Holy Moly!  You Can Swim with Manatees!

Attention Bucket listers and Wanderlusters! Did you know there’s a natural playground where you can legally swim with manatees?  Before you jump into the river, there is a lot to know about swimming with manatees. This article will give you helpful information and resources for this one-of-a-kind experience.

So grab your gear, and let’s head out to the Manatee Capital of the World, Crystal River, Florida, and swim with the manatees.

Crystal River, Florida: The Manatee Capital of the World

Welcome to Crystal River, Florida, The Manatee Capital of the World. Warm water, natural springs, and easy river access from the Gulf of Mexico make Crystal River inviting to these gentle giants. Each winter, hundreds of manatees migrate to Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Preserve for the comfortable 72-degree water.

Sometimes there are so many manatees, that the entrance to Three Sisters Spring resembles an on-ramp to the interstate. However, the docile manatees just hang out waiting their turn to enter the springs. Swimmers, kayakers, and onlookers like us find watching their every move captivating.  These humongous creatures are spell-binding.

Understanding Manatees in Crystal River, Florida

First things first, there is a lot to understand about manatees. Their curious nature and playful behavior make them subject to dangerous situations. There are strict laws protecting these beautiful creatures while allowing us to experience manatees in their native habitat.

We will cover all of this and more, so let’s dive into the article and prepare to swim with the manatees.

What Is a Manatee?

Manatees are like the gentle giants of the water, reaching up to 12 feet in length and weighing 1200 lbs. They’re big, slow-moving creatures with a unique paddle-shaped tail and a round, chubby body. Picture a hefty, friendly sea cow with the cutest face and you have the idea.

While sleeping or hovering quietly, manatees resemble huge oval boulders in the water. They prefer to be submerged and can hold their breath for 15 minutes. As they surface for air, you can often see their snouts sticking out of the water.

Their calm behavior and smile make them fascinating and heartwarming, especially if you’re lucky enough to encounter them close up.

Manatee Behavior and Habitat

Manatees prefer comfortable warm water temperatures. Cold water stresses them and they can’t survive long in water below 68 degrees. Likewise, water that is too warm prevents plant life from thriving life, which is necessary nutrition for manatees.

With lots of room to roll around, 72 degrees and ample sea grass are the perfect environment for happy manatees.

When is the Best Time to Swim with the Manatees

Manatee season in Crystal River is generally between November and April. However, there is no guarantee that manatee will be in the springs. They are wild animals that roll with the changing water temperatures.

When the temperatures are warm, the manatees head back toward the Gulf. Likewise, the sea cows beeline for the springs when the weather turns colder. Watching weather reports and social media pages like Three Sisters Springs may increase your chances of swimming with the manatees.

One of our recent trips to the area was in January 2024. It was super special to see hundreds of manatees doing manatee stuff at Three Sisters Springs.

Look But Do Not Touch

As tempting as it may be, you cannot touch a manatee. At times these playful souls may rub up against you, and you must resist the urge to hug them, pet them, or high-five them. Actively touching or harassing a manatee can lead to heavy fines and even a little jail time.

Manatees with many other species are protected under both the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978. It is estimated that only 7,500 manatees are living in the wild in Florida.

Environmental stressors like cold water and diminishing habitats are the leading causes of manatee deaths. However, human interaction, boating accidents, and carelessness account for a fair percentage.

Although manatees are not on the endangered list currently, they are on the threatened list. So remember, if approached by a manatee, slow down, and please do not disturb them. Look don’t touch!

Get Ready to Swim with the Manatees!

While there are plenty of places to see the manatees, swimming with them may not be legal. Crystal River, Florida is the only place in the United States that permits swimming with the manatee.

But before you jump in the water, let’s talk about the basics of swimming with manatees.

Where Are the Manatees?

It is doubtful that you will encounter manatees from the shoreline. More often, these mysterious sea creatures are found in Kings Bay and closer to the Three Sisters Springs area. Since there is no water access from the land in this area, visitors must rely on personal paddle craft, boats, or professional tours.

Kings Bay is a highly trafficked area as a throughway to the Gulf.  Swimming to the springs from these locations is prohibited and dangerous.

Basic safety guidelines

It is important to understand, that the word “swimming” in this context means watching and viewing from the water. Under no circumstances should anyone actively play, touch, or advance the manatees. As they are curious creatures, a manatee may come toward you, swim around you, and even bump you. Let them be manatees, they won’t hurt you.

