Kayak With Manatees in Crystal River, FL: Ultimate Guide 2025

Preparing your trip to Florida and want to know how to kayak with manatees in Crystal River?

This guide is your go-to source for planning your adventure, providing you with all the essential details, tips, and insights to ensure your trip is seamless and memorable.

Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-timer eager to meet the iconic manatees up close, this experience promises to be one for the books.

I went kayaking with manatees in Crystal River at the Three Sisters Springs, and I can’t wait to share my experience with you!

Is Kayaking With Manatees in Crystal River Worth it?

Absolutely, kayaking with manatees in Crystal River is a must-do. Most tours focus at the Three Sisters Spring and King’s Bay, which are the best spots to see manatees in town.

It’s not only a rare opportunity to be up close with manatees in their natural habitat but also an immersive way to appreciate the stunning natural beauty of Crystal River. Here below is the best experience you can join, and the clear kayak tour includes everything you need!

What Are Manatees?

Manatees, often known as sea cows, are gentle giants found in warm coastal areas and rivers. These marine mammals are known for their slow-moving nature and spend most of their time eating, resting, and travelling.

Manatees are fully aquatic and can weigh as much as 1,200 pounds, reaching lengths of up to 13 feet.

Despite their size, they’re surprisingly graceful swimmers, propelling themselves with their tails. They have a friendly disposition towards humans, making the kayak experience a must-do in Crystal River.

Where to See Manatees in Crystal River?

Crystal River, Florida, is one of the best places in the world to see manatees, especially during the cooler months from November to March.

Kings Bay, the main body of water in Crystal River, has various springs where manatees congregate, making it an ideal spot for kayaking and snorkelling with them.

Why are there Manatees in Crystal River?

Manatees travel to Crystal River for its warm, spring-fed waters, which offer a haven from the colder Gulf of Mexico during winter months.

These springs maintain a constant temperature of around 72°F (22°C), perfect for manatees seeking refuge from the cold. The abundance of seagrass beds in the area also provides a good food source for them.

How Big are Manatees?

Manatees are impressive in size and typically range from 8 to 13 feet in length, and can weigh anywhere from 800 to 1,200 pounds.

Despite their bulky appearance, manatees are peaceful animals. Their bodies are adapted to life in water, with a paddle-shaped tail and two flippers.

Can You Kayak With Manatees on Your Own?

Yes, you can kayak with manatees at the Three Sisters Springs on your own, but it’s crucial to respect wildlife regulations, and I recommend doing it only if you have experience kayaking.

The area is regulated to ensure the safety and well-being of these amazing manatees, they’re legally protected by Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act and Crystal River City ordinance, so it’s important to follow the regulations, and that’s why I suggest booking a tour instead.

Best Crystal River Kayaking Tours

What to Expect When Kayaking With Manatees in Crystal River

Heading out on a kayak trip in Crystal River, you’re in for a real treat, and you’ll start the experience at Kings Bay Park, where you’ll meet your tour guides.

Everything you need is sorted, so you can get on your clear tandem kayaks immediately and start paddling. Crystal River is a hotspot for West Indian manatees, and you’ll paddle alongside your guide to find these gentle giants at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.

Learn about the local ecosystem from your guide, who knows where manatees like to relax, so it’s easy to find them. You might also spot dolphins, turtles, and various birds, making the experience even more unique.

When I took this awesome manatee tour, we weren’t supposed to chase them or make any sudden movements, and that’s the reason why I recommended booking the tour above.

Make sure to pack your bathing suit, comfortable clothing to get changed (dry clothes), and if you need it, the Crystal River kayak company will give you a life vest.

At 10 metres long, a West Indian manatee swimming right at you munching away might seem worrying but trust me these are gentle giants, and you’re more in danger from the people around you than the manatee!

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m confident you have all the information you need before going on a swim with manatees in Crystal River. But now, let’s discuss some more details you may need when coming to town.

How to Get to Crystal River?

While there isn’t an airport in Crystal River, the nearest one is Gainesville (GNV). However, the more popular choices are Orlando (MCO) and Tampa (TPA) airports, both located approximately an hour’s drive away.

From there, you can rent a car and drive to Crystal River, as it’s only about 75 miles away from Tampa Airport and about 100 miles from Orlando Airport.

How Long to Stay in Crystal River?

Staying two days in Crystal River is enough to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife around. Spend the first day on the manatee experience, and go cycling or visit Fort Cooper State Park.

On the second day, visit other local attractions, like the Crystal River Archaeological State Park or go hiking in the nearby preserves.

Read More Here: Complete Itinerary for Crystal River, Florida

What is the Best Time to Visit Crystal River?

The best time to swim with manatees is from November to April, right in the heart of manatee season. These cooler months give you the best chance to see these gentle giants up close in their natural habitat.

Manatees love warm water, so when the temperatures drop, they gather in springs like Three Sisters a premier destination for them. While you can visit year-round, colder water usually means more manatees!

For a quieter, more peaceful experience, head to the springs early in the morning or on a weekday, it’s worth it to avoid the crowds and enjoy the magic.

Where to Stay in Crystal River, FL?

Here’s a list of great places to stay in town:

Luxury: Holiday Inn Express Crystal River

Mid-Range: Retreat at Crystal Manatee

Budget: Days Inn by Wyndham

Conclusion – Kayak With Manatees Crystal River

This was your ultimate guide to kayaking with manatees in Crystal River, and I hope it helped you planning the experience!

Remember that this experience is more than just an adventure; it’s your chance to connect with nature and make the most of your time in town.

As someone who joined the boat tour, I can confidently say that it was one incredible activity, and you’ll love it!