\**WaterWorld closed in 2019 and is no longer set up at Crab Island due to new laws that prohibit overnight anchoring at the sandbar. There are a couple of smaller floating restaurants (Reef Burger and Frickin Ridiculous BBQ) that do still frequent the sandbar, as well as mobile food vendors who come to you by boat.**
If you want to truly experience Destin, a visit to Crab Island is a must. The sand bar is a popular gathering spot for boaters to enjoy the unique experience, complete with floating restaurants, mobile food vendors, and inflatable water parks for all ages. And while you're at Crab Island, you will probably want to pay a visit to Water World.
Waterworld, one of the most popular destinations at Crab Island, is a floating Cantina offering seafood, Mexican food, and drinks, and is one of the most photographed locations in Destin, most recently featured on HGTV in a show we filmed with them last October. They are known for their Shrimp poboy, reinvented fried bologna sandwich with arugula, pesto, and mozzarella cheese, french fries, and frozen drinks and virgin daiquiris (alcohol cannot be sold at Crab Island, but you can bring your own). The open air atmosphere of the floating restaurant is hard to beat and the thatched roof and island inspired decor truly delivers that sought-after vacation-getaway feel.
In addition to the food and drink offerings and laid back casual atmosphere, there is typically a DJ playing music, and even a floating dance floor located just off the deck. You can boat up, swim up, or walk across the sand bar but because Crab Island is only accessible by boat, you will need to bring your boat, rent one , or take a Crab Island excursion to get to Water World.
As with many of the water-related businesses in Destin, Water World is a seasonal business, and is typically open from Spring Break in March through fall break in October. If you'll be visiting Destin during this time, make a trip out to Water World to experience this unique floating restaurant. You'll be glad you did!