Manatees have the right of way in the water. While swimming near the manatees use only your arms to move in the water. The gentle giants are likely to approach you from behind. You can accidentally kick a manatee if you are engaging your legs while swimming.

Splashing and horseplay may frighten the docile creatures. Wait and play water games somewhere else.

As with all wildlife, do not feed them. Manatees are trusting animals and human interaction should be kept at a minimum. To survive in the wild, manatees need to fend for themselves, especially the babies. Momma will see that their needs are met.

Respecting Wildlife

Respecting wildlife is crucial for the well-being of our animal friends. When it comes to manatees, keeping a respectful distance and avoiding any form of interaction, like touching, helps preserve their natural behaviors and environment.

By observing from afar and following guidelines, we contribute to the conservation efforts that ensure these incredible creatures thrive in their habitats for generations.

What to Wear to Swim with the Manatees?

You are going to get wet, so dress for a water experience.

Moisture-wicking, quick dry, and rash guard swimsuits are game changers. Even if you don’t plan to go swimming, you will likely get a paddle splash.

Ultraviolet Protection Factor clothing (UPF Clothing), will help guard against harmful UV rays. The Florida sunshine is real, and can quickly cause a burn.

Wetsuits are recommended for swimming, especially in the winter months. The spring water temperature is around 72 degrees year-round. While the water may be refreshing in the heat of summer, the winter months may feel chilly. Most swim tours have wetsuits available.

Hats with brims will help shade your face, scalp, and even neck from the harmful UV rays. Consider one with a chin strap or neck cord so it doesn’t blow away.

Aqua shoes help keep your feet warmer, plus give you added protection from anything you don’t want to step on in the water. Professional tour companies may require proper footwear to board the vessels.

Swimmers should avoid wearing flippers when swimming with the manatees. Kicking may turn up the sediment and debris on the spring floor, startling the manatee. Also, curious manatees often sneak up behind swimmers, and kicking your feet may cause injury to these sneaky Petes.

Polarized sunglasses guard against the glare from the water. Manatees often look like huge boulders in the water, and you don’t want to run over them or into a boulder.

Snorkel gear will greatly enhance your viewing experience. Being able to stick your face in the water and see clearly through the goggles will give you a different perspective of this underwater world. The water is clear, but the mask will protect your eyes and the snorkel will help you breathe. 

Guided Swim with Manatees Tours

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of your manatee adventure with guided swims. Is a guided guided manatee swim tour necessary? In short, not necessarily, but we break down the perks so you can decide.

Plus, we’ll lay out the available tours, helping you choose the best “swim with manatees” experience that fits your style.

5 Benefits of a Guided Swim with Manatees Tour

1.  Expert Help

For new adventurers, navigating unfamiliar waters can be intimidating, especially in the busy Kings Bay area. The challenge is that there are no public docks near The Three Sisters Spring, and the water traffic needs to keep moving.

If you use personal watercraft, you might need to enter and exit the water further down the way, which can be risky with other moving vessels. For kayakers and paddleboarders, if you get out of your kayak or off your board getting back on from the water requires significant strength and can be quite tough.

The expert tour captains know exactly where to go and have special permission to dock their vessels near the springs. Entering and exiting the water to swim with the manatees is super easy, especially with the helpful crew.

2.  Learn from the Guides

The knowledgeable guides are there for you. While on tour you will learn about the manatee behavior and how to swim with these beautiful creatures. You will have plenty of opportunities to ask questions as well as enjoy the scenery.

3. Stay Safe

Licensed tour operators and vessel captains undergo vigorous safety training. Should there be an accident, they will get you to safety quickly and efficiently.

Their number one priority is safety and they will not recklessly put you in danger.

4. See More Manatees

The tour operators know where the manatees are daily and they will take you to the best spots to swim with manatees. This is their business and they want you to have a great experience.

5. Easy Peasy

This is perhaps the best reason to take a guided swim with manatees tour. It is easy.

Guided swim with manatee tours provide everything you need. When it’s time, show up with a towel and wear your bathing suit. Wetsuits, snorkeling gear, and pool noodles are provided. Plus, many tours offer professional in-water photos with their tour packages.

As a bonus, tour operators will often serve hot chocolate and soft drinks, after your chilly swim with the manatees.

Guided Paddleboard and Kayak Tours to Swim with Manatees 

Choosing a guided kayak tour to swim with manatees has some great advantages. It’s safer with experts guiding you, and they take you to the best spots for seeing these gentle giants up close.

Plus, many tour companies will provide snorkel gear, wetsuits, and safety equipment, along with your preferred paddle craft. The hassle of renting extra gear and dealing with logistics is handled by professionals. You can enjoy the experience with confidence which is extremely beneficial. 

