Peanut Island, long loved by locals for boating and snorkeling, is about to see some major changes. The highlight of the plan is bringing the JFK bunker back to life, a Cold War–era fallout shelter constructed in 1961 for President John F. Kennedy during his visits to the nearby “Winter White House” in Palm Beach. Recently, Palm Beach County approved a 30-year lease to restore the bunker and surrounding historic structures, ensuring this maritime landmark will once again be open to the public. This project brings together local government, historians, and the maritime community in preserving an iconic chapter of coastal history.
HISTORIC STRUCTURES AND RESTORATION PROGRESS
The restoration effort goes beyond the bunker. Palm Beach County has also included plans to restore the 1936 Colonial Revival–style Coast Guard station and boathouse, both full of boating history. By restoring these sites, the island blends its nautical history with modern-day boating experiences. County leaders have already earmarked $100,000 for design and engineering work, with state representatives pushing for as much as $1.5 million in legislative funding. Early estimates suggest the full renovation could cost between $3 million and $4 million, with work that began in 2022 expected to take two to three years and still ongoing before tours can officially begin.
Inside, the JFK bunker—known by the codename “Detachment Hotel”—offers a fascinating glimpse into Cold War safety planning. Built in just two weeks in late 1961, the 1,500-square-foot shelter features a Quonset-hut-style tunnel, a lead-lined roof, and more than twelve feet of earth cover for protection. The space was designed to shelter approximately thirty people, with bunks, decontamination stations, a ham radio, filtered air, and emergency lighting. Even today, visitors can see the remnants of Kennedy’s desk and the essentials once stocked for survival. Its design and location reflect how maritime access factored into emergency strategy, providing a hidden yet easily accessible refuge for the President just minutes by boat from Palm Beach.
A NEW ERA FOR THE BOATING COMMUNITY
For the boating community, the restoration opens exciting opportunities. Imagine arriving by boat, tying up near the island, and stepping into a preserved Cold War bunker that once stood at the intersection of presidential power and maritime strategy. Charter operators may soon add the site to their trips, mixing snorkeling, island stops, and history tours into one memorable adventure. For educators and families, the site offers a powerful way to connect with the past while enjoying the beauty of South Florida’s waterways.
Ultimately, the restoration of the JFK bunker is more than a historical project—it is a maritime revival. Coupled with the county’s plans to widen the channel in 2025, Peanut Island is positioned to become not just a recreational hotspot, but also a historic anchor point for Florida’s boating community. Whether you’re passing through on a yacht, anchoring for a weekend snorkel trip, or guiding visitors on a charter tour, Peanut Island will soon offer an unparalleled blend of nautical adventure and Cold War history.
