Capone Island Deerfield Beach, located in Florida, is a unique destination steeped in history and natural beauty. The island’s past is shrouded in both legend and reality, thanks to its rumored association with the infamous gangster Al Capone.
Today, Deerfield Island Park sits on what was once known as Capone Island, offering visitors a chance to explore its natural beauty, learn about its intriguing history, and take part in various recreational activities.
Deerfield Island Park is a 53.3-acre nature-oriented park on an island that is only accessible by boat. Despite its past, the island is now a haven for nature lovers and adventurers.
It is surrounded by the vibrant waters of the Intracoastal Waterway and offers a picturesque setting to appreciate the natural beauty of South Florida.
The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking trails, wildlife observation, picnic areas, and rental facilities for parties and events.
Key Takeaways
- Capone Island Deerfield Beach is steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty.
- Deerfield Island Park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors.
- The park, once rumored to be linked to Al Capone, is now accessible only by boat.
History of Capone Island
Al Capone’s Connection
Capone Island, located in Deerfield Beach, has a fascinating history that involves notorious mob lord Al Capone. Although Capone did not directly purchase the island, he had an undeniable connection to the area.
Legend has it that he used a fish packing house nearby as a gambling casino, brothel, and for shipping illegal booze1. Capone reportedly had plans to build a lavish quarter-million-dollar home on the island2. However, his imprisonment in 1932 prevented him from realizing those aspirations2.
Deerfield Island Park Development
Later on, the 53.3-acre island in the Intracoastal Waterway was turned into Deerfield Island Park3.
This nature-oriented park is accessible only by boat, and its amenities include scenic trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for bird watching. In addition, the history of the island and its association with Al Capone adds a unique twist to the park’s allure3.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Involvement
An important aspect of the island’s history is the involvement of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
They carried out dredging activities in the area, which created many of the canals and waterways seen today in Broward County4.
The spoils from these activities were used to fill the swamplands and construct the island known as Capone Island4. This engineering effort played a significant role in shaping the geography and development of not only Capone Island but also the surrounding region in Florida.
Footnotes
- https://deerfieldbeachhistoricalsociety.com/52-20/ ↩
- https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/arts-history-al-capone-florida/ ↩ ↩2
- https://www.wildsouthflorida.com/deerfield.island.park.html ↩ ↩2
- https://www.academia.edu/9966045/Capone_Island_From_Swampland_to_Broward_Countys_Deerfield_Island_Park_150_years_of_Florida_Land_History ↩ ↩2
Natural Features of Deerfield Island
Flora and Fauna
Deerfield Island, a 53.3-acre multi-use park, is a beautiful and serene natural area located in the Intracoastal Waterway. The island is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a fascinating destination for nature lovers.
The island’s vegetation mainly consists of native plants, including various species of mangroves, sea grapes, and gumbo-limbo trees. These plants serve as a habitat for numerous animals found on the island.
It is not uncommon to spot species such as raccoons, birds like ospreys and herons, several reptiles, and many fish varieties in the water surrounding the island. This healthy ecosystem contributes to the overall beauty and allure of Deerfield Island.
Nature Trail and Wildlife Observation
One of the main attractions of Deerfield Island is its well-maintained Nature Trail, which offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe the local wildlife up close.
The trail takes you through diverse natural settings, from mangrove forests to open grasslands. Along the way, you might spot herons and owls perched on branches or raccoons seeking shelter in the shrubby underbrush.
Water lovers would be thrilled to know that Deerfield Island also boasts serene beaches and calm waters, perfect for activities like paddleboarding and kayaking.
These water-based activities enable visitors to explore the island’s intricate waterways while taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Recreational Activities
Boating and Pontoons
Capone Island, also known as Deerfield Island Park, offers a variety of water-based activities for visitors.
Boating enthusiasts can enjoy the calm waters of the Gulf Stream Intracoastal Waterway, with slips on the island available for those who have their own means of transportation. For a more laid-back experience, pontoon boat rentals are an excellent way to explore the surrounding areas.
Be sure to make use of the free shuttle boat that operates on weekends to access the island.
Picnicking
The beautiful surroundings of Capone Island provide the perfect backdrop for picnicking.
Visitors can find several picnic tables spread throughout the park, where they can enjoy a meal with friends or family. Additionally, there are barbecue facilities available for those looking to cook up some delicious grilled treats.
Don’t forget to pack your favorite foods and beverages!
Nature-Oriented Adventures
For those who prefer a more nature-focused experience, Capone Island also offers various nature-oriented adventures.
Discover the rich regional history, flora, and fauna as you wander through the park’s trails.
The island is also a great spot for kayaking and canoeing along the waterway, where you can observe wildlife such as birds and marine animals in their natural habitat.
