Crab Island, Destin
Crab Island is one of the most talked about attractions in Destin, Florida. If you’ve ever visited the Destin area, chances are you’ve heard some mention of the popular sandbar. Indeed, Crab Island is one of the Destin area’s top summertime destinations. It has been photographed and aired on national networks and shows such as HGTV and Good Morning America, published in various travel magazines, and featured in publications worldwide. I would venture to say that Crab Island is the main reason Boating Magazine named Destin one of the ‘Top 10 Places to Live and Boat’ in the United States in 2020.
What is Crab Island?
The name ‘Crab Island’ is a bit of a misnomer because it makes you assume that it’s an actual island. Actually at one time it WAS an island, created by the Army Corps of Engineers in the 1960s when they dredged the Destin Pass and created the Jetties to stabilize the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico. The sand from the dredging project was deposited into the Choctawhatchee Bay, forming a small island, called a ‘spoil island’, that eventually came to be known as Crab Island:
As the years went by, drifting sands from the Gulf of Mexico, with the help of the occasional hurricane, began to erode the spoil island. Eventually, it became what it is today: an underwater sandbar and popular place to anchor your boat (rented or personal) for some fun in the sun. Although there is no actual land at Crab Island anymore, the water is very shallow and at high tide is blue-green and crystal clear. The sandbar ranges from 1-4 feet deep in most places, but drops off to deep water at the edges.
Where is Crab Island?
Crab Island is located on the north side of the Destin Bridge (also known as the Marler Bridge) at the southern entrance of the Choctawhatchee Bay, inside Destin’s East Pass. The official GPS coordinates are listed as N 30°23.918, W 86°31.236, although the sandbar spans multiple acres, and doesn’t consist of just one point on a map.
The sandbar’s location is particularly unique because it is open to the tidal inflow and outflow of the crystal clear, emerald green water from the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, yet it is protected from the surf and waves that you would typically experience along the beach in Destin. Because it is located in the middle of a body of water, Crab Island is only accessible by boat.
How do I get to Crab Island?
As mentioned above, Crab Island is only accessible by boat (or other watercraft) due to the distance from shore and the strong tidal currents and boat traffic that surround it. You can rent a boat (or bring your own) and be your own captain or do an excursion and let a professional take you there. There are larger excursion boats available for Crab Island cruises, as well as private charters on all manner of vessels from captained tiki bar boats to catamarans to pontoon boats.
Boat Rentals
Pontoon boat rentals are the most popular way to get there, and Crab Island is referred to by some as the “Pontoon Capital of the World”. You can rent a boat from one of the boat rental companies in Destin, Okaloosa Island, or nearby Fort Walton Beach to get there. The sandbar is just a short 5-7 minute boat ride from the Destin Harbor, 10-15 minutes from Okaloosa Island, and 20-30 minutes from Fort Walton Beach.
If you are new to boating, don’t worry! Pontoon boats are the most popular type of rental boat for a reason. They are easy to drive, offer comfortable seating for up to 12 passengers, and your rental company can generally get you comfortable with the boat in 15-20 minutes, provided you have experience driving a car. (Your designated driver will need to pass a short $10 Boater’s Safety test if you were born after Jan 1, 1988 due to state law.)
See boat rental pricing and information.
Is there a shuttle to Crab Island?
You can now take a shuttle from the Destin Harbor to Crab Island! The most affordable way to get to the sandbar, the Crab Island Shuttle Boat is a 33′ tour boat that offers 2.5 or 3 hour excursions. Unlike rental pontoons, the shuttle boat is complete with an onboard restroom and a captain and crew member, who stay with you for the duration of the tour. This is a great option for those who don’t want to worry about, or be responsible for, driving a boat, particularly if you don’t have a designated driver. Pack a cooler (alcohol is allowed, and can be purchased at check-in) and a floatie – or your favorite water toys – and see for yourself what the fuss is all about. You’ll want to book early, as space is limited. Adult tickets start at just $49.
See more about the Crab Island Shuttle Boat.
What is there to do at Crab Island?
Crab Island encompasses a huge area within Destin waterways (approximately 4 acres) and is large enough for people of all ages to enjoy. There is always plenty to do and see when you get there, but the main point of going is just to relax and enjoy the atmosphere and natural beauty of the area!
Some of the more popular activities include:
- relaxing on your boat while soaking up some sun
- paddling around the sandbar by kayak or paddleboard
- joining in a game of water volleyball
- enjoying a cold beverage (alcohol is allowed but BYOB as alcohol can no longer be sold at the sandbar) while floating on an inflatable
- sampling local fare from a floating restaurant or mobile food boat
- snorkeling around your boat
- watching for dolphins and other marine life
- tossing a football or frisbee and diving into the water to catch it
- making new friends & people watching!
