When manatee season arrives in Florida — from November to March — the state’s springs and rivers turn into true natural sanctuaries for these gentle sea giants. With their calm nature and curious looks, manatees have won the hearts of both locals and visitors. If you love nature and are looking for a unique experience, this is the perfect time to see them — or even swim near them — always respecting their space and the rules that protect them.
During the colder months, manatees move to warmer waters that stay around 73°F (23°C) thanks to the natural springs. This makes them one of the must-see attractions for anyone visiting Florida in winter. Even locals like us love to visit some of these spots to watch them. They’re just beautiful! Below, I’m sharing some of the best places to see manatees in Florida, along with tips and fun facts to make your visit even more special. And as I always remind everyone, if you’re swimming (yes, I’ve even seen them at the beach — the main photo was taken in Sarasota!) or kayaking close to them, there are rules and laws you must follow.
Crystal River and Three Sisters Springs
One of the most famous places to see and swim with manatees is Crystal River, on Florida’s west coast. Here you’ll find the Three Sisters Springs sanctuary, a reserve with water so clear it looks like glass. It’s one of the few places in the U.S. where you’re allowed to swim with manatees — always under strict rules to ensure their well-being.
We had the chance to “swim” with them — though it felt more like floating — and it was incredible. Truly a one-of-a-kind experience that I highly recommend! (Don’t miss the video at the end of this post!)
I recommend booking with authorized operators that offer responsible and educational tours. The best time to go is early in the morning when the water is calmer and the manatees are more active. There are several companies, so it’s good to read reviews and check how long they’ve been running tours. We chose River Ventures, and they were excellent! Not only were they super friendly, but they also taught us so much about these “sea cows,” as they’re affectionately called.
Your ticket includes the boat ride around the area, swimming gear (wet suit — the water is usually very cold — snorkel, fins…), and guides who stay with you the whole time to help with anything you need. Of course, there are other tours in the area to choose from as well.
Blue Spring State Park
Located near Orange City, Blue Spring State Park is a classic spot for nature lovers. During manatee season in Florida, hundreds of them gather here looking for warmer waters. There are viewing platforms, wooden boardwalks, and even a live camera so you can watch them from home. The park is just a short drive north of downtown Orlando. I recommend arriving very early, especially on cold mornings — and even earlier on weekends.
It’s a Florida State Park, and admission is $6 per vehicle (2–8 people) or $4 for individuals. We’ve been there a couple of times — the first time we couldn’t even get in! Since I live relatively close, I usually check Google’s “Popular Times” before heading out; it helps to see if the park is already full. On the coldest days, more than 400 manatees can gather in the same spot. When that happens, swimming is not allowed — you can only observe them from the platforms.
Manatee Springs State Park
Farther north, Manatee Springs State Park is perfect for a quiet day surrounded by nature. This park combines walking trails, picnic areas, and a natural spring where — if you’re lucky — you might spot manatees swimming near the dock. Arrive early and bring comfortable shoes if you want to explore the cypress trails. I haven’t visited this one yet, but it’s definitely on my list! 😉
Silver Springs State Park
With its iconic crystal-clear waters and glass-bottom boat tours, Silver Springs State Park in Central Florida is another fantastic place to see manatees. Beyond its natural beauty, it also has a lot of history — classic Tarzan movies from the 1930s and 40s were filmed here thanks to its jungle-like scenery and transparent waters.
This is actually Florida’s oldest attraction! I recommend buying your boat tour tickets in advance. Although manatee season is officially from November to March — when they visit most often — we went in August and still saw a few! The boat ride is absolutely worth it. (Don’t miss the YouTube short!)
Manatee Viewing Center
Another great spot to see manatees in their natural habitat is the Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach, near Tampa. This site has become a winter refuge for manatees seeking the warm waters released by the nearby power plant. It’s free to visit — perfect for families — with walking trails, an observation deck, and an education center where you can learn more about these adorable sea giants.
Essential Rules for Protecting Manatees
Seeing manatees in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience — but also a great responsibility. In Florida, there are very clear laws that protect them, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act. These laws prohibit any kind of harassment or direct contact with the animals.
Always remember:
- Do not touch, chase, or push the manatees.
- Never separate calves from their mothers.
- Respect designated areas and no-wake zones if you’re boating.
- Float calmly if you’re swimming nearby and avoid sudden movements.
From my own experience, I know they’ll often come close to you — they’re very curious! Don’t be scared 🙂 Sometimes they’ll sniff you, gently bump into you, or just hang out next to you. But never touch them, and definitely don’t feed them.
An Unforgettable Experience
Manatee season in Florida is one of those experiences that truly connects you with nature and leaves you with beautiful memories. Watching these gentle creatures swim freely through crystal-clear springs is a powerful reminder of how important it is to protect wildlife and the ecosystems they depend on.
So, if you’re visiting Florida between November and March, don’t forget to include a stop to see these gentle giants. Whether it’s from an observation deck, a kayak, or a boat tour, you’ll enjoy an authentic encounter with one of the most beloved creatures in the state.
At the end of this post, I’ve added a video sharing a bit more about manatees and Crystal River — check it out!
