Turquoise waves lap against the boats. Dolphins and sea turtles glide by. Friends sip on tropical beverages. Relaxing tunes and laughter fill the air. This is the atmosphere that you can expect at Crab Island in Destin, Florida, a famous destination in Choctawhatchee Bay that attracts guests from all over the globe. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to anchor down and take a load off. Crab Island is accessible by boat, paddleboard, and kayak. You can captain the boat yourself or rent a boat with its own captain. The sandbar boasts attractions such as fishing, dolphin cruises, snorkeling, banana boat rides, and inflatable obstacle courses. Crab Island is a great place for family-friendly but also large groups like bachelorette parties. No matter who you are, Crab Island will be an unforgettable experience.
What is Crab Island?
Despite its name, Crab Island is not actually an island. It’s a sandbar. The Crab Island has two different attested origin stories. One says that it used to be an island locals called Bird Island, but another says that it was created by the Army Corps of Engineers, who dredged and shouldered it with rock jetties. The sandbar is only accessible by water. There are no roads or bridges. Our Crab Island shuttle is a great option. Crab Island is the place to meet people, socialize, and relax.
Why it’s so popular
So why is crab island so popular? There are a few reasons. It’s extremely picturesque, with crystal clear water perfect for spotting marine life. The waters are protected and calm, and safe for everyone. The sandbar is shallow (about 1-4 feet deep). This is the perfect depth for wading in the water. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that allows for floating, socializing, and water activities. The sandbar features attractions like snorkeling, floating vendors (food and drinks), and watersports. Crab Island tours are the perfect experience for beginners to familiarize themselves with the environment. The Crab Island cruise offers visitors a well-rounded experience full of scenic views.
The floating attractions
Part of what makes Crab Island so special is its floating attractions. It features inflatable water parks that are popular with kids and teens. They have slides and trampolines on them. There are floating lounges to relax in. You can bring your own or rent supplies such as chairs and floatation devices. Restaurants and places serving drinks float on the bay. It’s the perfect place for beginners to try paddleboarding and kayaking. Snorkeling is ideal due to the clear, shallow waters. Crab island has more family-friendly and adult-centered locations. They’re not clearly defined, instead, you should just keep an eye out for the type of crowd you want to surround yourself with.
How to get there
There’s a few ways to get to Crab Island. It’s not accessible by swimming. If you’re in a family or other large group, a pontoon boat is a viable option. Some can hold up to 12 passengers. You can hire a private charter or captain as well. This is a good option if you don’t want to worry about driving and prefer to sit back and relax. You can also hop on a tour like our tours on the Crab Island Runner. It depends on the person’s preference. There are a few rules at Crab Island that are important to remember for a safe, enjoyable experience. There is no overnight anchoring. The location is strictly BYOB, so there are no alcohol sales or bars.
When to go
You may be wondering when the best time to go to Crab Island is. And the answer depends on your preferences. The peak season is late spring through early fall. May to June has warmer, clearer, and has family-friendly crowds. July to August is more of a populated, party atmosphere. If you are looking for a party experience, you should go during the weekend, as that is when most people are there. Visiting during the weekdays is ideal for a more chill, family experience. If you are looking to spot marine animals, you should consider tides and visibility. As far as time of day, before noon is best for families. Mid-day is the peak time for socializing. The late afternoon and evening are very picturesque and less sunny. No matter when you visit it will be a great experience!
Tips for first-timers
It’s important to do your research on visiting and gather tips from those who have experienced Crab Island. Packing for Crab Island should be similar to going to the beach. Wear a bathing suit, bring a towel, sunscreen, and any snacks/drinks that you desire. Bring shoes that are suitable for the beach. It’s a good idea to bring your wallet for any food, attractions, and anything else you want to spend money on. It’s very important to stay hydrated and be aware of the sun, as it can quickly dehydrate you. You should respect common rules and follow recommended guidelines to ensure the best experience. The earlier that you arrive the easier the boat parking will be. Staying aware of the weather and possible storms is also important.
Crab Island is an experience unlike any other, filled with food, drinks, music, water activities, and quality time with friends and family. It’s not simply a place to go, but it’s also an experience full of activities. Add Destin and Crab Island to your list of vacation spots for a fun, unique time. So pack your bags, book a hotel, load up the car/book that flight, and make sun-filled memories!
