Crab Island

Crab Island is Destin's most unique attraction -- a massive underwater sandbar in the Choctawhatchee Bay near Destin Pass where the water is waist-to-chest-deep, crystal-clear, and warm. Accessible only by boat, it becomes a floating gathering point for hundreds of boats on summer weekends, with floating food vendors, inflatable water parks, live music, and families wading in turquoise water with no shore in sight.

The sandbar was created by dredging from the Destin Pass channel and shifts slightly over time. At its shallowest, the water is ankle-deep. Most of the area is waist-deep for adults, making it a unique shallow-water playground accessible only by watercraft.

Getting there requires a boat. Options include renting a pontoon boat (half-day $250-400 from Destin harbor marinas), taking a Crab Island shuttle or water taxi ($15-50/person round trip), or kayaking/paddleboarding from nearby launch points. Pontoon rentals offer the most comfort -- shade, storage, seating, and the ability to bring a full cooler.

Once anchored, families wade in the warm, clear water. Floating food vendors motor through selling tacos, pizza, ice cream, nachos, and drinks. Inflatable water parks (slides, trampolines, obstacle courses) are anchored in the water for kids to play on. The atmosphere is festive and social -- music plays from boat speakers, and the energy is contagious.

For families with young children, weekday mornings offer a dramatically different experience: fewer boats, quieter water, and space to explore the sandbar. The shallow depth is perfect for toddlers and non-swimmers (with life jackets and supervision). For teens, the weekend energy is part of the appeal -- Crab Island on a Saturday in July is a scene.

Safety considerations: life jackets are essential for children. The sandbar depth varies, and deeper channels exist between shallow areas. Sun protection is critical -- you are in the water and exposed to sun for hours. Bring abundant sunscreen and reapply frequently.