Updated: December 08, 2025
Crystal River's Kings Bay offers the only place in North America where you can legally swim with manatees, especially during peak season (November-March) when 1,000+ sea cows gather in the 72-degree spring waters. Multiple tour operators provide kayaking, snorkeling, and boat options for unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Contents
1. An Experience You'll Never Forget!
2. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
An Experience You'll Never Forget!
Manatees can be seen in various parts of Florida waters from April to October, but when the temperatures dip, manatees migrate to the Florida Springs where the average water temperature stays around 70 degrees year-round. This deemed "Manatee Season" runs from November to March annually.
"Sea cows" were listed as endangered in 1967 under the Endangered Species Preservation Act, and have been protected under the Endangered Species Act since 1973. In 2017, they were reclassified from endangered to threatened. They are most threatened by loss of habitat and boats.
While their status was changed to "threatened" in 2017, manatees remain fully protected under both the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
I've found Crystal River, specifically Kings Bay, to be one of the perfect spots to see manatees year-round. It's about 90 minutes north of Tampa and absolutely worth the drive. Kings Bay sits as the mouth of Crystal River and maintains a near 72 degrees year-round. During winter months, over 1,000 manatees have been recorded gathering here, with 1,016 counted in Kings Bay during the peak 2022 season. Crystal River is also the ONLY place in North America where you can legally swim with manatees.
A few places to check out for tours include:
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
Whenever I visit, I access the Visitors' Center from here, which is open either 5 or 7 days a week depending on the season, and catch a shuttle to Three Sisters Springs Boardwalk inside Kings Bay from November to March. If you'd like to visit via water, there are separate Tour Operators to checkout.
Blue Haven River Tours
Blue Haven offers four boat choices to choose from, snorkel equipment and wet suits so you don't have to worry about a thing! Blue Heaven River Tours
Crystal River Kayak Co and Dive Center
Crystal River Kayak Company
Crystal River features kayak and diving excursions, including clear kayaks for the ultimate viewing experience! They are also the closest dock to Three Sisters Springs. If you'd prefer to bring your own, they allow you to launch from their dock as well for a nominal fee. Crystal River Kayak Company
Get Up and Go Kayaking
Paddles Outdoor Rentals
Located also in Crystal River, FL, Paddles has a little something for everyone. From paddle boards to clear kayaks and guided swim tours, you've got a few options to choose from! They also have a military discount! https://paddlesoutdoorrentals.com/
For the "Mind Your Manatee Manners" informational videos, including instructions for photographers and videographers, please view the videos on behalf of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at: Crystal River Multimedia Manatee Manners Videos
Highlight Rules Include:
- Practice Passive Observation
- Do not approach resting manatees
- Visitors may not enter closed resting sanctuaries for manatees.
- Do not disturb vegetation
Reminder that photographers and videographers must obtain a special permit and obtain an authorized temporary green vest during filming.
If you could choose one way to see the manatees, would it be:
- Paddle boarding
- Clear Kayaking
- Larger Boat With All the Goodies
- Boardwalk by Land
Let us know in the comments! https://www.resortrentals.us!
After your Crystal River manatee adventure, extend your Florida getaway along the stunning Emerald Coast. Travel Life Vacations offers beautiful vacation rentals in Destin, Miramar Beach, and Santa Rosa Beach, giving you easy access to white sand beaches and coastal dining. Check availability at Travel Life Vacations!
