Travel Guides Outdoor Adventures
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Anna Robinson
Relax on the beach or venture out into the ocean
While Peanut Island is only 80 acres in surface area, there is plenty to do from relaxing on the beaches to exciting water activities. The warm, shallow water surrounding the island is perfect for snorkeling, and there is a fabricated reef enjoyed by snorkelers and wildlife alike. Keep your eyes out for parrot fish, angel fish, and maybe even a sea turtle or a manatee. If you do not have your own mask and snorkel, the Peanut Island Shuttle Boat Service offers rental equipment.
The Intracoastal Waterway around Peanut Island is a popular place for paddling. Nautical Adventures in Riviera Beach just across from Peanut Island has kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for rent. You can take these on the shuttle boat service or use them to get to Peanut Island yourself. Also in Riviera Beach is Palm Beach Jet Ski, but those looking to rent a jet ski must have a boating license or pass Florida’s free boater safety course. Boat slips on Peanut Island are for day use only, but not required for non-motorized boats like kayaks and paddleboards.
Keep wildlife in mind when visiting Peanut Island
Another fun way to enjoy Peanut Island is camping. Tent sites on the island have picnic areas, bathrooms, and showers, but do not allow for electricity generators. These campsites are also the only places on the island which allow alcohol. There are just 17 campsites, so make sure to use the contact information on the campground’s website to make a reservation in advance. Peanut Island does not have any places to purchase food, so be sure to pack enough for the duration of your stay.
Whether you are at your campsite or kayaking in the water, keep the wildlife and the environment in mind. Florida’s wildlife is iconic, but many of its animals are endangered, including sea turtles. As part of the state’s efforts to protect these animals, balloons are not allowed at Peanut Island. Watch out for animals while operating motorized boats, and to keep the white sand beaches pristine, leave no trash or personal items behind.
