The Ultimate Guide to Destin’s Sandbar Scene
Visit Destin, FL
Sitting on the Gulf of Mexico alongside the Florida panhandle, Destin, Florida, has become an increasingly popular destination for tourists around the country. With a local population of just under 15,000 residents, this sleepy town draws over 4 million visitors annually, and sees a drastic population increase during peak tourist season. What is it about this small community that attracts so much attention and tourism? Geography, for one, plays a significant role in the growing popularity of Destin. Characterized by white-sand beaches and emerald green water, Destin is an attractive destination for tourists from all over the United States.
Because the Gulf of Mexico rarely dips below 60 degrees during the winter months, Destin is known for attracting “snowbirds,” or people escaping frigid temperatures and unappealing weather customary to northern states. Coastal beauty and temperate weather have allowed Destin to join the ranks of Florida’s most popular tourist destinations. However, Destin’s sandbar scene, one of the city’s best-kept secrets, is likely an attraction that you have never heard of before. Whether you’re a local, frequent visitor, or first-time tourist, here is your ultimate guide to navigating Destin’s sandbar Scene.
What are Destin’s Sandbars?
Beneath the water of Destin’s Choctawhatchee Bay is where you will find a series of “islands,” or sandbars. These sandbars emerge at low tide, creating small and temporary barrier islands. As the tide rises, these sandbars sink beneath the surface, creating shallow wading pools and attracting attention from tourists. Ranging from one to four feet deep, these sandbars create a unique atmosphere to party, cool off, swim, and more. During warmer-months, Destin’s sandbars transform into a popular watering hole for socializing, drinking, and boating. Every summer, Crab Island, Destin’s most popular sandbar, attracts vendors, boat tours, and people – creating a floating party atmosphere like you’ve never seen before.
When to Visit Crab Island
You can visit Crab Island at any time of the year, weather permitting; however, you’ll want to visit during the spring and summer months to get in on the party fun! If you’re visiting with children and family, we recommend going during the morning and on weekdays. For those looking for a party scene, weekends and afternoons bring the buzz and excitement to Crab Island. You’ll want to try and visit when the water is at mid-high tide, which is when you’ll experience the clearest and calmest water.
Vendors, Rentals, and More
For those visiting from outside of Destin, and those who are travelling without their own mode of water transportation, you may be wondering if Crab Island is accessible to outsiders. The answer to that is of course! If you’re coming to Destin and have no boat, don’t worry. Destin is filled with tons of rental companies offering kayaks, jet skis, paddleboards, pontoons, and more for hourly and daily rental.
Check out our rates for our chartered Crab Island tiki boats and enjoy your afternoon at Crab Island. Renting isn’t for everyone, and not everyone wants to operate a watercraft, which is why Destin also offers many shuttle services. If you don’t want to captain, call us, and our Destin tiki boat will transport you to and from Crab Island. When you arrive at the fun, you’ll be greeted by vendors and other attractions there to ensure that you enjoy your afternoon at the sandbars. Treat yourself to ice cream or a burger from one of Crab Island’s floating food vendors.
Not only is Crab Island a unique hub for food and drinks, but it is a great place for outdoor adventure. If you’re feeling brave, be sure to try out Crab Island’s floating obstacle course. Or, rent a paddleboard straight from a floating rental company. You won’t want to miss the chance to explore this floating city!
What to Bring
For one, you’ll need to bring your own transportation. Crab Island is not accessible by land, so you’ll have to get creative and rely on one of the modes of transportation discussed earlier to reach Crab Island. If you are planning on eating at the sandbars, we suggest you bring cash. Not every vendor accepts card payments, so bringing a little extra cash ensures you full access to all food and drink vendors.
Like any other beach day, we cannot express enough the importance of bringing sunscreen. We’re in Florida after all, the days are hot and humid, and the UV is very high. You will regret leaving behind sunscreen. Water, water, water! You must bring water! While water may be available for purchase, it is definitely in your best interest to bring enough water for you and your group. You’d think swimsuits would be a given, but in case you are confused, you’ll definitely want to wear your swimsuit.
Although Crab Island varies in depth, some spots can reach a depth of four feet deep. You’ll want to make sure you come prepared, wearing a swimsuit and water shoes! Many families will also pack their own picnic lunches and drinks. This can become more of a challenge if you do not have your own boat, however, if you have a place to store it, bringing lunch and drinks from home is a great way to save money! Our tiki boats in Destin are the perfect vessels to get you to Crab Island.
Happy Partying!
As Florida’s heat continues to rise, Crab Island will continue to grow busier and more popular. Make sure to plan your trip carefully beforehand to ensure a safe and enjoyable day trip. Lock in transportation, pack your gear, lather yourself in sunscreen, and make as many memories as popular at Destin’s hottest summer attraction! For more information on Crab Island, boat rentals, and more, be sure to check out our website. Time to get out on the water!
