About Florida Manatees
The Florida manatee is a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, a large marine mammal that can grow to 13 feet and weigh over 3,000 pounds. Florida is home to approximately 7,500 manatees. They are herbivores that feed on seagrass and other aquatic vegetation. Manatees are protected under federal and state law, and it is illegal to harass, feed, or pursue them.
Best Viewing Locations
Blue Spring State Park in Orange City is the most popular viewing spot, with hundreds of manatees gathering from November through March. Crystal River is the only place where swimming with wild manatees is legal. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge hosts manatees in the Indian River Lagoon. Manatee Lagoon in West Palm Beach offers free viewing near the FPL power plant warm water outflow.
Best Time to See Manatees
Manatees congregate in warm-water areas when water temperatures drop below 68 degrees, typically from November through March. The coldest days bring the highest manatee counts. At Blue Spring, daily manatee counts of 200 to 500 are common during cold snaps. During warmer months, manatees disperse throughout coastal waters and rivers.
Group Viewing Trips
BusBrother organizes group manatee viewing trips from Orlando to Blue Spring State Park and Crystal River. Early morning departures are recommended as Blue Spring reaches capacity quickly on cold mornings during peak season. Crystal River tours can be combined with Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park for a full-day Nature Coast experience.
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Nearby Attractions
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