All-Inclusive Crab Island Excursions
There are also Crab Island excursions available that include additional activities like a stop at the nearby Gulf Islands National Seashore- where they have an inflatable water park that is only open to guests on the excursion, kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling, and shelling- as well as a separate visit to the sandbar- as part of the experience. If you’re looking to be entertained with a bunch of different activities on the water in one action-packed trip, you’ll want to book your seats on the Crab Island Adventure Tour in 2023. (Please note: “all-inclusive” refers to the activities only and does not include food/drinks/alcohol. You are, however, welcome to bring your own and/or purchase from one of the food vendors while you are at the sandbar.)
See more about the Crab Island Adventure Tour.
Why is Crab Island so popular?
Sandbar hangout spots aren’t unusual across the world. Seems like any time you mix boaters and shallow water, you have a recipe for a good time. Crab Island is a little more than your average sandbar hangout spot, though…although that is how its popularity began.
The shallow water is the perfect depth for wading or floating next to your boat while enjoying the tropical atmosphere reminiscent of the Caribbean. And the influx of Destin-area visitors looking to enjoy the area’s unparalleled beauty combined with the local businesses who set up to provide something unique to do create a tourist attraction like no other.
In the “good old days” of 2009-2019, Crab Island was home to massive floating restaurants and bars, mobile food vendors, inflatable water parks, and more. Then, local government got involved and put a bunch of restrictions on the Crab Island businesses. Size limitations were put in place, as well as a ban on the sale of alcohol. These new regulations ultimately shut down some of the largest floating restaurants and the big inflatable waterpark. But that hasn’t stopped it from being one of Destin’s most beautiful and popular attractions.
Hundreds of boats gather daily during the warm summer months to enjoy the scenery and relax. Mobile food boats and smaller floating restaurants continue to populate the sandbar, offering everything from ice cream and BBQ to fresh coconuts. Also, the closure of the Crab Island Water Park made way for the start of new experiences, like the Crab Island Adventure Tour, which includes an inflatable water park. Even with all of the new regulations, a visit to Crab Island is still an experience unlike any other!
What Vendors Are At Crab Island?
There are a variety of vendors at the sandbar from March/April through mid-October, selling everything from BBQ sandwiches to ice cream and t-shirts. There has been a lot of buzz in recent years about vendors getting shut down by the local government, but rest assured, the National Parks Service, which has jurisdiction over the sandbar, has stated that there will still be vendors at Crab Island in 2023.
Approved vendors for 2022 included: Jimmy’s Ice Cream, Crab Island Grill, Kluge’s Rucken Fidiculous BBQ, Wild Fruit Sales, A Bite of Paradise, and the Crab Island Shuttle Boat and Adventure Tour. We expect this list to be very similar in 2023. (Please note that vendors are independently owned and operated businesses, so there is no way to know which ones will be open and at the sandbar on any given day.)
Is Crab Island Family-Friendly?
We get this question quite often. Do a Google search for Crab Island and you might find pictures of a drunken and scantily-clad party crowd. And parts of the underwater playground can be like that…sometimes. The good news is the real-life daily image is much different, and those party pictures are more of the exception than the rule.
If you’re with your family and you want to avoid the party scene, you can. Just anchor your boat away from the party crowd and take part in more family friendly activities (like snorkeling, tossing a football or frisbee, floating on a raft, or enjoying a leisurely lunch on your boat). My kids grew up going to Crab Island from the time they were very little and we have always been able to successfully visit the popular sandbar without them seeing anything that we wouldn’t want them to see. In fact, visiting the sandbar is one of our favorite family activities. If you want to be extra careful to avoid the party scene, plan your visit on a weekday (Mondays and Fridays tend to be the least crowded) and avoid major holidays, like Memorial Day weekend or the 4th of July.
When is the best time to go?
Crab Island is a seasonal destination. Although it is a sandbar and is technically open year round, it is busiest during the warmer months from March/April through mid to late October. That being said, the best time to go depends on what you want to do when you get there.
If you want to party, bring your boat and drop anchor on a weekend between Memorial Day and Labor Day in the summer. If you want a relaxing getaway, plan to go on a weekday during the summer or any time during the rest of the year, with the most relaxed and quiet days being Mondays and Fridays.
As far as time of day, what I CAN tell you, is that my absolute favorite time of day to go is during high tide. The water at high tide is unbelievably clear and aqua green. I’ve lived here my entire life and even I can’t believe how beautiful it is sometimes. Most of the photos you see of Crab Island are taken at high tide. Occasionally, visitors accuse us of photoshopping the water because they saw Crab Island at low tide. Rest assured, there is no photoshopping going on. If you want to see the sandbar the way it looks in pictures, go at high tide!
What should I pack for my visit to Crab Island?
You can bring a cooler with food and drinks (Alcohol cannot be sold at the sandbar, but you can bring your own. Make sure you have a designated driver as drinking and driving laws are strictly enforced, and your rafts, sunscreen and floaties. Otherwise, just pack like you would for a day at the beach (minus the chairs and umbrellas). For a more extensive list, check out our packing guide here.
