Destin's Crab Island 101: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Destin's Crab Island - Surf N Pontoon bringing you the best in Crab Island Boating

Destin's Crab Island 101: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

If you’ve ever searched “things to do in Destin,” chances are you’ve seen pictures of people partying in waist-deep turquoise water surrounded by boats, floats, and floating food trucks. That paradise is Crab Island—and it’s not just a local favorite, it’s a must-see destination on the Emerald Coast. Destin's Crab Island -

Whether you’re planning your first trip or coming back for round two, here’s everything you need to know to do Crab Island right—especially when you're going with Surf N Pontoons.

🏝️ What Is Crab Island?

Despite its name, Crab Island isn’t an island anymore—it's a shallow underwater sandbar located just north of the Destin Bridge in Choctawhatchee Bay. Once a small island, it’s now a massive, boat-only gathering place that attracts thousands of visitors every year.

The water is shallow (2 to 4 feet deep), warm, and crystal clear, making it the perfect place to anchor your pontoon, chill in the water, and party like a local.

🚤 How Do You Get There?

Crab Island is only accessible by boat—no roads, no docks, and no ferries. That's where Surf N Pontoons comes in. Based in Fort Walton Beach (just minutes from Destin), we offer a wide range of watercraft rentals perfect for Crab Island, including:

• Luxury pontoon boats (standard or double-decker with slides)

• A 500HP speed boat for watersports like tubing or wakeboarding

• Motorized Jetsurf board lessons if you want to cruise in solo style

We provide everything you need for a smooth, safe ride, including safety equipment, clear directions, and tips on the best spots to anchor.

🧃 What Can You Do at Crab Island?

There’s something for everyone at Crab Island:

• Float and relax in shallow water under the sun

• Tie up with friends or other boats for a floating social scene

• Visit floating vendors selling ice cream, BBQ, fresh fruit, drinks, and more

• Try watersports like wakeboarding or tubing nearby

• People-watch, play music, or just enjoy the views

With Surf N Pontoons, you can bring your own food, drinks, and cooler—or stop by a floating restaurant once you're anchored.

🕐 When’s the Best Time to Go?

The most popular months for Crab Island are May through September, with peak times during weekends and holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day.

To beat the crowds but still enjoy the energy, we recommend weekday mornings or early afternoons. Crab Island is a tidal sandbar, so water clarity and depth may vary—our team will let you know the best launch time for your date.

📋 What to Bring (And What to Leave Behind)

Bring:

• Towels, sunscreen, and sunglasses

• Cooler with drinks and snacks

• Bluetooth speaker for the vibes

Leave behind:

• Glass containers

• Styrofoam coolers

• A packed schedule—this day is meant for chilling

🌊 Why Surf N Pontoons is the Best Way to Do Crab Island

We’re not just a boat rental service—we’re your launchpad to the best day of your vacation. Our fleet is clean, comfortable, and ready for fun. Whether you're looking to kick back with friends or crank up the energy with watersports, we’ve got the boat, gear, and local knowledge to make it unforgettable.

And with easy access from Fort Walton Beach, you’ll avoid the traffic and congestion of Destin Harbor, giving you more time to actually enjoy Crab Island.

✅ Ready to Go?

Book your pontoon, speed boat, or Jetsurf lesson with Surf N Pontoons today. Crab Island is calling—will you answer?

👉 Reserve your adventure now at www.surfnpontoons.com or call (850) 900-7873 to get started.