Unfamiliar 12 Island Gems Hidden in Florida's Shores
Visions of a tropical getaway spark thoughts of powdery, ivory-hued sand beaches, shimmering turquoise waters, and swaying palms—yet one might ponder the potential time-consuming flight needed to reach such paradise. However, an undisclosed escape to an isolated isle is closer than one might believe: Florida shelters countless (possibly thousands!) of hidden gems. Here, we unveil 12 of our cherished miniature islands in Florida. Prepare your spirit of adventure and ensure you have a watercraft. Navigating these hidden treasures scattered throughout the Sunshine State's sparkling waters will be a necessity.
Wesley's Isle
Spreading across seven acres at the western end of the Fort Pierce Inlet in St. Lucie County, Wesley's Island serves as a sanctuary for at least 29 bird species. This diminutive isle harbors brown and white pelicans, roseate spoonbills, owls, ospreys, terns, herons, egrets, and other coastal birds. Accessible solely by boat, the island offers ample opportunities for hiking and fishing.
Ten Thousand Islands Wildlife Refuge
Why explore just one secret island, when you can immerse yourself in a multitude? Despite the name, Ten Thousand Islands Wildlife Refuge is an intricate tapestry of hundreds of mangrove islands and narrow waterways. Embark on your expedition from Marco Island, sailing southeast through Cape Romano. This spot boasts excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Little Talbot Island
One of the few remaining unspoiled islands along the northeastern coast of Florida, Little Talbot Island is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Its unique mix of salt marshes and rolling dune beaches provide the ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife, such as bobcats, river otters, sea turtles, and the vividly colored Painted Bunting, which migrates annually to Little Talbot Island to nest and raise their young.
Jack Island
Hidden within the little-known Jack Island Preserve State Park in North Hutchinson Island, Jack Island offers solitude and plenty of wildlife-spotting opportunities. A primitive trail loop surrounds the isle, featuring an observation tower and little else—with the exception of marsh rabbits, white ibis, sand crabs, alligators, and numerous other native inhabitants.
Hoagen Key
Covering just a few acres, Hoagen Key lies off the coast of Boca Grande in the Gasparilla Sound. This beloved local spot has a rich history and was once home to the ancient Calusa tribe, who likely fished in the same waters. Today, it's still an excellent fishing destination, and the Boca Grande Pass remains the tarpon capital of the world. Remember to also visit the nearby Gasparilla Island State Park, home to the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, which dates back to 1890.
Pelican Island
Averaging less than one square mile, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge was established by President Theodore Roosevelt to safeguard brown pelicans and other birds. The charming inhabitants of Pelican Island and the surrounding archipelagos off the coast of Vero Beach now number 30 species, including pelicans, herons, and egrets.
Big Munson Island and Little Munson Island
Located off Big Pine Key in the lower Florida Keys, Big Munson Island covers 100 acres and has served as a haven for the Boy Scouts of America as part of their Florida National High Adventure Sea Base program. This pristine refuge allows young scouts to learn the art of sailing and camp out in primitive conditions. Next to it lies Little Munson Island, where the Robinson Crusoe-inspired Little Palm Island Resort & Spa is nestled.
Blowing Rocks Preserve
This unusual, rocky coastline boasts a captivating sight—sea spray shooting up to 50 feet during extreme high tides. Situated in Hobe Sound at the southernmost point of the Indian River Lagoon, the Blowing Rocks Preserve is a sanctuary for sea turtles, including the loggerhead, green, and leatherback. Since 1969, the Nature Conservancy has managed the beaches and wetlands, turning the barrier island into the largest rocky Anastasia limestone coastline on the U.S. Atlantic coast.
Greer Island
Positioned at the northern tip of picturesque Longboat Key, Greer Island unfolds as a private cocoon on Florida's western coast. Arrive by boat or navigate the shores on foot during low tide, but remember to leave the island ahead of the tide's rise to avoid becoming stranded. Though being marooned on a beautiful sandy beach may not be the worst scenario—especially if you've packed a few snacks.
Peanut Island
Despite the busyness of South Florida, a secret isle known as Peanut Island lies in Palm Beach County. Locals are aware of its existence, but it remains a mystery to outside visitors. Sitting on 80 acres, Peanut Island is a refuge and a favorite destination for local boaters. Once home to a Cold War-era nuclear bunker, the island now welcomes families sailing around it to enjoy swimming and snorkeling.
Just a short boat trip from Captiva, this tiny piece of old Florida feels like a distant hideaway. San Vicente Coastal State Park's nine miles of untouched white-sand beaches are perfect for shell collecting and bird watching, and it's not uncommon to spot manatees, dolphins, or sea turtles swimming in the nearby waters. If you're looking for an off-grid retreat, extend your stay on the island by reserving one of the park's basic cabins or campsites.
Isla San Vicente
Nine miles southwest of Apalachicola, around 12,300 acres of protected lands make up the San Vicente Island National Wildlife Refuge. Surrounded by Apalachicola Bay and Saint Vincent Sound on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, the barrier island is teeming with wildlife, from migrating birds to alligators to various types of sea turtles. It can only be reached by kayak or boat (you can also arrange a shuttle, as shown to the right, if you don't have your own craft), but once you're there, you can explore on foot or by bike thanks to a vast network of trails.
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The articles in SouthernLiving magazine about Florida's hidden gems highlight several islands worth visiting. Travelers can embark on an expedition to the Ten Thousand Islands Wildlife Refuge, a mangrove island tapestry filled with hundreds of hidden gems and excellent snorkeling spots. Alternatively, those interested in birdwatching can visit Wesley's Island, home to at least 29 bird species like brown pelicans and roseate spoonbills.
