Manatees! These large, relatively slow, gentle creatures are great fun to see while kayaking. At an average of 9 feet in length and about 1000 pounds the manatee is a fairly large herbivorous mammal. They are typically found alone, although in some areas they will gather in large groups. They typically move quite slowly (less than 5mph) so once you find one the viewing is usually easy. Always be sure to be respectful of any manatees you encounter while kayaking or snorkeling.
Manatees can be found throughout the Florida Keys fairly close to shore. They can be found swimming through mangrove tunnels, feeding in grassy lagoons, and exploring harbors. Manatees are typically found alone except when a calf is accompanying its mother. Keep an eye out for manatees resting on the bottom when paddling though clear water and look for their grey snouts surfacing for air.
Manatees can be found throughout the Florida Keys fairly close to shore. They can be found swimming through mangrove tunnels, feeding in grassy lagoons, and exploring harbors. Manatees are typically found alone except when a calf is accompanying its mother. Keep an eye out for manatees resting on the bottom when paddling though clear water and look for their grey snouts surfacing for air.
Far and away the best place to view manatees, and even swim with them, is in Crystal River. This area about 1.5 hours north of Tampa is teeming with manatees in the winter. Several hot springs keep the waters in this area a balmy 72 degrees through the winter which attracts hundreds of manatees. These gentle giants can't handle continuous exposure to cool water so they congregate in these warm waters to wait out the cold months. From approximately November through March snorkelers and kayakers can surround themselves with manatees by launching from Hunter Springs Park in the town of Crystal River. Manatees are typically just off shore resting or feeding. More manatees are usually found in the morning hours before they move off to feed in the surrounding areas. If none are to be found that close to the launch then paddle out of the small bay past Pete's Pier and make a left down the channel. Follow this channel and explore the side inlets for manatees. It is legal to snorkel or swim with the manatees in this area and they may be quite friendly and playful. When we visited several manatees followed us while we swam and repeatedly rubbed their heads and flippers against us. Be sure to not disturb the manatees as you observe them; let them approach you if they want to play.
There are also many tour groups who offer boat tours and swimming tours in this area if you would rather not visit alone.
There are also many tour groups who offer boat tours and swimming tours in this area if you would rather not visit alone.