If you’re wondering how to get to Crab Island during your vacation, it’s not as hard as it looks! The best way to get to Crab Island is by renting a boat. There is no safe way of getting to Crab Island by foot as the currents are much too strong to swim over. Options for getting to Crab Island is by kayak, paddleboard, jet ski or wave runner Most of the watercraft rentals take place out of Destin Harbor. There are also other watersport locations from Calhoun Avenue that run parallel to the island. It depends a lot on how many people you have at your party or how long you want to stay. For those looking to stay for the entire day, a pontoon boat (AKA party barge) is recommended. If you’re looking to just cruise through the island with a friend, a kayak or wave runner are great options.

WHY IS IT CALLED CRAB ISLAND?

Anyone who has been to Crab Island has seen the vast array of marine life. From dolphins to seabirds, friendly animal encounters at Crab Island Destin FL are commonplace. So, why is it called Crab Island? Before a hurricane covered the once tiny island in emerald waters, Crab Island was a small plot of land shaped like… you guessed it… a CRAB! Along with the thousands of tiny crabs found on the floor of the sandbar, it’s easy to see why it is called Crab Island!

WHY IS CRAB ISLAND SO POPULAR?

Crab Island has been a popular spot for the locals for years. They would take their boats and skiffs and congregate with other locals over music, food, and beverage. Over the years, the tourists have joined the mix to create a bigger scene. It’s not unusual to see hundreds, if not close to a thousand boats at Crab Island on a Summer day. Due to the influx of people enjoying Crab Island, vendors have made this an opportunity to sell products and services. There are food vendors that line up the island and offer burgers, fries, and sandwiches. You will also find mini-stores that sell everything from suntan lotion to Doritos. For those looking for an inexpensive thrill, some vendors offer inflatables at Crab Island including large water trampolines and slides. If you didn’t rent one already, there are kayaks, paddleboards and jet ski’s available for rent as well.  Source: destinboardwalk.com 

There are SO many places on the Harbor to rent boats and visit Crab Island and many other local places. The boating rental options are plentiful in Destin! Rent a pontoon boat (captained or not) for a great day on the water! Feeling the need for speed? Rent a few wave runners and race family and friends through the choppy ocean waters.  

Destin is known for its Fishing industry! Destin is commonly referred to as "the world's luckiest fishing village". There are so many options, it is a great time to include a trip with one of Destin's many charters! For guests concerned with skill level or bringing young children or elderly people, don't worry. There are a plethora of fishing charters offered in the area featuring experienced crews that are willing to adapt their trips to accommodate all types of guests! 

Welcome to Big Kahuna's, a magical waterpark in Destin, Florida. This park has everything you and your family need to have an EPIC vacation. From the countless water slides to a huge wave pool, guests of all ages are sure to have a magical time at Big Kahuna's. Don't forget to check out the wave's machine while you are at the park. Hop on a boogie board and dropped into the wave machine and enjoy the closest thing to real surfing besides actually being out in the Pacific Ocean!  See you at Big Kahuna's! Catch you on the flip side. 

Welcome to The Track in Destin, Florida. This wonderful recreational area is perfect for families and friends of all ages. Hit the go-kart track and zoom around the track as you try to beat out your friends and family to win the race. If you're looking for a slower-paced activity, consider playing a round of eighteen at the miniature golf course also located at The Track.  The Track has been known as a fantastic place to spend a leisurely day for years and it continues to live up to all the hype! We'll see you on the greens or the go-cart track soon!

BRING YOUR CLUBS! Destin offers some world-famous courses! There are professional-level courses and some for the hackers! Did we mention that the courses of Destin are also considered some of the most aesthetically pleasing courses in the country! Whether you're looking for lush forestry or ocean/harbor views, Destin has a course for you! 

The 72nd annual Destin fishing rodeo is here! Locals and visitors alike look forward to this event for the awesome family fun and fantastic fish catches. The annually anticipated event kicks off October 1st and lasts the entire month. This year's Destin rodeo may look slightly different in a post COVID world. Helen Donaldson, executive director of the Destin Fishing Rodeo, is making sure everyone is well informed on how participate in the event safely during the present epidemic. Who says safe can't be fun! From new t-shirt designs to Destin Fishing Rodeo face masks, there are souvenirs for the whole family. Daily weigh-ins are from 11 am - 7 pm behind AJ's, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to catch a glimpse of the day's catch. The leaderboard is displayed behind AJ's along with a grandstand for those who would like to watch.

