of history, then you should head to the south side of Peanut Island to see where the old Coast Guard station was located. The Coast Guard was stationed here from 1935-1995, after which it moved to Lake Park. It is now home to the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office.
Once you visit this area, you should head on over to the Palm Beach Maritime Museum and the bomb shelter that was once built for the Kennedy family for when they vacationed at their family home in Palm Beach. After a day of history, you can take some time to explore the nearby shallow water reefs and lagoon. The aforementioned Maritime Museum is a place that has everything from interactive exhibits to educational programs aimed at everything from animal and plant life found in the area to other interesting maritime topics sure to interest both kids and adults alike.
Tips for Visiting
One of the best parts of the Island is the nearly mile and a half long walkway that circles the Island. This is a relaxing way to see everything from the gumbo limbo trees to the gorgeous water. However, be sure to leave your skates and other motorized machines at home: the area is meant for walking and running.
Of course, if you do decide to visit the area, be sure to pick up after yourself of face the consequences. Peanut Island is the site of both governmental and environmental agency-organized restoration. Thus, you want to be careful to keep the area as pristine as when you arrived. There are enough garbage containers and doggie bags for animal waste to ensure that you have the means to keep the Island as clean as possible.
You don’t have to pay to use the dock or tie up your cargo. However, you should know that it is first come; first serve: once the area is full, that’s about it. Be sure to tie things up tight: the current is quite strong around the dock area. Additionally, if you are in the area and moving from the channel to the dock, you need to be aware of the sandbars. If you want to experience Peanut Island without worry of crowds, then you should go during the week. The place is generally packed on the weekends, no matter the time of year.
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