blue springs manatee tour

Blue Spring State Park: the Best Manatee Experience in Florida

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: October 12, 2023  - Last updated: February 4, 2024

Blue Spring State Park is our most common activity with friends visiting us, and it’s the best place to see manatees in Florida near Orlando or Daytona Beach .  Florida has over 1000 natural springs and they’re all a little different.  Some are in high traffic areas like on the Crystal River and others are so strange to pronounce that you might not have ever heard of them… like Ichetucknee Springs.

This is everything you need to know about visiting Blue Spring State Park, including the best time for manatees, handicap accessible wildlife viewing, and kayaking / standup paddleboarding information. When I say that this is the best place to see manatees in Florida, it really is true, even when it’s not manatee season.

If you have any questions about visiting Blue Spring State Park or want to share your own tips, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re happy to help others have unique, unforgettable Florida experiences!

Where is Blue Spring State Park?

Blue Spring State Park is a little over a half hour away from Daytona Beach in Orange City, Florida. It’s actually really easy to get to and quite simple to make a day trip out of. Blue Spring State Park is easy to pair with the trip to De Leon Springs State Park or Gemini Springs . It’s a bit further from Cocoa Beach (where you do bioluminescent kayaking !) if you’re heading to that part of the Florida coast, but it’s still worth the visit.

If you are visiting Orlando this is also an easy trip to add on (45 minutes drive) and is a nice alternative to theme parks or crowded hotel pools. After a whole bunch of time at Disney World or Universal Orlando no doubt you’ll be ready for some nature and Blue Spring State Park is just perfect for that. Also, the manatees and alligators are real, actual wildlife vs being animatronics, so they’re more exciting!

Note :  there is an entrance fee into almost every Florida State Park .  Usually it’s only $6 USD or so, but just be aware. Not much in travel is free.

Day trip from Orlando to Blue Spring State Park

A lot of people visit Orlando for the theme parks, such as Universal Orlando Resort , and never get to see the natural side of Florida . It’s easy to make a short day trip from Orlando to Blue Spring State Park. Driving, it’s only about 45 minutes from Orlando or Mount Dora to Orange City. In bad traffic it can take you up to an hour and a half (in really bad traffic), but typically visiting Blue Springs you’ll go in the morning and go against the flow of traffic.

To make this a day trip from Orlando, plan to be at Blue Spring State Park for at least three hours. If you’re paddling, plan for five hours or more.  You’ll see that there are lots of things to do, from walks and wildlife viewing to swimming and kayaking. You can even take a guided tour, so be sure that you’ve allowed yourself plenty of time.

Tip :  the best time to visit Blue Spring State Park is in the mid morning before the sun is fully up and warming the waters. As the day goes on, the manatees work their way back into the St Johns River. In the morning there are also smaller crowds, so it’s much more pleasant.

This is the best place for seeing manatees in Florida, but that’s all dependent on the weather, so keep that in mind. The cooler the day, the more manatees. If it’s a hot day in winter, the manatees will head into the river from the run, so on warmer days, kayaking or SUP are great options for the day trip. If you’d like to visit in the morning and then again just before the park closes, do a little trip to one of the cute small Florida towns nearby, like Deland, and then return around 4:00pm to end the day.

Manatee Tours to Blue Springs State Park

I know that not everyone has their own kayaks or SUPs, or that everyone who wants to visit the best place in Florida for manatees lives here, so booking a manatee tour can be a great idea. This is the easiest way to make this a day trip from Orlando.

There are a few different companies that run tours on the St Johns River at Blue Spring State Park. We recommend booking in advance to ensure you can go paddling with manatees, as the tours tend to book up far out, especially if you’re visiting during peak manatee season.

Here are our top tour picks based on the activities, guides, and tour company reputation. All tours go from French’s Landing on the St Johns River; transportation to launch site isn’t provided:

• 3.5 hour kayaking tour w/ manatees – maximum of 8 paddlers – November through March
• 3.5 hour wildlife kayaking – maximum of 12 paddlers – December through March
• 3.5 hour kayaking w/ boardwalk tour – maximum of 8 paddlers – November through March
• 3 hour beginner kayak tour – maximum of 14 paddlers – November through March
• 2 Hour Standup Paddle w/ manatees – maximum 25 paddlers – November through March

When to visit Blue Spring State Park for Manatees

The best time of year to visit Blue Spring State Park is going to be in January or February when the most Florida manatees are there. It’s very easy to see manatees at Blue Spring State Park starting in mid November and going to March, but the winter months are for sure the best time to visit if you want to experience the crazy congregation of manatees in the river.