If you’d like to spend a day on the water visiting Destin’s most popular attraction, contact us at (850) 650-2628 to reserve your boat rental or Crab Island excursion. We offer a full selection of fishing, pontoon, and power boat rentals -as well as the Crab Island Shuttle Boat and Adventure Tour – to get you out for some fun in the sun!
Thanks for the post! My family and I are planning a trip to Florida in a couple of weeks and I think we are going to try to spend a day at Crab island!
I am a mom of 3 trying to plan our first family vacation to flordia. We are northern WI natives are looking forward to warm weather and ocean life
. I stumbled across crab Island and was sad to see the Waterpark has closed because that is what we are looking for. Any ideas on family kid friendly inflatable Waterparks or attractions that would fit please let me know.
Yes, check out the Crab Island Adventure Tour! https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/crab-island-adventure-tour/
Will you please send me pictures of the food .pictures of the housing and the boats thank you.
Hi there! Unfortunately, it would be impossible to send you pictures of all of the food, housing, and boats in Destin…We do have over 200 pages of information and pictures right here on this website if you want to take a look around!
Hey Heather Hope you have a good day I got a question, I can I find the float restaurants, that be at crab island contact info
Facebook might be your best bet!
[…] be happy to help make your dreams come true! In the meantime, read Heather’s blog post The Complete Visitor’s Guide to Crab Island (they have pretty photos and great […]
[…] Florida, USA Heather Thomas gives you The Complete Visitor’s Guide to Crab Island in Destin, Florida posted at Destin Vacation Boat […]
[…] top attraction in Destin. Other popular activities include fishing, sailing, water sports, visiting Crab Island, Big Kahuna’s waterpark, the Track, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park (on Okaloosa Island), […]
I Have a question for those of you that have been to Crab Island in Destin Florida? Do you have to get on a boat to get there to the Crab Island? please let me know asap because im going this month. THANKS :)
Hi Amber! Yes, Crab Island is an underwater sandbar surrounded by deep channels, so it is only accessible by boat, kayak, or paddleboard. Hope that helps!
Do they have a water taxi? We don’t need a boat for 3 people. And we can’t do the water park with a jet ski.
We do have a Crab Island shuttle: https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/crab-island-shuttle-boat/ . Hope that helps!
If we dont have or plan to rent a boat, what would we do with our belongings while in the water? I’m wondering about phones, money, ID’s, bags? We won’t have the money to rent a boat for the day but want to spend some time there.
You cannot get to Crab Island without a boat. Also,legally any boat that takes you to Crab Island must stay with you for the duration of your visit. We have the Crab Island Shuttle Boat, which offers 2.5 and 3 hour excursions to Crab Island. The boat stays with you and has storage for your belongings, It is cheaper than renting a boat if you have a smaller group. https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/crab-island-shuttle-boat/ Hope that helps!
What are the prices to get onto the boats to access the island for a big familyy of 14
My husband and I went to Crab Island last Oct and are returning this Oct. the jelly fish were everywhere is this normal ? I really want to enjoy the water this year!
Jellyfish come and go during different times of the year and with the tides. We can never predict when or if they will be in the water on any given day.
Hey me and my fiancé is planning on doing our honeymoon in destin towards the end of June . We never been and want to enjoy a day at crab island. Can you tell me the closest hotel to stay in
Are you allowed to bring a giant float like one that holds 6-8 ppl. And do you have to pay or get tickets to go to crab island?
[…] every meal. What to do: Take a professional sand sculpting class from the masters, and wade around Crab Island, which is a part of the beach where the water is waist deep and floating vendors (think ice cream […]
I plan on visiting destin Florida the 2nd or third week in july and I would love to visit Crab Island…but if i dont live there and dont have a boat how can I get out there ? can i rent a boat and have someone take me out there or something?
Hi Ashley, yes, you can rent a boat to get there. You can see our available boats here: https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/boat-rentals/ . Hope that helps!
Hey there,
We have a bachelorette party of about 9-11 people. We want to rent a boat (half day) and go to Crab Island. We need a captain to drive the boat for us. Going first week of September 2018.
Is this possible? If so, is there a specific boat/time we need to reserve?
Why bother with a captain? Be more autonomous and rent 2 pontoon boats and drive yourself.
[…] every meal. What to do: Take a professional sand sculpting class from the masters, and wade around Crab Island, which is a part of the beach where the water is waist deep and floating vendors (think ice cream […]
Where do you launch your boat for Crab Island if you bring your own? Susan
Hi Susan, There is a public boat launch just across from Crab Island on Calhoun Drive at Destin Marina. There is a $10 launch fee. Hope that helps! -Heather
Is there an overnight boat:trailer parking spot?
Like to know if you need a boaters license to rent a Pontoon boat for the day. Want to have a mini family fun day with grands & kids. What are the pricing for say for 12 people. Will we need to reserve a boat/date?
