Peanut Island Park is an impressive tropical park spanning 80 acres, situated in the heart of Riviera Beach. Visitors can access it by taking a ferry for $16, which is worth the cost. The park provides numerous water activities and features paved walkways. It includes a man-made lagoon where snorkeling is possible with rental equipment available for $20 from the Peanut Island Ferry on site.
A wonderful spot to spend the day with family and friends picnicking, swimming and sunning. Take the Peanut Island Water Taxi (Round trip is about $15 per person) kayak over or bring your own boat and pull into one of the slips. The water is crystal clear and the snorkeling is wonderful with so much marine life. We’ve seen angelfish, parrotfish, barracuda, manatees etc. There is a lagoon area with a dock to jump off from and a shallow section surrounded by rocks to snorkel. There are walking paths around the island that offer pretty views and a nice stroll. The beach is very clean and well maintained with lifeguards on the weekend. There are places to picnic, grill, pavilions and there is even camping. No concessions however so pack your own food. The restrooms are clean and there are showers too. We always have an amazing time here.
Rachel Salazar — Google review
Peanut island is absolutely beautiful! The sand is soft and there is no seaweed. I recommend coming early because it does get full to capacity at times and the ferry stops bringing people. You have to bring your own food and drinks as there is no concession. No alcohol is permitted. You can even camp here overnight. It's a great place to come and snorkel. You can even bring your dog as they are allowed as well. The bathrooms are kept clean as well so that's always a plus. I'd just recommend coming on a weekday because how full it gets.
Emilce Romero — Google review
The water here is crystal clear, and there is a designated area where you can snorkel. Especially if you are a beginner.
The cool thing about Peanut Island is the many areas to explore, swim, and fish. There are plenty of picnic tables and grills for a family fun day. In the future, they also plan to restore the bunker built for former President John F. Kennedy in the 1960s that is located on the island.
The island itself is free to be in during the day. If you want to camp there and stay overnight, there is a charge. You will also need to pay for a ferry if you don’t own a boat to reach the island. The ferry cost is $16 per person
I loved it there and do plan to return because I enjoy snorkeling. Still can’t believe it took this long to visit this little island.
Sheila — Google review
We love this beautiful beach (island)!
This is not another beach, to get to this island you have to take a small ferry (boat) that will sail for about 10 minutes to reach the island’s deck.
It’s really very close to shore but you can only access the place by boat ;there is no bridge or street.
The boat trip is very nice and you kids will love it; the beach is beautiful, white sands, and they have an couple of internal “salty pools” or small beaches that are amazing.
You might have the opportunity to spot manatees or dolphins (it happened to us)
100% recommended 👍
Antonio Perez Coss — Google review
This place is magical.
Been there twice, arrive early and expend the whole day exploring it, don’t forget to bring your water and/or nonalcoholic drinks.
Good to rest and disconnect of everything, the turquoise water let you feel you’re in paradise.
Danilo Rubio — Google review
Amazing hidden gem in the heart if Rivera beach. You must take a ferry to go to the Island for $16 cost is all worth it. Man made lagoon where snorkeling is accessible with snorkeling gear. If you do not have one, you can rent it from the Peanut Island Ferry for $20. Worth it… so many fishes on site. Clear water where you can actually see your feet… it was a dream
Valerie Laveus — Google review
Peanut Island I just what many people say, great great great beach, super clean, well maintained, clear water, public bathrooms, grills… is amazing. Make sure you get your snorkel because there are many fish around.
Maximo Ceron — Google review
It is not what you see in the advertisements, the cost of the ferry is $25 per person, and when you arrive the first thing you see is a cloudy dark water with no possibility of snorkeling, the interior lagoon looks like a swamp with so much filth and mosquitoes , the bridge is scary to walk on it, see the photos and do justice for yourself.
I do not recommend going as it is a waste of money and time since in this area of West Palm Beach there are many beautiful beaches and you don't have to pay to go and enjoy them.
