Peanut Island Park
A 79-acre tropical paradise in Palm Beach, offering clear waters, abundant marine life, and recreational activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife sightings
Peanut Island Park
Best Time
Best for wildlife sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 79-acre tropical paradise in Palm Beach, offering clear waters, abundant marine life, and recreational activities.
"It feels like you've left Florida entirely and made your way to the Bahamas!"
🚢 Shuttle Boat Info
Book shuttle tickets online or in advance for weekends. It's a quick 5-10 min ride!
🤿 Snorkel at High Tide
Clearer water and better visibility for spotting marine life.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 1,812 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Waters
Various beach areas
Experience incredibly clear, calm waters perfect for swimming and wading. Feels like the Bahamas!
Abundant Marine Life
Snorkeling areas, especially around rocks
Snorkel alongside manatees, sea turtles, tropical fish, and even octopuses.
+5
Paved Nature Trails
Island-wide
Explore the island's 79 acres on well-maintained paved paths, ideal for leisurely walks.
Manatee Sightings
Near the shore and in the lagoon
Witness these gentle giants up close, especially in the mornings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Peanut Island
+4Best Time for Snorkeling & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Shuttle Boat Info
Book shuttle tickets online or in advance for weekends. It's a quick 5-10 min ride!
🤿 Snorkel at High Tide
Clearer water and better visibility for spotting marine life.
🐢 Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for sea turtles, manatees, and iguanas! +3
☀️ Shade is Limited
Bring your own umbrella or hat, as shade near the water is scarce.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Shuttle Boat Info
Book shuttle tickets online or in advance for weekends. It's a quick 5-10 min ride!
🤿 Snorkel at High Tide
Clearer water and better visibility for spotting marine life.
🐢 Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for sea turtles, manatees, and iguanas! +3
☀️ Shade is Limited
Bring your own umbrella or hat, as shade near the water is scarce.
🐶 Leash Your Pets
Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash at all times.
⚠️ Watch for Coconuts
Coconut trees are abundant; be mindful of falling coconuts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Peanut Island is a highly recommended tropical escape with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, abundant marine life, and relaxing trails. While some facilities could use updates and shade is limited, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, offering a slice of paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
"Very nice atmosphere and friendly people. The ferry ride to the island is about 5 minutes. Last ride back is 5pm. So get in line at pier a little earlier than that. There are no snacks or refreshments that you can purchase on the island and not always a lifeguard w available. Bring beach shoes if you're going to be extra safe. Saw a few broken shards or wine glass , also the rocks are very sharp, they will cut you. Beautiful scenery. Iguanas everywhere, which is pretty cool to see. If you like fishing, drop a line under the pier. Will definitely come back. Cost about 25 dollars per person for round trip ferry. Paid parking about 10 bucks."
Tom T.
"I recommend if your an outdoor person. We did camping. They have restrooms with showers clean condition. Could use a little update though.
No electricity on the camping area you have to go to restrooms for electricity.
Beaches are very nice. Warm water, pets are allow. Didn't see much shade close to water, but they do have shade on the picnic areas.
NeG: camping they only allow 1 tent per lot, we had an extra one to store our food items and they told us to take down :((("
Jessica López
"This place really is special.
In the right spots, it feels like you've left Florida entirely and made your way to the Bahamas! We visited with a group of four (including me).
Ferry ride is short and runs often. You get to catch a unique view of the port of palm beach on your ride. Ferry crew are very efficient and keep things ship-shape. Don't forget to tip!
Island itself is amazing for snorkeling, saw many tropical fish, a barracuda, and an octopus! Do be wary of strong waves that can push you into the rocks. Main beach is also good for seashells! There is a hidden spot for snorkeling, too; a canal filled with rocks surrounded by mangroves. Visit at high tide for best experience!!! Water will be clearest then.
Iguanas are everywhere on the island, as are coconut trees (full of coconuts! Watch your head!)
I recommend catching the earliest ferry you can to have a whole day to explore the island. I'd love to return!"
Cal Ostertag
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Peanut Island is only accessible by water. You can take the Peanut Island Shuttle Boat from Riviera Beach (search 'Peanut Island Shuttle Boat' on Google Maps for the dock location). The ride is about 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can arrive by your own boat, kayak, or paddleboard.
The shuttle typically costs around $25 round trip. It's advisable to check current pricing and schedules online or by calling ahead.
No, Peanut Island is an island and cannot be reached by walking. You must use a boat, shuttle, kayak, or paddleboard.
The shuttle departs from a dock in Riviera Beach. You can search 'Peanut Island Shuttle Boat' on Google Maps to find the specific departure point and nearby parking options. +1
The shuttle typically runs from morning to late afternoon. For example, one source mentions departures from West Palm Beach to Peanut Island from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Always confirm current hours before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
If you are using the shuttle boat, you will need to purchase tickets for the ride. If you arrive by your own boat, kayak, or paddleboard, there is no separate entry fee for the island itself.
The primary fee is for the shuttle service if you don't arrive by your own vessel. The park itself is generally free to enter once you are on the island.
Yes, camping is available on Peanut Island. Reservations are required, and it's recommended to book in advance, especially for weekends. Note that there is no electricity at the campsites; you'll need to use the restroom facilities for power.
While the shuttle has specific operating hours, the park itself is generally open for visitors to enjoy during daylight hours. It's best to confirm specific park closing times if you plan to stay late.
Reservations are highly recommended for the shuttle boat, especially on weekends and holidays. If you plan to camp, reservations are mandatory.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Peanut Island offers swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, and exploring paved nature trails. It's also a great spot for picnics and wildlife viewing.
Yes, Peanut Island is considered one of the best snorkeling spots in Florida! The water is crystal clear, and you can see abundant marine life, including fish, sea turtles, and manatees, especially around the rocky areas.
Absolutely! Peanut Island is a popular spot for manatee sightings, particularly in the calmer waters.
Yes, there are restrooms with showers available on the island. Some reviews mention they could use an update, and not all showers may be functional.
Yes, Peanut Island is dog-friendly, but all pets must be kept on a leash at all times.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants on Peanut Island. Visitors should bring their own food and drinks for picnics.
Yes, Peanut Island is an excellent spot for picnics. There are designated picnic areas, some with shade.
While there are no dining options directly on the island, you can find restaurants and cafes in Riviera Beach near the shuttle departure point before or after your visit.
Information regarding alcohol policies can vary. It's best to check the official park rules or inquire when booking your shuttle to ensure compliance.
One reviewer mentioned a 'pizza pontoon' near Peanut Island, suggesting unique food delivery options might be available, but this is not a permanent fixture.
📸 📸 Photography
The clear turquoise waters, diverse marine life, and the unique perspective from the water taxi or shuttle offer fantastic photo opportunities. The rocky areas and mangrove canals are also visually interesting. +3
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or require permits. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Morning light often provides beautiful, soft illumination for photos, and it's also when you're most likely to see wildlife. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also offer stunning light.
While not traditional landmarks, the unique man-made reef structures and the vibrant marine life create iconic photographic moments. The view of the Port of Palm Beach from the water taxi is also a unique shot.
You have excellent chances to photograph manatees, sea turtles, various tropical fish, iguanas, and shorebirds. +4
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit