20+ Crab Island Destin Florida Essentials: Boat Rentals, Cruises, Discount Tours & More

Looking for sun, sand, emerald green waters and tons of fun? Then a visit to Crab Island, Destin Florida should be in your future!

With boat rentals, fun cruises, and so much more — you will never run out of fun things to do on Crab Island Destin Florida.

What is Crab Island? It’s Destin’s most popular location — but it’s actually not an island!

Found on the southside of the Choctawhatchee Bay, Crab Island is actually a sandbar, and it’s large enough for hundreds of boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and waverunners to anchor down, hang out, and have a blast. The water here ranges from 1-4 feet deep, making it one of the best places for fun in the sun!

You’ll also find floating food vendors here — so bring cash, and your appetite!

(And pssst! High tide is when Crab Island is prettiest! Check the tide charts so you can plan your trip at the perfect time.)

Here are the must-do activities you’ll want to take part in to make a visit to Crab Island your best yet.

MUST DO ACTIVITIES CRAB ISLAND DESTIN FLORIDA

These activities are the perfect way to guarantee a great time at Crab Island!

CRAB ISLAND ADVENTURE TOUR

Climb on a floating Tiki bar for a truly unique Crab Island sandbar adventure!

Enjoy a seat at the bar as you journey the sparkling Gulf waters on your way to Crab Island. You can also enjoy swimming and fun activities in this on-the-water hotspot as you soak up the tropical sun. You can bring your own favorite beverages too! DISCOUNT TICKETS!

GUIDED STAND UP PADDLEBOARD TOUR

Your guided pedal kayak adventure starts at the Destin Harbor then pedal out to Crab Island, passing some iconic Destin restaurants along the way.

Your guide lets you explore Crab Island on your own, and even venture out into the Bay, before guiding you back to the Harbor. Encounter dolphins and other marine wildlife.

This kayak excursion doesn’t require a lot of paddling, and you can choose from morning or afternoon trips. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

SINGLE PEDAL KAYAK RENTAL

See Destin and Crab Island by water with a single pedal kayak rental!

For ages 16 and up, this single pedal kayak is rented from a convenient location on the Harbor — and you can choose to rent it for just an hour, or all day.

Fish, or just explore the beautiful waters around Destin and take it all in! DISCOUNT TICKETS!

8 HOUR WATERSPORTS CHARTER FROM FORT WALTON BEACH

Whether you are looking to explore the white sandy beaches of the intercoastal waterways, learn a new water activity, or simply relax and escape from the stresses of everyday life – this charter is for you!

Let your captain take on the stress of planning the perfect day on the water. The dedicated and professional team is ready to cater to your every need and ensure that all levels and abilities can learn something new.

This trip is perfect for a family with young kids who only want a short excursion. You can choose two activities ranging from spending hours looking for dolphins, cruising around the area, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, or tubing! DISCOUNT TICKETS!

PRIVATE CRAB ISLAND EXPERIENCE FOR 6

Relax and leave your stress and troubles behind you on your own, private Crab Island Experience.

Witness local pods of dolphins playing as you cruise through the breathtaking Emerald Green waters to the world-famous Crab Island sandbar in Destin. Once at Crab island, you can enjoy soaking up the sun with your favorite beverage or keep cool by taking a stroll in the waist deep water. 

Morning or afternoon tours available. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

2-HOUR WATERSPORTS CHARTER IN FORT WALTON BEACH

This 2-hour watersports charter out of Fort Walton Beach is perfect for families with kids, who only want a short excurision!

You can choose one activity ranging from spending two hours wakeboarding, kneeboarding, tubing, or cruising around the area looking for dolphins!  The captain will handle the rest! DISCOUNT TICKETS!

FAMILY FUN COMBO: DOLPHINS, SWIMMING, AND FISHING

Enjoy some family-friendly fun for everyone on this private and captained charter for up to 6 guests. You don’t have to choose what to do – you can do it all!

Customize your day and experience a dolphin cruise, inshore/bay fishing trip, and swimming all packed into one awesome combo trip. Spend half the time inshore fishing and dolphin touring, and the other half relaxing in the water at Crab Island or on the beach. Get out on the Choctawhatchee Bay and leave your worries at the dock.

Air conditioning, shade, restroom, and shower on board! DISCOUNT TICKETS!

4-HOUR WATERSPORTS CHARTER IN FORT WALTON BEACH

Can’t decide between the 8-hour or the 2-hour Watersports charters? Then this one is juuuuust right!

This 4-Hour Watersports Charter out of Fort Walton Beach is captained and customizable — so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

You can choose two activities ranging from spending hours looking for dolphins, cruising around the area, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, or tubing! You’ll visit hot spots along the way — like Crab Island and the Santa Rosa Sound. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

CRAB ISLAND SHUTTLE BOAT

Crab Island is accessible by boat — and if you’re not up for renting your own, then the Crab Island Shuttle Boat is a great (and safe!) way to get there!

This glass-bottomed boat seats up to 30 passengers. Each seat directly faces the 25-foot glass-bottom viewing area, giving you the ability to explore underwater from the comfort of your seat as you travel the short distance to Crab Island. Then you can descend the stairs to the island, and explore for 2.5 hours before returning back to the mainland.

It’s the best water taxi around!

GUIDED CRAB ISLAND JET SKI TOUR

Get out on the waters around the Emerald Coast and look for dolphins and other wildlife with your crew on this Guided Crab Island Jet Ski Tour!

On this trip, you’ll ride on a brand-new, 3-person Sea-Doo GTI jet ski. Your guide will show you around all the local hot spots, while also looking for bottlenose dolphins along the way. They keep the groups small, so you and your crew can enjoy the interactions. For ages 6+. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

CRAB ISLAND DOLPHIN CRUISES AND TOURS

Is a trip to the beach complete without seeing a friendly dolphin? I think not.

DESTIN DOLPHIN WATCH AND CRAB ISLAND SIGHTSEEING CRUISE

Set out to sea in search of dolphins with your friends and family aboard the Hannah Marie.

This glass-bottom boat features a snack bar and climate-controlled cabin — making it totally comfortable for you and your group. Take in the scenic views of Destin Harbor, learn about the history of the area, cruise through Crab Island, look for dolphins, and enjoy the fresh, ocean air.

These family-friendly cruises depart daily, and provide plenty of seating for your whole crew. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

CRAB ISLAND JET SKI DOLPHIN TOUR

Get up close and personal with dolphins on a Crab Island Jet Ski Dolphin Tour from the Destin Marina.

An expert guide will lead you and your group out into the Choctawhatchee Bay on 3-seater wave runners to the best dolphin hangouts in town. After exploring, your guide will let you explore the waters of Destin and Fort Walton Beach on your own. Make sure to make a stop at Crab Island! DISCOUNT TICKETS!

PRIVATE DOLPHIN TOUR AND FISHING ADVENTURE

Enjoy some family-friendly fun for everyone on this Private Dolphin Tour & Fishing Adventure combo for 6 guests.

Customize your day and experience a dolphin cruise and fishing trip all tied into one neat package. Get out on the Choctawhatchee Bay and leave your worries at the dock.

You can choose to cruise for a few hours, or an all-day adventure. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

JET SKI AND WAVERUNNER RENTALS

One of the best ways to get to Crab Island for fun in the sun is on a jet ski or waverunner. (Note: These jet ski and waverunner rentals are prohibited from entering the Gulf of Mexico!)

DESTIN CRAB ISLAND JET SKI RENTAL

The Destin Crab Island Jet Ski Rental is perfect for a Crab Island visit — it has one of the closest departure location points to the island.

The premium Yamaha Jet Ski seats three and will take you through the waters of Destin Harbor. You can also explore the Choctawhatchee Bay for dolphins while you’re at it! DISCOUNT TICKETS!

CRAB ISLAND WAVERUNNER RENTAL

Looking for a high-speed adventure? Or maybe a slow cruise around Crab Island? No matter which one you’re ready for — a 3-seater waverunner rental will fit the bill.

Discover Crab Island and Chocawhatchee Bay on these waverunners that can reach up to 50 MPH.

You’ll depart just 300 yards from Crab Island in a no-wake zone, so you won’t have to battle boat traffic, and you’ll get plenty of time on the water. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

HOURLY JET SKI RENTAL

Cruise in style on the famed emerald waters of the Choctawhatchee Bay with this Yamaha Jet Ski Rental.

Experience unforgettable fun in the sun at nearby Crab Island or kick back with family and friends while searching for dolphins, stingrays, and other incredible marine life.

Feeling the need for speed? Enjoy a wave-flying good time on this high-octane joy ride. Choose from 1- to 8-hours of fun in the sun. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

CRAB ISLAND BOAT RENTAL COMPANIES

These boat rentals make a day a Crab Island feel like a dream.

CRAB ISLAND CATAMARAN EXCURSION

If you’re not quite ready to rent your own pontoon boat — this Crab Island Catamaran Excursion is the perfect choice!

Cruise to Crab Island aboard a comfortable catamaran. Chill out and play in the pristine, sparkling waters while the crew takes care of everything.

You can bring your favorite beverages and water toys to enhance the experience. Meet and greet with fellow boaters and explore all the exciting things to do. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

SKIPPERED CRAB ISLAND EXCURSION ABOARD THE ISLAND PEARL

A great option for family or a group of friends, this Skippered Crab Island Excursion is a blast!

Cruise the crystal clear waters of the Emerald Coast and Crab Island as you watch the dolphins swim and play. Pull up to Crab Island, throw the anchor and swim out into the water with stunning white quartz sand below for a day of fun in the sun. The Island Pearl is a 40′ vessel with plenty of room to move about with your own skipper to anticipate all your needs. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

CAPTAINED, PRIVATE CRAB ISLAND CHARTER

Grab your family or your favorite friends and enjoy Destin’s very own sandbar, Crab Island!

Your all inclusive private charter for up to 6 guests includes everything you’ll need for fun in the Florida sun. Relax while you enjoy the waist-deep emerald green waters of Destin FL and let your captain take care of everything!

Float around, paddleboard, or bring your own snorkel gear to see what you will discover beneath the water’s surface. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

CRAB ISLAND PONTOON BOAT RENTALS

The very best way to experience Crab Island? With all your friends and family aboard a pontoon boat!

12 PASSENGER PONTOON BOAT RENTAL

Ready to get out on the sparkling waters of the Emerald Coast? This 12-passenger pontoon boat rental, that departs from Destin Harbor, is a great choice for large groups!

Be the captain of your day as you explore the Choctawhatchee Bay, the bayous, and Crab Island — where boaters come to gather and soak up the Florida sun. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

DOUBLE DECKER PONTOON BOAT RENTAL

There is no better way to enjoy gorgeous Crab Island than aboard a double-decker pontoon with a slide. Depart only a few minutes’ cruise away from the locally famous, sunken Crab Island. Enjoy a day at this sandbar as you get out on the water and soak up some Florida sun.

Conveniently located on the Destin Harbor, this rental includes everything you need to have an awesome day on the water: slides, shade, sun, and a whole lot of fun with up to 12 people. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

CRAB ISLAND 24FT PONTOON BOAT RENTAL

Enjoy the perfect set up for a fantastic day in the emerald and aqua waters of Destin just 300 yards from Crab Island by renting a pontoon boat!

Cruise Destin Harbor, or just hang out on Crab Island and make new friends like the locals! They even have pet-friendly boats available, so your entire crew can join in on the fun. This boat rental seats 12 people max, and is the perfect social scene. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

PRIVATE & CAPTAINED CRAB ISLAND PONTOON CRUISE

Looking for a relaxing day on the water? Then this is the perfect rental for you.

This private and captained cruise guarantees that you and 6 of your friends and family members will have a great time. Hang out at Crab Island — swimming, floating and relaxing. You may even see a dolphin along the way!

Choose from 2-, 3-, or 4-hour excursions, for ages 3 and up. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

CAPTAINED DOUBLE DECKER PONTOON WITH SLIDE

Enjoy an epic day of carefree cruising around Destin, Florida aboard your very own captained pontoon boat charter.

Experience the bustling Destin Harbor and Crab Island and enjoy ample, comfortable seating, as well as dual-decks, expert navigation, and so much more! Cool off with a splash using the onboard slide or hang out on the lily pad and chill to the max. 

Choose from 4-, 5-, or 8-hour charters. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

12 PASSENGER PONTOON RENTAL WITH GILLIGAN’S WATERSPORTS

Get out on the water with this 12 Person Pontoon Rental on the Destin Harbor with Gilligan’s Watersports. The first tank of fuel is included!

Be your own captain for the day aboard your very own pontoon boat equipped with a 50 HP engine. See the sights around the bay and harbor. Visit the popular Crab Island or even try your luck at some inshore fishing in one of the area’s popular bayous. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

HALF OR FULL DAY PONTOON RENTAL

Cruise in style on the famed emerald-green waters of the Choctawhatchee Bay with this 12 Passenger Pontoon Rental for either a half-day (4 hours) or full day (8 hours).

Experience unforgettable fun in the sun at nearby Crab Island or kick back with family and friends while searching for dolphins, stingrays, and other incredible marine life. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

PONTOON AND KET SKI PACKAGE

Can’t decide if you want the relaxation of a pontoon boat or the excitement of a jet ski? Why not both!

Rent a 12-person pontoon boat, along with a 2-passenger jet ski and explore the bay and Crab Island on your own terms. Choose from a 4-hour or 8-hour rental. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

DOUBLE DECKER PONTOON BOAT WITH WATER SLIDES

Calling all party animals! Who needs a water park when you have double slides?

If you really want to do a day a Crab Island right — then rent a double decker pontoon boat with TWO water slides! Say what?! Oh my gosh, this looks like the most fun ever.