Alberto Naveira — Google review
The closest thing you’re going to get on the mainland of United States of America to a Caribbean island experience. Beautifully landscaped, palm trees and tropical, horticulture, Water is crystal, clear, calm, shallow to deep, great for swimming and snorkeling. This truly is a hidden gem in the Palm Beaches. You have to take a shuttle over to the island. There is a campground on the island and bathrooms.The best time to go is during high tide or around that time. That’s when the crystal clear water is at its finest.
Jereamy rose — Google review
Snorkeling Heaven- one of the best kept secrets of Florida beaches! Campground is clean, hot showers, and Rosa in reservations is kind, friendly, accommodating and hospitable - she is the bomb! Went snook fishing at night, and snorkeling by day! Made new friends- what a blessing!
Thomas Cayce Stapp — Google review
Peanut Island on Florida's Intracoastal water way in the Palm Beach area is a hidden little gem, though widely known by locals you can only get to it by boat or jet ski, and there is a ferry too. I took the jet ski route all the way from Boynton Beach and went north up the waterway for about 30-40 min, it's actually a very fun & pleasant ride...though when you see a "no wake zone" they mean it, the water police don't mess around and they hide out, no worth chancing it. There are spots along the way to open it up and have fun (I hit 62mph in one stretch)...Back to Peanut Island, it seemed like most people there had come by boat/jet ski and then just moor it off the beach, it's perfect to hangout with friends, have some drinks, get some sun,...etc. There are bathrooms, great snorkel spots, and more. Highly recommend if you're in the area.
Matthew Calfa — Google review
Nice for families and little kids. Packed on Saturdays no place on the beach to sit and all ya hear is a bunch of different music's coming from the boats parked right in front of the beach area. Not relaxing. For a more relaxing beach day save yourself 18 dollar 2 minutes out and go to a state parks beach for 5 or less and there's barely anyone there. 😀
FakeNewsisTheEnemyofthePeople NS — Google review
Don't think about it....just go! I discovered this hidden gem a couple of years ago. We were unprepared on our first visit so a couple of tips. Take food! Lol There is no where to buy food on the island. You can (and should) easily spend a day there so take food! Get to the ferry early. The island fills up quickly. In order to get a good spot (although there are no bad spots) so let's say a preferred spot, you should get to the ferry when they open. Bring snorkeling gear. ...you won't be disappointed. Try going on a week day if possible to avoid crowds. No alcohol allowed. It's such a beautiful place. There are plenty of restrooms and there are grilling areas. Enjoy!!
SQM — Google review
This place it is so beautiful! You can camp there and go snorkeling at the beach. Highly recommended! Only way to get here is the ferry will take you to the island. Maker sure to bring drinks and food as there’s no shops in there. John F Kenny bunker is also there but not open to the public. You can walk the whole island!Perfect place to visit for those who haven’t been there! Highly recommend!
A Plus Mold Remediation Inc. — Google review
Peanut island is a dreamy place to go with your family. Dogs are allowed on a leash. You can take food and drinks, bit alcoholic beverages are not allowed. You can also stay over the night in the camping area.
Gabriela Vega — Google review
Peanut Island is an easy vacation at home destination. It's perfect for all age groups. For those on land, you can take the ferry across and enjoy the ocean from the sand. For those arriving on boat, the sandbar is the place to go. Drop your anchor and jump in!
Cheryl Martin — Google review
What's not to love about this place! Great water and views. The snorkeling is the best and also being a paddle board or a kayak for even more adventures!
Cristina Da Costa — Google review
I love peanut island it’s a quick getaway for us that live here . $18 for adults round trip on a ferry . No alcohol is allowed at all but you can bring your own food , water , juice you can use the grills ( first come first serve ) bring your own beach chairs etc . You can snorkel here, jet ski & other things as well .
This park is a great place to snorkel because it features an underwater snorkeling trail. There are also fishing areas and a playground nearby.
