How to Get to Crab Island
There are tons of places to visit in Destin and one of the most popular destinations in Destin is Crab Island, a sandbar that is loved by locals and tourists. The question is, what is this place, and how do you get there? Let us, the experts, tell you everything about the famous Crab Island and how to get there. Read along to get to know Crab Island and have all your Crab Island questions answered.
What is Crab Island?
Let’s begin with the question which is, what is Crab Island? Crab Island is a sandbar off the north side of the Destin Bridge. Before Crab Island, the sandbar went by “Bird Island.” Back then, this place used to be an actual island where many birds would hang around, hence the name Bird Island. Over time, with the weather, the island became submerged underwater, but the sandbar still stands. Now, many people head to the famous spot to enjoy hanging out in the water. Crab Island is not on land so you cannot walk to the area. You can reach Crab Island by either a pontoon boat, a charter pontoon boat, or the Crab Island Runner.
How to Get to Crab Island
Pontoon Boat
One way to head to Crab Island is with one of our Destin pontoon boat rentals. Having a Crab Island pontoon rental in Destin, Florida, is the way to go when you want to take your time. Each boat allows you to bring up to 12 people at a time. The experience of getting to Crab Island is a relaxing time. A main point of a pontoon boat is getting to the destination in a timely manner. By renting one, you and everyone else are going to get to take in the views of the Gulf of Mexico. Just note that even though you can see it, please do not take the pontoon boat rentals there. You are also going to be able to see a different side of Destin. Depending on what your other plans are for the day, you can rent the boat for a half day. Heading to Crab Island by a pontoon boat is one of the best ways to visit. For your journey, do not forget to bring a waterproof camera, sunscreen, water toys, towels, sunglasses, an ice chest, and a Bluetooth speaker. Once you have made it to Crab Island, you are more than welcome to leave the boat. You can also stay on and soak up the sun. Now, all you have to do is grab your friends, rent a pontoon boat, and set sail to Crab Island!
Charter Pontoon Boat
Next up is chartering a pontoon boat. A pontoon boat charter is having your own private boat for one day, just like our pontoon rentals but with one of our experienced captains. Taking a chartered boat is a great way to head over to Crab Island especially since you are guaranteed a licensed captain to guide the way! Other highlights include being able to experience the sandbar while chilling on a 15’ lily pad, having a Bluetooth speaker to jam out with your friends to everyone’s favorite songs, the views of Destin, and potentially seeing dolphins up close. Just make sure to bring everything you will need for this trip, especially if you are booking a full day at Crab Island. A reason why you should rent out a charter pontoon boat is if you are here celebrating a special occasion. A fun celebration to rent out the boat is for a bachelorette party. At Xtreme H2O, we offer bachelorette packages to make sure you guys have the best time celebrating everything about the bride-to-be. Check out what packages we offer for this exciting event. If you want to feel luxury while heading to Crab Island, renting a charter pontoon boat is perfect for you!
Crab Island Runner
Another way to reach the area is by boarding the Crab Island Runner. Renting this is an easy way to head to the sandbar. The boat can accommodate up to 27 people. There is plenty of room for the whole family to hop on board. By taking the island runner to Crab Island, everyone on the boat will learn more facts about the place and potentially see marine life. Many people, depending on the time, have seen dolphins swimming around. This is a great option if you want to visit for just part of the day. The Island Runner is only a three to three and a half hour trip. This lets you hang out on the sandbar, but then you can use the rest of the day to do whatever else you want to do. Before heading over, remember to bring the essentials, which are sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, ID, a towel, and a camera. Remember to use a camera to capture the moments with your crew. The Crab Island Runner is waiting for you, so grab your friends and head over to enjoy what Crab Island is all about!
FAQ
Is Crab Island open year-round?
Yes. Crab Island is open year-round. The most popular times to visit are between March and October.
Can I drive to get to Crab Island?
No. You cannot drive to Crab Island. Since the place is in the water, the only way to get there is by boat.
Can you bring children to Crab Island?
Yes. Anyone is allowed to go to Crab Island. Depending on the age, adults should keep a closer eye on younger kids.
How packed can Crab Island get?
Crab Island can get really packed depending on the time of the year. During the winter months, it will be less crowded. When the summer months are here, from May through August, you will see Crab Island more crowded.
Is there anything you can buy at Crab Island?
Yes. You can see local vendors on boats selling food and non-alcoholic beverages. Some vendors also sell t-shirts and souvenirs. It just depends on when you head over and if they are open!
Can you bring alcohol to Crab Island?
Yes. You can bring alcohol to the area. The vendors do not sell alcohol, so if you want any, get it yourself. As long as you are over 21 and make sure anything you bring is a can, you are allowed to bring it. You are not allowed to bring glass.
What is the best time of day to head over to Crab Island?
Depending on your schedule, either getting there right in the morning or heading around the evening. Especially during peak season, it will likely be packed if you head right in the middle of the day.
Can you see any marine life while hanging out on Crab Island?
It is possible to see marine life while at Crab Island. There is a chance you could spot some dolphins. Remember that this is their home, so do not bother them if you see one.
