Crab Island with Kids: Tips, Safety & What to Bring

Yes, you can take kids to Crab Island—and it will likely be the highlight of their trip.

While Crab Island has a reputation as a party spot, the reality is that families make up a huge portion of the visitors. The key is knowing when to go, where to anchor, and how to handle the restroom situation.

In this guide:

• Is Crab Island safe for toddlers?

• The "No Bathroom" situation (and how to solve it)

• Renting a pontoon vs. taking a shuttle

• The best time of day for clear water

Planning your trip? Start with our complete hub:

See the Full Destin Family Vacation Guide

Generally, yes—but you need to respect the water.

Crab Island isn't an island; it's a submerged sandbar. The water ranges from waist-deep to knee-deep for adults.

Safety Need-to-Knows:

• Currents: The water moves fast during tide changes. Plan your trip around High Tide. This is when the water is clearest, calmest, and safest (the "slack tide" window).

• Life Jackets: Kids should wear life jackets while swimming, even in shallow water. If they slip off a float, the current can move them quickly.

• Boat Traffic: It gets busy. Always anchor away from the main channel where big boats pass.

Let's be real: There are no public restrooms on Crab Island.

This is the #1 logistical challenge for families. Here is how to handle it:

1. Rent a Boat with a Bathroom: Some double-decker pontoons or larger charter boats come with a small marine head (toilet).

2. The "Dewey Destin" Stop: The closest land-based restroom is at Dewey Destin's Harborside restaurant. It's a short boat ride away.

3. Floating Vendors: Occasionally, floating restaurants (like Water World) have facilities for paying customers, but do not rely on this as vendors change seasonally.

4. Go Before You Go: Make everyone try before leaving the dock!

Option 1: Rent Your Own Pontoon (Best for Freedom)

Most families choose this. You are the captain.

• Pros: Go on your own schedule, bring your own massive cooler, stay as long as you want.

• Cons: You have to drive and anchor the boat (can be stressful for beginners in currents).

• Best For: Groups of 6+ or families who want to spend 4 hours chilling.

Option 2: Captained Tiki or Shuttle (Best for Ease)

• Pros: A captain drives, anchors, and watches safety. Many shuttle boats include a restroom on board.

• Cons: Shared with strangers, fixed schedule (usually 3 hours).

• Best For: Small families (2-4 people) or parents who want to drink and relax without driving.

Timing is everything.

• For Clear Water:High Tide. Use a tide chart apps. If high tide is at 11:00 AM, the water will be crystal clear from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

• For Families:Go Early (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM). The party crowd usually shows up afternoon. Mornings are quieter, cooler, and more family-focused.

• For Quiet:Weekdays (Mon-Fri). Saturdays in July are "bumper boat" chaos.

• Floaties: Essential. Noodle floats, mats, or tubes. You will want to float by the boat, not just sit on it.

• Sun Protection: Hats, rash guards, and lots of sunscreen. There is zero shade in the water.

• Snacks & Water: Floating vendors sell burgers, ice cream, and coconuts, but they are pricey. Bring a cooler.

• Water Shoes: The bottom is sandy but can have shells or small crabs.

• Football/Frisbee: Great for playing catch in the shallow water.

Use these guides to continue planning:

• Best Beaches in Destin for Families

• Destin Dolphin Cruises for Families

• Things to Do in Destin With Kids

• Destin Family Itineraries

Crab Island is a bucket-list experience. Plan for high tide, bring floaties, and enjoy the most beautiful swimming pool in the world.