India, Jan. 6 -- Peanut Island, or "the Nut" as locals call it, is one of South Florida's best-kept secrets. Once home to President Kennedy's Cold War bunker, the 79-acre island now feels more like a tropical escape than a historic site. It's just a short boat ride from Palm Beach, and about 75 miles north of Miami, but it may seem like you've landed in the Caribbean. With no cars, hotels, or restaurants, the island manages to feel untouched, though peak-season weekends often see it packed to capacity. For those who can't get enough, there are only 17 campsites available, so plan ahead if you're hoping to spend the night under the stars.

Originally named Inlet Island, it was later renamed Peanut Island after a failed peanut oil shipping ...