Pompano Joe's first opened its doors in 1995 and quickly became known for our unique Caribbean style of seafood. Since then, Pompano Joe's has become a destination restaurant for tourists and a favorite among the locals.

Lucy Buffett's funky hangout features cocktails, burgers & seafood, plus allergy-friendly menus. Come on down and share the good times with us, our friends, and our family. It's a special place! GUMBO LOVE!

AJ's Club Bimini is the #1 stop for next-level nightlife on the Emerald Coast for both locals and visitors. Join us for a night you won't forget. Club Bimini, AJ's venue for live music and night-time drinks, is the party choice in Destin. An expansive wooden deck, with a tiki-hut bar offer terrific views of the harbor. Live music nightly and when the bands aren't playing, DJs spin island music and classic rock.

Brotula's Seafood House & Steamer is a locally owned & operated, casual, family-friendly seafood restaurant on the Destin Harbor. The name Brotula’s is derived from the Bearded Brotula or Cusk Eel that is caught right here in our local waters at depths of 350 feet. This amazing tasting fish is one of the best-kept secrets among the local fishing community. Here at Brotula's we specialize in fresh, locally-sourced seafood, produce, and a wide array of steamed and boiled shellfish platters that are integrated into a fun and rustic, yet sophisticated southern fish house. 

Located in Harborwalk Village, right on the beautiful Destin Harbor, Harry T's has something for all ages! With entrees ranging from fresh local seafood to our gourmet hamburgers, there's something for everyone! Voted Best Place To Watch The Sunset 4 years in a row, our outside deck offers an unparalleled view of the Destin Harbor. We have 18 beers on tap, featuring local and craft brews, and over a dozen craft whiskies and bourbons! Dave's Dogs has found a new home, right here at Harry T's! Come by and try the hot dog everyone's talking about, and remember It's All In The Bun. 

Welcome to Jackacudas, located in Destin, Florida. This local seafood joint specializes in fresh local seafood, including but not limited to specialty broiled and fried seafood dishes as well as fresh locally sourced seafood. Bring your family and friends here after a long day of frolicking in Destin and dine on a variety of mouth-watering seafood dishes. Whether you're in the mood for a lovely broiled crab leg or a platter of sushi rolls and sashimi, Jackacudas is sure to satisfy! We'll see you at Jackacudas! 

Welcome to McGuire's Irish Pub, located on the Destin Harbor in Destin, Florida. This Irish Pub is a great place to grab a filling and delicious Irish meal. This bar is also known for it very popular late-night bar scene. With multiple beers on tap and of course plenty of Irish whiskeys, McGuires is sure to satisfy your craving for a late-night beverage. Don't forget about the live music featured here nightly. Whether you're looking to have a delicious meal or just sip a beverage and take in the live music, McGuire's Irish Pub is the place for you! 

Welcome to Tailfins, known to the locals as "the best view on the harbor for waterfront dining." This mouthwatering seafood restaurant serves up fresh locally caught succulent seafood to accompany its prime view. This tri-level restaurant also contains a live music venue and popular bar scene. Whether your looking for a serene dinner looking over the water or to have an eventful evening drinking adult beverages and enjoying local live music, a visit to Tailfins is a must for vacationers and locals alike!

A favorite with the locals since 1974, The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House in Destin got started in a small A-frame building on the beach. All of the seafood served in is brought into the restaurant by local fisherman daily. Whether you're looking to sink your teeth into a mouthwatering a variety of Gulf seafood including but not limited to oysters, Gulf shrimp, and crab legs. For guests looking for the freshest seafood in Destin, we highly recommend a visit to the Back Porch!

Located on the beautiful Destin Harbor, is the culmination of over 40 years of dreams, ideas & experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House serve up local seafood southern style. Located on the Harbor, Boshamps offers you a fun and relaxed environment to enjoy your food and the view. Boshamps is also pet friendly with top of the line service offering your dog food and water throughout the dinner. 