There was a day in 2017 where nearly 400 manatees were spotted in the river approaching the headspring of Blue Spring, their winter home. I don’t know about you, but that is a bucket list item for me to experience!

Our youngest is obsessed with manatees and he actually would have freaked out and no doubt have been crying on the viewing platforms trying to join the manatees in the river. When they do their spring run back out to the Intracoastal Waterway and the ocean, the numbers drop, but there are still usually a few hanging around. We’ve been to Blue Spring State Park in every month of the year and have always seen at least one manatee (summer time), and that’s why this is the best place in Florida to see manatees.

Note :  The manatees congregate here at Blue Spring State Park because when the air temperature drops the water temperature stays nice and warm because it’s pulling from the aquifer. Perfect for manatees! And if you’re not actually going to be in this area, we’ve got suggestions all along the Florida Gulf Coast for seeing manatees too.

The Science of the Springs

The water source that feeds Blue Spring and the St Johns River comes up from the aquifer flowing all through north and central Florida . The rainwater and naturally occurring underground river come up through the limestone bedrock as it erodes away. In some areas the pressure from the aquifer is very strong and that’s where you get these amazingly beautiful head springs.

Blue Spring State Park happens to be one of those spots and gosh, I’m so glad we discovered it. Not that we discovered it, but that we were directed here, but it was discovered a long time ago, but anyways…

The water that bubbles up from Blue Spring and all the other springs around Florida is typically above 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) which is quite warm, which is why this is the best place to see manatees in Florida. And that’s why we love to visit the different springs. You can almost always swim in them… except when the state parks close them due to creatures who are congregating, such as manatees or alligators. So yes, the springs are just as attractive to wildlife as they are to the humans, but the animals for sure get priority.

Tip :  we’ve really come to love and appreciate ecotours , and there is an ecotour available just down from Blue Spring.  The St Johns River Cruise is an ecotour focusing on the natural life found in the river and the delicate ecosystem of Florida’s spring-fed waterways. We’ve done it twice and have both seen lots of wildlife and learned tons about Florida history.

Things to do at Blue Spring State Park

We usually visit the Blue Spring State Park as a day trip, which is also totally fine to do. Visiting Blue Spring can be whatever you want it to be. You can turn it into a picnic day or it can be a day of swimming and communing with nature. It’s up to you which water related activities you do… or you can just enjoy the beautiful views, and since it’s the best place in Florida to see manatees, you’ll be occupied with that November through March.

Stand Up Paddleboarding with manatees

Glad I’ve got your attention. Clearly the most amazing thing you could possibly do at Blue Springs State Park is observe or have an encounter with manatees. You cannot swim with them at Blue Spring State Park like you can at Crystal River , but if you stay just outside the boundary of the headspring area, you can enjoy hanging out with manatees as they swim back and forth. The main spring area is close to all water access during manatee season.

I did a Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) adventure with Paddleboard Orlando and it was mildly life changing, and now we go on our own all the time. We launched and then paddle up the St Johns River a few hundred yards to the edge of Blue Springs State Park. Here, we sat on our board and the manatees came to us and said hi. You cannot intentionally touch them but you can be present and they’ll interact with you. They are very curious.

I got a kiss even one time as I laid on my board watching manatees swimming near me. I laid there, still, and one surprise surfaced just in front of me and startled me. The manatee floated forward a few inches and brushed my chin with his rough skin and then when back under. Startling and unforgettable. Manatee kisses are pretty gross, but also the most amazing wildlife encounter I’ve ever had. Now that I’m more experienced at paddleboarding with manatee I know to observe ALL AROUND me and to be sure I’m always 15 feet away whenever possible.

Tip :  check out our full article about the best springs to see manatees at here . Gators, manatees and more wildlife tend to congregate around the many fresh water springs, so it’s worth visiting more than Blue Spring State Park if you’re able.

Kayaking at Blue Spring State Park

Blue Spring State Park has become one of our favorite places to kayak in Florida. It’s right up there with bioluminescent kayaking near Daytona at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (glow in the dark manatees there!). Putting in our own kayaks (or stand up paddleboards) at French Landing ( Google Map link here ) we love to paddle to the mouth of the Blue Spring run. Here, we sit and observe the manatees as they come and go, often swimming right under us and sometime surfacing to just check us out. It really is the best place to see manatees in Florida, and from a kayak or SUP it’s amazing.

