From water sports and marine life encounters to nearby attractions, there's no shortage of adventure on the Emerald Coast.
From chill to thrill — there's something for everyone at Crab Island.
The most popular way to visit. Rent a pontoon, load up the cooler, anchor at the sandbar, and float all day. Perfect for groups of 6-12.
Difficulty: EasyCalm, shallow water makes Crab Island one of the best SUP spots in Florida. Glide over crystal-clear water and spot fish below.
Difficulty: Easy-ModerateThe clear turquoise water offers great visibility. Spot tropical fish, stingrays, and sea grass beds. Bring your own gear or rent nearby.
Difficulty: EasyRip across the bay on a jet ski. Rentals available at Destin Harbor. Stay out of the idle zone and watch for swimmers.
Difficulty: Easy-ModeratePaddle out from shore or launch from a boat. Explore the shallow flats around Crab Island and the nearby seagrass beds.
Difficulty: EasyCast a line from your boat or wade-fish the flats. Catch sheepshead, redfish, and flounder. Florida saltwater license required.
Difficulty: All LevelsThe emerald waters around Crab Island are home to incredible marine life.
Spotted daily around Crab Island. They often swim right up to boats. Never feed or chase them — it's illegal under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Loggerhead and green sea turtles frequent the area, especially during nesting season (May-October). Keep your distance and never touch.
Common in the shallow sandy areas. Do the "stingray shuffle" — slide your feet along the bottom to avoid stepping on one.
Snook, sheepshead, redfish, flounder, and pinfish are all common. Bring a snorkel mask to see them up close in the clear water.
The island's namesake! Blue crabs live in the seagrass beds around the sandbar. Watch your toes in shallow grass areas.
Occasionally spotted in the bay, especially in warmer months. Federally protected — maintain 50 feet of distance at all times.
Crab Island is just the beginning. Discover everything the Emerald Coast has to offer.
Watch the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier live — real-time Gulf conditions, surf, and marine life straight from the pier camera. Check the water before you head out to Crab Island.
Watch on YouTube →1,262-foot fishing pier stretching into the Gulf. Fish, watch marine life, or catch the sunset. Home of our live pier cam.
4.2 mi from Crab IslandWaterfront dining, shopping, zipline, and live entertainment right on Destin Harbor. The launching point for most Crab Island trips.
0.6 mi from Crab IslandPristine white sand dunes, nature trails, and crystal-clear Gulf waters. One of the most beautiful beaches on the Emerald Coast.
5.8 mi from Crab IslandOver 40 water attractions including slides, lazy rivers, and a wave pool. Perfect for families looking for off-the-water fun.
2.1 mi from Crab Island