Crab Island is one of the most popular attractions for visitors to the Destin area, but many wonder exactly how far it is from where they are staying Miramar Beach is a common vacation destination on the Scenic Highway 30A corridor along the Emerald Coast If you are staying in Miramar Beach and want to take a day trip over to Crab Island, this guide will provide all the information you need on the distance and travel time.
An Overview of Miramar Beach and Crab Island
Miramar Beach is a coastal community located in Walton County, between Destin and Panama City Beach It stretches for around 15 miles along Scenic Highway 30A, from the eastern part of Seaside to Sandestin
The center of Miramar Beach is approximately 18-20 miles east of Destin Harbor and Crab Island. Crab Island is a shallow sandbar located north of the Destin Bridge in Choctawhatchee Bay. It can only be accessed by boat, kayak, standup paddleboard or other watercraft.
Crab Island provides a unique opportunity to anchor your boat in crystal clear shallow water. Visitors enjoy swimming floating on rafts, playing games, and relaxing in the tropical atmosphere.
Driving Distance and Time from Miramar Beach to Crab Island
The driving distance from Miramar Beach to the boat launches and rental locations closest to Crab Island ranges from 18-22 miles depending on your exact starting point. This drive takes approximately 25-35 minutes in normal traffic conditions.
Here are some key data points on the road trip:
- From the main public beach access in Miramar Beach to Destin Harbor/Crab Island boat launches:
- 18 miles, 25 minutes
- From Seascape Resort in Miramar Beach to Destin Harbor/Crab Island boat launches:
- 20 miles, 30 minutes
- From Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort to Destin Harbor/Crab Island boat launches:
- 22 miles, 35 minutes
You can take Highway 98 West directly from any point along Miramar Beach into Destin. This route involves traveling over the Mid-Bay Bridge across Choctawhatchee Bay. There is a $4 toll each way on the Mid-Bay Bridge, so be sure to have cash ready.
Once you reach Destin, take the Destin exit and turn right on Highway 98 to reach the different boat rental locations and launches.
Finding Boat Rentals and Launches Near Crab Island
The closest boat rental locations and launches to Crab Island are found at Destin Harbor and HarborWalk Village. This lively waterfront district is home to numerous pontoon and fishing boat rental companies.
Some of the most popular rental providers here include:
- Tailfins Pontoon Rentals
- Boogies Watersports
- Happy’s Watersports
- Luthers Destin
Public boat launches in Destin Harbor include:
- East Pass Marina
- Destin Shrimp Boat
Once you launch, Crab Island is just a 5-10 minute boat ride north. You will pass under the Destin Bridge and can’t miss the crowds of boats anchored in the shallow waters.
Alternate Locations to Rent Boats for Crab Island
In addition to Destin Harbor, you can also rent boats and launch to reach Crab Island from:
-
Fort Walton Beach – 20 miles west of Miramar Beach with multiple rental and launch options. It’s about a 30 minute boat ride to Crab Island from here.
-
Okaloosa Island – Located right across the bridge from Destin. Home to Xtreme Watersports rentals and Okaloosa Island Pier & Boat Launch among others. 10-15 minute boat trip to Crab Island.
No matter which rental location you choose, be sure to arrive early, as boats can book up quickly on peak days. Weekday rentals are generally easier to find than weekends.
Travel Times By Boat from Different Starting Points
Once you are on a boat, it takes approximately:
- 5-10 minutes from Destin Harbor area
- 10-15 minutes from Okaloosa Island
- 15-20 minutes from Fort Walton Beach
- 30-45 minutes from Panama City Beach
Crab Island is located right near the East Pass, so it is quickest to reach from the closest points. But you can still get there in a reasonable time from farther locations if needed.
Alternate Ways to Reach Crab Island Without Renting a Boat
If you don’t want to rent and captain your own boat, there are a few alternate ways to reach Crab Island:
- Take the Crab Island Shuttle tour boat from Destin Harbor – Adult tickets start around $49
- Book a seat on the Crab Island Adventure Tour, a guided excursion – Tickets start at $64 for adults
- Charter a private boat with a captain – Prices vary widely based on boat size
- Take a water taxi or ferry from Destin Harbor – Approximately $20 per person round trip
These options eliminate the need to rent and operate your own boat. You simply show up and let the tour provider take care of transportation to Crab Island on their vessel.
Travel Tips for Visiting Crab Island from Miramar Beach
If you plan a day trip to Crab Island from Miramar Beach, keep these tips in mind:
- Leave early to avoid traffic delays – Especially on weekends
- Bring cash for bridge tolls and parking fees
- Load up on sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and other protection against sun
- Pack or rent floats, rafts, water toys for the sandbar
- Bring food and drinks – including water/hydration drinks
- No glass containers allowed on boats
- Prepare for a full day – Crab Island is lots of fun!
- Review all Crab Island rules and guidelines
The Bottom Line on the Miramar Beach to Crab Island Distance
Crab Island is approximately 18-22 miles and a 25-35 minute drive from Miramar Beach, depending on your exact starting point. Once you arrive in Destin, there are numerous rental and launch options to reach the popular sandbar in 5-15 minutes by boat.
Alternatively, you can take a shuttle, guided tour, or water taxi and leave the boating to someone else. Whichever method you choose, be sure to come prepared for a fun day in the sun at one of the Destin area’s most iconic attractions. Enjoy your trip to Crab Island from Miramar Beach!
Grand Boulevard At Sandestin
For the best shopping and entertainment in South Walton, you must visit Grand Boulevard.
Live shows, theatre, dining, and shopping can all be found at Grand Boulevard. Everything here is elevated to provide a truly upscale experience.
The site has 765,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space (and 3 hotels!) in an open-air environment just steps away from the beaches and all the other local attractions.
Gulf Coast Axe House
If you’d like to add a little adventure to your Miramar Beach Florida visit, we suggest you hit up the Gulf Coast Axe House.
Throwing axes is a great way to have some fun and blow off a little steam. And you don’t need to have any previous experience. The on-site coaches will teach you the basics and then leave you to it.
This location is BYOB (beer and wine only, no liquor) so be sure to bring libations with you if you’re interested. There is also no food on site but you are welcome to bring your own or use UberEats.
Crab Island in Destin, Florida
FAQ
What town is closest to Crab Island?
Crab Island is the perfect addition to your Destin vacation. Most visitors to the scenic sandbar will be coming from the town of Destin. While there are many neighborhoods you could base yourself on, our favorite is Fort Walton Beach near Okaloosa Island.
Is Miramar Beach worth visiting?
Miramar Beach offers various activities and attractions for every type of beachgoer. Spend your days lounging on the pristine beaches, building sandcastles with your kids, or indulging in water sports such as paddleboarding and snorkeling.
How much does it cost to get into Crab Island?
3-Hour Crab Island Shuttle Boat Rates:
$45 per seat – Children 6 – 12. $29 per seat – Children 5 & under.
Which is nicer, Destin or Miramar Beach?
A little quieter than Destin, Miramar Beach offers a more laid-back and luxurious feel—perfect for beach bums and boutique shoppers alike.