Crab Island Destin Tips and Tricks

Crab Island is a sand bar located just west of the Marler Bridge coming into Destin from Okaloosa Island.  Experienced boaters and Pontoon boat renters alike anchor up and wade around the Crystal-Clear waters that make Destin so famous.  While most of your family’s needs can be purchased while out on Crab Island.  It is always best to prepare ahead of time.  Here are some tips from Local friends.

Tips and Tricks for a Day at Crab Island Destin

1.  Pack Snacks and your Cooler.  I personally grill hot dogs the night before, put them in the buns and set them out to steam in the packaging that morning.  It is such an easy grab and go meal.
2. Remember the closest restroom is at Dewey Destin’s which may take you 30 minutes to get to by boat.
3. Bring rope to tie floats to the back of your boat
4. Give yourself plenty of room between boats (especially if the current is strong) to anchor so you don’t hit anyone.
5. Bring a Football or Frisbee
6. Bring nets to catch hermit crabs (but please be gentle and throw them back).
7. Do not forget garbage bags and Paper Towels
8. Lotion Sunscreen.  Most boats like condos do not want you to use spray on sunscreen on their property (on boats like condos, it sticks to floors, and because it is waterproof, it is not easily cleaned and will turn your feet black/ruin upholstery)
9. Cash for renting Paddle Boards, Purchasing Boiled Peanuts, Buying Ice cream T-Shirts, etc.
10. Bluetooth Speaker

Safety Tips from Locals about Crab Island

1. While the water is shallow, you should never try to swim to shore from Crab Island or shore to Crab Island.  It is a lot further than it looks, and the current can be strong in points.
2. Make sure kids and dogs wear a flotation device, even if they can stand with their head above water
3. Drinking and driving rules still apply while boating.  Be sure you have a designated driver
4. Watch For NO Wake Zones
5. Be mindful of the currents
6. Reminder that except for the boat, there’s no shade, so keep that in mind and reapply sunscreen/hydrate often.

Laura Co-Owner

Hi there! I'm Laura Clayton, co-owner of Beach Condos in Destin, where we specialize in offering beautiful, pet-friendly beachfront vacation rentals along the Emerald Coast of Florida. From cozy couples’ getaways to spacious family retreats, I’ve helped thousands of guests experience the magic of Destin and Miramar Beach — one salty breeze and sugar-white sand beach at a time. With over a decade of experience in the vacation rental world, I wear many sunhats — from managing bookings and marketing to creating pun-filled condo names and writing guest-friendly travel guides. I'm passionate about hospitality, obsessed with Gulf views, and always on the hunt for the best local seafood joints (I’ll let you in on my favorites if you ask!). When I’m not answering guest emails or walking through new listings, you can find me chasing sunsets, curating homey details that make our condos shine, or brainstorming beachy blog content with a coffee in hand and my toes in the sand. Whether you're planning your first visit or you're a returning beach bum, I’m here to help make your stay unforgettable. Let’s get your flip-flops in the sand and your vacation on track — after all, life’s better at the beach.

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