Last Updated on February 7, 2024
Are you wondering where to see Florida manatees in 2024? We have uncovered the best places to see manatees in Florida.
The manatee is also known as Florida’s gentle giant (the “sea cow.”). It’s usually spotted in the largest numbers during winter and early spring.
When water temperatures dip below 68 degrees, manatees gravitate towards warmer waters. This makes Florida’s 72-degree freshwater springs an ideal respite for these warm-blooded mammals.
The added benefit is that we can observe them in clear water. It makes it much easier to see manatees in Florida.
Manatees are found congregating around bubbly springs. They tend to stay within state and marine water parks.
They also like to be near power plants where warm water outflow keeps their body temperatures constant.
Mid-November through late March is an ideal time to look for these true Florida natives. When summer months approach, these endearing creatures tend to scatter.
Did you know manatees are related to the elephant, with grayish thick, leathery wrinkled skin? Propelled by huge powerful tails, manatees are, in fact, slow swimmers.
They tend to lumber along quietly through Florida’s waterways. If you look, you can find them year-round in Florida.
However, spotting them in cooler months when large numbers cluster together is much easier.
As herbivores, manatees usually dine on marine and freshwater plants. They graze along grass flats and aquatic meadows.
Manatees surface for air while breathing through their whiskered nostrils.
These gentle creatures are heavyweights. Manatees weigh anywhere between 1,000-3,500 pounds. They consume up to ten percent of their body weight in marine vegetation each day.
The females give birth to calves typically weighing 60+ pounds. Manatees nurse underwater from teats located behind the mother’s flippers.
Where do you find a Florida Manatee?
There are various places to see our state’s unique underwater mammals. Some locations have platforms where visitors may observe them from lookout decks.
Many parks have boardwalks adjacent to waterways where manatees can be seen in masses.
Several Florida outdoor adventure outfitters specialize in manatee trips. Go by boat, canoe, or kayak, where adventurers can get an up-close and personal look.
Do not get too close, as strict rules about keeping a safe distance exist. Expert guides know where to spot the enormous creatures.
Guides share information about how to see and protect these endangered species.
Florida Manatee Festivals in 2024
There are several Florida Manatee Festivals in 2024. Check 46 Top Florida Events in January 2024 for more info.
Two of the most popular locations in Florida to see manatees are located in the Central Florida area. They are Blue Spring State Park and Crystal River, home of the best Florida Manatee Festivals.
Table of contents
- Where do you find a Florida Manatee?
- Florida Manatee Festivals in 2024
- Blue Spring State Park, Orange City
- Crystal River, Kings Bay
- Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Titusville
- Manatee Springs State Park, Chiefland
- Lovers Key State Park, Fort Myers
- Mary McLeod Bethune Park West Side, New Smyrna Beach
- The Warm Water Flow: Manatees Congregate at Power Plants
- Manatee Observation and Educational Center, Fort Pierce
- Lee County Manatee Park, Fort Myers
- Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, Wakulla Springs (South of Tallahassee)
- Wakulla River and the St. Marks River, Northwest Florida
- Protecting the Manatee
- Frequently Asked Manatee Questions
- Florida Manatee Winter Feeding Program – Update as of 12/6/23
- Photographer David Schrichte
Blue Spring State Park, Orange City
Beautiful Blue Springs Park is located north of Orlando in Orange City. The Park is a designated manatee river national wildlife refuge and is ideal for viewing.
The refreshing, 72-degree water of Blue Spring has welcomed warmth from the cooler St. Johns River.
A half-mile boardwalk borders the Blue Spring Run, the main manatee viewing area. You can see the translucent spring on one end and the St. Johns River on the other.
Interpretive displays along the boardwalk provide history and education about wildlife (particularly manatees) and the ecological wonders of the area.
Blue Springs State Park Address: 2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
Crystal River, Kings Bay
Citrus County’s Crystal River has an abundance of freshwater springs. It is located North of Tampa and west of Orlando, along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Crystal River is known for its first-magnitude spring system that starts in Kings Bay. It has the distinction of being the largest gathering area for Florida manatees in the United States.
This is one of the few locations where you can snorkel, swim and drift (from a distance) with the manatees.
If you would rather walk than swim to see manatees, try Hunter Springs.
This local city park added a walkway providing premium manatee viewing opportunities. There is also parking, a kayak launch, and a beach area.
Crystal River, Kings Bay Address: 268 NW 3rd St. Crystal River, FL 34429
Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River
Three Sisters Springs is tucked away in one of the last undeveloped tracts in Crystal River. It is a collection of three springs feeding into Kings Bay.
Considered to be one of Florida’s most visually stunning springs, its translucent blue hues create an “other-worldly” feel.
Shafts of sunlight pierce through the lush overhanging greenery into the glittering crystal-clear water.
