My Crab Island

Top Accommodations Near Crab Island

Planning a day at Crab Island? Where you stay matters. Picking the right hotel or vacation rental can take your trip from good to great—think shorter drives, easier boat access, and more time on the water (or lounging with a drink in hand). Whether you want a resort with all the extras or a beachy condo steps from the action, we’ve rounded up the best places to stay close to Crab Island fun.

Emerald Grande

You can’t get much closer to Crab Island than this. Located right above the HarborWalk Marina, Emerald Grande offers resort-style accommodations with stunning water views, a full-service spa, pools, restaurants, and unbeatable proximity to the action. Most Crab Island tours and charters depart just steps from the lobby, making this one of the most convenient places to stay if you're planning a day on the water. If you want to float all day and then walk to dinner?, this is your spot.

Reserve Your Stay at Emerald Grande

Ocean Reef Resorts

Prefer more space and a chill home-away-from-home vibe? Ocean Reef Resorts offers a wide range of vacation rentals—everything from cozy condos to beachfront houses—spread across Destin and the surrounding areas. Many are just a quick drive from the harbor, so you can still hit Crab Island without the resort crowds. With flexible options for families, groups, and couples, it’s a great pick if you want a more personal place to stay with all the comforts of home. Think less lobby, more living room—and plenty of beachy charm.

Book a Destin Vacation Rental with Ocean Reef

Other Great Areas to Stay Near Crab Island

If you're flexible on location and don’t mind a short drive or rideshare, these nearby neighborhoods offer a great mix of value, charm, and convenience:

Holiday Isle: Tucked between the Gulf and the Destin Harbor, Holiday Isle is a quiet residential area with canal-front homes, private beach access, and super short drive times to most Crab Island tours. Many homes even have boat slips—ideal if you’re bringing your own.

Crystal Beach: This charming neighborhood is full of pastel beach cottages, low-rise condos, and palm-lined streets. It’s family-friendly, close to great restaurants, and just 10–15 minutes from the harbor by car. A great choice if you want a more relaxed beach vibe without being too far from the action.

Okaloosa Island: Just across the Marler Bridge from Destin, Okaloosa Island has budget-friendly condo resorts, quiet beaches, and easy access to the Crab Island departure points. It’s also home to attractions like the Gulfarium and the Boardwalk—perfect if you want entertainment options without the high crowds.