Crab Island is a sand bar located just to the 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.  At the same time, 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. If you are looking to visit Crab Island, try calling Check Out Blue Water Pontoon Charters.  Captain Darren is Laura’s Father-in-Law.

Also, be sure to visit our other blogs about Crab Island

5 Main Tips for a Crab Island Day ► Beach Condos in Destin

Crab Island Boat Tour Review ► Beach Condos in Destin

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CRAB ISLAND IN DESTIN FL

Destin has many awesome things to do, but nothing quite compares to Crab Island! This legendary Destin landmark is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. From the emerald-green shallow waters to the family-friendly party atmosphere, Crab Island is like a day at the beach… but better!

Crab Island in Destin, FL, is still a relatively unknown destination for new travelers to Destin. That’s why we created MyCrabIsland.com, to help visitors enjoy this incredible natural landmark to the fullest. Keep reading to discover all you need to know about Crab Island, including what it is, where it is, and questions from real travelers!

WHAT IS CRAB ISLAND IN DESTIN?

Crab Island is a sandbar that is located just South of the Marler Bridge in Destin, FL. Crab Island started to gain in popularity as boaters used the area to anchor their boats to catch some rays and wade on the sandbar. Now Crab Island has erupted into a popular social scene where locals and tourists congregate for fun and sun. Crab Island is just minutes from Destin Harbor. Discover dining, tours, attractions, and events in the Destin Harbor online at Destin Boardwalk.

WHY IS IT CALLED CRAB ISLAND?

Anyone who has been to Crab Island has seen the vast array of marine life. From dolphins to sea birds, friendly animal encounters at Crab Island in Destin, FL, are commonplace. So, why is it called Crab Island? Before a hurricane covered the once tiny island in emerald waters, Crab Island was a small plot of land shaped like… you guessed it… a CRAB! Along with the thousands of tiny crabs found on the floor of the sandbar, it’s easy to see why it is called Crab Island!

WHY IS CRAB ISLAND SO POPULAR

Crab Island has been a popular spot for the locals for years. They would take their boats and skiffs and congregate over music, food, and beverages with other locals. Over the years, the tourists have joined the mix to create a bigger scene. It’s not unusual to see hundreds, if not close to a thousand, boats at Crab Island on a Summer Day.

Due to the influx of people enjoying Crab Island, vendors have made this an opportunity to sell products and services. Food vendors on the island offer burgers, fries, and sandwiches. You will also find mini stores that sell everything from suntan lotion to Doritos. Some vendors provide inflatables at Crab Island, including large water trampolines and slides, for those seeking an inexpensive thrill. If you haven’t rented one already, kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis are also available for rent.

WHERE IS CRAB ISLAND

Lots of folks wonder, “Is Crab Island in Destin?” Crab Island is just north of the Marler Bridge (Also Called the Marler Bridge). Although it may seem like you can access it on foot, it can be dangerous to swim to Crab Island. To get to Crab Island, you must have some type of watercraft or shuttle.

CRAB ISLAND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Is Crab Island Family Friendly?
2. Can You Drink Alcohol at Crab Island?
3. Are there Crabs at Crab Island?
4. How did Crab Island get its Name?
5. Can’t we just Swim to Crab Island?
6. How Deep is Crab Island?
7. When is Crab Island the Busiest?
8. Can you go Fishing at Crab Island?
9. Are their Restrooms at Crab Island?
10. Is it Easy to Anchor your Boat?
11. Can you Buy Food at Crab Island?

IS CRAB ISLAND IN DESTIN FAMILY FRIENDLY?

Crab Island is mostly family friendly. However, in the afternoon, due to some excessive drinking, it becomes more adult-oriented. We recommend that families show up early to enjoy the activities of Crab Island and leave before 1 p.m.

CAN YOU DRINK ALCOHOL AT CRAB ISLAND?

Yes. Please assign a designated boater during your trip as cops do patrol the waters and issue citations for not following the laws.

ARE THERE CRABS AT CRAB ISLAND?

Yes. There are all sorts of marine wildlife including fish, hermits, dolphins and more. However, the wildlife is not easy to find when there are a lot of people and boats around.

HOW DID CRAB ISLAND GET ITS NAME?

Crab Island in Destin got its name because it used to be a popular spot for wildlife due to the characteristics of the sandbar. Even though you may find blue crabs at Crab Island still today, it is much less common as it was years ago.

CAN’T WE JUST SWIM TO CRAB ISLAND?

Absolutely Not! On the East and West ends of Crab Island, there is a very strong current that even the most professional swimmers cannot do. Do not attempt to swim as it could result fatally. Renting a boat or watercraft is how most travelers get to Crab Island.

