Picnic Island, Florida is the quintessential tropical oasis that boaters strive to find. Located in the Lower Florida Keys, this beautiful and quirky location should be on your list.
Great Island Vibe
The main thing that makes Picnic Island so special, is it’s one of the rare, oceanside sandbars in The Keys. This island paradise is located in beautiful, clear water and a real tropical feel to it. The island consists of some lush sections and a very nice sandy beach. Also, the island is decorated with fun directional signs and even some homemade swings and hammocks. Icw Waterway
The island used to be much larger but Hurricane Irma leveled much of it. Consequently, the beach and tropical foliage are significantly reduced. Regardless, it’s still an amazing place.
Local Resident
The island’s local character is “Cap’n Jack”. Jack lives on the huge houseboat anchored at Picnic Island. He’s been living on it for five years! Cap’n Jack is from Northern Indiana and it took him four years to build his boat. The boat is called the “Cap’n Jack Hang Out” and it’s named that for a reason. He’s one of the nicest guys around and he welcomes everyone nice to join him on his boat, have a drink, and share stories. Visitors bring food, alcohol, and good conversation (and sometimes much more).
“Wetstock” Event
In past years, Picnic Island has hosted an event called “Wetstock” during Labor Day weekend. It’s an event that showcases live music and the island and sandbar provide the perfect venue. There’s no official event page but you should be able to find information about it on Facebook or The Hull Truth boating forum. Scuba Diving Under Docks
Lower Keys: A Favorite for Boaters
For years I’ve spent most of my time visiting either Key West or the Middle Keys (Islamorada, Duck Key, and Marathon). It was only during the recent visits that I became familiar with what The Lower Keys has to offer. It’s spectacular! Uncrowded waters, miles of backcountry, electric blue water, and excellent offshore fishing, snorkeling, and diving make this area tough to beat. Also, its proximity to Key West while remaining quiet and family-friendly, is a bonus.