We DO NOT EVER touch the manatees. It’s very easy to sit on your board or kayaking and see them up close, and yes, if you’re dangling your feet or hands in the water the manatees may come check you out, but be smart and respectful.

Once you’re done observing manatees at the mouth of Blue Spring, kayak up the St Johns River a bit to explore. Whether you stay on the main river, take the old river path (the river was straightened in the early 1900s), or head down Snake Creek, each route is gorgeous and offers non-stop wildlife and beautiful Florida nature.

As you paddle along the St Johns River, watch for manatees surfacing in the middle of the river or along its banks. There are many large lily pad patches both on the main river and on the bend at Snake Cutoff. Manatees LOVE to hang out here in groups, eating the vegetation and hanging out with egrets. Watch for their noses, flukes (tails) and backs to surface at the edge or in the middle of the lily pads. We love to sit at the edge and watch and listen to them. Their exhales and grunts are amazing to hear!

For an off-the-beaten-path paddle, take your kayak or SUP up the Snake Creek. While you could plan a very long loop and eventually return to your starting point, it’s easy to paddle down Snake Creek as far as you like and then turn around. The view on the way back is just as beautiful. And watch for alligators on this route, as it’s a hot spot for gator action.

Paddling on the St Johns River at Blue Spring State Park is really wonderful. There are quiet stretches, perfectly still cypress stands and beautiful oxbow lakes. Enjoy some of the side trails as you paddle. There is so much to see and tons of wildlife!

Swimming at Blue Spring State Park

While you cannot swim in Blue Spring year round due to the manatees being present in the winter months, after manatee season the spring opens! From Spring to early Autumn you can swim from the main spring area to the western swimming platform. It’s full of Florida gar and other fish and turtles, so know that you won’t be alone in the river. And there are alligators sometimes too, so watch out! There is a line crossing the run to show you how far you can swim, and west of the rope the number of gar and alligators goes up immensely and quickly.

Diving or Snorkeling Blue Spring

If you are a diver Blue Springs State Park might just be your unknown dream diving destination. We’ve seen several people in their gear getting ready to dive into the head springs. I’ll admit, I was completely jealous and wish that I had my PADI certification. The head springs when viewed from above are absolutely gorgeous with such vibrant colors, and so deep.

Note: because this is the best place to see manatees in Florida, during manatee season, diving and snorkeling isn’t allowed, so plan appropriately.

While it’s okay to snorkel into the head spring diving would for sure give you a more complete experience. Scuba diving IS permitted though, per Florida State Parks rules. If there are manatees present, you can’t dive, but there are usually park staff or volunteers monitoring manatee activity and keeping visitors and wildlife equally safe.

Tip :   Blue Springs State Park and also Rainbow Springs offer different diving experiences at the head spring and down river. Check locally for advice about snorkeling or diving to the caverns that are along the different rivers. That limestone wears away and there’s so much wonder to find.

Blue Spring State Park with Kids

Our goal upon visiting Blue Spring with the kids the first time was hopefully to spot a few manatees, but we were there a little late in manatee season to do that. Now we know that it’s the best place in Florida to see manatees, so we visit during the proper season (Nov-Mar). Even in off season, we were completely impressed with the enormous fish in the river. The Florida gar and other large variety were genuinely impressive and were easily visible from the viewing platforms.

T here are platforms dispersed along the river to be able to take in the natural wonder of the perfect waters, but then also for viewing the manatees. Since that first trip to Blue Spring with the kids we’ve been back countless times and have seen hundreds of manatees from the viewing platforms, the ecotour boat cruise and from our own kayaks and paddle boards.

Tip :   If you missed it before, the best time to visit for manatees is in the winter until the end of February. Hundreds of manatees. Hundreds.

If you’re there for the swimming and appreciating the beautiful crystal clear water of Blue Spring State Park then you’re in luck. There are quite a few access points along the river for swimming. You can even rent tubes for floating the river if you like. When the weather is hot the water is going to seem chilly but it’s totally not bad. For us being from the Pacific Northwest , the water is wonderfully warm and the kids aren’t hesitant in the slightest.

Note :  Pay close attention to the signs and swimming closures placed at the swimming holes and on the boards around the park. The rangers will close the river and Blue Spring to swimming if there are manatees present or if there is alligator activity. It is gator country.