Harbor Docks has been locally sourcing food for more than forty years. We have operated our own wholesale seafood market since 1981. It is hard to imagine what our life would be like without it. Once our seafood is harvested from the Gulf, it is unloaded at our docks, cleaned in our market, and delivered upstairs to our restaurant. It doesn’t get any simpler than that. The relationships we have built with commercial fishermen are as valuable as the camaraderie that we’ve developed with our customers. We also utilize relationships with local produce growers when possible. We don’t do this as part of some kind of crusade. We do it out of common sense. Who in their right mind would buy tomatoes from Mexico when they are available from Quincy, Florida? At a time when over 90% of seafood served in the United States is imported, and most often mislabeled, we pride ourselves on selling the real deal. And no – we don’t sell Alaskan crab legs. They probably taste better in Alaska.

Welcome to Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville where you will find a taste to acquire for everybody! Enjoy their drink and food menu with a wide variety of seafood and alcoholic beverages. There's even a kids menu for the youngsters! So, come on down and enjoy the views, food, and decor at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville! Any visit to Margaritaville is an opportunity to step out of your daily routine and into an island adventure!

An elegant AAA Four-Diamond restaurant featuring classic steakhouse and fresh seafood. Featuring all of the classic steakhouse dishes including prime aged steaks and the freshest Destin seafood prepared by a renowned chef and staff! Visit us in the Hilton Sandestin.

Welcome to 790 on the Gulf, located in Destin, Florida. This Gulf side restaurant serves up fresh local seafood with a Louisiana twist. Enjoy a variety of unique Creole and Cajun dishes here and experience the taste of New Orleans from a comfortable seat in Destin! Creole/Cajun food predominately features dishes that are blackened or heavily seasoned to give the dishes an extra "kick." Another prominent dish in Louisiana style cuisine is gumbo. The Gumbo here at 790 on the Gulf is authentically prepared and tastes just like the gumbo you would order in Louisiana. You may need to visit this lovely establishment more than once to truly experience all the great flavors of Louisiana style cuisine. We hope to see you at 790 on the Gulf!

Looking to indulge in a classic Amerian grilled cheese, with elevated ingredients. Head to Say Cheese located within the HarborWalk Village and indulge in the gooey, yummy goodness! Say Cheese is the perfect place for a quick snack to fuel up in between activities and shopping sprees! 

Destin Inshore Guides offers 4-6 hr inshore gulf and bay and specialized kids fishing trips. Specializing in light tackle and Kids fishing. Here at Destin Inshore Guides, we specialize in many types of inshore and nearshore fishing. The fish are so abundant along our coast that there is no need to go deep-sea fishing- there's plenty of fishing fun to be had without spending hours out at sea (and some serious cash). Our affordable charter fishing trips include Inshore Gulf Fishing, Destin Bay Fishing, Shark Fishing, and even Fishing at Night.

The American Spirit is the largest fishing vessel in the Destin fleet. It is 92 feet long and US Coast Guard approved for 149 passengers, but the most we will fish is 80 because it's the most we can fish comfortably. We also have an upper deck for sunbathers and dolphin encounters. The spirit is operated by Capt. Jim Green, a lifelong Destin resident, and professional fisherman for over 20 years in Destin waters.

Charter Fishing in Destin, Florida a great family outdoor experience! It. Fishing in Destin aboard the Back Down 2 is more than just a fishing trip its an adventure.
Fast to get you to the fishing grounds quicker and fully air-conditioned the BD2 features a luxury interior and accommodations. Great features for overnight tuna and marlin charter fishing trips or just day fishing with family and friends.

Welcome to the aptly named deep-sea fishing charter boat Big Deal. Located on the Destin Harbor in Destin, Florida. There is an old saying "everything is bigger in the South." This statement definitely holds true in regard to massive, majestic fishing vessel Big Deal! Not only is this boat huge, but they also offer guests "BIG" thrills through their charter fishing excursion. Take a look at this review posted to their facebook page from a satified patron: 

“We went on a 4 hour shark fishing tour with Matt and Tony and had a blast. They were extremely knowledgeable and told us what we were going to do, why we were doing it that way, and how it benefited us. Hooked a 9ft Tiger shark after the 3 hour mark of our tour but the crew told us we would stay out as long as it took to reel it in. We got some great pictures and now have some great memories! Thanks agin Matt and Tony!”

Like the saying above the charter boats and the thrills are definitly bigger in the South and bigger and better on the Big Deal deep-sea charter boat!

