About Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is home to Florida's world-famous live mermaid show, where performers have been performing underwater in the crystal-clear spring since 1947. The park also features Buccaneer Bay water park, kayaking and paddleboarding on the Weeki Wachee River, riverboat cruises, and a wildlife show. The spring pumps 117 million gallons of fresh water daily at a constant 74 degrees.
History of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Weeki Wachee Springs was developed as a roadside attraction in 1947 by former US Navy frogman Newton Perry, who trained young women to perform synchronized swimming acts while breathing through underwater air hoses. The mermaid show became a beloved Florida institution and a national sensation, featured in media from Life Magazine to The Simpsons. The attraction was acquired by the state of Florida and became a state park in 2008, preserving this unique piece of Florida history.
Park Areas & Lands
🧜♀️ Mermaid Theater
The legendary underwater theater where live mermaid shows are performed in the spring. Guests watch through thick glass windows as performers swim, dance, and eat underwater.
🏊 Buccaneer Bay
A spring-fed swimming area with a sandy beach, water slides, and clear 74-degree water pumped directly from the spring.
🛶 Weeki Wachee River
Crystal-clear river perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding through a natural Florida spring run lined with wildlife.
🐻 Wildlife Area
Live animal presentations featuring Florida native wildlife.
Must-Do Attractions
- Live Mermaid Show - Performers in mermaid tails swim, dance, and perform choreographed routines underwater in the crystal-clear spring - a Florida tradition since 1947
- Buccaneer Bay Swimming - Swim in crystal-clear 74-degree spring water at this natural spring-fed swimming area with a sandy beach
- Weeki Wachee River Kayaking - Paddle down one of Florida's most beautiful spring-fed rivers through a natural canopy with fish, turtles, and manatees visible in the clear water
- Riverboat Cruise - Narrated boat cruise down the Weeki Wachee River spotting wildlife along the spring run
- Wildlife Show - Live animal presentation featuring Florida native species including birds of prey and reptiles
Insider Tips
- The park reaches capacity and closes to new guests on hot summer weekends - arrive before 10 AM
- Mermaid show seating is first-come, first-served - arrive 30 minutes before showtime for the best seats
- Weeki Wachee is about 90 minutes west of Orlando - easily combined with a day at Clearwater Beach
- Bring water shoes for the rocky spring bottom at Buccaneer Bay
- Kayak rentals go fast on weekends - reserve early or arrive at opening
- The park is a Florida state park, so admission is very affordable compared to commercial theme parks
Best Times to Visit
Weeki Wachee Springs is busiest on summer weekends and holidays when the park can reach capacity by mid-morning. Weekdays during the school year offer the most relaxed experience. The park is open year-round. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds.
Tickets & Pricing
Adults (13+) $13, children (6-12) $8, under 6 free. Kayak rentals from $25. Paddleboard rentals available. All shows and Buccaneer Bay swimming included in park admission. Florida residents receive discounted pricing.
Dining at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
The park has a small concession stand serving burgers, hot dogs, and snacks. For more dining options, Weeki Wachee is near Spring Hill and Brooksville with restaurants along US-19.
Official Resources
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