The water bubbles up from the sandy bottom as manatees gently glide below the surface.
A boardwalk with viewing platforms gives visitors a perfect vantage point. Visitors can access the boardwalk via a trolley tour departing from the Three Sisters Springs Center every half hour.
The Trolley also provides access to Hunter Springs Park.
Citrus County’s Homosassa River offers kayakers another option to see manatees.
Launch at the Old Homosassa public ramp and paddle upriver towards the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. It is an easy one-hour ride.
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is worth a visit. This Old Florida roadside attraction is home to Lu the Hippo.
“Blue Water” is your destination, where manatees congregate outside the park before they enter warmer springs.
This is a prime location for manatee observation and a favorite with paddlers (FYI: kayakers cannot enter the park from the River).
Three Sisters Springs Address: 601 Three Sisters Springs Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429
Chassahowitzka River, Homosassa
Citrus County’s Chassahowitzka River, south of Homosassa Springs, is one of the most scenic rivers in all of Florida.
Travel with a guide, as you will get more from your visit and spot more wildlife, including manatees.
Chassohowitzka River Address: 8600 W Miss Maggie Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448
Weeki Wachee River, Spring Hill
The Weeki Wachee River is on Florida’s Adventure Coast in Hernando Count. This is another popular spot for manatees traveling up and down the river. They are often en route to Weeki Wachee Springs.
You may want to start at the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. You can also take a kayak down the translucent waterway with a shallow sandy bottom.
The slow, easy, five-mile, three-hour kayak paddle downstream is an ideal day on the water. You are likely to spot manatees along the way. Think of it like an authentic Florida lazy river!
Boating In Florida, located adjacent to the Weeki Wachee Park, will provide equipment and tips for an enjoyable kayak ride.
You’ll paddle under a shady natural canopy of cypress and oak trees while enjoying plenty of wildlife.
In addition, they provide transportation back to the park, making it a leisurely one-way, downstream paddle.
Weeki Wachee River Address: 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, FL 34606
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Titusville
A manatee observation area is in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). The location is where the Haulover Canal connects the Mosquito Lagoon and the Indian River.
(Call the Merritt Island NWR before you go, as the sightings can be unpredictable. (321) 861-0669)
Also, across the street at Bairs Cove Boat ramp, manatees have been spotted.
You may consider a kayak tour if you want to be guided to the best spots.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Address: 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL 32782
Manatee Springs State Park, Chiefland
During the cooler months, manatees travel up the Suwannee River in search of Florida’s springs.
Manatee Springs State Park has a connected run that leads manatees into the spring area.
Call ahead before going ((352) 493-6072). The best times to view manatees are November through April.
Manatee Springs State Park Address: 11650 NW 115th St, Chiefland, FL 32626
Lovers Key State Park, Fort Myers
Located in Fort Myers Beach, Lovers Key is a popular destination for manatees, particularly in the canal areas.
Effective Sept. 23, 2023: Lovers Key State Park has reopened for limited day-use activities.
- Tram services operate 8 a.m. to sunset and transports visitors within 800 feet of the beach.
- The concessionaire offers paddling equipment rentals, beach chair and umbrella rentals.
- There’s a gift shop which offers souvenirs, beverages and snack items.
- The Discovery Center is open Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- The boat ramp is open and under ongoing repairs to replace docks and repair restrooms.
- Boat trailer parking is limited at this time.
- Please adhere to all posted signs and avoid closed areas.
- Please note: The park does not have electricity.
Effective Jan. 3, 2024: The boat ramp will be closed temporarily for construction.
The park ranger will give you tips on the best places to see manatees.
Lovers Key State Park Address: 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Mary McLeod Bethune Park West Side, New Smyrna Beach
With over 800 feet of direct beachfront sidewalk, this park is a beautiful spot to see wildlife.
The manatees are in the Cove on the west side of the intercoastal riverside.
There’s a dock at this public park where you can spot manatees. You can also rent a kayak nearby at JB’s Fish Camp.
JB’s is one of the best spots in New Smyrna Beach to grab a cocktail and dine on delicious seafood. You can also enjoy a beautiful Florida sunset.
Mary McLeod Bethune Park West Side Address: Ladyfish Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169
While in the area check out, 14 Top Things to Do in New Smyrna Beach in 2023 and Best Places to Eat in New Smyrna Beach in 2023.
The Warm Water Flow: Manatees Congregate at Power Plants
An easy way to see manatees is adjacent to power plants situated on or near bodies of water. The discharge of warm water from the industrial station sends a steady stream of warm water.
This creates a hospitable environment for the manatees.
TECO Manatee Viewing Center, Apollo Beach
Tampa Electric created the Manatee Viewing Center after people began seeing manatees congregating near the Big Bend Power Station discharge canal.
