Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Crab Island Destin Florida
Are you looking for a fun and exciting destination in Florida? Look no further than Crab Island in Destin, Florida!
Having been featured on HGTV and Good Morning America, this once-hidden gem is now a TikTok sensation and on every Instagram influencer’s list of must-see places.
Why has Crab Island, which isn’t even an island, become so popular? The lively atmosphere, crystal clear water, and unique beach experience are hard to beat!
I’ll take you through everything you need to know to make the most of your Crab Island experience. From getting there to exploring it safely, here’s what you need to know.
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What is Crab Island?
Crab Island was once a man-made island resembling the shape of a crab within the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
It was created from the sand dredged to create the Destin East Pass.
After a time, it has eroded to become the four-mile sandbar it is today.
Now, it serves as a playground for Destin visitors looking for a fun place to get together on the water.
Because of its crystal clear emerald green water, abundant wildlife (including crabs), and shallow depth, it is a hotspot for boaters to dock and enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fun with inflatables.
Where is Crab Island Located?
Crab Island is north of the William T. Marler Bridge, better known as the Destin Bridge.
It’s between Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The exact GPS coordinates for the Crab Island location are 30.3962° N, 86.5205° W.
People visiting Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and the small towns along 30A are all within a short distance from Crab Island.
How To Get To Crab Island
Don’t be fooled by Crab Island’s proximity to the shore.
Crab Island may look close enough to reach by swimming, but it is not.
The safest way to reach Crab Island is by boat or watercraft, many of which you can rent from the Destin Harbor Boardwalk.
You have several ways to get to Crab Island. Choices range anywhere from a full-day private charter to a Crab Island Shuttle boat seat to jet skiing or kayaking.
No matter how you choose to get there, you will have a great time!
What to Do at Crab Island
Think of Crab Island as a great big party on the water.
In the summer, especially on the weekends, it is not shocking to see hundreds, if not thousands, of people at Crab Island.
Boats dock near the sand bar, while people float, hang out, drink, eat, listen to music, play, and make new friends.
Don’t be surprised to see dolphins and other wildlife, like sea turtles and crabs.
One fun thing to do while at Crab Island is to take advantage of the boat vendors that pull up to sell food and drinks.
Did you forget to bring something with you? Don’t worry! The General Store boat sells floats, goggles, ice, and clothing, like shirts and hats.
Most of the boats take cash and credit cards.
Unfortunately, one boat that you won’t find is a Beer Boat. That’s because no alcohol is sold at Crab Island.
Before heading out, you must bring your own or fill up your ice chest at the Destin Marina.
Is Crab Island Destin Florida Safe?
Located within Florida’s National Park Service Gulf Islands National Seashore, Crab Island has faced environmental and safety challenges.
You can imagine what problems may arise due to unregulated and unmanaged parties on a submerged sandbar.
Recently, ordinances have been put into effect to help protect the area, including the Gulf of Mexico fisheries and critical resources.
These regulations, such as banning the sale of alcohol at Crab Island, regulating vendors, and removing the Crab Island Inflatable Water Park are meant to create a safer environment for everyone.
In the past, there have been injuries related to water games and activities in shallow water.
People dive, not realizing the shallow depth, which has led to leg and spinal injuries. Other injuries and even deaths have occurred because of alcohol-related injuries.
Additional safety concerns stem from swimmers not being aware of strong currents or deep drop-offs in the area and heavy boat traffic.
Those things being mentioned, you can have a safe trip to Crab Island.
You need to be aware of possible dangers and drink responsibly. Using a reputable boat rental company that knows the area is recommended.
When is the Best Time to Visit Crab Island in Destin Florida?
Crab Island is open 24 hours, seven days a week.
It is best to visit on weekdays if you want a family-friendly environment, as the weekends and holidays tend to bring the party.
The sun can be brutal, especially if you don’t have shade from a boat. Early morning hours or late afternoon hours will make the heat more bearable.
For the emerald green water you see in the photos and on social media, you need to visit Crab Island during high tide when the water from the Gulf of Mexico rushes in. This usually happens in the morning hours.
Alternatively, when the bay water pushes in, the Crab Island water is more tea-colored water due to the seagrass and other tannins.
Because Mother Nature is unpredictable, nothing is guaranteed, but your best chance for clear water is at high tide. Check Crab Island tide times here.
What Should You Take to Crab Island
When you go to Crab Island, take everything you would need for the beach except for your beach chairs and umbrella.
Crab Island Packing List
- Beach bag
- Beach towels/bathing suit/water shoes or flip flops
- Sunscreen/Aloe/Chapstick
- Cash/Credit Card/ID
- Wireless Bluetooth speaker/portable charger
- Water football, volleyball, frisbee, toys, floats with rope to tie up (if your rental doesn’t include these)
- Goggles, snorkel equipment (or rent it there)
- Snacks/drinks (including any alcohol; you can’t buy it there). No glass allowed.
