Crab Island Adventures: The Ultimate Visitor's Guide
How to Get There, What to Bring, Best Time to Visit, and How to Book a Private Charter
Planning a trip to Destin’s most iconic sandbar? Whether you’re coming with family, friends, or for a bachelorette bash, this guide has everything you need to know about visiting Crab Island — including how to get there, what to bring, and how to make the most of your day on the water.
🌊 What Is Crab Island?
Crab Island is a submerged sandbar located just north of the Destin Bridge in the Choctawhatchee Bay. The water is shallow, clear, and turquoise — perfect for floating, playing, and soaking up the sun.
Despite the name, Crab Island is no longer a true island. It’s now one of Destin’s most popular attractions for boaters, offering a social, scenic, and family-friendly day on the water.
Insider tip: The best way to get there is by boat — and our private Crab Island charters take care of everything for you.
🛥️ How to Get to Crab Island
You can’t drive or walk to Crab Island — it’s only accessible by water. Here’s how most visitors get there:
- Boat Rental – Rent a pontoon and captain it yourself (experience recommended).
- Jet Ski – For a fast ride, but not ideal for families or groups.
- ✅ Private Charter with a Captain – The easiest, safest, and most fun way to go.
Our licensed captains handle everything — from navigating the harbor to setting anchor and unloading your cooler. All you have to do is show up and relax.
🍦 Crab Island Vendors (And How I Met My Wife Selling Ice Cream)
Crab Island isn’t just a floating hangout — it’s also home to a unique group of floating vendors. You’ll spot everything from BBQ barges and fresh coconuts to ice cream boats and mobile t-shirt shops drifting through the emerald water.
Personal note: I actually met my wife right here at Crab Island when we were both 15 — working on neighboring ice cream boats. Since then, we’ve built a life around helping other families and groups make their own unforgettable memories out here.
Vendors typically operate from spring through early fall (weather permitting) and are most active on weekends and holidays. Some accept cards, but many are cash-only — so bring a little spending money in a dry bag!
→ See the Full Guide to Crab Island Vendors
🕓 Best Time to Visit Crab Island
Wondering when to go? Learn the best time to visit Crab Island based on weather, tides, and local insight.
- Season:March through October is peak season.
- Time of Day: Mid-morning to early afternoon is best for families. Later in the day gets more lively, although our captains can find the perfect spot regardless of time of day.
- Tides: Aim to visit during high tide when the water is clearest.
👉 Check our 2025 Crab Island Tide Chart for ideal timing.
🧴 What to Bring to Crab Island
Here’s your go-to packing list:
- Sunscreen (reef safe preferred)
- Towel & change of clothes
- ID & card (some vendors take cash only)
- Snacks & drinks (we provide the cooler + ice!)
- Waterproof phone case
- Floaties or paddleboards (included on our captained charters!)
🛟 Life jackets are provided on all of our charters.
Not sure what to pack for your boat day? Check out our complete Crab Island packing list to make sure you don’t forget sunscreen, towels, and other must-haves.
Is Crab Island Family-Friendly?
Yes — especially if you book a morning or midday cruise. The water is shallow and calm, and there’s plenty of space for kids to float, splash, and paddleboard.
Planning a trip with little ones? Here’s our full guide answering is Crab Island kid friendly — plus what to expect and how we keep it safe and fun for all ages.
Check out our Family Adventure Cruises →
🏄 Things to Do at Crab Island
- Lounge on a float with a drink in hand
- Paddleboard through crystal clear water
- Shop from floating vendors (ice cream, drinks, food boats)
- Listen to music and relax with friends
- Play water games or just soak in the views
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Snap Insta-worthy photos
All of our private charters include:
- Captain
- Cooler filled with ice
- Paddleboard
- Large floating mats
- Bluetooth speaker
See everything included in our Private Boat Rentals with a Captain!
🚤 How to Book a Crab Island Charter
Booking is easy and takes less than 5 minutes— just choose your date, group size, and cruise duration. We’ll take care of the rest.
👉 Compare Boats & Book Online →
📞 Or give us a call: (850)-714-1097
Our captains are local, friendly, and love helping you create unforgettable memories.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring alcohol to Crab Island?
Yes! You can bring your own beverages. We provide a cooler with ice. Just drink responsibly.
Is it safe to swim at Crab Island?
Yes — the water is calm and shallow. Our captains anchor in areas that are safe for all ages.
Do kids need life jackets?
Yes. We provide USCG-approved life jackets for all ages. All children under 6 must wear a lifejacket while cruising.
Are there bathrooms?
Some of our boats include restrooms — check the amenities when booking.
📍 Plan Your Day on the Water
Crab Island is one of those places that looks too beautiful to be real — until you’re floating in the middle of it, music playing, surrounded by emerald water and white-sand smiles.
📞 Call us now to book your date
📸 Don’t forget your waterproof phone case — this is a trip you’ll want to remember.