Hello! My ten year old went on vacation with some friends of ours this summer.They went several times to Crab Island he LOVED it!!!
but what he liked the most was the famous virgin pina colodas. He dranked so many that the crew named him Pina Colada boy. Lol
I would like to see if someone can email me the reciepe so I can make him some for his biryhday. He also tried some with strawberries.
I have been mak8ng them for years!!! I buy mine at the grocery store frozen section instead of alcohol just add a bit more of ice and pineapple juice
Any recommendations in were to stay for about 4 nights in March?
Knudsen’s makes a Pineapple Coconut Juice that tastes just like those Pinadas.
[…] 6. Watersports-Destin is a mecca of water sports activity and was named by Boating Magazine as one of the Top 10 Places to Live & Boat in the whole world. You can rent a jet ski for a thrilling ride across the water from Fudpucker’s Watersports, or rent a pontoon boat and drop anchor at Crab Island. […]
Is this a place to go to in March?
Absolutely! Crab Island is beautiful year round. Do keep in mind that many of the vendors at Crab Island only set up between Memorial Day and Labor Day, so Crab Island won’t be at its peak of the season, but many people go in March and it is still a beautiful place to hang out and relax on the water. Thanks for the question!
is there restroom facilities there v
There are not currently any restroom facilities ON Crab Island. There are several nearby marinas and restaurants where you can dock and use their facilities if needed. Hope that helps!
Is it pet friendly ?
Some people do bring their pets on their boats. Keep in mind that Crab Island is an underwater sandbar, so there is no land for your pet to run around on. He/she will have to swim or stay on the boat. You can purchase a life jacket for your pet at PetSmart in Destin, should you need one. Hope that helps!
[…] every meal. What to do: Take a professional sand sculpting class from the masters, and wade around Crab Island, which is a part of the beach where the water is waist deep and floating vendors (think ice cream […]
Thanks for the post! i am planning a trip in Florida in a couple of days and i’ll try to spend a day at Crab island!
Are the vendors still on Crab Island in October?
Hi! We are planning a trip to Destin in July 2016,I know its quite a bit of time away, but we are curious about a few things. We know we want to visit crab island, by boat rental. do you actually find things during snorkeling on your own, or would it be better to do a 3 hours snorkeling session and are you able to keep what you find (as long as it is not alive?)
Which time of day is better for snorkeling?
Thanks so much :)
Hi Kim! Thanks for stopping by. You can snorkel at Crab Island but the plain sandy bottom and other boats anchored nearby might make it hard to find marine life. The National Seashore is close to Crab Island and you can find more in that area in the grass beds, etc. My kids love to find hermit crabs and shells, as well as the occasional seahorse. You can keep the shells you find! The best time of day to snorkel is at high tide. Typically in the morning in July. Hope that helps!
Hello, we are vacationing in Destin towards the end of May and had thought about renting a boat. Would Crab Island be a good place for a 9,6, and two 5 year olds? Also would you suggest half a day or a whole day with this age group?
Hi Heather! Yes, there are plenty of things to do for kids at Crab Island. It’s really a personal preference as far as half or full day goes. You can certainly get everything done in 4 hours, but sometimes it is nice to be able to relax and enjoy a more leisurely time. My kids always napped on the boat if they got tired. There is plenty of shade on a pontoon boat. Hope that helps!
Booked a boat for a bachelorette weekend and had a blast!! Our captain Marshall was so attentive and fun – made some memories that will last a lifetime! Would definitely recommend!!
[…] We have multiple locations on the Destin Harbor and Choctawhatchee Bay in Destin, Florida, but the best (and most popular) place to visit is a sandbar known as Crab Island. […]
I am hosting a girls trip down to Destin next year. Crab Island looks like a must for this crew of girls! We are booked the first weekend in June. Can you tell me if there will be floating food vendors, etc.?
Yes! The inflatables and the food vendors are set up for the season!
[…] a great spot to visit. Take a professional sand sculpting class from the masters, and wade around Crab Island, which is a part of the beach where the water is waist deep and floating vendors (think ice cream […]
We are coming down from July 30-Aug6 and have 20 in our party. We are wanting to spend a day at Crab Island and are wanting to rent a pontoon boat. Do you have any suggestions on whats best with 20 people. 7 adults and the rest range from age 13-19
[…] water. It’s only up to here (knees) and is crystal clear with a white sand bottom. It’s called Crab Island and is really something to […]
What are the individual VHF channels for the various vendors please?
HI Ed, I have no idea. Maybe someone will chime in here…
[…] getaways. The last thing to mention is really the first thing you see when driving over the bridge, Crab Island. A glorious meeting point on top of a sandbar. There are boats, floats, and kayaks everywhere. They […]
Will vendors still be out there during October 14-16? What is crab island like during october?
