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, I’m Laura Clayton — co-owner of Beach Condos in Destin, Realtor with World Impact Real Estate, full-time vacation rental nerd, and full-time mom-on-the-go. When I’m not helping guests find the perfect beachfront condo in Destin or Miramar Beach, I’m usually taking care of my two dogs, Lily (my terrier mix) and Ziggy (my standard Goldendoodle), or sitting at what feels like my 1,000th sporting event cheering on my kids, Reece and Liam. If you’ve ever tried answering emails from the bleachers, you’ll understand my life perfectly. I’ve spent nearly two decades in the vacation rental world, helping thousands of families make memories along the Emerald Coast — from first-time beach trips to traditions that bring guests back year after year. I love creating welcoming, pet-friendly spaces, coming up with slightly ridiculous beachy condo names, and making sure our homes feel comfortable, clean, and genuinely cared for. As a Realtor with World Impact Real Estate, I also help buyers and owners navigate the real estate side of beach living — whether that means purchasing an investment property, selling a condo, or maximizing rental potential while still keeping a place that feels like home. At the end of the day, I’m just someone who loves the beach, loves people, and believes vacations should feel easy, personal, and a little bit special. If you’re planning a stay — or thinking about owning a piece of the beach yourself — I’d love to help. Let’s get your flip-flops in the sand and make it a great one 🌊👣

See Full Bio