Part of the joy of wandering and swimming at Blue Spring State Park is actually the boardwalks that go through the palm jungle to get to the swimming holes. Elevated above the jungle floor, this was the first experience we had walking through a palm jungle of its kind. It is really cool.  The kids loved the in-the-trees feel and the photo ops are endless.

Tip :  if you’re on the West Coast and want to experience a palm jungle, go hiking in Palm Springs .  It’s not as dense and lush as Blue Spring State Park, but it’s beautiful and unusual. Joshua Tree National Park has some options for palm forest hiking too.

Floating at Blue Spring State Park

This is another activity for us for next time. Since Blue Spring was kind of an impromptu stop for us the first time we visited we hadn’t planned ahead for renting inner tubes within Blue Spring State Park. There is a vendor for renting tubes for floating the river midway along the boardwalks, and the water is so mellow the only reason you wouldn’t do it is if you were pressed for time.  It’s a short float, but easy to repeat and enjoy! 

If you’re planning on renting inner-tubes for floating at Blue Spring, know that this is only available when the manatees AREN’T in the headwaters. The springs are closed to swimmers and boaters of all sorts in winter months when the manatee population soars into the hundreds each day.

Note :   Even if the river is open you still need to be cautious of alligators because they can make an appearance at any time without the rangers’ knowledge. And respect the gar in the water; they’re big fish…

Frequently Asked Questions about Blue Spring State Park

Just in case we missed anything important, here is everything else you might have wondered or skimmed over for planning your visit to Blue Spring State Park.

What is Blue Spring State Park known for?

Blue Spring State Park is known for the great number of manatees that congregate here year round, but particularly from November to March. The daily manatee count can be in the hundreds during winter months.

When is the best time to see manatees at Blue Spring State Park?

Manatees are most frequently seen at Blue Spring State Park in the early morning, with them heading out into the St Johns River as the day warms up. In the colder winter months, they’ll stay at the headspring all day, with 10 to 600 visible at any given time.

How much does it cost to enter Blue Spring State Park?

Like most Florida State Parks, Blue Springs costs $6 USD per vehicle. You can also by a state park pass, but you’ll need to pay for additional visitors, so the per vehicle cost is the better deal.

Are pets allowed at Blue Spring State Park?

Yes! You can bring pets to Blue Spring State Park, but they need to remain on-leash and in designated areas only.

Can you swim in the spring at Blue Spring State Park?

Yes! You can swim in the main spring at Blue Spring State Park, but ONLY when it’s NOT manatee season. They open the run for swimming typically in April and close it at the end of October. If there is a significant number of manatees or other wildlife in the spring, the Park Rangers may close the run to swimming.

Are there camping facilities at Blue Spring State Park?

Indeed, there is a campground at Blue Spring State Park. You should make your reservation as far in advance as possible, especially if you’re using an RV or camper trailer for camping.

What are the park’s operating hours?

Blue Spring State Park is open from 8:00 am until sundown every day of the year. It’s busiest in winter from late morning until just before it closes.

What wildlife can you see at Blue Spring State Park?

Our favorite wildlife to see at Blue Springs is the manatee population, but we also have seen alligators, otters, lots of different birds and many HUGE fish in the crystal clear water.

Are there kayak or canoe rentals at the park?

You can rent both kayaks and canoes at Blue Spring State Park, or you can do the eco-tour boat. They do provide life jackets and paddles, so you can just show up. Rentals may run out on busier days, including peak manatee days. Always pay attention to paddling restrictions.

What are the hiking trails available at Blue Spring State Park?

There are several hiking trails at Blue Spring State Park that go through the forest and railroad pathway areas. The best hiking at the park is actually the accessible boardwalk trail, and this is where you’ll see the most wildlife too.

Isn’t it just the coolest place? We visit Blue Spring State Park multiple times each year, and always at lease during manatee season. It’s one of the best places to observe wildlife in Florida. Have you been to Blue Spring State Park before? Of the more than a thousand springs in Florida which is your favorite to visit? Tell us so that we know where to visit as we continue to explore our beautiful state.

Muhammed jazeel

Sunday 18th of October 2020

The park looks great....

Monday 27th of April 2020

Thanks for sharing these lovely pictures. All the best

Wednesday 26th of February 2020

Travel blogs are a wonderful source for ideas & advice of planning a trip. Thanks for sharing

Saturday 1st of February 2020

Such gorgeous pictures dude! amazing.