HOW DEEP IS CRAB ISLAND?

Crab Island is relatively shallow with an average depth of about 3 feet. It is most shallow in the center area and deeper as you go to the East & West ends or more towards the bridge. At low tide, the island is inches deep in some spots, which can cause hazards for boaters. Please be careful when mooring your boat so the propellor is not damaged.

WHEN IS CRAB ISLAND THE BUSIEST?

Crab Island is busiest from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Wednesday through Sunday is when you’ll find the highest concentration of people. Usually by 1pm you’ll see the most boats and people at the island.

CAN YOU GO FISHING AT CRAB ISLAND?

Yes, but it may not be a prime location to fish due to the heavy volume of boaters. Children under 16 do not need a fishing license, but those that are over 16 do (head to the local Walmart and purchase a license).

ARE There RESTROOMS AT CRAB ISLAND?

Crab Island does not have restrooms. If you need to go to the bathroom, most people will relieve themselves in the water or they will ask a fellow boater for access to the restroom. If you have transportation, you can go back to the Harbor and use the restroom at one of the local restaurants.

IS IT EASY TO ANCHOR YOUR BOAT?

It can be difficult at times to anchor a boat at Crab Island. We recommend getting there early to claim a good spot away from the currents. If you are not experienced, guide the boat in by jumping out of the boat when in shallow water and pushing the boat into a good spot.

CAN YOU BUY FOOD AT CRAB ISLAND?

Crab Island vendors offer food and beverage on most days. We recommend bringing some snacks or a light meal just in case they are not operating.

Check Out Blue Water Pontoon Charters.  Captain Darren is Laura’s Father-in-Law

The post Crab Island Destin Tips Tricks and FAQ’s first appeared on Beach Condos in Destin.

Crab Island and Destin Boat Tour Recommendation

As a property manager striving to make your beach vacation dreams come true while parenting preteen children, I rarely enjoy what our area offers. But recently, I was able to get out to Crab Island! If you haven’t heard about it, the locals and visitors to our area love experiencing Crab Island. It is a summer party for all age groups.

My father-in-law, a boat Captain with experience in the Coast Guard and piloting large ships, began running a charter boat here for Blue Water Pontoon Charters.  Located near the Edge restaurant in Destin Harbor.

• Paddle Boards
• Drinks for purchase
• Floating water dock
• Rafts
• Bluetooth speaker

The water toys really make chilling on Crab Island a blast. I immediately thought about how enjoyable this would be for our guests and how it was one of the best ways to make the most out of a day on Crab Island… without the huge cost. But be sure to bring cash for the vendor boats!

Another benefit beyond the cost savings is that you don’t have to be responsible for being the ship’s captain! In comparison, someone must captain a pontoon boat through the busy harbor and remain alcohol-free for the day. The Destin Okaloosa Sheriff’s Department and Coast Guard pride themselves on having the largest number of BUIs (boating under the influence arrests) in the State of Florida.

Tailfins Island Adventures offers other boating experiences, including Tiki Tours (new this year), private charters, Sunset Tours, Dolphin Cruises, and Thursday Night Fireworks Tours. 

So, here is my slightly biased but honest recommendation. If my father-in-law, Darren LaPierre, captains your trip, be sure to give him a shoutout.

Laura Clayton

also, look at our other crab island-specific post

Crab Island Destin Tips, Tricks, and FAQ’s (beachcondosindestin.com)

The post Crab Island Boat Tour Review first appeared on Beach Condos in Destin.

When planning the perfect family Vacation to Destin and Miramar Beach, the first concern is where you will stay.  That is easy; you stay with us at one of our 60 fabulous Beach condos in Destin properties!  That is awesome, and you are going to have an amazing time!   😉    Once you have made that decision, one of the next big things on the list is figuring out ways to spend your time when not parked on the beach soaking up the sun; in this post, we will explore 10 great water sports activities in Destin.

1.       Paddle Boarding

Observe Sea Life Up close and Personal

 2.       Jet Skiing

Motorcycle the Waves

 http://bluecrabwatersports.com/

3.       Kayaking

Peaceful, Personal Boating. Some People Fish from Kayaks.

http://kayakexperience.com/

4.       Boogie Boarding

Fun for Everyone

5.       Skim Boarding

Test Your Balance and Agility 

6.       Snuba

Hybrid snorkeling and diving.  A great way to explore the Jetties

http://www.destinsnorkel.com/ 

7.       Snorkeling

Family Fun at the Jetties

http://www.destinsnorkel.com/

8.       Parasailing

Adventure Water and Sky

 http://parasaildestin.com/

9.       Suba Diving

Feels like Flying in a World that is Not My Own and What an Adventure

http://divedestin.net/ 

10.   Kite Boarding

Test Your Strength and Sense of Adventure, Knowledge of Wave and Wind–Not for the Fragile.  Watch on a Windy Day from the Bayside of Okaloosa Island.