The vendors usually stay open as long as there is a enough business for them to be able to do so. With fall break, there should still be at least a couple of vendors open, especially on weekends.
We are coming to destin first week in October. Can we still come to crab island? Just water park is closed? Or is all of ths island closed?
Just the water park is closed. Crab Island is always open.
[…] getaways. The last thing to mention is really the first thing you see when driving over the bridge, Crab Island. A glorious meeting point on top of a sandbar. There are boats, floats, and kayaks everywhere. They […]
Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful information regarding one of the best hot spots to visit in Florida. Even if you do not currently own a boat, renting one to visit this place is relatively easy. With everything being handled for you, from cleanup to maintenance, and even storage, a daily boat rental may be just what you and your friends and family need when visiting Crab Island.
Hi! I’m looking to visit crab island the last weekend in April with a group of girls for a bachelorette party. Will there be any vendors out? Is it better to go on a Saturday versus a Friday? Will the water be warm enough for us?
Hi Jen! There should be a few vendors set up by then, especially on the weekends. Most of our bachelorette trips choose to go on Saturdays. We’ve had a very warm winter so far, so that should help water temps rise quickly during the spring. Hope that helps!
What if no one in your group has ever driven a boat?
Hi Carole! We have many first timers. We will go over everything you need to know to feel comfortable driving the boat. If you would rather, we can add a captain (with advanced notice) to your rental for an additional fee. Check our policies page for more information about driving a boat, including an instructional video! https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/faq/ Hope that helps!
I see you can provide training for driving a boat, but do you have to have a boating license?
Only if the driver was born after Jan 1, 1988.
IS THERE ANY REASON I WOULD GET SEA SICK ON R OF THE BOAT WHILE GOING TO CRAB ISLAND AND HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TOGET THERE ON BOAT
Our closest location is only 500 yards from Crab Island. The waterways are protected, so the water is usually very calm and seasickness is rarely an issue with any of our guests, unless you are extremely prone to it or highly sensitive. Hope that helps!
I have a group looking to go to crab island April 29-May 5th. Will there be any bands playing at any time?
Hi Sherron, bands are usually scheduled on the weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Hope that helps!
[…] Crab Island – Rent a Pontoon boat, a see-through canoe or jet ski and go hit Crab Island. A favorite party spot of locals and […]
Will the water park be set up by march 11th? Spring break starts then in Alabama and we are coming down for the week. Was going to rent a pontoon and go out there. Thanks
The water park is usually set up from Memorial Day through Labor Day. There will be plenty of boats out there the week of March 11-17th though-that looks like it is going to be the busiest week of Spring Break!
We are planning our vacation for the week of may 22nd. We are planning on renting a boat but kids want to look for shells. Is that something you can do at crab island?
Crab Island is a sand bar with a sandy bottom. Not many shells there. You can check out the National Seashore as you may have better luck over there!
We are planning on going this summer and renting a pontoon to go to Crab Island. Is Sunday July 30,2017 a good day and how far is your arena from Crab Island? Thank you for your help!
Hi Sheramie, We have several locations all within a 5 minute drive (by boat) to Crab Island. Make sure to book in advance if you are coming in July, as that is peak season for us!
October 2020 is when we are coming to Destin. Will Crab Island still be with vendors and bands?
i am planning on going 23rd of june to destin and i am certainly interested in taking my kids to crab island is it kid friendly? also do i have to rent a boat or is it am option? im sorry first time hearing about crab island…
Hi Maria, Crab Island is definitely kid-friendly! You will need a boat to get there. Stay near the inflatable obstacle course and your kids will have a blast!
How high is the water? My son is 5 years and he is excited but I’m afraid the water might be too deep for him ?
In many places the water is 2-3 feet deep. For a 5 year old, I would bring along some floaties.
my son is 5 how deep is the water? we have already reserved the boat rental for that day i just want to make sure where the obstacles are my son is okay and water is not too deep.
Hi!! We are going to Destin this weekend. I really want to visit crab island. As I was reading comments and questions, you need a boat/kayak to get there right? How high is the water? I also wanted to bring an inflatable tube so I can lay out and just relax… What else do you recommend we do while in Destin?? Thanks! :)
HOW HIGH IS THE WATER FOR A 5 YR OLD?
It is about 2-3 feet deep in a lot of places.
[…] every meal.What to do: Take a professional sand sculpting class from the masters, and wade around Crab Island, which is a part of the beach where the water is waist deep and floating vendors (think ice cream […]
Does anyone know of a RV campground near crab island?
Hi Addie, Destin Bayview Campground is not far from Crab Island, or you can try Destin West RV campground on Okaloosa Island. Those are the 2 closest that I know of. Hope that helps!
Hi Heather,
My family and I are coming to Destin in Mid-August and looking to rent a pontoon boat to take out to Crab Island. Do you need a FL (or any state) boating license to rent/operate the boat? I had one, but it is probably many years expired by now. Also, is fishing permitted on/near Crab island? Nothing serious, just a simple Shimano and light test to cast off the boat. Thanks for your help, see you in August!
