The Best Kid-Friendly Activities at Crab Island 🛟🐬

Why Crab Island Is Great for Kids

Crab Island isn’t just for grown-up boat parties — it’s also a floating wonderland for kids, with calm, shallow water and loads of unique activities. The water stays waist-deep in most areas, making it perfect for little swimmers, float fans, and sandbar explorers.

If you’re visiting Crab Island with your kids, here are the best ways to keep them entertained, cool, and smiling all day long.

Floating Lily Pads and Splash Zones

Bring or rent a floating lily pad, water mat, or inflatable raft — they’re basically kid trampolines on the water. These safe, squishy surfaces let kids jump, roll, and lounge just inches above the surface.

✔️ Great for toddlers and big kids
✔️ Easy to tether to your boat
✔️ Doubles as a parent chill zone, too!

Tip: Bring pool noodles or inflatable animals to make a “float park” they’ll love.

Paddleboarding Around the Sandbar

Crab Island is a calm place to introduce kids to paddleboarding. With no waves or deep water, it’s safe for standing, sitting, or kneeling — even for first-timers.

✔️ Choose a wide, stable board
✔️ Let them sit while you paddle
✔️ Look down — the water is often clear enough to spot fish and rays!

Many boat rental companies offer SUP rentals as add-ons to pontoons.

Dolphin and Wildlife Spotting

The ride to Crab Island is often a wildlife show in itself. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seabirds, jellyfish (look, don’t touch), and even stingrays gliding through the water.

✔️ Bring binoculars or a waterproof camera
✔️ Turn it into a nature scavenger hunt
✔️ Log sightings in a mini nature journal

This activity is calm, quiet, and magical for animal-loving kids.

Visit the Floating Ice Cream Boat

Yes — you read that right. There’s often a floating ice cream or snow cone vendor anchored near Crab Island during peak season. Boats will either drive up or you can paddle over for sweet treats on the water.

✔️ Kid-approved and super fun
✔️ Accepts cash and cards (bring both just in case)
✔️ Look for floating BBQ and lemonade stands too!

Tip: Bring a small dry bag or waterproof wallet to carry your cash without soaking it.

Shallow Water Swimming & Snorkeling

Crab Island’s depth is perfect for safe, splashy swim sessions. Add in a snorkel mask, and even younger kids can explore the underwater scene — shells, fish, sand dollars, and more.

✔️ Wear water shoes to avoid stubbed toes
✔️ Use a small net or bucket to collect (and release!) shells and critters
✔️ Always supervise swimmers — there are no lifeguards

Bonus idea: Bring a few bath toys or floating boats to turn your corner of the sandbar into a water playroom.

Crab Island Inflatable Water Park (Seasonal)

During summer months, a floating inflatable water park is set up in the middle of Crab Island. It features climbing walls, slides, trampolines, and bounce zones.

✔️ Great for older kids and teens
✔️ Small entrance fee required
✔️ Life jackets typically provided
✔️ Supervised, safe, and so much fun!

Check availability before your trip, as park hours vary by season and weather.

Kayak Rides and Towing Fun

Many families bring or rent a kayak or small inflatable boat to let kids paddle around safely near the main pontoon. Or, tie a rope to their float and give them a slow tow through the water — instant giggles guaranteed!

✔️ Easy to control in shallow water
✔️ Great for one-on-one time with a parent
✔️ Turns into a race or obstacle course with a little imagination

Simple Games in the Water

Sometimes all you need is a few fun games and a group of giggling kids. Try:

✔️ Water tag or relay races
✔️ Frisbee, beach balls, or floating ring toss
✔️ Find the shell — hide something small in the sand and let them hunt
✔️ Crab walk races (yes, it fits the theme)

Bring waterproof toys, mesh buckets, and goggles — and let creativity take over!

Final Thoughts

Crab Island offers more than just a pretty place to anchor — it’s full of hands-on, splashy, and screen-free fun for kids of all ages. Whether you’re floating on a lily pad, spotting dolphins, or paddling through the clear shallows, your family is guaranteed to make core memories here.

Want help booking a kid-friendly pontoon rental, kid-friendly vacation rental, building a “Crab Island play kit,” or planning a full beach-to-boat day? I’ve got you covered — just ask! 🛟🧃☀️