Swim with Manatees in Crystal River: A Guide from Orlando

Crystal River, on Florida's Gulf coast, is the best-known place in the state to swim with wild manatees. Every winter, hundreds of them move into the warm springs of Kings Bay. Here's how to plan it from Orlando.

When to go

Manatee season runs roughly mid-November through March. Manatees need warm water, and the springs stay around 72°F all year, so cold mornings after a cold front bring the most manatees. In summer, they spread out and sightings are less certain.

How far is Crystal River from Orlando?

About 1.5 to 2 hours west by car. Most tours start in the morning, so many people leave Orlando very early or stay the night before.

Swim or kayak?

• Swim with manatees. A guided Crystal River manatee swim takes up to six people into Kings Bay with wetsuits and snorkel gear, plus a free photo and video package. You float at the surface and let the manatees come to you.
• See them from a clear kayak. The Crystal River clear kayak tour lets you watch manatees through a see-through hull, no getting wet. From November 15 to March 31 it's a no-swim manatee tour; in warmer months it paddles to Three Sisters Springs with time to swim.

Pick the kayak if anyone in your group isn't a strong swimmer or would rather stay dry.

The rules

Manatees are protected by federal and state law. On every tour you'll follow passive observation:

• Don't touch, chase, feed or surround a manatee
• Float quietly at the surface. Splashing and diving scare them off.
• Stay out of roped-off sanctuary areas, where manatees rest

Guides brief you before you get in, and the rules apply to kayakers too.

Tips

• Bring a towel and warm clothes for after the swim. Winter air is cold even when the water isn't.
• Budget for parking, usually a few dollars at the marina or a city kiosk.
• Book early for January weekends. Small-group tours sell out.
• Closer to Orlando? Blue Spring State Park is about 45 minutes north, with boardwalk viewing.

Closer to Orlando

Short on time? Real Florida is 30 minutes from the theme parks: airboat tours at Boggy Creek and baby highland cows at Mini Moo Land, both 10% off through us.

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