Ahoy Matey! Welcome aboard the Makaira Fishing Charter, located at the Destin Harbor in Destin, Florida. Are you and fellow vacationers looking for a vastly experienced crew to join for an EPIC day of deep-sea fishing or site-seeing? We highly recommend joining the awesome crew on the Makaira.  The crew has years of experience and their boat has become so popular that they have just recently paid off the boat fully! That is quite a testament to the crew and the top-notch excursion they offer.  We suggest that you take a gander at the Makaira Facebook page. (listed on this page) The Facebook page has a large variety of pictures from different excursions that patrons have partaken in on the Makaira and also features "after the trip" shots of patrons and their diverse variety of massive fish that they caught! Once you view a few of those photos, we are sure you will come to the same conclusion as us: "that a trip aboard the Makaira is a must when visiting Destin, Florida!" Hop aboard the Makaira today, the charter experience of a lifetime awaits!

"Our boats are designed to exceed the needs of each guest. We have 4 styles to choose from in order to cover EVERY guest's requests. If it's the speed you're after, we have fast center console boats. If it's luxury and comfort, we have a beautiful Infinity sport fish with all the amenities of home! Check out the details below and let us know if you have any questions! See you on the water!"
-Capt. Preston

Looking for the challenge and excitement of offshore fishing? Guests of all ages welcome! Over 20 years of experience locally! Destin Charters boasts one of the most experienced crews in all of Destin. They are happy to adapt their charters for children, elderly guests, and experienced anglers!

Welcome to the draw-dropping Fish-N-Teem deep-sea fishing boat located on the Destin Harbor in Destin, Florida. What makes Fish-N-Teem charter unique compared to the plethora of other charters offered in Destin. First off if you head to their Facebook page(link on this page) they have pictures of some of the biggest catches we have seen posted. Including one specific post of a sixty-pound Wahoo also known as the King Mackerels. Here is a link to the picture, if you would like to check it out:

https://www.facebook.com/FishNTeemCharters/photos/a.489516517819589/1182249238546310/?type=3&theater

The boat itself is equipped to hand trips ranging from four hours up to three days. That's one heck of a boat! Whether you and your travel companions are experienced anglers or new to the sport, Fish-N-Team and their crew are happy to accommodate you. Book today for a truly special deep-sea fishing adventure aboard Fish-N-Team!  

Welcome to the majestic sport-fishing vessel known affectionately as Special K. This charter boat is located in Destin Harbor, in Destin, Florida. This boat is loaded with amenities and is a great charter boat option for you and your travel companions in Destin! This company offers a variety of trip options including different time lengths and different styles of deep-sea fishing. Take a look at this excerpt from their website explaining how great of a place Destin is to fish:

"The only thing better than fishing is fishing in the middle of paradise and Destin certainly is that. Known as "The Luckiest Little Fishing Villiage", Destin started as a fishing village before it was even on the map and today it hosts some of the world's best fishing tournaments. Read along with us and follow us on social media to see some great fishing pictures and see what we're catching. We also blog about what's in season, what we have planned, and even the occasional promotional deal. Our Fishing Charter offers Satellite TV with DirecTV for added entertainment."

 After reading that I'm sure your as excited as we are to book a trip and climb aboard the Special K charter boat!

We are Rock'N & Roll'N in Destin! Daily Specials Take Out Delivery Americanized Japanese Cuisine for Everyone, including Sushi, Sashimi, Hibachi, Kids menu, and Outdoor seating! We can't wait to Rock Out with you!

Surf's Up... Come on Down & Dig In!!!

Welcome to the Surf Hut... Sit Back, relax, and enjoy the view!

Located directly on the Gulf of Mexico, we are the area's newest beachside restaurant, specializing in Seafood, Ribs, & Oysters!

Sip a Loopy Lifeguard from the bar while the little grommets play in the sand or grab a table in our open-air dining room. Watch the waves and enjoy a casual dining experience with a little surfer flare!

Boogie on down to the Surf Hut, enjoy the food, the fun, and the waves.

We hope to see you soon... Hang Loose!