Saturday 21st of December 2019

Thanks for sharing, its very useful

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Blue Springs Manatee Adventure

• Additional Info
• Manatee Tours
• Nature Tour

In the winter, Blue Spring is home to more manatees than any other place on the planet. Last winter, Savethemanatee.org counted 572 manatees here at the same time. Join us for a paddle from the shore of the beautiful St. John’s River. This river is home to many species of wildlife including manatees, deer, eagles, turtles, fish, and more.

2 – 2.5 hours

This is a beginner and family-friendly adventure. After a safety lesson on land, you will launch on your paddleboard or kayak and explore the river. We’ll sit quietly by the entrance to the spring where hundreds of manatees are known to swim in and out right past our vessels throughout the day during manatee season. We call it the Manatee Show! We often see mothers with their babies, young manatees, and older manatees. Although manatees often swim up to our vessels, we practice passive observation.

As certified Guardian Guides for the Save the Manatee Club, it is our mission to educate our guests to engage with manatees in a way that promotes their safety.

After our initial paddle on this scenic Old Florida waterway, we will park our vessels at the state park and wander the boardwalk to the spring head. The views of this gorgeous spring are EPIC! Make sure to bring your phone to take pictures. We will provide a dry bag for those small items that you want to keep dry.

This adventure shows Florida at her finest. You will leave with memories for a lifetime and unforgettable pictures.

What’s included?

• Paddleboard or kayak and all equipment.
• Dry bag for your phone and valuables such as keys.
• Bottled Water

What to bring

• Guests can wear a bathing suit or workout attire
• Bring a towel and change of clothing for after the tour

This adventure is operated by Epic Paddle Adventures

Customers will receive a full refund or credit with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price.

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Florida Kayaking

Tours & adventures llc, 321-234-5988, a florida nature guide company. guided kayaking and state park tours near orlando, , melbourne, merritt island, cocoa, titusville,, crystal river, homosassa, springs coast, nature coast, fl. space coast, west coast.

Manatee Kayaking Tours, Blue Springs, SP

A florida nature guide company, guided kayaking tours, blue springs, state park, orange city, fl.

Private Guided Kayaking Tour to observe and interact with the Manatees at Blue Springs, SP,in Orange City, FL between Orlando and Daytona Beach.Casual Guided Kayaking Tour enjoying the Manatee in their winter home of Blue Springs.

Why Florida Kayaking Tours and Adventures is your best choice?

Personal Attention

• Small Personal Tours

ACA Certified Tour Guides

   ( American Canoe Association )

​ Knowledgeable  Guides

Licensed  and Insured Guide Company

We are passionate about Florida Nature and Wildlife

Satisfaction Guarantee 

Tour departs from the Blue Springs State Park, French Avenue Public Boat Ramp. We'll then paddle a short distance south along the shoreline of the St. John's River to hang out at the edge of the Manatee's Winter Refuge Home, Blue Springs, SP. .

Blue Spring is a protected reserve, where more that 600 manatee's took refuse there during some of the coldest month's of this past winter season. Several Manatee's gave birth to new pups in the spring this past summer so we're looking forward to meeting a few new faces this winter. 

- We keep our tour groups small so our guests get the highest quality tour in the industry! 

Tour Price: $65.00 per person

*2 person minimum per tour, 8 persons max per tour plus guide

PROUD TO BE CERTIFIED

Guardian guides, manatee stewardship program.

What is Guardian Guides?

Save the Manatee Club’s Guardian Guides Certification is a voluntary recognition and education program offered to ecotourism providers in Florida that promote stewardship of manatees and their aquatic ecosystems. The goal of the Guardian Guides Certification is to eliminate to the extent possible disturbance to manatees from commercial manatee-viewing activities. Manatee-viewing tours can be a platform for education, appreciation, and conservation of this imperiled species. You can help foster these positive actions and prevent disturbance to manatees as a certified Guardian Guide.

Construction Projects Underway

Effective April 1, 2024 : In-water activities are closed while we stabilize the shoreline at Blue Spring State Park . This closure includes swimming, snorkeling, tubing, diving and paddling in the spring run and spring head. Boat tours and paddling are only allowed in the St. Johns River. Visitors are asked to adhere to all posted signs and avoid closed areas when visiting the park. 

• Camping & Lodging

Blue Spring State Park

Know before you go.

During periods of high visitation, visitors may experience long lines to enter Blue Spring State Park . The park frequently reaches capacity and may temporarily close. Closures occur intermittently and may last several hours. Visitors with camping or boat tour reservations will be admitted to the park while it is closed, but pedestrians and bicyclists will not be allowed to enter until the park reopens. Thank you.  

WINTER WATER ACTIVITIES

Effective Nov. 14 : Due to manatee season, the spring run at Blue Spring State Park is   closed to all water activities . This includes swimming, snorkeling, diving, tubing, canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding. Please visit  Wekiwa Springs  or  De Leon Springs  State Parks for winter water activity fun.

8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year

$6 per vehicle

See all fees

2100 W. French Ave. Orange City FL 32763

Contact Info

Welcome to blue spring state park.

The refreshing 72-degree waters of Blue Spring greet visitors at this gem along the St. Johns River.

Conservation measures can produce astounding results. In 1970, two years before Blue Spring State Park was established, researchers tracked 14 manatees in the spring run. By 2005, after years of park improvements and manatee protection efforts, wintering manatee numbers exceeded 200, and by 2023 that number skyrocketed to a record 729.

Besides "sea cows," fish abound in the spring run and attract a variety of wading birds, ospreys, eagles and kingfishers. To see the park’s wonders, visitors can hike along the spring run or on the 4.5-mile Pine Island Trail.

Visitors can also launch a canoe or kayak (rentals are available at the park) or take a guided river boat cruise.

Plan Your Visit

Manager's Message

Gift Shop, Food Service & Cruises at Blue Spring

Birding at Blue Spring

Telling the Story of Springs

Experiences, blue spring state park photo gallery.

Blue Spring Leaping Deer in the Scrub

Black Bear on the Pine Island Trail

Manatees at Blue Spring State Park

The Thursby House

Upcoming events, spring into migration.

Fri, Mar 29, 2024 9:30 am - 11:30 am EST

Orange City, FL

Fri, Apr 12, 2024 9:30 am - 11:30 am EST

Fri, Apr 19, 2024 9:30 am - 11:30 am EST

People Make the Parks

Staff Spotlight

Volunteer Spotlight

Friends of Blue Spring State Park

This park is recognized by:, more places you might like.

De Leon Springs State Park

601 Ponce De Leon Blvd. De Leon Springs FL 32130

Ravine Gardens State Park

1600 Twigg St. Palatka FL 32177

Wekiwa Springs State Park

1800 Wekiwa Circle Apopka FL 32712

Encounter Manatee while Kayaking at Blue Springs State Park

• Professional guide
• Entry/Admission - Blue Spring State Park
• 2422 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763, USA We will meet you at the French Avenue launch site at the end of French Avenue, 3/4 miles West of the Blue Spring, State Park Entrance in Orange City. *DO NOT ENTER STATE PARK* Continue on French Ave after park entrance. Road immediately turns into a dirt road. Dirt Road ends at Boat Launch.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
• Most travelers can participate
• SEASONAL TOUR - Manatee Season November-March. Low Manatee Activity expected during off season months and Unseasonably Warm Days during Winter Months.
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at 2422 W French Ave 2422 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763, USA We will meet you at the French Avenue launch site at the end of French Avenue, 3/4 miles West of the Blue Spring, State Park Entrance in Orange City. *DO NOT ENTER STATE PARK* Continue on French Ave after park entrance. Road immediately turns into a dirt road. Dirt Road ends at Boat Launch. See address & details
• 1 Blue Spring State Park Stop: 3 hours - Admission included Manatee Expedition Guided Kayaking Eco-Tour. Most Intimate Manatee Encounter closest to Orlando. Read more Pass by Blue Spring State Park
• You'll return to the starting point