Hi Dory, you only need a boater’s license if you were born after Jan 1, 1988 and will be driving the boat. You can get one for free at BoatUS.org or you can take an open-book, multiple choice test on site for $5 (plan to arrive 30-45 minutes early to test). You can fish but I would recommend casting away from all the people at Crab Island…
Hello, we are planning a family trip to Destin next week and want to visit Crab Island. Do you still have 1/2 day rentals available for Friday, July 7? We would need at least a 12 seater. We are also interested in doing a little fishing, if we navigate away from Crab Island to fish do we need to bring our own equipment and tackle or do you provide that as part of the rental? Thank you!
Hi Belinda, you can check availability here: https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/boat-rentals/ . Hope that helps!
We will be visiting Destin Sept 15-18 2017. What activities are available on crab island during that time? It will be 4 adults no children.
I have a group of girls going on a trip Sept 8-10. Will the vendors still be out at this time?
Is it okay to bring jet skis into crab island? Is there somewhere to beach them?
Yes, you can bring jet skis. No, there is no land at Crab Island where you can beach them. Crab Island is an underwater sandbar. Hope that helps!
Hello! We will be in town Sept 25-29th and would like to book a boat to visit Crab Island. Will any of the vendors be there? Specifically will the games, big floats and slides be set up? We will have kids with us.
I have enjoyed the beautiful Crab Island myself, but I truly wish all these informational posts and blogs would point out the fact that there are no bathroom facilities available once on the water.
At the very least, recommend where families may visit the closest restroom by boat.
Please correct me if I’m wrong.
Hi Patricia, all of our rental locations have restrooms on site and we provide a map and show you restroom access areas where you can use the facilities should you need to while you are out on the water when you arrive for your rental. Hope that helps!
We will be there Monday, Oct. 9th – Friday, Oct.13th. Is Crab Island open then?
[…] green water off Destin’s shoreline is full of blue crabs and more. The charter stops at Crab Island (which sounds promising), but it is actually a sandbar where boaters anchor up for ocean fun, […]
[…] every meal.What to do: Take a professional sand sculpting class from the masters, and wade around Crab Island, which is a part of the beach where the water is waist deep and floating vendors (think ice cream […]
LOOKING TO COME OUT IN JUNE.. SUPER EXCITED.. WANT TO RENT A BOAT TO GET TO CRAB ISLAND.. R LIFE VESTS A MUST ? DO WE HAVE TO PROVIDE OUR OWN? IF THEY R A MUST FOR WHAT AGES? ALSO WHAT IS CONSIDERED A HALF DAY AND FULL DAY?
Life vests are included with all of our rentals, from infant sizes all the way up! Children 6 and under are required to wear them while the boat is in motion. A half day is 4 hours and is typically morning (9-1) or afternoon (2-6) and a full day is 8 hours (9-5 or 10-6). Hope that helps!
Is this place deep? I don’t know how to swim so I was just wondering?
Crab Island is knee to waist deep in most places, but is surrounded by deep water. Life jackets come with the boats so I would recommend wearing one while in the water if you can’t swim. Hope that helps!
Is the boat certificate online for just driving a boat or is it good for jet ski as well?
It is good for operating any vessel, so you can use it for boats and jet skis.
Does anybody know if you can rent paddle boards for the day?
Hi, I want to spend some time in crab island water park, I know I need to rent a boat,do I have to have a special licence to drive it or could someone that works there,take me to the Island and back to where I rented the boat. And how much are rhe rentals?
Hi Paola, you can find information about our pricing here on our Boats & Rates page: https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/boat-rentals/ . You only need a boater’s license if the driver of the boat was born after Jan 1, 1988 and the test is available on site for a few dollars. Just come early for your rental. If you prefer to add a captain, we can add a captain to any of the rentals for an additional $150/4 hours. Hope that helps!
Ooh ok so we can add a captin and stay at the water slides for 4 hours?
Yes, you can!
[…] While it is nice to soak up the sun and lay on the beach all day, visitors to Destin might not realize the hidden gems lurking around the area, specifically Crab Island. […]
I will be taking family vacation in July 26-29 (Embassy Suites Destin) what would be the best way to get to Crab Island? Also, what are some other must see things in the area?
You can see how to get to Crab Island here: https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/blog-post/crab-island-boat-rentals/
For things to do check out this post: https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/blog-post/cool-things-to-do-destin-florida/
Hope that helps!
Hi there,
I’m planning a Bachelor/Bachelorette party in Destin the weekend after labor day. Are there still crowds and vendors open at this time?
Appreciate any guidance… thanks!
Vendors are typically open through the month of September. Hope that helps!
Do you have to rent a boat to get to Crab Island or is there a way to get there and use floats and rafts?