Designated as a manatee sanctuary, the Apollo Beach location near Tampa Bay has a manatee educational center.
There’s also a 50-foot observation tower, trails, a boardwalk & butterfly gardens.
TECO Manatee Viewing Center Address: 6990 Dickman Rd, Apollo Beach, FL 33572
While in the area, check out The Showmen’s Museum is the Epicenter of Carnival History.
Manatee Lagoon – Florida Power & Light Eco-Discovery Center, West Palm Beach
This FPL Eco-Discovery Center® is a free Palm Beach County educational attraction. It includes a dedicated area to view manatees up close.
The 16,000-square-foot center features engaging, hands-on exhibits for visitors.
Learn all about the unique creatures as well as the natural wonders of the surrounding Lake Worth Lagoon.
During the colder winter months, the facility’s observation deck is the ideal spot to view manatees. They love to bask in the warm-water outflows.
The water flows from Florida Power & Light Company’s adjacent Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center.
The Manatee Lagoon also offers digital resources and educational virtual content for manatee fans near and far on its website: VisitManateeLagoon.com.
Manatee Lagoon – Florida Power & Light Eco-Discovery Center Address: 6000 N Flagler Dr, West Palm Beach, FL 33407
While in the area, check out 6 Fun Things to Do Around the Palm Beaches and 19+ Best Things to Do in Lake Worth Beach, FL.
Manatee Observation and Educational Center, Fort Pierce
Located on Florida’s east coast, the Center is managed by Ft. Pierce Power Authority. Although, it’s no longer physically connected to the power plant.
The center overlooks Moore’s Creek, which runs into the Indian River Lagoon. It provides a resting spot for manatees with a boardwalk and observation deck providing viewing opportunities.
Swampland Tours and Lisa’s Kayaks provide adventure tours to get on the water for closer observation.
Manatee Observation and Educational Center Address: 480 N Indian River Dr, Fort Pierce, FL 34950
Lee County Manatee Park, Fort Myers
Situated across the street from Florida Power & Light Company, the Manatee Park is located on the discharge canal.
It is a walking park with boardwalks and plenty of opportunities to see the mammals.
Guided kayak tours are available from Florida Naturalists by calling the Calusa Blueway Outfitters.
Lee County Manatee Park Address: 10901 Palm Beach Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33905
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, Wakulla Springs (South of Tallahassee)
The Wakulla Springs State Park is one of the best state parks in all of Florida. It has the deepest freshwater spring and it is also a haven for manatees.
The park boat tours highlight the wintering manatees and plenty of wildlife in the park. March through September is the best time of year for viewing.
Edward Bell Wakulla Springs State Park Address: 465 Wakulla Park Dr, Wakulla Springs, FL 32327
Wakulla River and the St. Marks River, Northwest Florida
Manatees are viewed year-round, especially when traveling to the warm Wakulla Springs.
Harry Smith Outdoors offers tours where manatees are also often seen in the river.
Protecting the Manatee
Sadly, there are so many threats to these endangered creatures. The greatest ones are the destruction of their habitats.
Also, careless boaters drive too quickly through “manatee zones” often scarring and killing the animals with sharp boat propellers.
Global climate change affects both temperature and water quality.
However, don’t lose hope when it comes to manatees. Education and awareness go a long way in creating a better future for the manatee.
For information and tips on how to help the manatee, check out our Save the Manatee article.
Also, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service YouTube Channel has a series called “Manatee Manners” that provides an excellent overview for swimmers, paddlers, photographers, and more.
Frequently Asked Manatee Questions
Florida manatees are native to Florida. They are a subspecies of the West Indian manatee.
See our article: Swim with a Manatee and Experience the Authentic Crystal River, the Soul of Florida.
The manatee is protected by the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978, which states: “It is unlawful for any person, at any time, intentionally or negligently, to annoy, molest, harass, or disturb any manatee.”
Florida Manatee Winter Feeding Program – Update as of 12/6/23
A two-year experimental feeding program for starving Florida manatees will not immediately resume this winter.
Conditions have improved for the threatened marine mammals and the seagrass on which they depend, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials said.
For more Florida Manatees stories on Authentic Florida, check out
- Swim with a Manatee and Experience Authentic Crystal River, the Soul of Florida
- Happy Manatee Awareness Month!
- Manatees Arrive Daily at Blue Spring State Park
- Manatees Gather at Three Sisters Springs
- Where to Observe Manatees in the Wild
Photographer David Schrichte
A HUGE shoutout to David Schrichte for allowing us to use his incredible manatee photos. He is an amazing photographer and videographer.
He specializes in photos of manatees, dolphins and other wildlife. His work is featured in several magazines, including National Geographic and Outdoor Photographer.
Visit his website at www.manateepics.com to explore more of his incredible shots!