If you’re interested in a private guided tour, companies like Salty Dog Paddle offer paddleboarding lessons and tours, creating a memorable experience on the beautiful waterways of Capone Island.
Visiting Capone Island Deerfield Beach is a perfect opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to unwind, take in the scenic beauty, and engage in exciting recreational activities.
Whether it’s boating, picnicking, or exploring the natural wonders of the island, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Myths and Legends
Gangster Stories
Legend has it that Al Capone, the infamous gangster, played a part in Deerfield Beach’s history.
Reportedly, Capone used a fish packing house, which later became the Riverview Restaurant, as a secret gambling casino, brothel, and for shipping illegal booze.
Capone was known for his involvement in criminal activities and tax evasion.
Although Capone planned to build a quarter-million-dollar home on the 52-acre Deerfield Island (formerly Capone Island), he was sent to federal prison in 1932 before he could do it.
The island is now a nature-oriented park and can only be accessed by boat. It is still known for its connection to the gangster’s past.
Carmilla Cantella Tales
Another intriguing local legend revolves around Carmilla Cantella, an Italian opera singer who met a tragic fate.
It is said that she was kidnapped and last seen performing at the Jackson Opera House.
This tale intertwines with the story of Capone Island, as some believe that Carmilla’s kidnappers might have had connections to Al Capone’s criminal activities in the area.
Here are a few key points surrounding the myths and legends of Capone Island Deerfield Beach:
- Al Capone: Infamous gangster connected to Deerfield Beach.
- Fish packing house: Former gambling casino, brothel, and shipping site for illegal booze.
- Deerfield Island: Formerly known as Capone Island, a 52-acre island intended for Capone’s home.
- Carmilla Cantella: Italian opera singer who was kidnapped and connected to the criminal underworld.
Accessibility and Facilities
Getting There: Ferry and Shuttle Information
Deerfield Island Park is a beautiful, nature-oriented island located in the Intracoastal Waterway.
One important thing to note is that the park is accessible only by boat.
Luckily, there’s a free shuttle boat that operates on weekends, making it convenient for visitors to reach the island.
The shuttle runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the hour on Saturdays and Sundays.
If you have your own means of transportation, the island also offers slips for your boat.
The shuttle service operates from Sullivan Park, a nearby park on the mainland.
To access the shuttle, head to Sullivan Park and make sure you arrive at least a few minutes before the shuttle departure time to ensure you have a spot on the boat.
Amenities: Restrooms and Picnic Areas
Once you’ve arrived at Deerfield Island Park, you’ll find various amenities to make your visit more enjoyable.
The island offers picnic tables for visitors to dine with family and friends.
Moreover, barbecue grills are available on the island, allowing you to have a delightful cookout surrounded by nature.
Deerfield Island Park is also well-equipped with restrooms, ensuring the comfort of its visitors.
However, it’s important to note that wheelchair accessibility on the island is limited, as it is only available during high tide. This may affect some visitors’ ability to fully enjoy the park and its amenities.
Surrounding Area Highlights
Deerfield Beach, located in South Florida, is a vibrant city with beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation options, and various attractions.
Sullivan Park
Sullivan Park offers a great spot for relaxation and recreation near Capone Island.
The park is situated along the picturesque Intracoastal Waterway, providing stunning views and access to various water-based activities.
It features numerous facilities, including a boat ramp, sports complexes, and playgrounds, making it perfect for families and those looking for an active day outdoors.
Another nearby city, Boca Raton, hosts various attractions, including shopping centers, a lively art scene, pristine beaches, and luxury accommodations.
It is just a short drive away from Deerfield Beach, making it an enticing day trip option.
For those interested in exploring a bit further, the city of Ft. Lauderdale is easily accessible.
Known for its gorgeous beaches, vibrant nightlife, and numerous attractions, it adds up to the list of destinations to visit while in the area of Capone Island and Deerfield Beach.
Conclusion
The intriguing history of Capone Island in Deerfield Beach, Florida, exemplifies the mix of natural beauty and colorful past stories.
Once associated with the notorious gangster Al Capone, the island has since transformed into a nature-oriented park that offers a tranquil escape from the urban environment.
The island’s history dates back to the early 20th century, when it was purchased by Al Capone’s attorney in 1930.
Rumor has it that Capone had plans to build upon the island, but these were never realized, leaving it mostly untouched.
Today, the 53.3-acre island is a hidden gem, accessible only by boat and offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s fascinating history.
Visitors to the island can enjoy hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking, while appreciating the unique ecosystems that support an array of flora and fauna.
Though remnants of Capone’s time on the island may be scarce, the legends and local anecdotes continue to intrigue visitors, providing a captivating backdrop to the natural wonders on display.
