A day at the Peanut Island with palm trees and warm breeze restores your soul!
Anonymous
“Behold the enchanted isle of Peanut, realm of fantasy and wonder! Here the very air glitters with sprinklings of magic as fairies and wizards gather to weave their spells.
Those wandering the winding trails through sun-dappled foliage may happen upon a plump orange iguana, regal in his jeweled crown—king of the forest. Speak politely, for he is known to transform rude passersby into palm trees as punishment!”
If you are planning vacations in the Bahamas or any other Caribbean islands but you don’t have time to execute your plans. We are offering you a better substitute, with the same vibes. Yes, It’s Peanut Island!
We recently went on an incredible snorkeling trip to Peanut Island. This one-of-a-kind tropical island paradise is located right off the coast of Riviera Beach, Florida, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of West Palm Beach and Palm Beach proper. Yet it remains easily accessible for those looking for a secluded spot to swim, snorkel, camp, or just relax on its beautiful shoreline. This island is managed by Palm Beach County, FL. In this blog, We’ll share our experience reaching the island, the different spots, and all the cool marine creatures we spotted.
Why Peanut Island Snorkeling
Easy Access: It’s located right near the Palm Beach Inlet. Visitors can take a short 5-minute ferry or private boat ride over instead of needing a long offshore boat trip
Calm Shallow Waters: The waters surrounding here remain shallow and calm, rarely exceeding depths beyond 15 feet deep nearshore. This allows snorkelers of all ages and skill levels to comfortably explore Peanut Island
Variety of Marine Life: This small island has variety of tropical fish, invertebrates and marine life attracted to its artificial reefs.
You may spot: Atlantic Spadefish, Parrotfish, Damselfish, pufferfish, Queen Angelfish, Sergeant Majorfish, Green moray eels, Barracuda, green sea turtle, and Atlantic Tarpon. Larger game fish even make appearances to hunt smaller prey. Shy Iguanas are everywhere on the island.
Peanut Island snorkeling is packed with reasons that promise a unique and memorable experience. This is also a one-stop family destination for Paddleboarding, kayaking, easy in-town picnics, and overnight camping.
Peanut Island map
Location: Intracoastal waterway, near the Lake Worth Inlet, Riviera beach
coordinates: 26°46’27″N 80°02’49″W
Interesting facts
- The name Peanut was given to the island when the State gave permission for use of the island as a terminal for shipping peanut oil. Plans for this enterprise were abandoned in 1946, but the name was retained
- The island was created by excavation-related projects in 1918 which also created the inlet and the Port of Palm Beach
- In 2005 the park was opened after a renovation which included walking paths, picnic areas, a campsite, and the Peanut island snorkeling lagoon
- The island also was the location of a blast shelter built in secret for president John F Kennedy shortly after his 1961 election
- This is following the events leading up to the Cuban missile crisis. The bunker was named The Detachment Hotel
- A man named Paris Singer tried to build a luxury hotel on the island, but his plan did not succeeded. He then left his name on a resort island instead of here. That island is now called “Singer Island,” located near Peanut Island
Best time to visit
Peanut Island snorkeling is a popular year-round activity as the water in Florida remains calm and warm in all seasons. But the best time for snorkeling is during high tide when cleaner water comes from the Caribbean Sea through inlet. These crystal-clean waters provide perfect swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and water sports conditions. Marine life becomes more active during high tide, as it can bring in a fresh supply of nutrients and food. Always remember to check local tide charts when planning a snorkeling trip in Peanut Island.
How to reach Peanut Island
- The island is only accessible by boat. No bridges connect it to the mainland
- Book boat shuttles from nearby Sailfish Marina or Riviera Beach Marina
- Shuttle schedule: Daily in every 25 mins from 10:00am-5:00pm (from 9:00am on summers)
- Pricing: $18 round trip ticket for adults, $9 Round trip for children (9 years and under)
- Taxi services are independent entities and not a part of the Palm Beach County Park system
- Try renting Kayak, Jet Ski or boat for a fun experience
- You may carry your kayaks and paddle boards on the shuttle boats for an additional fee
Peanut Island snorkeling spots
As we mentioned earlier the best time for Peanut Island snorkeling is always during high tides. This is the time when water will be clean and visibility will be great. There are three prime locations for great snorkeling experience in the island. It begins on the east, below the fishing pier and extends all the way to the lagoon. On the west side, known as mangrove lagoon with rows of rocks that provide a shelter for marine life to exist.
