How To Get To Crab Island?

The Best & Safest Way to Reach the Destin Sandbar

If you're wondering how to get to Crab Island during your vacation, it's not as hard as it looks! The best way to get to Crab Island is by renting a boat. There is no safe way of getting to Crab Island by foot as the currents are much too strong to swim over. Options for getting to Crab Island is by kayak, paddleboard, jet ski or craigcat. Most of the watercraft rentals take place out of the Destin Harbor. There are also other watersport locations from Calhoun Avenue that run parellel to the island.

It depends a lot on how many people you have in your party or how long you want to stay. For those looking to stay for the entire day, a pontoon boat (AKA party barge) are recommended. If you're looking to just cruise through the island with a friend, a kayak or waverunner are great options.

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Crab Island Location FAQ

1. Is Crab Island Open all the Time?
2. Is it Hard to Find a Spot for your Boat?
3. How Far is it from the Harbor?
4. Are Captains Available for Hire?
5. Is there a Boat Access nearby?
6. Is it easy to Anchor your Boat?
7. What is the Cheapest way to get there?

1. Is Crab Island Open all the Time?

Crab Island is not a business or state park so it is technically open all the time. However, only during the day is it worth going to since most people leave after dark.

2. Is it Hard to Find a Spot for your Boat?

During the Summer season, it can be difficult to find a spot if you come late in the day - we recommend getting their early (8-9am). If you are new to boating, we recommend anchoring the boat on the outskirts of the island to prevent accidents. If the currents are strong and the wind is blowing, it can be almost impossible to nestle the boat in the middle of the island without having issues.

3. How Far is it from the Harbor?

Depending on where your boat rental company is located, it could take anywhere from 10-20 minutes from the Harbor to get to Crab Island.

4. Are Captains Available for Hire?

Don't fret about how to get to Crab Island, Captains are available for hire! Visit our Crab Island activities and rentals page for some options.

5. Is there a Boat Access nearby?

Yes, there is a boat access available at the Destin Marina (7 Calhoun Ave) and also at Joe's Bayou (800 Beach Dr.). Both access points have a small fee for launching.

6. 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.

7. What is the Cheapest way to get there?

The cheapest way to get to Crab Island depends on your group size. If you have a large group, everyone can split the cost of a boat rental. If it's a small group, it may be best to rent a kayak or paddleboard for the day. There are also Crab Island excursions that take you to Crab Island for the day for around $30/person.