The so-called Conch Republic was established in response to the US Border Patrol setting up roadblocks that caused terrible traffic jams. Residents protested and the island’s “sovereign state of mind” became almost tangible. You’ll see the famous Conch Republic flag around the island, marked with a large conch. The motto? “We Seceded Where Others Failed.”

The word "Napa" is of Native American derivation and has been variously translated as "grizzly bear", "motherland," or "fish". Of the many explanations of the name's origin, the most plausible seems to be that it is derived from the Patwin word napo, meaning "house.” Go figure.

Bands like The Drifters, The Tams, and the Catalinas have created both lasting songs and lasting memories. Many of the great beach bands still perform today and there has been a renaissance of newer groups with original charts recently.