Top photo: Tamara Malaniy on Unsplash
Crab Island is the first thing many families ask about when they plan a Destin trip, and it surprises people: it isn't an island at all. It's a wide, shallow sandbar near the Marler Bridge where the bay meets the pass, and on a sunny day it fills with anchored boats, floats, food boats and families wading in clear, calm water. Here's how to do it well with kids and a big group.
How to get to Crab Island
You can only reach Crab Island by water. There's no beach access or parking. Your options:
- Rent a pontoon. The most popular choice for big groups: plenty of seats, shade, a ladder, and room for coolers. Several rental companies operate from Destin Harbor. Someone in your group will need to drive the boat, and rental companies will brief you on the rules.
- Hire a captain. A private captained charter lets everyone relax, which is worth it if no one wants to drive.
- Take a tour or shuttle. Shuttle boats and Crab Island tours are good for shorter visits or smaller parts of the group.
Book pontoons and charters well ahead for summer weekends and holidays.
When to go
- Weekdays are much calmer than weekends.
- Around high tide the water is clearer and covers more of the sandbar. At low tide, it can get shallow and crowded.
- Mornings are less crowded and cooler. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so watch the sky.
Is Crab Island good for kids?
It can be great for kids, with some planning. The water is calm and shallow in many spots, with no waves. But depth varies across the sandbar, currents can pick up near the channel, and boats are moving nearby.
- Life jackets for young kids, and strongly consider them for anyone who isn't a confident swimmer. Florida law requires kids under 6 to wear one on smaller boats while they're moving.
- Assign a water watcher at all times, and rotate the job.
- Stay away from the channel, where the water drops off and boats pass.
- Keep the visit short for little kids. Two or three hours is plenty.
What to bring
- Sunscreen, hats and rash guards, because there's no shade except on your boat
- Plenty of water and snacks in a cooler, with no glass
- Floats and pool noodles
- Water shoes
- A dry bag for phones
Food boats at Crab Island sell things like snacks, ice cream and barbecue, but lines can be long, so bring your own lunch.
Teens vs. little kids
Teens usually love the social scene. Families with toddlers often prefer a beach day instead. Our guide to Destin beaches near Crystal Beach has calmer options. With a big group, it's common to split: teens and adults to Crab Island, little ones and a grandparent to the resort pool at Seas The Dream.
This house was so perfect for our group! Everything is close, pool, beach, shopping, eating.
Guest, stayed at Seas The Dream
Frequently asked questions
Can you walk to Crab Island?
No. Crab Island can only be reached by boat, tour or water taxi.
Is Crab Island safe for kids?
It can be, with close supervision. Water depth varies and boats are nearby. Put life jackets on young kids and anyone who isn't a strong swimmer, and stay away from the channel.
When is the best time to go to Crab Island?
Weekdays, around high tide, and in the morning are usually the calmest and clearest times.
How long should we stay at Crab Island?
Two to four hours works for most families. With young kids, aim for the shorter end.
Plan your trip
See our guides to things to do in Destin with kids and the best beaches near Crystal Beach, or the full Destin area guide. Book Seas The Dream directly with us to skip the booking-site service fees.
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