aerial view of several people on two boats at crab island in destin

What to Pack for a Day at Crab Island in Destin

July 18, 2024

When visiting the Emerald Coast, a day at Crab Island in Destin is an absolute must. With crystal-clear and calm waters, the shallow sandbar is perfect for soaking up the sun. You’ll have fun wading in waist-deep waters, relaxing with your friends and family, and exploring popular activities like water volleyball and Kadima. You may just want to spend the whole day on a float, drifting in the waters and listening to music wafting from other boats. Either way, you need to know a few things before heading out.

Crab Island is only accessible by boat, so you’ll need to rent a pontoon boat, wave runner, or jet ski from one of Destin’s top-notch boat rental companies like Crab Island Watersports or La Dolce Vita, or take a water taxi to join the fun. And while you might only plan to “swing by for an hour or so,” this local hotspot has a way of drawing you in, often for the entire day. Packing a few essentials will make your day much more enjoyable. Luckily, we have a list of everything needed for a fantastic day at Crab Island in Destin!

Sun Protection

When you’re in the middle of the sandbar, you’ll find little to no shade other than the roof of your boat. Sun protection is crucial, especially if you go in the middle of the day and plan to spend a few hours there. 

Waterproof sunscreen with a high SPF will protect you from harmful rays in and out of the water. Reapply often and ensure everyone in your group has a wide-brimmed hat for extra shade. You’ll also want to bring sunglasses and consider wearing a rash guard—you and the kids— while swimming to provide additional protection.

Protected Devices

Spending the day in and out of the water means you’ll want to take extra measures to keep your electronics and important belongings safe. Bring a water-resistant phone case so you can take photos to remember the day while keeping your phone dry and free of water damage. Secure your belongings in a dry bag to keep them from getting wet. Include a portable charger to keep your devices operating throughout the day and a waterproof Bluetooth speaker to liven the atmosphere with your favorite tunes! 

Dry Gear

Pack plenty of beach towels for everyone to dry off after playing in the water. A cover-up over your swimsuit will provide additional sun protection and comfort when you return to your watercraft for snacks. Bring a dry change of clothes for the trip back, as the temperature may drop or the wind might have picked up since your arrival. A large plastic bag or waterproof container will help store wet clothes and keep them separate from your other belongings.

Iced Down Cooler

After spending a few hours on sunny Crab Island in Destin, you’ll want some ice-cold beverages to refresh and cool down. Bring a cooler filled with ice so you have a place to store your food and keep your beverages cold. Be sure to fill it with enough drinks to keep everyone hydrated for the entire day. You’ll probably find yourself walking around, socializing, or floating on a raft, so bring a tumbler and fill it with ice to keep your drink cold while mingling with others. 

Snacks and Lunch

While there are often floating food vendors on Crab Island, they’re not guaranteed, so it’s best to pack a few snacks to keep you full throughout your stay. Prepare easy-to-eat sandwiches, chips, crackers, and treats the kids enjoy. Refreshing fruits like watermelons and grapes to munch on will be appreciated when taking breaks from the water. If you plan on making a full day of it, pack more than you think is necessary, or consider grabbing lunch at one of the new restaurants in Destin before heading out. Don’t forget to pack trash bags to dispose of your waste and help keep Crab Island beautiful!

Water Toys

One of the best things you can do on Crab Island is play water games with family and friends. Kids will enjoy playing in the shallow waters, and you can find plenty of activities suitable for all ages. Tossing a football around, throwing a frisbee, or just diving for small toys or rings is something everyone can do. Trust us, they won’t even miss their digital devices with all the fun they’ll be having! 

Floats and Floaties

If you’re looking for a fun way to relax at Crab Island, you’ll want to include floats and floaties in your packing list. Most boat rentals will offer them for an additional fee. Inflatable floats are ideal for lounging in the water and soaking up the atmosphere—drink in hand! They also ensure everyone’s safety, especially the kids. Better yet—opt for an inflatable lounger so your whole group can get comfortable floating on the water together. If possible, tie your float to the boat in case the currents pick up.

Credit Cards and Cash

You’ll often find a variety of vendors around Crab Island selling all kinds of goodies, including food, drinks, towels, and floaties. However, not all take credit cards, so bringing cash and credit cards is a good idea. If you don’t have a waterproof wallet/card holder, a zip lock bag will do the trick! Once you’ve got these essentials packed, you’re ready for a fun trip!  

After soaking up the sun, there’s nothing better than having a comfortable home away from home waiting for you at the end of the day. We offer a wide selection of Destin vacation rentals to accommodate your whole crew, each with cozy furnishings and thoughtful amenities, offering the perfect escape after a day at Crab Island in Destin!

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