We usually take the ferry to Peanut Island (highly suggest). This time we decided to try the public beach. It was excellent!
Pros:
🐠Free parking. The boat launch area isn’t.
🐠Beach is easily accessible to transport any beach supplies you’ve brought
🐠The snorkeling 🤿 is epic! There are multiple rocky structures that are sunk roughly 40-50 yards off the beach which hold an abundance of fish and other sea creatures. We saw at least 100 different types of fish including 2 barracuda, a volleyball sized starfish⭐️, sting rays, grouper, and conch.
🐠It’s an area used for scuba diving certifications as well as first responder training. So the area is covered with people who are experienced in the water. Including life guard stands.
🐠Very kid friendly.
Cons:
🐠There are trash cans but they were over filled. There wasn’t a lot on the beach but we did find a broken beer bottle when settling in.
🐠The parking can be hard to find if it’s busy.
🐠The water tends to rip in and around that area. I wouldn’t let my child just swim out alone.
Suggestions:
🐠If you’re going away from the bridge, bring an umbrella. Everyone tends to park their stuff under the available palms and there aren’t many.
🐠Get there early for parking. It was crazy even on a Thursday.
🐠Bring an underwater camera!
J — Google review
The weirdest location ever, but it’s beautiful. Ugly beach and wonderful marine life❤️ At the weekend, you must be there at 7:30 am. Otherwise, you will not find a parking lot.
Roman Panchenkov — Google review
Park is great popped in on a random Tuesday early am. Parking was fine and bathrooms available so that's nice. Showers to rinse off were a plus too. Water was low tide so not to clear visibility for snorkeling but got some good shots and saw some of the local critters. Would definitely stop back if im out that way again.
Chris Boothroyd — Google review
I really like this place. It's peaceful to me and the people that walk there in the evenings or fish are nice, courteous and pleasant to talk to. No one bothers you. There are some that like to hang out on the far benches and play their music but it is not loud or bothersome. I have seen in the waters large starfish, coral starting to grow on the man-made reefs, needlefish, pin fish, catfish, crabs, small sqiud, a large turtle... And this is just in the evenings... You just never know what you will find on any given day/night. Say hi to Dennis and 'little bit' (pup) as they are always there to fish! During the day the beach is small, but quaint and water is clean. You can find a spot in the shade, if needed, under the bridge or a palm tree. It's clean and people pick up after themselves. No craziness here. Great for family time. Good for snorkling and scuba diving as well.
L Strano — Google review
I love going to the public beach at Phil Forster Park. Been going there since 2019. It is great for non-swimmers, toddlers and small children, and snorkeling. Also, they have a wheelchair accessible beach ramp and a brand new water wheelchair!! Just ask the lifeguard on duty and they will hand it out on a first-come-first serve basis. Since a strip of the beach is under the bridge, there's shade. And there's a small playground for little ones. In the mornings during the week you will have the beach almost to yourself!
Eileen W. — Google review
This was our first time snorkeling in Florida and we had a great day, except for the high winds that made it terrible when you were out of the water with the sand pelting us. We arrived right around high tide and followed the trail and we saw spiny lobster, grass eel, shrimp, tons of hermit Crabs, starfish,a barracuda and lots of beautiful fish. There is a shower to rinse off afterwards, and bathrooms in the parking lot. Not a huge beach for sitting around but good enough to take off from. Lots of dive shops there as well. No coral since the formations are man-made but still very interesting to look for animal life in the holes of whatever was down there. Definitely not the same as snorkeling in Hawaii, They need to see different types of fish than there. Rough waters today too, we're definitely not recommended for beginners snorkelers or swimmers. Water was 75degrees, and we wore swim shirts to stay a bit warmer.
Angela Bunner — Google review
Thanks to the friendly lifeguards
As it was windy and the ocean had big waves , 🚩 not safe to swim , the lifeguard staff recommended us to spend the day in phill foster park
Where it’s extremely safe and suitable for kids and snorkeling lovers ..
