How to Reach Crab Island: Your Ultimate Guide
If you’ve ever journeyed along the stunning Emerald Coast, cruising down the picturesque Highway 98 over the Destin Bridge, chances are you’ve laid eyes on a captivating sight: Crab Island. This alluring sandbar paradise is one of Destin’s most beloved and photogenic attractions, leaving you pondering the age-old question – how do you get to Crab Island?
Navigating Your Way to Crab Island
The allure of people frolicking in the crystal-clear waters, lounging on their floaties, and relaxing aboard their boats might have piqued your interest in uncovering the secret to reaching Crab Island. We frequently receive calls and emails from curious Destin visitors, eager to unlock the mystery of accessing this aquatic paradise. Here’s the scoop: No, you can’t drive your car to Crab Island. Swimming or walking won’t get you there either.
The only safe and viable means of reaching Crab Island is by boat. You have several options at your disposal: renting a boat, chartering one, or embarking on an excursion like the Crab Island Shuttle Boat or Crab Island Adventure Tour. While Crab Island may appear idyllic, the hidden tidal currents swirling around this popular underwater sandbar are deceptively strong and have tragically claimed lives in attempts to swim across the seemingly short channel. It’s simply not worth the risk.
Top Ways to Reach Crab Island
- Pontoon Boat Rental: Pontoon boat rentals reign supreme among visitors to the Destin, Florida area. They are favored for their user-friendly nature and plush, comfortable seating. Operating one is akin to driving a car, and they can comfortably accommodate large groups, making it cost-effective when shared among friends. For instance, renting a pontoon boat for 12 people for a half-day excursion to Crab Island would cost just over $30 per person – an unbeatable value for four hours of fun.
- Crab Island Shuttle Boat: Smaller groups seeking an affordable option should consider the shuttle boat, priced at only $49 per person. It’s more economical than renting a boat if you have fewer than 8 people and relieves you of the responsibility of piloting the vessel. This is especially convenient if you plan to enjoy a few cocktails while at Crab Island, as strict drinking and boating laws are enforced.
- Paddleboard/Kayak Rental: If pontoon boats don’t float your boat (pun intended), various rentals, tours, and excursions offer alternative routes to Crab Island. You can choose from jet ski or double-decker pontoon boat rentals, private charters on a catamaran, or even a luxurious yacht. For the adventurous, paddleboarding or kayaking from shore is an option, but be prepared for a workout and ensure you wear a life jacket.
Most of these boat rentals and excursions depart from the Destin Harbor or nearby Okaloosa Island, just a stone’s throw away from Crab Island. Everything you need to access Crab Island can be found on this website.
Directions to Crab Island
Once you’ve figured out how to reach Crab Island, you’ll naturally want directions to this sandy paradise. Crab Island is located just north of the Destin Bridge, nestled within the inlet connecting Choctawhatchee Bay to the Gulf of Mexico. While the official GPS coordinates for Crab Island are listed as N 30°23.918, W 86°31.236, it’s essential to note that this sandbar sprawls, so pinpointing it on a map isn’t as straightforward. Departing from the Destin Harbor, head west towards the Marler Bridge (also known as the Destin Bridge). Navigate beneath the Marler Bridge, and you’ll find Crab Island to the northwest. If coming from Fort Walton Beach/Okaloosa Island, head east/southeast along the Gulf Islands National Seashore, and Crab Island will appear on your left, just before reaching the Marler Bridge – an unmistakable sight.
Activities at Crab Island
With your journey to Crab Island complete, it’s time to explore the abundance of activities that await. Crab Island offers a truly unique experience, combining relaxation with exhilaration. While the primary goal is to unwind and savor the stunning surroundings, there are plenty of entertaining options to keep you engaged. People-watching, floating on your inflatable, paddling or snorkeling around your boat, or enjoying a game of frisbee or football with a refreshing water jump – Crab Island has it all.
For those seeking organized activities, consider the Crab Island Adventure Tour. This comprehensive package includes a Crab Island visit and additional experiences such as kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and access to an inflatable water park – all included in the ticket price.
For a comprehensive guide to Crab Island, consult our Complete Visitor’s Guide to Crab Island or visit the Crab Island Information Center at the Destin Harbor.