You need a boat to get there safely. You can rent one or take the Crab Island Shuttle Boat: https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/crab-island-shuttle-boat/
I have a question is it kids friendly for ages 2 to 4 and at the water park is it some where for them to play and if they can’t swim.
I have a question is it kids friendly for ages 2 to 4 and at the water park is it some where for them to play and enjoy if they can’t swim.
Is it warm enough in December to visit Crab Island and swim?
Generally the water in December is too cold to swim…
[…] Crab Island […]
Hi ! I plan to visit Crab Island with my wife and my daughter. My daughter will be 8months on April when we want to visit. Is it alright to get there with a baby ?
Thank’s
Yes it is!
[…] to take your kayak out. People really enjoy kayaking all the way from Destin Harbor to Crab Island. Crab Island itself isn’t really much of an island as it’s just a patch of sand that is mostly […]
We will be arriving Sept.17 2018 will the water park be closed then?
[…] Crab Island. I’d love to visit Crab Island on another trip, when I am not pregnant and can enjoy a few adult beverages again. Crab Island is a […]
Hi, I am planning a family trip for Tues April 23rd an Wed April 24th. Will it be warm enough to get in the water and will the waterpark be open?
Also, I am trying to book a water taxi for those dates and it’s only giving me a time of 10am. Is that the only time available?
The Water Park employees say they are planning to open mid-April. We won’t know for sure, however, until they actually set up. There is a 1:30 departure on the shuttle boat also.
I’m glad to see it featured here,Nice blog, I really apprecialte the way you are sharing your exwperiences,Thank you for sharing about this information. That’s nice and interesting,
Will Ceab Island be open the first week of October??
Crab Island is ALWAYS open! The vendors are typically open through October unless we have a hurricane threat before that. :)
Hi I want to visit crab island during the first week of June and I’ll be taking my son with me he is only 8 years old. Is he too young to go to crab island? What are the hours for the water taxi?
People of ALL ages can enjoy Crab Island. You can see the shuttle boat schedule here: https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/crab-island-shuttle-boat/
Is there a shuttle boat to get to crab island? We are looking to use our floatables instead of a boat..
We have a shuttle boat! https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/crab-island-shuttle-boat/
Hi! We are going Sept 21-25, will there still be vendors at Crab Island?
The vendors typically stay open through Fall Break in October. Hope that helps!
[…] #9. Crab Island […]
Hello, my daughter is turning 15 in February and we would love for the whole family to be there. Is it a good time, weather wise, to be there in February?
February is typically our coldest month of the year. No vendors will be at Crab Island at that time.
Can you suggest a very good/excellent 2 bedroom hotel/condo close enough to the beaches and the crab island excursion.
[…] More information can be read on Destin Vacation Boat Rentals. […]
Due to Covid-19 will crab island inflatables be available through June and July this year? We have a trip coming up in July and trying to see what and all there will be to do if we still get to go to Destin.
We expect all Crab Island vendors to be fully operational by June. Because we do not own the Crab Island Water Park, we cannot speak for them, but from what we have heard they do plan to be open in July.
Hello, me and my wife is looking to plan a trip to crab Island but she can’t swim, will she be ok out there..she’s 5’4-5’5 tall
There is no land at Crab Island. Although it can be very shallow in most places, if she cannot swim, I would recommend that she wear a lifejacket at all times. There have been people who have drowned because they lost their footing and got swept away by currents. Be safe!
We have a Destin vacation planned for the second week in July. Condo rental is weekly and check in is on Sunday and checkout on Saturday. Looks like we will have to visit Crab Island on a weekday. Is there live music and vendors open on weekdays?
Crab Island is busy every day during the summer season. Vendors will be open, you may have to provide your own music. Hope that helps!
Will crab island be open and function this weekend?
Yes, Crab Island is open.
Hi there, i have a question… i am looking for a house to rent for a large crowd. we want to be close to crab island and want to bring our own boat. is there any property are you would recommend that we can bring our boat with us?
Is there a nice campground nearby where we could bring our camper to stay in? Also considering bringing our own boat as well but unsure of parking at any potential campground in the area…
Hi I was wondering where I can get a hotel that I can park a boat at for overnight?
There are VRBO options with boat slips! Check mine out within a 5 mile boat ride to crab island! https://www.vrbo.com/2630893?unitId=3201488
We plan to be there early August, any Covid 19 precautions taken at Crab island?
The Covid restrictions have all expired. We have been chronicling them here: https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/blog-post/crab-island-boating-covid-19/ Feel free to bookmark the page and check back closer to your date. If things change, we will post there.
Disclaimer: anyone who knows more can corroborate any of what I am about to say as to truth or not.