- Hat/sunglasses
Best Boat Rentals and Crab Island Tours
Destin- Private Crab Island Pontoon Boat
I know booking a private chartered pontoon boat is not within everyone’s budget, but if you have a group of friends that can share the cost, this is your best option for getting to and enjoying a full day at Crab Island.
Destin Pontoon Charters is absolutely worth every penny.
With a private charter, you have full control over your itinerary, so you make a trip that perfectly fits you.
Want to snorkel at Norriego Point? Just let them know, and off you go. The private captains are incredible!
Spend time sailing the crystal-clear waters, or just hang out and soak up the sun; it’s totally up to you.
Use the snorkel equipment to explore the marine life, or ride one of the paddle boards and search for playful dolphins along the way.
The captain will be your guide, taking you wherever you wish.
Don’t miss this opportunity to have an extraordinary adventure on your private, chartered slide pontoon boat.
You will have an unforgettable experience in the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico. With this private chartered pontoon boat, you and up to five of your friends or family can fully customize your day.
The boat includes an ice chest, a bathroom, covered seating, all your water toys, and the most relaxing floats to hang out in all day.
Have more than six people in your group? Don’t worry! Destin Pontoon Charters has larger boats that can take up to sixteen people.
Original Cruisin’ Tikis 3hr Crab Island Destin Florida Sandbar Adventure
You can experience the ultimate beach day with Original Cruisin’ Tikis 3hr Crab Island Sandbar Adventure.
Hop onto a unique, circular, tiki bar-themed vessel for a half-day cruise that offers opportunities to swim, snorkel, visit floating restaurants, and relax as you soak up the celebratory vibes.
Coolers are provided so that you can bring your own drinks and snacks.
It’s a perfect family and group-friendly adventure for all beach lovers.
Book the Original Cruisin’ Tikis 3hr Crab Island Sandbar Adventure in Destin and be part of the lively sandbar hangout. Swim, snorkel, and visit floating restaurants while enjoying the unique half-day experience of cruising on a tiki bar-themed vessel.
Crab Island Jetski Waverunner Rental
Another popular way to see Crab Island is by renting a Jet Ski. This gives you the opportunity to see Crab Island and Okaloosa Island waterways.
Jet skis and wave runners provide an excellent way to enjoy the Emerald Coast.
You will get a map of the local waterways to help navigate the area and explore the exquisite surroundings at your own pace.
Rent the jet skis to head to Crab Island to indulge in the magic of seeing dolphins in their natural habitat.
Enjoy the water, pop into one of the floating bars, and explore the translucent waters surrounding Okaloosa Island.
Crab Island Shuttle Boat
One of the most economical ways to get to Crab Island is by taking a Crab Island Shuttle boat.
The shuttle service gives you easy access to crystal-clear waters and floating restaurants at Crab Island without a big price tag.
You will board the boat with thirty other people. Once at Crab Island, you can hop off, snorkel, hang out, and have fun. The boat and captain stay with you for up to three hours before you reboard and head back to shore.
They offer flexible departure times, so you can choose a schedule that fits your party mode.
Nearby Crab Island Destin Florida Adventures
HarborWalk Village, located in Destin, serves as the perfect waterfront destination for those interested in exploring the surrounding waters and visiting Crab Island.
This lively hub offers exceptional shopping, dining, and a wide range of exciting attractions. Located near the Emerald Grande vacation rentals, it provides convenient access to boat rentals such as paddleboards, kayaks, pontoons, and jet skis.
Additionally, you can book thrilling adventures like parasailing, glass-bottom boat tours, world-class fishing, pirate ship excursions, and dolphin cruises.
The village also hosts live music, weekly fireworks shows, themed events, and features an Adventure Zone for kids.
When you return from Crab Island, you will be delighted with the many restaurants offering a variety of food to satisfy every craving.
In Conclusion
Crab Island is a must-visit destination for anyone in search of a unique and unforgettable adventure. From getting there to enjoying everything that it has to offer safely, I hope that my guide has been helpful in creating a fun-filled experience for your upcoming trip.
Whether you’re seeking a day of relaxation, or adventure, or simply want to soak in the beauty of nature, Crab Island offers it all.
The sparkling turquoise waters, soft sand, chill atmosphere, and abundant marine life create a magical setting that will undoubtedly make lasting memories.
So, go ahead and plan your trip to Crab Island, where you can float in crystal-clear waters, enjoy floating bars, play water sports, and create cherished moments with your loved ones.
Don’t wait any longer – let Crab Island Destin Florida be your next vacation destination. It’s time to unwind, explore, and enjoy the Emerald Coast.
