Destin Florida is home to one of Florida’s freshest celebration spots on the water – Crab Island. Most people think of it in terms of a large number of boats, or the emerald green waters. Visitors to Destin each year constantly ask the same question: What is Crab Island, How Do We Get There, and Is It Fun For Kids?
What is Crab Island?
Not an “island” like most people expect, Crab Island Destin Florida is a sand bar with waist-deep water. Boats can anchor up to hang out, sunbathe, or party. The water level depends upon whether or not it’s an incoming or outgoing tide. The biggest question: Is it safe? Absolutely. Once you’re at Crab Island, it is safe to hang on your boat, walk around, or visit the variety of bars and restaurants..
Where is Crab Island?
Crab Island is on the edge of the Destin Bridge (also known as Marler Bridge) at the southern entrance of the Choctawhatchee Bay, interior Destin’s East Pass. The GPS coordinates are listed as N 30°23.918, W 86°31.236, though the sandbar is kind of large and doesn’t accommodate simply one point on a map.
How do you get there?
Destin provides a range of options, including Jet Ski, Boat, Kayak, or Paddleboard. The most common way is by using a boat – This can be your very own boat, a boat rental, or a boat/captain rental combo. You can hire boats and jet skis from a variety of places in Destin, Just a few are Boogies Watersports, Destin Vacation Boat Rentals, and Adventure Destin Watersports.
Things to Do
It’s fun to spend a few hours or a full day at Crab Island. Visitors can water snorkel, kayak between boats, toss frisbees, and seem for marine life. You can even play at Crab Island Waterpark, an inflatable obstacle course or just people-watch while soaking up the sun. Once in a while visitors may even see live bands performing on floating stages.
When it’s time for a break, go to the floating eating places and dig into local seafood. Destin has one of the greatest fishing fleets in the south, so fresh seafood is effortless to find. However, land-lover alternatives and fresh drinks await, too.
The Best Time to Go
Although Crab Island is open all year round, the high season lasts from Memorial Day to Labor Day.Those who are looking for plenty of people to party with should go to on weekends during the summer. To avoid crowds and experience extra quiet time, go Monday through Friday, particularly in the off season (October-April).
What to Bring to Crab Island
Destin commonly has lots of sunshine and hot coastal breezes. Summer highs reach the 90s, while January lows fall in the mid-40s. Depending on the time of year, it’s essential to pack sun protection, such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, cover-ups, and umbrellas for shade.
Destin does not have an open-container policy, so alcohol is allowed on Crab Island. However, visitors have to BYOB because alcohol is not sold on Crab Island. Drinkers should be polite of others and always have a designated driver – or use ride-sharing apps. Other meals and drinks are permitted, so pack a cooler with snacks, water, and goodies. Other items to bring to Crab Island are towels, transportable chargers, Bluetooth speakers, glide and floaties, and trash bags. Leave only footprints and please leave no trash behind.