The post 10 of our Favorite Water Sports in Destin first appeared on Beach Condos in Destin.

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.

The post Crab Island Destin Tips and Tricks first appeared on Beach Condos in Destin.

Exciting Destin Water Excursions that You Will Not Want to Miss

Booking your Destin vacation is a huge step, but don’t forget to arrange the perfect memorable experience for your family in advance.  Here is a list of 5 cool new adventurous excursions in the Destin / Miramar Beach area to help make your summer vacation unforgettable.

Double-Decker pontoon boat with a slide: Booking your Destin vacation is a huge step, but don’t forget to arrange the perfect memorable experience for your family in advance.  Here is a list of 5 cool new adventurous excursions in the Destin / Miramar Beach area to help make your summer vacation unforgettable.

seen them advertised here at the following link: http://www.destinvacationboatrentals.com/boat-rentals/

https://ldvbeachservice.com/products/double-decker-pontoon-boats/

By Air or By Sea? One of Destin’s most truly amazing, thrilling experiences is to watch the dolphins in their natural environment. How about a dolphin watch from above in a seaplane? Starting at $99 for a 20-minute flight, it is a truly unique experience with the wow factor. http://www.flythebeach.com/ Check out their video here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsEK_xGil0c

Jet Pack View of Crab Island: I grew up watching the Jetsons, and so did many of you. If you have ever wanted to jet pack through the sky, perhaps try http://jetpackdestin.com/. Jet PAC takes you out to Crab Island, where, wearing a space-age pack, you are propelled by a jet of water. This is a bucket list item for the thrill seeker in your group. Check out the video below: https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=vIVnXoYHT0Y

It’s a Boat, It’s a BarIt’s a Paddle Boat for 10! Book your trip on Pedal Pub Destin and exercise those legs as your group powers through the water on the unique “pedal pub.”   http://www.saltwaterpedalpubs.com/  This experience is BYO food and drink. Each boat allows up to 10 people at $45 per person for a 1.5-mile journey. This is a great way to laugh, joke, and relax with your group while working off those calories

https://youtu.be/2HoOAiTf_iE

Catamaran Dreams.  Maybe lounging on the deck of a Catamaran as your captain sails your group across the harbor is more your speed. Watching the Thursday night Destin Harborwalk Fireworks and Air Show from a catamaran is so much fun.  Pack your snacks and a cooler.  Prices start at $40 per person for 3 hours to https://cattywampus-snorkeling.com/gallery/

The post 5 Cool New Things to Do in Destin first appeared on Beach Condos in Destin.

Are you an adrenaline junkie?  Do you have a bucket list that includes being propelled into the air like a superhero?  If so, we have a new, exciting water sport for you!  It’s called Flyboarding.

Some friends and I rented a pontoon boat from Gilligan’s Watersports last Sunday and took off for a beautiful day anchored around Crab Island when I looked up and saw flyboarding in action for the first time.  I immediately thought, “That looks SO FUN!”  The flyboarder was propelled high into the air, spinning, flipping, and diving into the ocean like a dolphin!

According to Power Up Watersports, which offers this incredible experience, The Flyboard works on a water propulsion system. The board is connected by a hose to a Jet Ski and is propelled by the water from the Jet Ski intake. Using his or her weight, the rider directs the board left or right, up or down, while the Flyboard operator in the Jet Ski controls the speed and direction of the flight path.

Anyone can ride the Flyboard (18 and up or 16-18 with guardians’ permission) with about 10 minutes of instruction and training. The Flyboard is easy to operate and just takes a little bit of courage and adventurous spirit.

Now, if you don’t have enough courage or the “adventurous spirit” needed for flyboarding, or if you have children who wouldn’t meet the age limit for flyboard, don’t fret!  Power Up Watersports also offers a less intense activity around Crab Island with Aqua Trikes.  Fun for all ages and suitable for up to two adults and a child per trike, you can pedal around the beautiful waters of the emerald coast and enjoy the sun, sights, and sounds around you.

Have you tried flyboarding or water trikes yet? If so, please leave us a comment to tell us what you think of your experience!
We look forward to seeing you soon on the gulf!

The post Add some adrenaline to your next Destin Beach vacation! first appeared on Beach Condos in Destin.