Navigating Crystal River, Florida

The town of Crystal River is situated in west-central Florida, specifically in Citrus County, along The Nature Coast. To put the location in a better perspective: Crystal River is about 1.5 hours north of Tampa, 1 hour southwest of Ocala, and 1.5 hours northwest of Orlando.

The 7-mile Crystal River connects the Gulf waters to Kings Bay and the many springs in this area. The manatees have easy access to these warmer waters making the area perfect for winter migration.

What we love most about this area is that it is not over-commercialized. The town keeps its southern charm and hometown appeal, welcoming everyone. With pristine waterways and easy access to the Gulf waters, Crystal River is a fisherman’s paradise. There are plenty of walking paths and parks, making it easy to spend time outdoors.

Crystal River does have a nice selection of restaurants, bars, and cafes. And don’t worry, there are plenty of hotels in the area, for you when you come to swim with the manatees. Within the area, you can easily find professional Manatee Swim Tours, dive centers, and kayak outfitters.

Robb and I have made our way to Crystal River for over 20 years.  The town always feels like home.  Even as full-time nomadic travelers, Crystal River is on our “repeat as often as possible” list.

Where Can I launch my Paddleboard or Kayak in Crystal River?

Paddle craft launching areas are in nearby Hunters Spring Park and Kings Bay Park. Both launches can be congested and the bay water may be a little rough, especially on a windy day.

Hunters Spring Park

18 NE 2nd St, Crystal River

Hunters Spring Park is a popular area for both visitors and locals. Families enjoy shallow waters close to shore while further out, divers undergo training sessions. Manatees have been known to swim into this spring delighting visitors with their presence.

The white sand is perfect for an afternoon nap in the sun, while the park is fun for the kids. There are convenient restrooms and pay-for parking kiosks.

The kayak ramp is often crowded, so be patient.

Kings Bay Park

268 NW 3rd St

As a launch area for kayak tours, rentals, and public use, Kings Bay Park is often busy. There is pay for parking kiosks and restrooms.

Where To Stay in Crystal River

Crystal River offers plenty of accommodations for travelers. From rental homes and quaint motels to glamping, there is something for everyone’s budget.

Other Things to Do in Crystal River

Three Sister Spring Preserve

Spend a few hours walking the Preserve.  The boardwalk around the springs allows excellent viewing of the crystal clear waters.  Manatees can often be seen floating and enjoying a quiet afternoon.  The lush forest around the springs gives the area a rainforest feel.   

After visiting the springs, take a stroll through the wetlands.  The flat trail is easy to walk and family-friendly. 

Crystal River Preserve State Park

Hike or bike in the Crystal River Preserve State Park.  With several easy trails in the Crystal Cove and Mullet Hole portions of the park, visitors can enjoy an afternoon outdoors.  

Crystal River Archeological State Park

Discover a series of Native American mounds and catch a glimpse into Florida’s history. 

For over 1600 years, this place stood as a ceremonial hub for Native Americans. People from distant lands flocked to this complex, engaging in trade and laying their loved ones to rest. Historians estimate that each year, as many as 7,500 Native Americans made their way to this sacred site. 

Fort Island Gulf Beach

Enjoy an afternoon on the quiet beach.  The calm water and soft sand are perfect for families.  Pack a picnic and stay for sunset.   Fort Island Gulf Beach is one of our favorite areas to watch the late-day sun melt into the distant horizon.  

There is plenty of parking and restrooms for convenience.  

Coastal Heritage Museum

Take a step back in time and visit the Historic Old City Hall.  The Coastal Heritage Museum has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Although the museum is small, it is filled with fascinating exhibits of the early Crystal River. 

Who knows, you might even spot Elvis! 

Take a Self-Guided Art Walk

Visit the talented artists throughout the town.  From original paintings to glass-blown treasures, there is something for every collector.

Shop Until You Drop

Shop the many boutiques for special souveniers and sundries.  From beach wear to healing crystals, you can shop for days. 

Conclusion: Will You Swim with the Manatees?

Now you are prepared to swim with the manatees. Understanding the fragile ecosystem and how to protect these amazing creatures is part of this amazing experience.

We hope you enjoy your trip to Crystal River and your swim with the Manatees while exploring all that this off-the-beaten-path gem holds.

Now, what’s stopping you? The gentle giants won’t be here for long. Grab your bathing suit and head out to swim with the manatees!

Travel Safe and Adventure Often!