Specially when you are right with time and
Not from there area.
Ammar N — Google review
Great snorkeling spot for beginners and experienced divers. Also has a nice small beach area.
Eric Achenbach — Google review
The park itself has a lot of parking available and is located right off the bridge. Multiple benches and areas to sit and rest, some shaded. Awesome man-made snorkeling trail for both snorkelers and divers that’s easily accessible from the beach and has a surprising variety of wildlife. Often many people are there during high tide, even on weekdays, but the area is large enough to accommodate everyone. Came to snorkel almost every day of the week I visited and found it to be the best local snorkeling spot. Beach has lifeguards on site that are vigilant about divers/snorkelers without flags not straying from dedicated swimming area (and away from boat traffic).
Kathryn Swider — Google review
My favourite place to snorkel. It never gets old. So many beautiful species of aquatic life. Get there early because it's a popular spot and parking gets difficult the closer it gets to high tide. The hour before and the hour after high tide are when I'm in the water. I recommend arriving 2 hours before high tide. There is a map showing you the location and layout of the snorkel trail.
William Graver — Google review
This place is fantastic! We saw manatee starfish, and a stingray. Plus a beautiful Pelican!
Kevin Johnson — Google review
Again this is a beautiful place at high tide, However since bridge construction parking is impossible at high tide because of the scuba diving. It's completely overcrowded. However when the tide is out it a bit easier. But beware, come early or choose another beach because it's still overcrowded at this time till the bridge is completed. Just a heads up,
william snyder — Google review
This is one of my most favorite Florida places to snorkel! My mom came to visit from snowy Michigan so of course I had to bring her here! She had so much fun. The water was a bit rough, causing low visibility. Still beautiful! She says she always hated Florida but I always get her to have fun lol
Andrea Falk — Google review
Some fish to see but don’t waste your money on scuba diving classes. Just buy a pair of goggles for swimmers like I did. High tide is prime time for this so check the local schedules for high tide time lines that change. Also there’s is plenty of parking on the opposite side of the road. Just walk across the street to the little beach. Pack light is my tip and bring your own shade for the beach. Currently construction site at the location so not helpful with traffic.
Scott Fearing — Google review
This is GREAT for Florida snorkeling. I've snorkel all over the place and I thought this park was really cool. You can expect to see some sponges and soft coral, artificial reef and structures. We saw lots of fish; angel fish, parrot fish, wrasse, scorpion fish, a HUGE eel, giant starfish, barracuda, tang, large crabs, colorful shrimp, rays, and more. All in all very cool place to visit.
Ocean Reef Park is a public beach that offers a range of amenities such as playgrounds, saltwater fishing areas, picnic tables and on-site lifeguards. The beach is well maintained with clean sand and clear water that's warm even during winter months. Visitors are encouraged to keep the area tidy through the use of buckets provided along the boardwalk. Children will find it exciting as they can search for treasures in the form of beautiful shells scattered around the beach.
This beach is beautiful, not crowded and clean. They have a shower and bathrooms available. Our kids loved it and we found a lot of beautiful shells out there. This was our first trip there and we will definitely be going back.
Ellen Gonzales — Google review
We had a great time visiting the beach here! It's a very pretty, family friendly place with beautiful lush greenery surrounding the walkways down to the water. Dog friendly as well! There are some larger rock formations and during high tide, the waves splash against them and create some awesome photo opps. Highly recommend! We have a beach just 5 min away from our home but we prefer driving the extra 15 minutes to this one.
Quentilla Alton — Google review
This is an unexpected little spot that has a great parking lot, restrooms and an unpresuming beach with lots of interesting features. There are rock formations at low tide that make for spectacular wave action, other rock formations that are very interesting to look at but could be a problem if you are body surfing when it is not low tide and they are not visible. Ouch! There are tons of shells for those who like collecting. They're not the most interesting shells, but they sure are plentiful. The sand is very nice here , fluffy and just what a beach should be. The walk to and from the beach is quite nice also. It is lined with lovely trees and this makes it a special occasion walking to and from. This is a lovely spot that we will likely return to.