• shermann4222 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles So fun! Excellent paddle down the river. We were lucky to have a small group and the guide was excellent! Lots of fun facts and very entertaining. The job is a perfect fit for his personality. He was even assisting less experienced people coming down the river. Read more Written March 25, 2024
• MajaMadrid10 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun for the family This was a great trip! Took 3 boys 10-14 years old and they had fun kayaking and watching for alligators. We did see 2. Very little experience needed. It was beautiful! Our guide told us all about the nature around us. It felt worlds apart from the city, but it was in the city. A fun outdoor experience. Read more Written March 24, 2024
• Kathleen M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Time Beautiful location and educated fun tour guide. A wonderful experience for all skill levels - what a great day to spend a few hours. Fun and educational Read more Written March 22, 2024
• David P 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Enjoyable excursion Second time at the Paddling Center at Shingle Creek. Highly recommend. Was just as good as the first time. Easy to make reservations, friendly staff and our tour guide, Josh, was great. The tour starts with a brief training on kayaking, life vest, and a 16oz bottle of water, then in the creek. The tour is very leisurely through wide spots in the creek, then heads into the narrows through the woods. You can tell Josh loves his job. He is a wealth of knowledge and keeps everyone informed and always on the lookout for amazing wildlife. On this trip we saw a variety of birds, turtles, a mom & baby alligator, and a water snake (which Josh spotted and delicately handled to show everyone. Don't forget to bring some cash or otherwise tip your guide. Read more Written March 18, 2024
• dmfink 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Nature in the Middle of the City We did the 2 hour kayak tour and it was phenomenal. Josh, our guide, was informative, fun and incredible with the folks on the tour who were kayaking for the first time. While the critters and view were amazing, the best part for me was the escape from the traffic and the noise. It is remarkable how quickly you can get lost in the real Florida experience. Read more Written March 18, 2024
• S2463BTgregk 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Shingle Creek paddling experience A great paddle on a calm section of the river. Our guide Josh was excellent. He is very knowledgeable and a great host. He identified numerous species of trees and other foliage unique to the area and we saw various birds, turtles and an alligator sleeping on the shore. Don't be nervous about alligators as they are not interested in the kayakers. At the end of the tour Josh showed us his pet water snake Magazine. That was one of the many highlights of this tour. Highly recommend if you are in Orlando. Read more Written March 15, 2024
• cwrig2024 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful Thank you to Ryan who was a stellar guide. We could have gone kayaking on our own, but having Ryan as our guide made all the difference. His knowledge and enthusiasm about Shingle Creek was what made it a memorable experience. Thank you!! Read more Written February 29, 2024
• CarolynnSings 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Skip the Airboat and Do This! We did the 2 hour cypress tree tour in single kayaks. Josh the guide was great, very informative and upbeat. We saw lots of plants, some turtles, an alligator, an osprey and some other birds. As a not fit person, this was just right amount of activity level for me. 10/10 would recommend, best part of our trip! Read more Written February 22, 2024
• kathrynmO1623CB 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Guided Nature Eco-Tour Our guided tour was informative, relaxing and such a pleasure. From the moment we arrived the staff were so welcoming and knowledgeable. A beautiful experience and very family friendly. Read more Written February 18, 2024
• johnconnor2024 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great adventure in an urban area A very nice tour . I wasn’t sure how wild this would be since it was in Kissimmee but it exceed expectations. Daisy our tour guide was very knowledgeable and we saw quite a few birds and turtles . When the 20 foot bull alligator was spotted on shore it made the trip Read more Written February 15, 2024
• newbs115 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Kayak Easy paddle informative guide joshawa close to kississimme but a fairly secluded river nice scenery good trip Read more Written January 25, 2024
• Kerry M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highlight of our Florida Trip I cannot rave strongly enough about the 2-hour guided eco-tour we did with the Paddling Center. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and a delight. The paddling was relaxing but interesting, with some fun challenges navigating through a few tight passages around trees. We saw herons and an inhinga and baby alligators. Would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys nature or is looking for a break from the crowds in Orlando. Read more Written January 8, 2024
• Marnie O 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Kayak Trip We signed up for the group kayak trip on Shingle Creek, but it ended up being only our family which was fine. This is a hidden gem minutes outside of Orlando. Part of the family loves the parks- the other part loves outdoor activities. The river and cypress "swamp" are very quiet and beautiful. We saw several different birds, turtles, and even a large alligator! Josh was our guide, and he is a wealth of knowledge concerning the various flora and fauna. His passion about the Floridian environment is very obvious and appreciated. I highly recommend this trip if you love the outdoors, or just need to unplug from Orlando for a few hours. Read more Written December 22, 2023
• Amber L 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Enjoy Nature close to Orlando! A beautiful way to spend the afternoon! We got to see alligator, turtles, and many different birds! the guide was very knowledgable and shared a lot of information about the history of the area, wildlife, and ecosystem. I would highly recommend a guided tour for your first time here because the guides know the area and can point out the wildlife! We're definitely considering visiting again the next time we are in the area!! Read more Written December 20, 2023
• donname211 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great kayaking Beautiful and informative kayak tour. It was a great way to spend the morning. Very easy to find and book online. Many times to choose from but I would go in the morning. It was very hot by the end of our tour. Much of the area is shaded but there were some spots where you were in the sun. Take water and sunscreen. Our guide was informative and friendly. We really learned a lot about the ecosystem and the surrounding area. We saw lots of wildlife, birds, turtles, etc. Read more Written December 15, 2023

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Encounter Manatee while Kayaking at Blue Springs State Park provided by The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek

Manatee Kayak Tour at Blue Springs State Park

Are you looking for an unforgettable adventure in Orlando, Florida? Look no further than the Manatee Kayak Tour at Blue Springs State Park! Located just an hour outside of Orlando, this activity promises a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle sea creatures.

