Skip The Tourist Traps And Swim With Sea Creatures At This Hidden Gem Spot In Florida

Florida, which has white sand beaches and romantic islands, is a perfect tropical destination for those who want to travel within the United States. However, the state is also known for its animal-centered experiences. Think Discovery Cove in Orlando and Marineland Dolphin Adventure in St. Augustine, to name a few. These attractions offer visitors the chance to swim with dolphins for a hefty price. Unfortunately, certain publications consider them to be tourist traps. If you prefer an underrated vacation spot in Florida that offers wildlife encounters, look no further than Crystal River.

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, about an hour and a half from Tampa, Crystal River is nicknamed the "manatee capital of the world." One of the timeless things visitors can do in Florida and Crystal River is swim with these aquatic animals. Manatees, also called sea cows, are herbivorous mammals benevolent toward humans. They can only live in warm waters. Hence, they flock to Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge and Kings Bay for its tepid water temperatures from November until the end of March.

That said, the best option to swim with the manatees is through a tour — several tour operators in Crystal River supply this service, including Crystal River Watersports. For $115, their three-hour VIP Manatee Tour takes six guests via boat to a manatee hotspot to swim with these gentle creatures. Snorkeling gear and other equipment are provided to enhance the experience. However, there are different ways to experience Crystal River's manatees.

Excitement awaits in Crystal River, Florida. In addition to swimming and snorkeling with manatees, visitors can join a manatee kayak tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking. For optimal viewing of manatees, the two-hour guided tour takes visitors around Kings Bay in clear kayaks (seen in the TikTok above). No prior experience is needed to enjoy this activity. At the time of this publication, prices range from $64 to $74. Note that this tour can accommodate up to 10 people and is only available from March until November.

Not into the idea of kayaking? Thanks to Manatee Paddle, visitors can paddle board in the presence of these sea creatures at Three Sisters Springs, at Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. At the time of this publication, Paddleboard rentals are $40. Although this is not a tour and is entirely self-guided, Manatee Paddle does provide guests with information on the best spots to view manatees.

Those who want to see the manatees without stepping into the water can take an eco-cruise with Explorida. The tour is $35 at the time of this publication and departs from Pete's Pier. In addition, it's an hour and a half long and is available year-round. You can view the manatees at Three Sisters Springs if you want to stay on land. A viewing platform is available at this lush refuge. Admission ranges from $7.50 to $20. Three Sisters Springs is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Whether swimming, kayaking, or participating in other activities centered on manatees in Crystal River, Florida, here's what you need to know. Manatees are considered a threatened species, so it is imperative to keep them safe. Although they are adorable, don't touch the manatees. While they are not dangerous to humans, touching them could have dire consequences on their behavior and habits. It is also illegal to do this due to the Manatee Sanctuary Act.

Under this legislation, it's unlawful to feed, chase, agitate, or interfere with manatees in any way. If disobeyed, it could lead to a fine or jail time. Other things to note: refrain from making too much noise or commotion, and ensure you give the manatees their space when you're in their presence. If you don't and you're on a kayak, you risk the manatees (unintentionally) tipping you over. For your best chance of seeing the manatees in Crystal River, make sure to visit between November and March.

Overall, experiencing manatees up close in Crystal River, Florida, is an opportunity of a lifetime. If you need a place to stay, consider Plantation Resort on Crystal River. Prices start at less than $200 a night. Plantation Resort on Crystal River has typical amenities like a pool, spa, and eateries. However, there's also an Adventure Center where guests can book (for additional fees) manatee tours, including snorkeling or a cruise.