Gina Marie Acker — Google review
Small slice of beach front wedged between condos and hotels. Free to anyone. Park has ample parking, well marked handicap spaces. At the lifeguard station beach accessible wheelchairs are available.
Walter Smelt — Google review
Beautiful beach! Full of families, kids, groups and solos - yet still space to find a spot. Water and sand Beautiful! Picnic tables and grills available by the entry, with restrooms and police monitored parking. Lifeguards and beach patrol keep safety on the beach.
Rachel H — Google review
Such a nice park and beach, not a lot of people during the work day. Beautiful and there are chairs and umbrellas provided. Parking is free!
steph lake — Google review
The park is very nice. A lot of benches to sit at and a park for the kids. The Walkway is beautiful and shaded before you get to beach. Bathroom is not up to par only 1 stall out of 4 that was good for the ladies.
Dakota A — Google review
Good Beach spot on Singer Island. Decent amount of free parking if you get in early enough or not so busy day. Interesting reef feature to explore both on the beach and in the water (snorkel or scuba). They also have a small playground area for kids as well near the parking lot.
jack watson — Google review
What a beautiful beach, wasn't crowded at all.water was clear and pretty warm for January. Sand was clean thanks to the buckets provided halfway down the boardwalk, take a bucket, take a walk, pick up trash and leave the beach a little safer than you found it. Kids will love this, it's treasure hunting.
Laugh out Loud — Google review
Easy access to the beach with free parking, the sand is clean, very nice place to relax.
Aaron Gaylon — Google review
Really beautiful beach with ample space for visitors. Has a nice outcrop of rocks in the water you can walk to for those who want pictures
Riyaadh Ali — Google review
Great for kids, has a reef were you can see crabs and fishes. Not too windy or deep. Close enough so you don’t have to walk a mile to get into the water. Bring a tent or umbrella since there’s no shade.
Irehm Abraham — Google review
A great spot for swimming, snorkelling, or scuba diving. Lots of fish, squid, and some hard corals. It can be choppy, but it is a great place to practice navigation and buoyancy skills. Showers available for rinsing. Free parking.
Alex Fedoryshyn — Google review
Such an excellent park and beach. They did a great job. Wonderful restaurants and shop within walking distance.
Mark Spencer — Google review
Palm Beach is perfect for kicking back and relaxing and getting to a new place and getting somewhere new that's clean with good vibes and good people. I loved it. Hear some videos from my music advertisements that we took. There a couple of photos too. Enjoy.
The boujie man — Google review
Love this beach. Has a bathroom area where you can get dressed before walking along the wooden bridge into the beach. Great views, perfectly sandy beach, never busy when we go, and outdoor showers which is nice.
Sarah D — Google review
Nice wide and clean beach. Far less crowded than typical south east coast Floridian beaches.
Josh Marshman — Google review
Beautiful stretch of beach! Big, free parking lot, restrooms, and a short distance to shopping and restaurants!
The Peanut Island Shuttle Boat offers a convenient and reasonably priced way to reach Peanut Island. Despite potential wait times, the free parking and easy-to-follow instructions make the experience accessible. While some may find the staff stern, their focus on safety is understandable. Once on Peanut Island, visitors can enjoy activities like sunbathing and snorkeling among abundant marine life and seashells. Overall, it's a recommended experience for those looking to relax by the beach or explore underwater wonders.
Everyone is very nice and friendly
The ferry takes about 15 minutes. We went on a weekend, and it was open from 8:30 am to buy tkts. First come, first serve. At 9am, we took off. They will check your cooler for alcohol as it is not permitted on the island. The ferry is every 20 minutes until it reaches full capacity on the island.
The last trip coming back is 5 pm.
