All You Need to Know About Crab Island in Destin, FL

Destin has plenty of awesome things to do, but nothing quite compares to Crab Island! This legendary Destin landmark is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. From the emerald-green shallow waters, to the family-friendly party atmosphere, Crab Island is like a day at the beach... but better!

Crab Island in Destin, FL, is still a relatively unknown destination for new travelers to Destin. That's why we created MyCrabIsland.com, to help visitors enjoy this incredible natural landmark to the fullest. Keep reading to discover all you need to know about Crab Island including what it is, where it is, and questions from real travelers!

What is Crab Island in Destin?

Crab Island is a sandbar that is located just South of the Marler Bridge in Destin, FL. Crab Island started to gain in popularity as boaters used the area to anchor their boats to catch some rays and wade on the sandbar. Now Crab Island has erupted into a popular social scene where locals and tourists congregate for fun and sun. Crab Island is just minutes from the Destin Harbor. Discover dining, tours, attractions and events in the Destin Harbor online at Destin Boardwalk.

Why is it Called Crab Island?

Anyone who has been to Crab Island has seen the vast array of marine life. From dolphins to sea birds, friendly animal encounters at Crab Island in Destin, FL, are commonplace. So, why is it called Crab Island? Before a hurricane covered the once tiny island in emerald waters, Crab Island was a small plot of land shaped like... you guessed it... a CRAB! Along with the thousands of tiny crabs found on the floor of the sandbar, it's easy to see why it is called Crab Island!

Why is Crab Island so Popular

Crab Island has been a popular spot for the locals for years. They would take their boats and skiffs and congregate with other locals over music, food, and beverage. Over the years, the tourists have joined the mix to create a bigger scene. It's not unusual to see hundreds, if not close to a thousand boats at Crab Island on a Summer day.

Due to the influx of people enjoying Crab Island, vendors have made this an opportunity to sell products and services. There are food vendors that line up the island and offer burgers, fries and sandwiches. You will also find mini stores that sell everything from suntan lotion to doritos. For those looking for an inexpensive thrill, some vendors offer inflatables at Crab Island including large water trampolines and slides. If you didn't rent one already, there are kayaks, paddleboards and jet ski's available for rent as well.

Where is Crab Island

Lots of folks wonder "is Crab Island in Destin?" Crab Island is just north of the Marler Bridge (Also Called The Marler Bridge). Although it may seem as if you can access it by foot, it can be dangerous to swim to Crab Island. To get to Crab Island, you must have some type of watercraft or shuttle.

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Crab Island Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Crab Island Family Friendly?
2. Can You Drink Alcohol at Crab Island?
3. Are there Crabs at Crab Island?
4. How did Crab Island get its Name?
5. Can't we just Swim to Crab Island?
6. How Deep is Crab Island?
7. When is Crab Island the Busiest?
8. Can you go Fishing at Crab Island?
9. Are their Restrooms at Crab Island?
10. Is it Easy to Anchor your Boat?
11. Can you Buy Food at Crab Island?

1. Is Crab Island in Destin Family Friendly?

Crab Island is family friendly for the most part. However, the island does turn more adult orientated in the afternoon due to the excessive drinking by some. We recommend that families show up early to enjoy the activties of Crab Island and leave before 1pm.

2. Can You Drink Alcohol at Crab Island?

Yes. Please assign a designated boater during your trip as cops do patrol the waters and issue citations for not following the laws.

3. Are there Crabs at Crab Island?

Yes. there is all sorts of marine wildlife including fish, hermits, dolphins and more. However, the wildlife is not easy to find when there are a lot of people and boats around.

4. How did Crab Island get its Name?

Crab Island in Destin got its name because it used to be a popular spot for wildlife due to the characteristics of the sandbar. Even though you may find blue crabs at Crab Island still today, it is much less common as it was years ago.

5. Can't we just Swim to Crab Island?

Absolutely Not! On the East and West ends of Crab Island, there is a very strong current that even the most professional swimmers cannot do. Do not attempt to swim as it could result fatally. Renting a boat or watercraft is how most travelers get to Crab Island.

6. How Deep is Crab Island?

Crab Island is relatively shallow with an average depth of about 3 feet. It is most shallow in the center area and deeper as you go to the East & West ends or more towards the bridge. On low tide, the island is inches deep in some spots, which can cause hazards for boaters. Please be careful when mooring your boat so the propellor is not damaged.

7. When is Crab Island the Busiest?

Crab Island is busiest from Memorial Day To Labor Day. Wednesday through Sunday is when you'll find the highest concentration of people. Usually by 1pm you'll see the most boats and people at the island.

8. Can you go Fishing at Crab Island?

Yes, but it may not be a prime location to fish due to the heavy volume of boaters. Children under 16 do not need a fishing license, but those that are over 16 do (head to the local walmart and purchase a license).

9. Are their Restrooms at Crab Island?

Crab Island does not have restrooms. If you need to go to the bathroom, most people will releive themselves in the water or they ask a fellow boater for access to the restroom. If you have transportation, you can go back to the Harbor and use the restroom at one of the local restaurants.

10. Is it Easy to Anchor your Boat?

It can be difficult at times trying to anchor a boat at Crab Island. We recommend to get their early to claim a good spot that is away from the currents. If you are not experienced, guide the boat in by jumping out of the boat when in shallow water and push the boat into a good spot.

11. Can you Buy Food at Crab Island?

Crab Island vendors offer food and beverage on most days. We recommend bringing some snacks or a light meal just in case they are not operating.