Last Updated on January 25, 2023
If you’re looking for a wonderful tropical Florida day of sun, sand, and sparkling water, look no further than Crab Island in Destin!
This “island”, actually a sandbar, is one of the most popular and talked-about attractions in the Destin area. At one point, the area was an island, created in the 1960s by the Army Corps of Engineers when Destin Pass was dredged to stabilize the Gulf of Mexico entrance.
The sand leftover from the project was then deposited into Choctawhatchee Bay, creating a small island. As the years went by, the sand eventually eroded and became the popular sandbar it is today and only 1-4 feet deep.
Things to Do at Crab Island
Check out our top tips for a fun-filled and relaxing trip to this popular underwater sandbar known as Crab Island.
1. How to Get to Crab Island
Crab Island is at the Southern entrance of the Choctawhatchee Bay, inside Destin’s East Pass, and along the North side of the Destin/Marler Bridge, and is only accessible by boat.
Drive your own boat.
One option is to drive your own boat or other watercraft, kayak, paddleboard, or jet ski to the island. Pontoon boats are the most popular mode of transportation, so much so that the island is also known as the “Pontoon Capital of the World).
If you don’t have your own pontoon boat, you can rent a boat from Destin Vacation Boat Rentals or Crab Island Boat Rentals to get you over to the island.
Most of the boats can fit up to 12 passengers, and your driver will need to pass a short $10 Boater’s Safety Test (if they were born after January 1st, 1988).
Once you have your boat, it’s only a 5-7 minute ride from Destin Harbor, 10-15 minutes from Okaloosa Island, and 20-30 minutes from Fort Walton Beach.
Take the Crab Island Shuttle Boat
Another option is to take a shuttle from Destin Habor, which is the most affordable way to make the trip. The Shuttle Boat has different excursions to choose from and is complete with a captain, crew, and onboard restroom.
This is a great option for groups who do not want to drive their own boats, and just want to sit back and relax!
Other great shuttle boat options include Tailfins Island Adventure, Ariel Water Taxi, Crab Island Cruises, Crusin Tikis Destin, and the Destin Water Taxi.
2. What Do I Do All Day at Crab Island?
Other than relaxing and wading in the water on the Island, you may be wondering what else you could do!
One popular option is the Adventure Tour, which includes a boat tour, snorkeling, shelling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and even a floating inflatable water park!
Check it out and book tickets, starting at $69 from Crab Island Company.
If relaxing excursions are more up your alley, and you want to simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area there is plenty for you to do as well.
- Paddle around the sandbar via kayak.
- Play a game of water volleyball or frisbee in the shallow water.
- Enjoy your favorite cold beverage. (FYI: alcohol is allowed on the island, but can not be sold due to local regulations)
- Float on a tube, snorkel around your boat.
- Keep your eye out for dolphins and other marine animals, and more!
3. Are There Any Restaurants or Vendors?
Yes! There are quite a few vendors on the island from March through October.
Keep in mind that while alcohol is allowed on the island, none of these local businesses and food vendors are allowed to sell it. If you’re wanting to enjoy an alcoholic beverage, make sure to #BYOB.
The local businesses most recently at the sandbar include:
- Reef Burger
- Boiled Peanuts
- Crab Island Grill
- Frickin’ Ridiculous BBQ
- Sea Cow Ice Cream and Smoothies
- Tollie’s Floating Weiner & Pizza
- Jimmy’s Ice Cream & T-Shirts
- The General Store
- Wild Coconuts
- Gulf Coast Gelato
- A Bite of Paradise
4. Where to Stay Near Crab Island
While it is not possible to stay on the Island, you may choose to stay in a hotel nearby in Destin on the mainland. Below are just a few of the recommended local and boutique options:
- Henderson Park Inn
- Destin Beachside Inn
- Village Inn of Destin
- Club Destin Condos
- Emerald Coast Inn & Suites
You can search for more accommodations on Booking.com.
Common questions about Crab Island
- How far is Crab Island from Destin? – Crab Island is only a mile and a half from downtown Destin, Florida.
- Does Crab Island have bathrooms? – No. Many people will relieve themselves in the water or ask to use the restroom on someone’s boat.
- Can I drive to Crab Island? – No. You will have to take a boat, kayak, or swim to the island.
- How far is Crab Island from Panama City? – Crab Island is just under 57 miles from Panama City.
- Is Crab Island kid-friendly? – The water is shallow and there are a variety of activities to enjoy. There are no restrooms so that is important to keep in mind. However, families frequently enjoy a day out on the water together.
- Does Crab Island Close? – The island is open year-round. Things like the water park and some of the vendors may close or have limited hours depending on the time of year. The most popular times to visit will be during the summer months and warmer times of the year.
Check out some of Authentic Florida’s other favorite island getaways: