Florida is known for its warm sunshine, sugar-white beaches, and breathtaking natural habitats, and what could be more exciting than spotting gentle and lovable manatees in their natural environment?
Manatees are known to frequent rivers, bays, and estuaries throughout Florida. They are huge, slow-moving, herbivorous sea creatures found in warm coastal waters such as the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean.
If you’re a marine animal lover and want to experience these peaceful sea mammals up close and personal, here are some of the best places to see manatees safely in Florida.
What Part Of Florida Do Manatees Live In?
Manatees can be found in various parts of Florida, both in coastal and inland waters. Here are some key areas where manatees are commonly found:
🌴Crystal River and Homosassa Springs: Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Crystal River and Homosassa Springs are well-known for their manatee populations. The warm waters of Crystal River attract manatees, especially during the winter months when they seek refuge in the springs.
🌴Blue Spring State Park: Situated near Orange City in Central Florida, Blue Spring State Park is a popular wintering spot for manatees. The spring run at the park provides a warm-water refuge, attracting large numbers of manatees during colder periods.
🌴Indian River Lagoon: The Indian River Lagoon stretches along Florida’s east coast and is home to a significant population of manatees. This estuarine system provides a diverse habitat for manatees to thrive.
🌴Tampa Bay: Tampa Bay and its surrounding waters, including the waters near Apollo Beach, are known for their resident manatee populations. The warm-water outflows from power plants in the area provide an ideal habitat for manatees, especially during colder months.
🌴Everglades National Park: The expansive Everglades National Park in South Florida is another area where manatees can be found. Manatees inhabit the park’s coastal waters, estuaries, and rivers, including the famous “River of Grass.”
🌴Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: Located near the Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s east coast, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife including manatees. The refuge’s waters, such as the Haulover Canal, provide habitat for manatees to feed and travel.
🌴St. Johns River: The St. Johns River, which flows northward from Central Florida to the Atlantic Ocean, is frequented by manatees. Manatees can be spotted in various sections of the river, particularly in areas with warm springs and slower-moving waters. These are just a few notable areas where manatees can be found in Florida, but it’s important to remember that manatees are mobile and can be encountered in other coastal and inland waters throughout the state.
What Is The Best Time Of Year To See Manatees?
The best time of year to see manatees in Florida is during the winter months, typically from mid-November to early spring. Manatees are sensitive to cold temperatures and seek out warmer waters during the colder months. Therefore, this is when they tend to congregate in the warmer springs, rivers, and power plant outflows.
The peak season for manatee viewing is usually from December to February when the water temperature drops significantly. During this time, manatees seek refuge in warm water areas, such as natural springs and power plant discharge areas, where the water remains a relatively constant temperature.
It’s important to note that manatee sightings can still occur outside of the peak season, especially in areas where there are resident populations or in warmer regions of Florida. However, the colder winter months generally offer the highest concentration of manatees in specific areas and increase the likelihood of sightings.
It’s always a good idea to check with local wildlife authorities, manatee sanctuaries, or specific viewing locations for the most up-to-date information on manatee sightings and the best times to visit. They can provide guidance on the current manatee activity and any regulations or guidelines for viewing these protected marine mammals.
Are Manatee Friendly To Humans?
Manatees are generally known for their gentle and docile nature, and they do not pose a threat to humans. They are often curious and may approach humans out of curiosity or to interact with objects in their environment. However, it’s important to remember that manatees are wild animals and should be treated with respect and caution.
While manatees may seem friendly, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance and avoid any physical contact with them. Manatees should not be approached, touched, or disturbed in any way. Interfering with their natural behavior can cause stress, disrupt their feeding or resting patterns, and potentially harm them.
It’s important to observe manatees responsibly and follow the guidelines provided by wildlife authorities or specific viewing locations. By keeping a respectful distance, observing quietly, an allowing manatees to go about their natural activities undisturbed, you can enjoy the experience of seeing these magnificent creatures while ensuring their well-being.
Are Manatees Endangered?
Yes, manatees are classified as endangered species. The specific classification may vary depending on the species and the region, but generally, all three species of manatees—the West Indian manatee, Amazonian manatee, and West African manatee—are considered endangered or threatened.
The West Indian Manatee is the species found in Florida and the Caribbean region. It is listed as endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. The main threats to manatees include habitat loss and degradation, boat strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, pollution, and cold stress during winter months.
Conservation efforts are in place to protect and recover manatee populations. These efforts include habitat conservation, manatee protection zones, speed restrictions in manatee habitats, public education and awareness campaigns, rescue and rehabilitation programs, and research to better understand their behavior and needs.
It is important to continue these conservation efforts and raise awareness about the importance of protecting manatees and their habitats to ensure their long-term survival.
Is It Illegal To Touch A Manatee In Florida?
Yes, it is illegal to touch or harass manatees in Florida. Manatees are protected by state and federal laws, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act. These laws prohibit any form of harassment, including touching, pursuing, disturbing, or feeding manatees in the wild.
Violating these laws can result in significant fines and penalties. In Florida, for example, it is a second-degree misdemeanor to intentionally or negligently injure or disturb a manatee, punishable by fines up to $500 and possible imprisonment.
It is crucial to respect manatees as wild animals and observe them from a safe and responsible distance.
Appreciating manatees without interfering with their natural behavior helps ensure their well-being and contributes to the conservation of these endangered creatures.
Why Can’t You Touch A Manatee
There are several reasons why it is important not to touch manatees:
🌴Protection of the Manatees: Manatees are protected by state and federal laws, such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act. These laws are in place to ensure the conservation and well-being of manatees. Touching or harassing manatees is not only unethical but also illegal, and violating these laws can result in fines and other penalties.
🌴Stress and Disruption: Manatees are sensitive creatures, and touching them can cause stress and disrupt their natural behavior. Manatees rely on their sensitive skin for various functions, including thermoregulation and tactile communication. Touching them can interfere with these
functions and potentially harm them.
🌴Disease Transmission: Manatees are susceptible to various diseases and infections. Touching them can inadvertently transfer harmful bacteria, fungi, or other pathogens from humans to themanatees, potentially causing illness or even death.
🌴Habituation and Dependency: Manatees are wild animals, and it is important to keep them wild. Touching or feeding manatees can lead to habituation, where they become accustomed to human interaction and lose their natural instincts. This can make them more vulnerable to harm, such as boat strikes, and alter their natural behaviors.
🌴Human Safety: While manatees are generally gentle, they are large and powerful creatures. Approaching or touching them can pose a risk to human safety, especially if they are startled or feel threatened. It is crucial to maintain a safe distance and observe manatees from a respectful and safe position.
By refraining from touching manatees and respecting their space, we can help protect their well-being, conserve their natural behavior, and ensure their long-term survival in the wild.
What To Do If You See A Manatee
If you have the opportunity to see a manatee in the wild, it’s essential to observe these gentle creatures responsibly and follow guidelines to ensure their well-being. Here’s what you should do if you see a manatee:
🌴Keep a safe distance: Maintain a respectful distance of at least 50 feet (15 meters) from the manatee. It’s important not to approach or chase them, as this can cause stress and disrupt their natural behavior.
🌴Observe from a passive position: Stay still and quiet while watching the manatee. Sudden movements, loud noises, or disturbances can startle or frighten them. Enjoy the experience of observing them from a distance without interfering.
🌴Do not touch or feed: It is illegal to touch or feed manatees in Florida. Although they might appear friendly, it’s crucial to refrain from any physical interaction or attempts to feed them. Feeding can disrupt their natural diet and behavior, and touching can cause harm or distress.
🌴Avoid blocking their path: If you are in the water and encounter a manatee, avoid blocking its path or impeding its movement. Allow the manatee to swim freely and maintain its natural behavior.
🌴Report any injured or distressed manatees: If you come across a manatee that appears injured, distressed, or is in need of assistance, report it immediately to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) or the local authorities. They have trained personnel who can provide the necessary care and support for the manatee.
🌴Follow local regulations and guidelines: Different areas may have specific rules and guidelines for manatee encounters. Be aware of and adhere to any local regulations, speed zones, or designated areas for manatee protection.
Remember, manatees are protected by state and federal laws, such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act. It is crucial to respect and conserve these magnificent creatures by observing them responsibly and promoting their well-being in their natural habitat.
What Aquariums In Florida Have Manatees
Here is a list of the aquariums in Florida where you can see manatees in a rehabilitive environment and learn about the work that is being done to help these adorable creatures thrive:
Walt Disney World’s Epcot Center – Orlando
The manatee seen in EPCOT’s The Seas with Nemo & Friends. Over the years, wounded manatees have sought rehabilitation at SeaBase following near-fatal boat incidents that hampered their capacity to survive in the wild. Others came to help after being affected by Cold Stress.
The majority of the manatees at The Seas Pavilion are only cared for a short time with the goal of reintroducing them back to the wild. They are carefully watched and skillfully cared for, with the intention of returning them to the wild after enough recovery and rehabilitation.