We went on July 1, 2020. On our own ignorance, we didn’t research anything prior because we assumed it would be as it always has been for years and upon arriving, we had no idea the inflatable water park was gone nor did our Barge provider mention it. We anchored up on the far side of the island near the bridge and my daughter immediately asked “where are the slides?”. The burger place was still there and the general store plus the board and kayak rentals and the peanut and t-shirt guy. Be aware there are some individuals selling the NCAA t-shirts and are doing so illegally. They are not licensed. Fakes! In speaking to one of the small business guys floating around, they are taxing the life out of the business there and now trying to pass a law to get 3% more of their overall sales. It’s a shame. They pay an outrageous amount of taxes/fees already.
The water park vendor has sold his business and will not return. The county commission enforced/passed a law stating no business can anchor overnight at Crab Island. How on earth do they expect someone to take down an acre of inflatables and set them back up the next day.? That’s insane.
Hi there, we wrote a blog post about Crab Island changes in 2020. You can read it here: https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/blog-post/crab-island-2020/ . You are correct about some of the new laws in place this year that have made it difficult on some of the businesses on Crab Island, most notably the Crab Island Water Park. We do offer a tour that includes inflatables that we set up and take down daily per the new county regulations if you’d like to check that out on your next visit to Destin: https://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/crab-island-adventure-tour/ . Hope that helps!
[…] If you have any more questions about Crab Island, refer to this Complete Visitor’s Guide to Crab Island. […]
I collect sand from beaches I have been to and I collected some sand from out by Gilligan’s restaurant so what beach would that be considered?
Destin Harbor!
[…] Crab Island / Link […]
[…] with a list of awesome water activities which must include Crab Island. This popular sandbar is accessible only by boat or watercraft is where people come to hang out […]
We have our trip planned for March 13-19. Will crab island be very active and will water temp be too cold to enjoy crab island?
There will be plenty of people on their boats at Crab Island. Some will be in the water, but it may be a little cool. Average water temperatures are around 68 degrees. HTH!
What is the weather like in early September?
Hot and humid, much like the rest of the summer!
Hello We are looking to visit Crab island this spring and will be bringing a 38 ft boat and looking for a resort/motel/hotel that has boat dock and truck and trailer parking. I would like to leave the boat in the water for a few days and be able to walk to the room from the dock. Any good places you can recommend?
[…] Crab Island brings in many tourists from all over! It was once an island that disappeared over time. The city of Destin builds “Crab Island” every year so boats can park and everyone can hang out! Come with a boat, friends, lunch, drinks, sunscreen, and music, and you’re set for the day!!! There are many boat rentals around the area or boat taxis that can take you to the entertainment. 🙂 It’s always a GOOD time!!! […]
[…] paddle boarding, snorkeling, shelling, and more. Take a glass-bottom shuttle boat to the famous Crab Island sandbar for some fun in the sun. The shallow water is perfect for kids to learn how to snorkel […]
[…] Crab Island // On Wednesday, we rented a boat and drove through the inter-coastal waterway out to Crab Island. Don’t be fooled, it’s an underwater island. There’s nothing there except for a bunch of boats all parked together. They also have boats there that sell floats, drinks and snacks! The water is really shallow so you can stand up in the water and hangout all day if you want. We just rented the boat for half a day and that was plenty of time for Peyton. […]
[…] Crab Island // On Wednesday, we rented a boat and drove through the inter-coastal waterway out to Crab Island. Don’t be fooled, it’s an underwater island. There’s nothing there except for a bunch of boats all parked together. They also have boats there that sell floats, drinks and snacks! The water is really shallow so you can stand up in the water and hangout all day if you want. We just rented the boat for half a day and that was plenty of time for Peyton. […]
[…] Dan recommends visiting Crab Island. […]
[…] Crab Island is one of the most talked about attractions in Destin, Florida […]
[…] – on the north side of Destin Bridge is the popular Crab Island where boats anchor on a submerged sandbar. Crab Island is actually not an island, but a sandbar […]
[…] Crab Island – Chances are you’ve already heard about Crab Island if you know anything at all about Destin. This popular vacation “hot spot” is right off the Destin Harbor in a beautiful area of mostly clear water, where boats from all over gather around for some fun in the sun! If you don’t have a boat, you can also find shuttles out to Crab Island or even try the fun Pedal Pub! There are even “water parks” fun fun inflatables that can be rented for a fun day on the island […]
Can you bring tubes on the shuttle?
Inflatable floats are fine! Towable tubes would not be allowed, however. Hope that helps!
Great! Thank you!
Hi is Crab Island open mid October? If so is everything available to do?
We rented a boat and had a great time at Crab Island. Looking forward to visiting again next year.
[…] Beach, Seaside, and Rosemary Beach. The bigger towns in the area are Destin and Pensacola. Popular Crab Island also calls Destin home. If you want to live like you are in a country music video make sure you […]
[…] Crab Island Shuttle Boat provides the cheapest way to access the famous Crab Island sandbar. Children under the age of five can purchase round-trip tickets for $45-$55 (32% discount for […]
[…] Take a tour to Crab Island. […]