Top things to do in Crystal River

Crystal River is quickly becoming one of Florida’s top locations for people who want to enjoy the outdoors and unspoiled wildlife. Situated on Florida’s West Coast, this relaxing tourist area offers plenty of unique experiences to offer. And with its many rivers, springs, and creeks full of local wildlife, it is sure to bring out the outdoor adventurer in any visitor.

1. Kayaking. Three Springs is a beautiful wildlife refuge located near Crystal River. The clean waters will show you exactly how the town got its name. When kayaking in Three Springs, you gain the ability to paddle up the countless creeks and inlets teeming with wildlife. As you explore, you are sure to encounter plenty of marine animals and birds in their natural habitat.

2. Pontoon Boat. Those who want to enjoy the wildlife and water without having to do the paddling themselves. There are plenty of options for pontoon boat rental. Friends and family can enjoy the cool breeze and the scenery. They can float along some of Florida’s most beautiful coastline.

3. Swimming with Manatees. Crystal River calls itself the “Home of the Manatee” for a good reason. Manatees flock to it, especially in the cooler winter months, thanks to Crystal River’s naturally warm spring-fed waters. This makes it one of the few places known for manatee gatherings.

As a result, Crystal River is one of the best places in Florida to swim with manatees. The large, gentle, and playful creatures will offer a swimming experience that will not be forgotten.

Manatees are known to move around. As a result, you may have to do a little looking to find them. If you hope to swim with manatees, consider renting a kayak to easily reach the best areas. In fact, many kayak rental businesses even offer maps of areas where manatees have been spotted recently.

4. Scalloping. Fresh scallops are not just delicious. They are also fun to catch. Moreover, Crystal River is a natural hotspot for scalloping. It is possible to find scallops while wading on the shore. In fact, people with serious appetites for shellfish will be best suited to scalloping from a boat or kayak.

A day out in Crystal River guarantees fun. Moreover, you can maximize your time by renting from Captain Mike’s Kayak Academy, which offers many individual and tandem kayaks. This rental option stands out due to its excellent customer service and provision of high-quality kayaks for rent at affordable prices. Additionally, they can also arrange great manatee tours. They have all the equipment available for you. 

Visit the Captain Mike’s Kayak Academy website for more information about swimming and kayaking with manatees in freshwater Florida springs. Additionally, there, you will find valuable information and resources to plan your memorable experience. So, explore their website for all the details you need.

What variety of wildlife can I expect to see on the trip?

A half-day trip in Crystal River, Florida, is a wonderful adventure. Crystal River has historic attractions that will fascinate you, such as the remains of an old sugar mill, wild beaches, theme parks and an extraordinary printing museum. And with its blend of fresh and salt water, it hosts a wide range of wildlife. At the National Wildlife Refuge in Crystal River the water is amazingly blue and there are plenty of creatures to see. Working with a well-qualified outfitter such as Captain Mike’s, you can make your way to the main area and enjoy a relatively unique and lovely Florida experience in the wild. A manatee tour is a great opportunity to unwind and get connected with the natural world up close.

Gearing up for the trip

Crystal River is the only location in Florida where snorkeling with manatees is meticulously monitored, permitted and legal. You get in the same water with the sea cows, not touching or approaching them in any way unless they approach you first themselves. But before getting into the water, you are fitted with snorkels and wetsuits to equip you for the experience. The suits are 5 millimeters or so thick to ensure you are warm in the chilly water and enjoy an extra level of buoyancy, which allows for a safe, quiet and pleasant interaction with manatees.

Before you depart, you watch a video about how to correctly observe and interact with the manatees in the wild. You learn that it is illegal to touch, give water, feed, approach or pursue manatees. You can float gently in the water, staying as still as possible when you encounter an oncoming manatee until the animal passes. Take note, you don’t want to startle or spook the manatee. After the orientation, you get into a pontoon boat and enjoy a serene trip through the National Wildlife Refuge, guided by an experienced and knowledgeable captain.

Observing wildlife

If you begin your trip early, you will have plenty of time to observe wildlife at every animal exhibit. You will be amazed at all the lively activity. For instance, you will see the foxes rushing back and forth, taking breaks to drink water. You can see egrets trapping their prey right before you. Crocodiles and alligators roam around. Fast-moving Mediterranean geckos, the cousins of toads and frogs, flee as you approach. As you approach, observe egrets trapping their prey right before you. Additionally, crocodiles and alligators roam around. Moreover, fast-moving Mediterranean geckos, the cousins of toads and frogs, flee from your presence.

Great wildlife adventure

Birds and animals struggle in Northeast’s harsh winter and migrate to Crystal River. The National Wildlife Refuge’s boardwalks offer amazing views of Three Sisters Springs and nearby canals. You will get the opportunity to view the beautiful springs and witness hundreds of manatees enjoying themselves in the warm waters. Crystal River serves as a vital migration point for these creatures due to its favorable climate. The boardwalks around the refuge provide an excellent vantage point for observing the natural wonders of the area. During your trip, you will most likely see green sea turtles, black bears, white-tailed deer, wood storks, bald eagles, swallowtail kites, otters, and over 200 other species of birds. You can observe these fascinating creatures and birds while on your adventure.

Captain Mike’s offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with their manatee tour at Crystal River, FL. We aim to make your tour delightful and remarkable by providing you with all the information you need.Asid from that, we are your trusted outfitter throughout the entire experience. We will ensure you have an unforgettable time interacting with the manatees. For more information on manatees and manatee tours, visit Captain Mike’s Kayak Academy website.