Staff Answer
Jun 26, 2026 - 07:45 AM
One of the things that makes Crab Island so unique is that it is basically a floating village during the busy season. On a nice summer day, you will see all kinds of vendors cruising from boat to boat as many first time visitors are surprised by how much is available once they get there. Food is probably the biggest category. You will often find floating burger boats like Reef Burger, barbecue vendors, Chick-fil-A, acai bowls, fresh coconuts, boiled peanuts, lemonade, pizza, hot dogs, ice cream, shaved ice, and other snacks depending on the day. You will also see boats selling souvenirs like hats, shirts, and waterproof phone cases, along with floating convenience stores carrying sunscreen, goggles, floats, dry bags, and other items people forgot to bring. Some vendors focus on fun instead of food. It is common to see floating inflatable water parks, paddle board rentals, floating mats, and even photographers cruising around taking pictures of families enjoying the day. During the busiest weekends you may also run into vendors selling fresh fruit, frozen treats, or specialty drinks, although the exact lineup changes throughout the season and from year to year. One thing I always tell people is not to depend on the vendors for everything. Bring your own cooler with drinks, snacks, and anything you know you will need because weather, regulations, and demand all affect which vendors are operating on any given day. The vendors are a fun bonus and definitely part of the Crab Island experience, but they should not be your entire game plan.
Here is an updated list of the vendors you might come across:
- Reef Burger – Probably the most famous food boat at Crab Island. They grill fresh cheeseburgers, hamburgers, hot dogs, and other classic lunch favorites right on the water.
- Ruckin Fidiculous BBQ – Serves smoked barbecue, pulled pork, ribs, and other barbecue favorites. It is a popular stop around lunchtime.
- Chick-fil-A Boat – Yes, it is exactly what it sounds like. Depending on the day, you can order Chick-fil-A sandwiches, nuggets, and fries without ever leaving your boat.
- Wild Coconuts – Sells fresh coconuts that are opened on the spot, making them one of the most refreshing snacks on a hot summer afternoon.
- Crab Island Grill – Offers burgers, sandwiches, and other hot food depending on the day's menu.
- Sea Cow Ice Cream – One of the floating ice cream boats that cruises through the anchorage selling frozen treats to families.
- Jimmy's Ice Cream – Another favorite for popsicles, ice cream bars, and frozen desserts.
- Boiled Peanut Boat – A local favorite serving hot boiled peanuts, which are surprisingly popular on the water.
- Lemonade Boat – Fresh squeezed lemonade and strawberry lemonade are great when the Florida heat kicks in.
- Açaí Bowl Boat – Fresh fruit bowls topped with granola and other toppings for anyone looking for something lighter.
- Floating T Shirt Boats – Sell Crab Island shirts, hats, tank tops, sunglasses, and other souvenirs.
- Floating General Store – Carries sunscreen, floats, goggles, waterproof phone cases, dry bags, and other items that people forgot to pack.
