Imagine a palm-studded island with a perfect sandy beach surrounded by warm tropical Gulf Stream waters. Peanut Island is an 80-acre island at the mouth of the Lake Worth Inlet in Palm Beach County.  The island was created by dredging-related projects in 1918 which also created the inlet and the Port of Palm Beach. Originally named Inlet Island, the island was renamed Peanut Island for a planned peanut oil-shipping operation which was unsuccessful in 1946. This tropical island has been a favorite spot for locals for many years and attracts explorers of every type. The crystal clear water that surrounds the island attracts snorkelers and swimmers, whereas the brick pathways that circle the island invites the nature enthusiasts.

 

Peanut Island is also a historical landmark.  It is home to both a former U.S. Coast Guard Station, built in 1936, and a fallout shelter intended for use by President John F. Kennedy in case of nuclear attack.  The bunker was constructed in 1961 and was never needed, but Kennedy did visit it several times for drills. Today, it still looks the same. The bunker is operated by the Palm Beach Maritime Museum, which also runs the adjacent Historic Former Coast Guard Station museum. Hidden in the woods and underground, it fell into disrepair until restored by the museum in 1999. While a few people around Palm Beach County know about the Kennedy Bunker and Peanut Island, it still ranks as one of Florida’s hidden treasures. Since it is located on an island, visiting it will always require taking a water taxi, private boat or a kayak.

 

The east side of Peanut Island offers an wonderful place to snorkel, go for a swim or simply lie back and soak up the sun. This great snorkeling area is a direct result of the Gulf Stream. Twice a day, with the incoming tide, the Stream flushes Lake Worth with clear, warm Caribbean waters. For visitors looking for an overnight experience, a seventeen-site campground is available for tent campers as well as limited Natural Areas Beach Camping in designated areas. A truly unique place, Peanut Island Park has something to offer everyone.

 

For more information about Peanut Island Park visit http://www.pbcgov.com/parks/locations/peanutisland.htm#.V21JrI-cGUk.
For guided tours of the U.S. Coast Guard Station and the Kennedy Bunker visit http://www.pbmm.info/home.html.