Manatees

Manatee springs

When Gulf and river water cools in late fall, manatees seek stable 72°F spring outflow. Viewing is seasonal — peak months are typically November through March — and many springs enforce idle-speed zones, roped-off sanctuaries, or tour-only access during manatee season.

In-water encounters require a tour operator or refuge permit at some sites; others allow shoreline viewing from boardwalks. The guides below cover closure rules, best months, and drive times from Orlando and Tampa.

12
Guides
8
First-Magnitude
72°F
Year-Round

Published guides

Springs for Manatees

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Blue Spring State Park
Orange City / DeLand
Swim · Snorkel · Paddle · Tube
Chassahowitzka Springs
Homosassa
Paddle · Swim
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs
Wakulla Springs (Crawfordville/Tallahassee)
Swim · Paddle
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Homosassa
Kings Bay (Crystal River)
Crystal River
Swim · Dive · Paddle
Silver Glen Springs
Salt Springs / Fort McCoy
Swim · Paddle
Tarpon Hole
Crystal River
Swim · Dive · Paddle
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Weeki Wachee / Spring Hill
Paddle · Swim
Hunter Spring Park
Crystal River
Swim · Paddle
Manatee Springs State Park
Chiefland
Swim · Dive · Paddle
Salt Springs Recreation Area
Salt Springs
Swim · Paddle
Three Sisters Springs
Crystal River
Snorkel · Swim · Paddle

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