Stunning Places to See Manatees in Florida near Orlando

Are you looking for an exciting way to spend the day and discover the wildlife on your Orlando vacation? If so, why not explore some of the best places to see manatees in Florida? Manatees are gentle aquatic mammals that inhabit warm waters around Florida and other parts of the world. Seeing these creatures up close is an awe-inspiring experience that will have you feeling connected with nature.

In this article, we’ll explore where to find manatees in Florida near Orlando, along with tips on how to observe them responsibly. So grab your camera and get ready for a unique adventure!

Blue Spring State Park

The most popular place to see manatees near Orlando is Blue Spring State Park! Located about an hour away from the city, this park boasts crystal clear waters and multiple observation decks where visitors can observe manatees in their natural habitat. In addition, the spring provides refuge for many other species, including fish, turtles, and alligators. During the winter months, the water temperature drops below 68 degrees Fahrenheit, prompting manatees to congregate in large numbers. If you visit on a colder day, you may even be able to witness several hundred from the overlooks.

This park is designated as a Manatee Refuge and has a special ‘Manatee Protection Zone’ where visitors can get an up-close look at these gentle giants. Blue Spring State Park also offers educational programs and guided tours to help visitors understand more about manatees and their habits. On these tours, you’ll learn about the unique behaviors of manatees, such as their swimming patterns, lodging habits, and food preferences. Additionally, visitors can witness mother manatees with their young in sheltered areas of the park. To ensure that these creatures are not disturbed or harmed, all visitors must abide by a strict code of conduct while observing them. This includes staying at least 300 feet away from any feeding or resting spots and respecting any boundaries marked with buoys.

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is another popular destination for those looking to watch manatees in their natural habitat! Located about two hours away from Orlando, this park offers visitors the unique opportunity to view these gentle creatures up close in the crystal-clear waters of the springs. The park boasts multiple observation decks and educational programs that will help you gain an understanding of manatees’ behavior and habits while also teaching you how to observe them responsibly. So grab your camera and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

The Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park provides refuge for over 50 species of wildlife, making it one of Florida’s most diverse ecosystems. Manatees are especially attracted to its warm spring-fed waters, as they can often be seen lounging near the surface or swimming gracefully through the depths. As with all other locations, visitors must abide by a strict code of conduct while observing them, which includes staying at least 300 feet away from any feeding or resting spots and respecting any boundaries marked with buoys.

Crystal River in Citrus County

If you want to extend your trip south, then consider visiting Crystal River in Citrus County, which is also about two hours away from Orlando. This town is known as the “manatee capital” of Florida due to its population of over 700 West Indian Manatees! Here visitors have the opportunity to kayak, paddleboard, and snorkel with manatees in their natural habitat.

Not only are there plenty of opportunities to get an up-close look at manatees, but there is also a wealth of educational information available about them. From dedicated tours led by experts who can answer your questions on manatee behavior and habitat requirements to informational displays throughout the area that provide more insight into their biology and lifestyle, there are many options for visitors wanting to learn more about these creatures. In addition to viewing the animals on the water, visitors can also catch a glimpse of them from the shoreline by looking for small wakes or disturbances in the water’s surface that indicate a large animal passing through below.

You’ll find multiple parks in Crystal River that are great for swimming, snorkeling, and paddle adventures, like Hunter Springs Park and King’s Bay Park!

Canaveral National Seashore

The Canaveral National Seashore is a great place to observe manatees in their natural habitat. This beautiful stretch of coastline is home to crystal-clear waters and a variety of marine species, including several types of manatees. During peak season, hundreds of manatees migrate into the shallow waters here to take advantage of the warmth and safety provided by the shoreline. Here, visitors are likely to see both adults and calves swimming or resting on the bottom of the ocean.

Manatees are curious creatures that can often be seen playing in the water near boats or other attractions. They are also very social animals and like to congregate in large groups when the temperatures drop during winter months. Before visiting, it’s important to check with local visitor centers for information on current weather conditions, tide times, and areas where it may be unsafe to swim or boat due to strong currents or other hazards.

Tips to Follow When You See Manatees in Florida

Manatees are a protected species, so it is extremely important to follow certain etiquette guidelines when observing them in the wild. From keeping your distance to avoiding touching or feeding them, there are several steps you can take to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience while still respecting these creatures.

It’s essential to keep your distance from manatees to not startle or interfere with their natural behavior. If you’re on a boat, kayak, paddleboard, or other vessel, make sure it moves slowly and cautiously around them; they can be easily startled by loud noises or sudden movements. Additionally, never swim with the animals since this could disrupt their natural behaviors and cause distress for both parties involved.

Avoid feeding manatees human food — this type of nutrition can be dangerous since they don’t naturally consume it in the wild. Similarly, please refrain from making too much noise near areas where these animals congregate so everyone can adequately appreciate their beauty without disrupting them unnecessarily. When visiting any area where manatees live, always check local visitor centers for information on weather conditions, tide times, and places where it may be unsafe to swim or boat due to strong currents or other hazards.

Following these basic etiquette rules will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience while observing the gentle giants that are manatees in Florida!

Plan Your Trip to See Manatees in Florida & Stay Nearby in Orlando

As you can see, there are plenty of places to find manatees near Orlando! With Florida’s abundance of beaches and rivers, there are multiple locations near Orlando where you can get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. Whether you plan on spending a day or longer on your wildlife safari, you’ll be sure to have a one-of-a-kind experience.

To make the most out of your trip, consider staying nearby in one of VillaKey’s 100+ vacation homes that Orlando has to offer! From theme parks and dining to shopping and nightlife, this vibrant city provides something for everyone! Plus, the warm climate makes for an ideal atmosphere for swimming and other aquatic activities.