Clean boats are very new.
Free daily parking
JC C — Google review
PET FRIENDLY!! Big positive. Had a great time. Went alone with my dog on a Friday morning in January and stayed all day. The lady that sold the wristband was super nice even offered me dog treats. Guys on the boat were also very friendly. They remembered my dog Marley’s name when they picked us up so that’s always nice. Water is crystal clear and warm. Clean bathrooms too. Definitely going back.
Taylor Reinstein — Google review
Huge line to get on the boat. They supposedly banned drinking alcohol on the island, and I see many parties with open containers. There are several options for a nice beach day in the Island.
Alberto Chalbaud — Google review
Such a fun experience, the staff is super nice and friendly. This was my 1st time on peanut island and exceeded my expectations, I was able to rent snorkeling gear and it was worth it, the clear water was amazing and swimming in a band of fish was even better. 🌟 🤩 ⭐️ 🏝🌈🐠🐟❤️⛱️🐾🐕 ❤️👩🏻🦰
Rosie Cruz — Google review
Had to wait around 40 minutes from when we arrived at the dock to when we arrived at peanut island, as we had just missed the previous shuttle. Free parking was convenient, easy to follow signage and instructions, price was reasonable. As other reviews suggest, staff can come across as impolite, however they do have to follow safety precautions so I can understand why they may need to be stern at times. The skipper was informative and efficient. We really enjoyed our time on peanut island, and would recommend visiting to anyone. We did some sun bathing and snorkelling, which we saw lots of fish and seashells.
Overall a great experience, thank you for the safe ride to and from!
Carly Anne — Google review
This is definitely worth checking out .Good spot to chill for the day ,snorkeling,swimming,relax on the beach .
Shaikh — Google review
The crew is fantastic, and very friendly but Peanut Island It is not what you see in the advertisements, the cost of the ferry is $25 per person, and when you arrive the first thing you see is the cloudy, dark water and with no possibility of snorkeling, the interior lagoon looks like a swamp with so much filth and mosquitoes , the bridge is scary to walk on it, see the photos and do justice for yourself. I do not recommend going as it is a waste of money and time since in this area of West Palm Beach there are many beautiful beaches and you don't have to pay to go and enjoy them.
Alberto Naveira — Google review
Great for family and friends! Plenty of shuttles to and from the island! Beautiful water!
Adam Sullivan — Google review
The staff was wonderful. The ride to Peanut Island was a breeze. Little to no wait out family enjoyed it.
Melinda St John — Google review
What great people, incredibly kind and thoughtful. Not a long boat ride, but a entertaining one. Kept us laughing and informed of all the best spots to hit. $16/person for peanut island. If you haven't been make the time. Snorkeling, basking in the sun, camping, shell hunting or just a beautiful walk around and the amazing park. You will not be disappointed!
jenny Sisco — Google review
This is a great way to spend a day...cruise to Peanut Island for clear water snorkeling & white sand beauty! Only $14 a person for the breezy boat ride to the island, & ride back whenever you'd like before 5pm. Camping also available for $20 a night!
Cher Couvillion Wilson — Google review
Fast, easy, friendly, and informative. The ticket buying process moves fast and is easy, you can use cash or card. The people are friendly and try to accommodate when they can. The boat has high traffic and they do need to pack people in, so yes it feels crowded. The staff is informative and gives you rules+tips on what to do :)
Jeff Tong — Google review
Shuttle is a 5 minute boat ride from land to Peanut Island. Boat crew appeared well trained to keep all safe. They are also open to questions about island. I was surprised to see the fee go from $8 round trip to $16 rt in just a few years. Camping allowed with proper registration.
M.E. — Google review
Lovely quick Boat Ride. Great self service boat- wait in line to get a ticket, wait in line to get on and off the boat, but cheap and frequent boats to and from Peanut Island. No Alcohol allowed on the island. Quite busy on weekends. Maybe less crowded during the week.