This pontoon features two decks, two waterslides, Bluetooth radio, and room for 14 people.

Snorkel around the boat, slide down the waterslides, or relax on one of the two decks while exploring Crab Island, the Santa Rosa Sound, Destin Harbor and the Choctawhatchee Bay.

Bonus? Your kids will love you forever! DISCOUNT TICKETS!

10-12 PASSENGER PONTOON RENTAL

The Emerald Coast is the place to be for fun in the sun! Hop on a custom built, 10-12 passengers, Bennington Salt Water Series, and cruise the Choctawhatchee Bay, Santa Rosa Sound, or Crab Island. This rental departs from Fort Walton Beach (about 20 minutes from Crab Island).

All boats come with radios, coolers, and great times. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

PET-FRIENDLY PONTOON BOAT RENTAL

I mean, your four-legged family members may want to join in on the fun too, right?

This 8-hour pontoon boat rental is perfect, because your pets can come along too.

With seating for 12, you can cruise your day away exploring Crab Island and the surrounding areas. This one also has a cooler on board, so you can pack it with drinks, snacks…and maybe a doggie ice cream? DISCOUNT TICKETS!

24-FOOT PET-FRIENDLY PONTOON BOAT RENTAL

Another pet-friendly choice, this 24-foot pontoon boat is perfect for some fun in the sun.

Grab your crew and set out on an excursion seeking lots of suntans and laughs. Be the captain of your day as you leisurely cruise to Crab Island to hang out at the sandbar or spend your time low-key in the Choctawhatchee Bay just floating around taking it all in. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

PONTOON BOAT RENTAL DEPARTING FROM OKALOOSA ISLAND

This 12-passenger, 24-foot pontoon boat can be picked up across the Marler Bridge (that awesome Destin bridge that has amazing views) in Fort Walton Beach — and then you can sail away!

Explore the bay, or anchor at Crab Island and relax. The pontoon boat has a stereo, luxury seating, and a cabana for shade. You can choose a half-day or full-day rental option. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

4-HOUR PONTOON BOAT RENTAL

Rent a pontoon boat for a half-day and get out on the beautiful waters around Destin. This rental departs from Fort Walton Beach.

This pontoon boat seats 12, and you can explore local hot spots like Crab Island! Swim, sightsee, look for dolphins, or just soak up some Florida sun. A cooler, bimini shade top, and 100-watt Bluetooth sound system are provided. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

8-HOUR PONTOON RENTAL FROM FORT WALTON BEACH

With seating for 12, you can take your party out on your very own private Pontoon Boat Rental for a whole day.

You’ll enjoy fun in the sun as you cruise through the sparkling waters of Choctawhatchee Bay. Stock your provided cooler with plenty of refreshments and snacks, and spend the day exploring local adventure spots. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

HALF AND FULL-DAY PONTOON BOAT RENTAL

Bring your pet and 11 of your friends along on a pontoon boat trip out to Crab Island. This rental departs from Fort Walton Beach.

You’ll have everything you need to maximize your time on the water and explore Fort Walton’s beaches, coastlines, and more. This boat rental comes with a sound system, and retractable sun cover. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

FORT WALTON BEACH PONTOON BOAT RENTAL

Rent this 24-foot, 12-person pontoon boat for fun in the sun in and around Crab Island.

Take in the sights as you spot local marine life like bottlenose dolphins and so much more! Pets are allowed, and this one departs from Fort Walton Beach — only a 20 minute cruise to Crab island. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

CAPTAINED PONTOON CHARTER FROM FORT WALTON BEACH

Kick back and relax on this 30-foot party pontoon without a worry in the world as your captain navigates the emerald and aquamarine water around Destin and Fort Walton Beach.

Cruise over to the Destin Harbor or to Crab Island where you can float around, play, and soak up some much needed sun. Listen to your favorite tunes on the Bluetooth stereo system while sipping on your beverage of choice.

For your convenience, there is also a changing room and restroom on board if needed. DISCOUNT TICKETS!

Looking to go fishing in Destin? Try one of these 19 “Reel-y” Great Destin Fishing Charters!

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR TRIP TO DESTIN

• YOUR FLORIDA VACATION
• DESTIN RESORTS: 6 Fantastic Destin Resorts Perfect for Fun in the Sun
• JET SKI: 13 Jet Ski Rentals In Destin To Satisfy Your Need for Speed
• PARASAILING DESTIN: 7+ Great Adventures for Sky High Fun
• FORT WALTON BEACH: 17 Phenomenal Things To Do In Fort Walton Beach

WHERE TO STAY FOR A CRAB ISLAND VISIT