A Guide to Finding Manatees in Florida

Manatees, also known as "sea cows," are gentle giants of Florida's waterways. These fascinating marine mammals thrive in warm waters, making this state one of the best places to see them up close. Whether you're a local or planning a trip, spotting manatees is a magical experience. If you're wondering, "Where are the manatees?" this guide has you covered with the best spots and tips for viewing these majestic creatures.

Manatees in Tampa and St. Petersburg, FL

Tampa and St. Petersburg offer unparalleled opportunities to witness manatees in their natural habitat. The Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach is a must-visit, especially during the winter months. From November to April, manatees gather here to bask in the warm water, providing wildlife enthusiasts with a unique and thrilling experience.

• Best time to visit: Winter months (November to April)
• Can you swim with them?: No, but you’ll get excellent views from designated observation decks.

Interesting fact: Manatees tend to swim in waters less than 6 feet deep, which is great for easing their appetites with underwater vegetation but makes them more likely to suffer boat strikes.

Manatees in Clearwater, FL

Clearwater’s calm, coastal environment provides occasional manatee sightings in canals and bays. While not as consistent as other spots, a kayak or paddleboard tour offers a chance to see manatees swimming alongside dolphins and other wildlife, and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium provides a place to see recovering Manatees in their Rehabilitation Center.

• Best time to visit: Late fall through early spring.
• Can you swim with them?: Not in Clearwater, but observing them from a kayak or boat is common.

Interesting fact: Manatees in Clearwater often migrate between here and nearby Crystal River during cooler months.

Manatees at Weeki Wachee

The famous Weeki Wachee Spring is another excellent location for spotting manatees. This state park features crystal-clear waters where manatees are frequently seen, particularly in winter. You can also enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding along the Weeki Wachee River for a closer look at their serene movements. 

In addition, Neptune’s Old Florida Adventure Retreats offers waterfront vacation rentals and the Neptune’s Grotto Lodge, where manatees can be observed year-round right from the property or in provided kayaks as they regularly visit or pass by. Check Availability.

Best time to visit: Late November through March. Winter months mean increased numbers, but manatees are observed year-round.

Can you swim with them?: While Swimming isn’t allowed in the Weeki Wachee Spring, kayaking along the Weeki Wachee River offers a peaceful and serene way to observe these gentle giants, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing day in nature. Swimming is allowed outside of the state park boundaries in the river and behind the vacation rental homes. 

Interesting fact: Weeki Wachee's unique ecosystem supports not only manatees but also an array of other wildlife, including turtles and fish, highly visible in the crystal clear waters. 

Weeki Wachee is the most advantageous location to stay due to its close proximity to Crystal River and Homosassa to the north and Tampa, St Petersburg, and Clearwater to the South.

Manatees in Crystal River, FL

Known as the Manatee Capital of the World, Crystal River offers amazing manatee experiences. The warm springs of Crystal River, particularly Three Sisters Springs, attract manatees in large numbers during winter.

• Best time to visit: Late November through March, with peak numbers in January and February.
• Can you swim with them?: Yes! Crystal River is one of the few places to allow swimming with manatees. Local tours ensure encounters are respectful and safe for the animals.

Interesting fact: Crystal River is home to one of Florida's largest concentrations of manatees during the winter months.

Swim with Manatees in Homosassa

Just south of Crystal River, Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is another hotspot for manatee sightings. Like Crystal River, Homosassa offers opportunities to swim with manatees, along with observation decks and guided tours.

• Best time to visit: Winter months when manatees seek refuge in the springs.
• Can you swim with them?: Yes, guided tours at Homosassa allow for ethical swimming encounters, ensuring that your interaction with these gentle giants is respectful and safe for the animals.
  

Interesting fact: Homosassa also features a rehabilitation center for injured manatees, offering a unique and engaging opportunity to learn about conservation efforts and the challenges these gentle creatures face in the wild.

Plan Your Florida Manatee Adventure with Neptune’s Old Florida Adventure Retreats

Florida’s manatee hotspots provide unforgettable experiences for wildlife lovers. Whether observing from the shore or swimming in spring-fed waters, these gentle creatures offer a unique glimpse into Florida's rich ecosystem. To make the most of your adventure, plan a stay with Neptune’s Old Florida Adventure Retreats, where you can enjoy rustic accommodations close to Florida's top manatee destinations.

Ready for an unforgettable adventure with manatees? Book your stay at Neptune’s Old Florida Adventure Retreats today and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Florida's wildlife!