Aerial view of Destin Harbor and Crab Island.

4 Things You Should Know About Crab Island in Destin FL

Published on March 21, 2020 On Guide to Destin, Florida

Crab Island is a can’t-miss destination on the Emerald Coast! Popular with celebrities like Keith Urban and Emeril Lagasse, this gorgeous area attracts thousands upon thousands of vacationers each year. To help you make the most of your getaway, the Henderson Park Inn has put together a guide to 4 things everyone should know about Crab Island in Destin FL.

1. It’s Not Really an Island

The name Crab Island is a bit of a misnomer. Back in the day, this popular spot really was an island, but sand carried by the Gulf gradually wore it away over the years. Today, Crab Island is an underwater sandbar. The water ranges from 2 to 10 feet deep and is waist-level in many areas. Situated at the entrance of Choctawhatchee Bay, Crab Island offers lovely views of the Destin Bridge.

2. It’s Only Accessible by Boat

Crab Island is located a good distance away from the shore and is only accessible by boat. The strong tidal currents and heavy boat activity simply make it too dangerous for swimming. If you’re comfortable navigating on your own, we recommend renting a pontoon boat from Destin Vacation Boat Rentals. Ranging from 20 – 24 ft., these spacious boats offer plenty of seating and bimini tops for shade.

Visitors who would prefer to let someone else do the driving can sign up for a Crab Island tour with Sunventure Cruises. These 3-hour excursions are led by a Coast Guard-licensed captain who will provide entertaining narration during your scenic boat trip. Once the ship drops anchor, guests will have plenty of time to explore the sandbar before heading back to shore.

3. It’s Not Just a Party Scene

Crab Island in Destin FL has developed something of a reputation for being a party scene, and there is some truth to this perception. During the spring and summer months, the sandbar hosts live entertainment and DJs on a floating stage, which draws large crowds of folks looking to enjoy the music and sip some adult beverages. Guests will find floating vendors that offer excellent drink specials.

However, partying is far from the only thing to do on Crab Island. Visitors can have some fun on the inflatable slides and obstacle courses at the Crab Island Water Park, eat lunch at the floating Water World restaurant, or just kick back and catch some rays. It is totally up to you what type of experience you want to have on Crab Island!

Regardless of your preferred activities, all visitors to Crab Island should keep their wits about them in case of strong tidal currents.

4. It’s Especially Beautiful at High Tide

If you can, try to visit Crab Island during high tide. This time of day brings breathtaking turquoise water to the sandbar. To find out when high tide is, check a tide chart or consult with your boat rental company or tour provider. Trust us, you don’t want to miss this stunning water!

Where to Stay When You Visit Crab Island in Destin FL

A couple walking along the beach outside of the Henderson Park Inn in Destin Florida. When you stay at the Henderson Park Inn, you will have the perfect home base for exploring Crab Island in Destin FL and everything else the Emerald Coast has to offer. Located adjacent to Henderson Beach State Park, our adults only bed and breakfast has been voted the most romantic hotel in America by the users of About.com and TripAdvisor.com. We are also proud to hold the Conde Nast Johansens Award for Excellence. To start planning your vacation, browse our selection of Destin hotel rooms.