< Back to Table of Contents
Mantees enjoy warm waters in Florida
adobe stock
Hanging Out With
Manatees
Marvel at the gentle giants in Crystal River, Florida and discover why they are worth protecting.
By Marcea Cazel
Every year, from November to March, something magical happens near Crystal River, Florida. As surrounding waters cool, hundreds of Florida manatees arrive to stay warm. For those who love manatees, it’s one of the best places in the world to see them up close.
This fascination with manatees presents a challenge: how to allow people to watch or swim near the threatened species without disturbing them or putting them at risk. Thanks to strict protections, guided tours and dedicated volunteers, the Crystal River area has it down to a science.
Manatee in Crystal River, Florida
Natural Springs Welcome Manatees
Swimming at a casual rate of up to 5 miles per hour and typically weighing around 1,500 pounds, manatees cannot survive long in cold water. As temperatures drop, they seek warmer water. The natural springs throughout central Florida, maintain a year-round temperature of approximately 72 degrees Fahrenheit and provide a perfect winter habitat. With more than 70 springs feeding Kings Bay and Crystal River, manatees have plenty of options for shelter.
During winter, the spring heads are closed to human access, meaning no swimming or kayaking within these designated sanctuaries. This provides the manatees with an undisturbed place to rest. However, there are still opportunities to view them from boardwalks, boats and while swimming in the river.
Early morning viewing is often best when wanting to see manatees.
ADOBE STOCK
What to Expect When Swimming with Manatees
Located an hour north of Tampa, Crystal River sits on the west coast of Florida. The small city takes its role as a premier destination for seeing and swimming with manatees seriously. It even hosts the Florida Manatee Festival each January.
Swimming with manatees is strictly regulated to protect the animals while allowing visitors an intimate educational experience. For the best experience, consider an eco-friendly guided tour. These certified guides love manatees, ensure all laws are followed and use responsible, passive observation techniques approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Tours run all day, but early morning is often best. There is less boat traffic and the river has a peaceful quality. It’s also a great time to see manatees before crowds arrive.
Manatees gather in aggregations at warm-water locations during winter months.
Swimmers must watch a video on the rules, which include no kicking and staying calm. The most important rule is to be a passive observer. Human-to-manatee contact is illegal. People must not reach for, swim over, or disturb the animals. However, manatees are inquisitive animals and might come up close on their own or bump their noses on people, which is acceptable as the manatee initiates contact.
Paddling with manatees at Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River
VISIT FLORIDA/ROUNDHOUSE CREATIVE
Manatees appear larger in water but are gentle giants. They are not aggressive, do not bite and are slow-moving, posing no risk to humans.
Tour guides provide a mask, snorkel, wetsuit and may provide a pool noodle for buoyancy. Once the boat captain finds a good spot, swimmers quietly enter the water to observe. Depending on the day, visitors may only see a few manatees or maybe dozens. No matter how many you may encounter, just being close makes the trip worthwhile.
Diamond Spotlight — Crystal River, Florida
Paddletail Waterfront Lodge
WENDY SCOLARO
The PaddleTail Waterfront Lodge in Crystal River, Florida, takes its namesake from the gentle manatees and sits along the tranquil Kings Bay, a spring-fed waterway known for its clear, warm waters and year-round natural beauty. Its prime waterfront location offers guests easy access to outdoor adventures like kayaking, paddleboarding and guided excursions to view the gentle manatees that frequent the area, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking an authentic Florida Gulf Coast experience. The property also offers a private boat ramp and an onsite dive shop. Part of the Trademark Collection by Wyndham, the lodge combines the charm of an independent boutique resort with the comfort of the Wyndham brand. AAA Members can save with the AAA rate.
Protecting Manatees at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
Established in 1983, the 80-acre Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is the only U.S. refuge created specifically to protect the West Indian manatee.
The refuge includes popular sites like Three Sisters Springs. During manatee season, springs within the sanctuary are roped off to provide a quiet resting place away from people. The closed-off area expands or contracts based on the number of manatees gatherered.
Boardwalk for viewing manatees
VISIT FLORIDA/FOLKLORE
A long winding boardwalk at Three Sisters Springs offers clear views into the water, allowing visitors to see the manatees huddled together for warmth. Volunteers are on hand to answer questions. You will also see volunteers in kayaks, ensuring boaters keep a proper distance.
A shuttle runs between the Three Sisters Springs Center, the springs entrance and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the area’s history and explore the gift shop.
Seeing manatees up close is a memorable experience.
Why Manatees Matter to Florida
The West Indian manatee is vital to Florida. Beyond attracting tourists, these herbivores help maintain ecological balance, which supports healthy water systems.
Unfortunately, manatees face many threats. Recent hurricanes and pollution have made Crystal River’s waters murkier, reducing the seagrass they eat. Boat strikes and habitat loss also pose significant risks.
Safe observation helps educate the public on why these animals need protection. Seeing a manatee up close, watching it slowly take its time to get where it’s going and often bearing scars from boat propellers, is a memorable experience that can create new advocates for their conservation.
As the official state marine mammal of Florida, manatees hold a special place. The more people who experience swimming with manatees and viewing them in Crystal River, the more support and advocates there will be for protecting these unforgettable creatures.
Share this article with someone that loves manatees! Look for the SHARE button at the TOP OF THE PAGE.
Discover Crystal River with AAA! Let a knowledgeable AAA Travel Agent help you start your unforgettable Gulf Coast adventure with manatees—and so much more.
Check Out These Other Stories!
10 Best Christmas Markets in the U.S.
Celebrate a Victorian Christmas on Amelia Island
Local Events—November
AAA Savings for Dining, Shopping & More
