Published at USA365 in 2018, adjusted in 2025. Have you ever dreamed of snorkeling alongside manatees? Crystal River in Florida is the best place in the world to see — and even swim with — these gentle giants. Yvonne was lucky enough to visit this Manatee Capital of the World three times and shares her experiences.
Crystal River
The small town of Crystal River lies on Florida’s Nature Coast, about an hour and a half west of Orlando. As you leave the busy, touristy heart of central Florida and drive toward the Gulf Coast, the scenery quickly changes. Things feel slower here and a little less polished, more authentic. Crystal River doesn't dazzle at first, until you discover the magic. It offers a truly unique experience in a beautiful natural setting.
Plantation on Crystal River
There are several hotels in Crystal River, but if you want to spot manatees right from your room or while lounging by the water, stay at Plantation on Crystal River. This charming, eco-friendly resort combines classic Southern style with great amenities — a restaurant, spa, 27-hole golf course, and its own dive and snorkel center. Some rooms feel slightly dated, but the location makes up for everything. During all my stays, I spotted manatees right off the property, along with bald eagles, countless birds, squirrels, and even a snake.
Freshwater Springs
The area around Crystal River is famous for its many freshwater springs, which stay a constant 72°F (22°C) year-round. Between November and March, when the Gulf of Mexico cools, hundreds of manatees gather in these shallow, warm waters. Around Kings Bay and Three Sisters Springs, you can spot them year-round, though in much smaller numbers during summer. The crystal-clear water allows you to see underwater life even from a kayak or canoe — but the ultimate way to experience it, is by snorkeling among the manatees themselves.
The Manatee
Roughly 400 West Indian manatees live in the bay around Crystal River. These “gentle giants” thrive where saltwater meets freshwater, grazing daily on 80–130 pounds (40–60 kg) of seagrass, algae, and mangrove leaves. They grow up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) long, can weigh over 1,300 pounds (600 kg), and live for as long as 60 years. They may look big and clumsy, but they’re peaceful, curious, and completely harmless.
A Protected Species
Manatees reach maturity between ages five and seven and give birth to only one calf at a time. While they have no natural predators, human activity has dramatically affected their population. Habitat loss, collisions with motorboats, and pollution all pose serious threats. In 2018, Florida’s manatees suffered greatly from a toxic “red tide” algae bloom. Then, in 2021, more than 1,100 manatees died — mostly from starvation due to declining water quality. In 2022 more than 800 manatees died. As a result, manatees remain a protected species in Florida. Thanks to ongoing conservation efforts and habitat protection, the manatee population in Crystal River has begun to grow again.
Snorkeling with Manatees
Snorkel tours begin early in the morning. As our boat heads toward Three Sisters Springs, we already spot our first manatee gliding beside us. The rising sun and light mist over the water create a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere. Just before reaching the spring, we drop anchor and slip quietly into the water. Almost immediately, we see a group of slow-moving manatees resting on the sandy bottom. Because they surface to breathe every few minutes — even while sleeping — we’re instructed to keep a respectful distance and never disturb them. “If a manatee approaches you, let it happen,” our guide explains. “They’re curious and gentle by nature.” Moments later, I discover how true that is.
A Magical Encounter
We snorkel through a narrow passage of rocks into the spring itself. The water grows clearer, and soon I can see the manatees floating gracefully in the distance. Some rest, others drift by, and a few mothers keep close watch over their calves. One medium-sized manatee swims straight toward me, clearly seeking contact. It rolls onto its back, almost inviting me to rub its belly. Hesitant at first, I gently reach out — and it seems to enjoy it. The manatee lingers nearby, circling and returning several times, as if to say hello again. When I finally look around, the rest of our group has already drifted away...
Mixed Feelings
That evening, we dine at Crackers Bar & Grill, a classic American restaurant overlooking the bay — serving fresh fish, big burgers, and even alligator. As we watch the sun set over the water, I can’t help reflecting on the experience. Swimming with wild manatees was extraordinary, yet it also raises questions. These animals are protected in Florida, and touching them is normally prohibited. Only in Crystal River (Citrus County) is gentle contact allowed — and only if the manatee initiates it. Before the tour, we received clear instructions on how to behave respectfully, and the animals didn’t seem bothered by our presence. Still, I left with mixed emotions. I can only hope that the friendly manatee who sought me out enjoyed the encounter as much as I did.
