Located in the Intercoastal Waterway near the Lake Worth Inlet and the Port of Palm Beach, Peanut Island is a recreational area owned by Palm Beach County. Since 1923, it served as a spoil site for the maintenance of the inlet and the Port shipping channel, but a portion of the 80 acre island was made available to the public in the 1990s under a long term arrangement between the county and the local Port Authority.
The island got its unusual name when the State of Florida gave permission for the island to be used as a shipping terminal for peanut oil. The endeavor never materialized and the idea was eventually dropped, but the name stuck.
Today, the county offers parts of the island to locals and visitors who enjoy various recreational pursuits there. Open from sunrise to sunset, Peanut Island consists of both guarded and unguarded swimming areas as well as a snorkeling lagoon. The beaches are clean and many of the guarded areas are suitable for families with young children. Snorkelers must bring their own equipment.
Peanut Island is also a hit with boaters. Boat docks and slips are located on both the east and west sides of the island. The 14 slips on the east side are for day use on a first come, first served basis. The same rules apply to the floating docks on the west side of Peanut Island.
Shaded picnic areas can be found around most of the island. Pavilions, tables, and grills are available on a first come basis as well. "Chiki Huts'' with picnic tables are available near the snorkeling lagoon and are tropical in style.
For those who wish to walk or jog, a 1.25 mile paved walking path winds around the perimeter of the island and provides a good way to explore the island or enjoy the water views that surround it. The path takes guests through several ecosystems, including mangrove forest, tidal ponds, and maritime hammocks, and is lighted at night for the safety of walkers. In addition, an observation deck is located off the walking path in the southwest corner of the island, providing excellent views of the island and the surrounding areas.
On the south side of Peanut Island, guests can visit the Palm Beach Maritime Museum. Located at a former Coast Guard facility, the museum provides a tour of the bunker that was constructed to serve as a temporary command post for John F. Kennedy during the Cuban Missile Crisis in the early 1960's.
Visitors much reach Peanut Island by private vessel or on one of the many water taxis that offer service to the island on a several-times-a-day basis for a small fee. Twenty campsites are available for those who wish to stay for longer than just a day.
