What is the best time of day to see manatees in Crystal River?
The best time of day to swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida is typically early in the morning. This is because the manatees are more active during this time and are easier to spot.
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What time of day is best for swimming with manatees? When planning your trip, consider visiting the springs in the early morning and during the middle of the week. Local springs will be less crowded on weekdays and the manatees are most active and playful in the mornings.
The Three Sisters Springs is a quieter viewing and swimming spot but wherever you are, the best time to be with the manatees is early morning 6 am to 8.30 am when they are most active.
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge has a lovely boardwalk rimming Three Sisters Springs that gives you good views of the springs and manatees, if any are present.
Tours average around $70 per person including the use of a wetsuit, snorkel. mask and a floating device. The West Indian manatee is an imperiled species and is protected by the laws of the state of Florida and US Fish and Wildlife.
The manatee season at Crystal River NWR begins in mid-November and ends in late March. This is when the manatee sanctuaries go into effect. During the winter months, manatees come to the springs of Crystal River NWR to conserve the energy necessary to survive the cold Gulf waters.
The dolphin encounters in Homosassa and Crystal River Florida (Central West Coast Gulf Side) have become more and more popular. These guys have no schedule and can show up anywhere. The dolphins are funny and have amazing speeds. Let's head out on a river boat ride to see these wild dolphins.
One of the best, and most popular places to see manatees in Florida is in Crystal River, Florida. This area is just an hour or so north of the Tampa area along the Gulf Coast. It offers easy access and plenty of opportunities for close encounters with manatees.
Crystal River Florida is the only place in the United States where you can legally swim with these amazing and gentle creatures right in their own natural habitat.