Snorkel Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Corals: No natural corals but man made reefs surround the island
Peanut Island snorkeling lagoon
This spot is located on the southeastern tip of the island. These man-made reefs built with rocks are surprising and photogenic. Though water is murky here during low tides. You may encounter here interesting marine life, including baby barracudas, upside-down jellyfish, and even manatees
The artificial reefs
This spot is located on the eastern tip of the island near the fishing pier. The artificial reefs are typically created using submerged structures like rocks and concrete, providing a habitat for marine life. Bring an underwater camera to capture the beauty of the artificial reefs and the marine life you encounter.
Mangrove lagoon
Mangrove lagoon spans on the western shore of the Peanut island. This area is is not permitted for swimming as there are rock breakwaters that provide a shelter to rich marine life. Snorkelers can easily access the lagoon from the shoreline trail that loops around the island. There is a cleared entry point with a sandy bottom. The maximum depth of the lagoon is around 5 feet, making it ideal for beginner snorkelers and children. Even at high tide it does not get much deeper.
Amenities at Peanut island
- 2 boat docks are available (East and West )
- 14 boat slips available for day-use only (first-come, first-served)
- 17 reserved tent camping grounds (reservations required)
- 2 picnic pavilions (first-come, first-served)
- 4 Chickee huts
- Picnic area with grills, single table (first-come, first-served)
- Designated pier for fishing
- Walking path/paver block
- Restroom facilities
- Dogs are allowed on Peanut island
- Swimming area are guarded on weekends only
Tips and precautions
- Peanut Island on weekends will in fact be incredibly busy. So it is advisable to hit the beach as early in the morning as possible
- For daily beach condition call at- 561-629-8775
- For campground reservations call 561-845-4445
- Bring each essentials like chairs, tent, cooler, and everything you need to spend the best time
- The use of balloons is prohibited at this park in an effort to promote the safety and protection of sea turtles
- Alcohol consumption is restricted to camping areas only
- There are no restaurants, shops, rentals or other facilities on the island. We recommend you to bring your own lunch & refreshments
- Don’t feed or touch wildlife. Observe respectfully from a distance
- Avoid marshy interior areas. The muddy mangrove forests are easy to get stuck in
- Know your swimming abilities. The water can have currents and there are no lifeguards on weekdays
- Wear water shoes or sandals to protect your feet from sharp rocks and hot sand.
FAQs (Frequently asked questions)
Q: What is the best place to snorkel at Peanut Island?
A: There are three prime locations for great snorkeling experience in the island. It begins on the east, below the fishing pier and extends all the way to the lagoon. On the west side, known as mangrove lagoon with rows of rocks that provide a shelter for marine life to exist.
Q: Can I really see manatees in the Lagoon?
A: It depends on the time and temperature of the water. Manatees can be seen year round but during winter they are common site in the Lagoon. They like the warmer waters of the Lagoon and are a thrill for everyone to see
Q: Can I visit the John F. Kennedy Bunker in Peanut Island?
A: The John F. Kennedy Bunker is currently closed until further notice.
Q: Can I camp overnight on Peanut Island?
A: Camping is allowed in the designated campground area. Guests must bring all their own camping gear and supplies. Campfires and alcohol are prohibited. Overnight Camping Fee is $28.00 ($31.64 w/tax) per single campsite per night
Q:Are pets allowed on the island?
A: Leashed pets are permitted in certain areas of Peanut Island, but not on the beaches. Owners must clean up after their pets.
Q: What should you bring when visiting Peanut Island?
A: Recommended items to bring include sunscreen, hats, water/drinks, snacks, snorkel gear, towels, camping supplies (if staying overnight), insect repellent, first-aid supplies, and trash bags.