SeaWorld – Orlando
SeaWorld has a theme park manatee program and viewing area. Visitors are welcome to have a look behind the scenes at SeaWorld’s operating manatee rescue and rehabilitation center to learn more about the situation of these fragile animals in the wild.
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park – Homosassa
The Underwater Observatory, a one-of-a-kind underwater structure, allows visitors to walk underwater beneath the spring’s surface to see the numerous fish and manatees swimming about. Look down into the depths of the first-magnitude spring to see if you can spot any fish or manatees in their native home.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park – Tampa
Inside its Florida portion, ZooTampa at Lowry Park contains a manatee exhibit viewing area and an on-site hospital utilized for manatee rehabilitation.
Miami Seaquarium – Miami
The Manatee Presentation teaches guests about this intriguing species and, more significantly, discusses how they may help rescue these peaceful marine animals. The manatees exhibited are part of the Miami Seaquarium rescue and rehabilitation program.
Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium – Sarasota
Mote Marine Lab’s research facility is home to manatees and other aquatic creatures. Manatee biology, health, behavior, and conservation initiatives are all being studied so that we can better assist in their preservation.
Parker Manatee Aquarium – Bradenton
The newly refurbished Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is modeled after a cypress spring and housing manatees who were rescued from the wild after becoming sick or wounded.
This display gives tourists information on the anatomy and life history of manatees, as well as the problems they experience in the wild, from above and below the sea.
Is There A Safe Place To Go See And Swim With Manatees In Florida?
Yes, there are designated areas in Florida where you can safely observe and swim with manatees. These areas are regulated to ensure the well-being of the manatees and to minimize any potential harm to them. Here are some well-known locations where you can have a safe and enjoyable manatee experience:
🌴Crystal River and Homosassa Springs: Crystal River and Homosassa Springs on the Gulf Coast of Florida are popular destinations for manatee encounters. There are several licensed tour operators in the area that offer guided tours and snorkeling experiences in designated manatee sanctuaries. These tours provide an opportunity to observe and swim with manatees while following strict guidelines to protect the animals.
🌴Blue Spring State Park: Blue Spring State Park, located near Orange City in Central Florida, is another excellent location to see manatees. During the winter months, the park’s spring run serves as a manatee refuge, and visitors can observe these gentle creatures from designated viewing areas. Swimming with manatees is not permitted in the spring run, but guided snorkeling tours are available in the adjacent St. Johns River.
🌴Three Sisters Springs: Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River is known to be one of the most popular and unique spots to safely see manatees in Florida. It’s a low-impact, small gem in the heart of Kings Bay, surrounded by a wooden boardwalk, and provides opportunities for boating and kayaking tours to see manatees from a safe distance. You can rent a kayak or take a guided tour during the winter season, between November and April.
🌴Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center: Located near the Big Bend Power Station in Apollo Beach, the Manatee Viewing Center provides visitors with a unique opportunity to see manatees safely in their natural habitat. The power plant’s warm water discharge canal acts as a haven for the gentle sea cows. The observation tower, boardwalks, and exhibits provide visitors with the chance to observe manatees up close without disturbing them.
🌴Fort Pierce Inlet State Park: If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Fort Pierce Inlet State Park is the perfect choice. This hidden gem lies between Vero Beach and Fort Pierce, and offers visitors the opportunity to get up close to a small group of manatees that regularly visit the lagoon and feed on the sea grass.
🌴Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: Another No-Touch attraction is the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. There are marked observatories where you can watch the manatees undisturbed. Manatees spend their winter here along the Indian River Lagoon. They come here to avoid the cold surface water and soak up the warm sun. A day at this refuge isn’t entirely limited to appreciating these gentle giants, as the park also offers a chance to explore the area on walking and biking trails.
🌴Manatee Park: Located on the Orange River in Fort Myers, the Manatee Park provides an ideal refuge for manatees during winter. The warm freshwater of the river discharge attracts a large number of manatees between November and March. The park doesn’t allow swimming with manatees or kayaking with them, but you can still enjoy their presence during several guided walks and nature trails.
🌴Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: Here’s another spot to observe manatees in their natural surroundings. The Weeki Wachee River is a warm, crystal-clear waterway that flows into the Gulf of Mexico. During colder months, manatees come here to take refuge. You can take a riverboat ride or rent a kayak and paddle gently along the peaceful stream. Visitors are not to disturb the manatees or their habitat.
Lee County Manatee Park: Situated in Fort Myers, Lee County Manatee Park features a warm-water refuge area where manatees gather during the cooler months. The park offers observation decks and educational exhibits to learn more about these fascinating creatures.
🌴Manatee Lagoon: An FPL Eco-Discovery Center: Located in Riviera Beach near West Palm Beach, Manatee Lagoon serves as a viewing center for manatees. The facility provides visitors with interactive exhibits, observation decks, and a chance to learn about manatee conservation.
🌴Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park: Look for manatees from the park’s diving platform or various areas of the river via park’s tour boats. Fees for park entry and boat tours.
🌴Fanning Springs State Park: Manatees are occasionally present in Fanning Springs. Entrance fee
🌴Manatee Springs State Park: During winter, look for manatees in spring and spring run. Entrance fee.
🌴Manatee Observation and Education Center: Open year-round with many programs. Occasional manatee sightings in winter. Entrance fee.
🌴Spring Bayou of Craig and Coburn Parks: November through May, manatees visit freshwater spring bayou near small community parks. Parking limited in this historic district.
🌴Wakulla and the St. Marks Rivers: Manatees may be seen by boat or canoe on these scenic rivers during the summer months. Canoe rentals are available on both rivers via SR 98 between Newport and Crawfordville and in St. Marks, FL. Manatees overwinter at either Wakulla Springs or in the Crystal River/Kings Bay area.
Remember that manatees are protected by law, and it’s important to observe them responsibly and respect their space. Always follow guidelines provided by the respective parks and wildlife authorities to ensure the well-being of these incredible creatures. Please note that availability and sightings of manatees can vary depending on the season, weather conditions, and other factors. It’s recommended to check with the specific locations or local authorities for the most up-to-date information on manatee viewing opportunities.
When visiting these areas, it’s important to book tours or activities with reputable operators who prioritize the well-being of the manatees and follow responsible guidelines for interaction. They will provide you with the necessary information and equipment to have a safe and respectful experience with these magnificent animals.
Always remember to observe any rules and regulations in place, maintain a safe distance, and respect the guidelines provided by tour operators or park authorities to ensure the protection of the manatees and their natural habitat
The Best Manatee Tours and Encounters
Boat Tours
This excursion is ideal for staying dry while viewing the wild manatees of the Kings Bay Wildlife Refuge. This journey is for one of the most remarkable experiences of your life! During our trip, you will look for Florida’s world-famous wild manatees, which have earned Crystal River the moniker “The Manatee Capital of the World.” There is also a possibility to observe many other types of birds, turtles, and even a dolphin from time to time, so keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this place home.
➡️ BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE! ⬅️
Manatee Sightseeing and Wildlife Boat Tour
This journey allows you to see the gentle giants of the sea in their natural environment. Climb aboard and cruise the Florida canals in search of wildlife. Alligators, dolphins, and many birds are known to visit the region; bring your camera! The manatees may occasionally swim straight up to the boat for a very unique encounter.
➡️ BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE! ⬅️
Kayak Tours
Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Fort Myers
On a paddleboard trip around Fort Myers, you can get up close and personal with Florida’s wildlife. Slowly traverse the rivers in search of West Indian manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, pelicans, and other wildlife.
➡️ BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE! ⬅️
Swimming Encounters
3 Hour Swim with Manatees in Florida
Swim alongside manatees on this Crystal River nature trip. Admire these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, under the cautious eye of an in-water guide who works to guarantee safe and polite interactions between humans and manatees at all times.
Snorkeling equipment is included in the trip price, and professional underwater images are available for purchase after the excursion. No more than 12 persons in a small group. There are semi-private and VIP tours with several departure times available.
➡️ BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE! ⬅️
Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Guide/Photographer
This boat excursion introduces you to the endangered manatees of central Florida. Swim and snorkel with these gentle giants in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, located in King’s Bay in Crystal River, the manatee capital of the world.
Photos will be shot above and below the water throughout the trip and can be purchased later if wanted. The use of a mask, snorkeling equipment, and a wet suit, as well as refreshments, are all included.
➡️ BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE! ⬅️
On a kayak excursion through Blue Springs State Park, one of Florida’s greatest manatee populations may be seen in its natural habitat. Observe the gentle critters from a safe distance as your guide gives insightful comments about the region’s animal and plant life. This trip moves at a moderate pace and is appropriate for people of all skill levels.
➡️ BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE! ⬅️
Conclusion: Where To See Manatees In Florida
The chance to experience these lovely marine mammals is a once-in-a-lifetime event. Remember that manatees are an endangered species and they should be treated with the utmost care and respect.
With so many great places where you can safely see Manatees, be sure to include one of these locations into your itinerary on your next visit to Florida. Remember not to touch, feed, or chase the manatees, and enjoy observing these gentle giants in their natural habitats!
