Discover Crab Island: Submerged Sandbar is Destin Hot Spot

Have you visited Crab Island yet? If so, you know it’s the hot spot locals go to when craving a breezy, fun day on the water. Not really an island at all, this popular Destin gathering spot is actually a submerged sandbar. Located on the bay side of Marler Bridge, the sand bar is covered in shallow water that ranges in depth from 2 to 10 feet. It’s a great spot to anchor a boat, hang out with friends, and cavort in the surf on a warm spring or fall, or hot summer day.

Not Your Average Water Sports Playground

There’s always something exciting happening in the warm spring, summer and fall months on Crab Island. Football, volleyball, frisbee and sporty water games are nearly always in action. As for swimming and snorkeling, Crab Island ranks high on the list of fun things to do in Destin for the kids. With goggles and fishing nets in tow, kids have a blast searching for hermit crabs, as well as cruising the silky-smooth water on their favorite float.

As you can imagine, dogs love Crab Island too. Like us, they enjoy boating, swimming and hanging out with friends. And also just like us, dogs need extra care when playing in the sun and saltwater. Before you go, check out these tips for taking your dog to the beach.

Best Time for the Clearest Water at Crab Island

The water at Crab Island changes with the tides. For the clearest water, check this Destin tide chart and plan your trip during high tide, when the water is moving from the Gulf to the bay. The water during low tide is still enjoyable, but not as crystal clear. At low tide, the water is moving from the bay to the Gulf.

Food Barges, Floating Vendors and More

A big day at Crab Island can build an appetite. Good thing is you don’t have to leave the fun to find good food. Better yet, it comes right to you! A one-of-a-kind restaurant/snack barge serves burgers, sides and munchies to keep your hunger in check. Floating boat vendors are also on the scene selling tasty ice cream, boiled peanuts, hot dogs and cool souvenir T-shirts.

If you’re still hankering for a big meal after a day at Crab Island, there are plenty of Destin restaurants that fit the bill with some of the freshest seafood on the coast. Or, if you want to go straight to a waterfront restaurant from Crab Island, Dewey Destin’s Seafood is within view. You can park at the pier, order at the window, and sit along the pier still within view of Crab Island. Dewey’s specializes in fried seafood baskets, sandwiches and cold beer.

How to Get To Crab Island

Crab Island is easily reached by boat or Jet Ski. You can either rent your own, bring your own, or sign up for an excursion with one of the local captains, or even a Tiki Cruise boat. To rent a boat, sign up for a charter, or book other fun activities, visit our Destin Recreation listings. Wet ‘n’ Wild offers pontoon boat rentals with easy access to Crab Island. Once you have your ride, pack a cooler and bring your smile for an experience you won’t forget!

Play and Stay in Destin

If you need a place to stay, Destin offers a great mix of Destin vacation rentals, including beachfront condos, vacation homes and beachfront hotels, checking everything off your list from great ocean views to beach set-up service. If you plan to bring your own boat, check Sandpiper Cove, with access to boat ramps, docks and a beautiful private beach on Holiday Isle. Check availability and book your stay on BeachGuide or call our friendly vacation planners who are also available by phone at 888-404-2602 to answer any questions and help you with your reservation. Make a reservation now and find out firsthand what all the Crab Island fuss is about! It’s about fun!