Welcome to Mimmo's Ristorante Italiano! They serve only the freshest, handmade Italian cuisine. This fantastic Italian food is bursting with flavor and color. Mimmo's also utilizes its surroundings and brings in fresh seafood from the local area to enhance its already delicious dishes! We know pasta is filling, but when you dine at Mimmo's it is very important to save room for their mouth-watering desserts including their famous handmade cannoli's. For an incredibly satisfying and savory Italian dinner experience, Mimmo's is the place to go! We'll see you at Mimmo's tonight!

Tucked away on Florida's Scenic Highway 98, The Crab Trap Destin is a staple in the lives of both tourists and locals. With unparalleled views of the snowy white beaches of the Emerald Coast, The Crab Trap offers a wide variety of menu options including Fresh Seafood, signature Hot Crab Dip and daily specials ranging from Bronzed Grouper or Grilled Filet to Alaskan Crab Legs.

Welcome to Flemings Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar located in Sandestin, Florida. This opulent restaurant serves up prime cuts of steak as well as premium seafood of the highest quality. Enjoy an "oscar-style" steak with your friends, family, business clients, or celebrate a birthday or anniversary here. The "oscar-style" steak is a prime cut of filet mignon topped with a large piece of crab meat, a few pieces of asparagus, and drizzled with a decadent bearnaise sauce. Our mouthes are already starting to water. Head to Flemmings tonight for a special occasion or to simply enhance your evening!

Welcome to Everkrisp a game-changing restaurant that sources all of its ingredients from eco-conscience and sustainable farms, with a particular focus on local produce. Located in Destin, Florida this eco-friendly, health-conscious restaurant serves up phenomenal soups, salads, and fruit bowls that not only taste great but also are good for you! When you looking for a healthy and delicious lunch in Destin, there is only one place to go: Everkrisp! 

Welcome to the Kelly Plantation Golf Club located at 307 Kelly Plantation Dr, Destin, Florida 32541-3404. Kelly Plantation offers the longest course in the Destin area with 7,099 yards of course for your golfing pleasure! This is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful courses in Destin. A couple of the more unique features of this course include complimentary chilled drinks and apples at the 10th tee box and golf carts that are outfitted with GPS to give you a clear visual of each hole. 

Welcome to the Emerald Bay Golf Course located at 4781 Clubhouse Dr, Destin, Florida 32541-5737. Designed by famous architect Bob Cupp this course is truly a sight to behold! This beautiful eighteen-hole course is considered by many to be one of the best courses in the area in terms of both challenge and aesthetics. The course features a pro shop with premium golf products as well as club rentals. Golf carts with GPS’s are available at this course as well. Rates for this course during the winter months range from 60-120 per golfer while rates during the prime months are substantially higher. This is one of the most exclusive high-end courses in the Destin area!

Welcome to Baytowne Golf Club located at 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Troon Drive North, Miramar Beach, FL 32550. Baytowne Golf Club also belongs to the Sandestin resort group of courses and is predominantly known for taking golfers on an adventure from the “beach to the bay” throughout its eighteen holes! Baytowne Golf Club shares a pro shop and clubhouse with Raven Golf Club. (another one of the four courses in the Sandestin Resort group of four) Baytowne Golf Club underwent a major renovation in 2005 and now considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing and sought-after golf courses in Florida to play! 

Welcome to Raven Course located at 1199 Troon Dr, Miramar Beach, Florida. Raven Course is another of the courses associated with the Sandestin Golf Resort group. This course shares a pro shop with the Baytown Golf Club. The pro shop is stocked up with everything from gloves, drivers, wedges, balls, and anything else you may need to hit the links. This beautiful eighteen-hole course is known for its gorgeous natural setting as well as the newest of the four courses associated with the Sandestin Golf Resort group.

Welcome to Indian Bayou Golf and Country Club located at 1 Country Club Drive East, Destin, Florida 32541-4403. This wonderful golf course features two nine hole courses for patrons to enjoy. The Seminole Course is the easier of the two courses. Featuring predominantly par three holes with a few par four and fives mixed in. The greens on this course are also much wider making the course a little bit easier. The Choctaw Course is the more difficult of the two courses. It only has two par threes and is also features more hazards of varying form

Welcome to the Burnt Pines Golf Club located at 3300 Burnt Pine Lane, Destin, Florida 32550. This course is associated with the Sandestin Golf Resort group. This course was deemed “the Crown Jewel of Florida Golf” by Golf Magazine and has twice been recognized as “Top 30 golf courses in Florida” by Golf Magazine.