Destin Crab Island Tours & Activities

This is completely up to you whether or not you've choose a chartered boat or a pontoon boat rental. Some Crab Island pontoon rentals will provide a captain for an additional fee. But if you're interested in a Captain for your tour, try a Crab Island excursion or shuttle vs a Crab Island boat rental.

Shell Island is in panama city and is an actual small island. People visit Shell Island to collect shells, tan, and swim. On the other hand, Crab Island is located in Destin, and a sandbar in the bay. People anchor their boats and swim, or enjoy one of the many attractions or floating restaurants around the sandbar.

Yes, as long as you're 21+ with photo ID and no glass bottles. There are Coast Guard boats that cruise around the sandbar, so be sure to control your consumption and prevent anyone under 21 from drinking alcohol. Also, BWI (Boating While Intoxicated) is a very real consequence of drinking and operating a boat, so drink responsibly. Lastly, be sure to bring a trash bag for your trash as well!

Crab Island is always kid friendly. Depending on what time of the year you come (college spring break for example), Crab Island can be more of an adult hangout, with drinking and loud music. Lots of bachelor parties, bachelorette parties, and other rowdy events take place on Crab Island daily, but this doesn't mean you can't still bring the kids. People are generally respectful, and Crab Island is a large sandbar with lots of areas to park your boat or hang out. Lots of kid friendly activities and attractions are available around the sandbar, making it one of the best things to do in Destin with kids. You're sure to see other families around at any given time. Keep in mind that some areas of the sandbar have deeper waters and stronger currents than others. Make sure to have life jackets on-hand, and keep a close eye on the kids!

This question is asked a lot. If you don't mind sharing personal space with others or you're looking to save money, go with the Crab Island excursion, cruise, or Crab Island water taxi. If you want to bring your own food, beverages, floats, etc., and you know how to get to Crab Island, we recommend renting a pontoon boat as they allow more room for personal items. Also with a boat rental, you'd be your own captain and could explore the bay areas after your visit to Crab Island. Many folks take their Destin boat or Destin jet ski rental to cruise the harbor, bayous, and expansive shoreline of the bay while enjoying activities like fishing and swimming.