About the Tour

In addition to providing educational insight into the world of manatees, Blue Springs State Park also boasts hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities for those looking to make a full day of their visit. And with the added bonus of being located just a stone's throw away from Orlando's famed theme parks, visitors can easily combine a day of nature exploration with a thrilling day at the rides.

For nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike, the Manatee Kayak Tour at Blue Springs State Park promises a truly unique and unforgettable activity in Orlando. Don't miss your chance to paddle alongside these gentle giants and learn more about the incredible wildlife of Florida's crystal-clear springs!

• What methods of transportation does the Manatee Kayak Tour at Blue Springs State Park use? Kayak.
• Approximately how long does the Manatee Kayak Tour at Blue Springs State Park last? It lasts approximately 3 hours.
• For what ages is the tour appropriate? All ages can participate, but everyone who attends must be able to swim.
• Where does the tour meet? Blue Spring State Park: French Landing Boat Ramp

WATERFRONT ADVENTURES Swimming with the Manatees

Kayak rentals, pontoon rentals and manatee tours in crystal river, fl, book a manatee tour, the manatee tour, semi private tour, eco sunset tour, eco river tour, who we are: swimming with the manatees.

Waterfront Adventures is the #1 customized manatee tour located at King’s Bay in Crystal River, Florida. Our tours lets you swim with the gentle sea creatures along the warm Nature Coast waters.

Starting at just $ 45 per person, we invite our travelers to customize a variety of tours year-round.

Waterfront Adventures: Swimming With The Manatees  in Crystal River, FL offers guided tours to watch and even swim with the humble and lovable manatees, an endangered species and marine animal of Florida that hangs around in groups. Crystal River is home to hundreds of manatees swimming together, especially in the blue springs. The tour packages start from $45 per person, and eco-tours are also available.

In addition to manatee tours , Waterfront Adventures offers boating trips to the famous Crystal River blue springs and other attractions like snorkeling and kayaking . Tourists can also visit manatee sanctuaries ,  go hiking in the nature reserves or try the Citrus County biking trails . Swimming with manatees is a safe and unforgettable experience for all ages, and Waterfront Adventures expert team ensures an enjoyable time exploring Crystal River’s breathtaking aquatic life. Book a tour today for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Florida!

THINGS TO DO

So many activities to do at Waterfront Adventures Swimming with the Manatees :

• A favorite among swimmers is the Three Sisters Springs . Also a manatee sanctuary, you can take your snorkel to the springs, go for a swim and then pretend you’re in the blue lagoon.
• Is hiking your game? Crystal River is located in a county – Citrus County – that’s chock full of paths and trails. In fact, for the true hiker, the Withlacoochee State Trail may be just up your alley.
• We also have horseback riding, more marine wildlife (not just manatees) and lots of exploration. If you are looking for any kind of adventure in Crystal River, FL then Waterfront Adventures has one for you.

TESTIMONIALS

Blue Heaven River Tours

From $70 per person for heated boat.

Swim with the Manatees

July 1 - September 24

Go Scalloping

See monkeys dolphins, manatees, otters, eagles, and more!

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Manatee tours.

Welcome to the #1 Tour Company

We have a passion for delivering the best Manatee Tours, Scalloping Tours, Nature-Dolphin Tours, and more for the ultimate river experience! We furnish everything you need to Swim with the Manatees or to just relax and enjoy the perfect boat ride to take in all the beauty of the Homosassa River! See Old Florida at its best!

• Best boats, best captains, best prices!
• See why we are #1 on TripAdvisor with all 5-Star Reviews!
• Your private boat - your private captain!
• We host up to 18 guests!
• View the online calendar or book online!
• Check for last minute $79 manatee tours!

Need help choosing the perfect boat? Call us (352) 322-3722

Manatee season runs during the cooler weather months from November 15th through early April! We offer the best chance to see and swim with these gentle giants! We offer heated boats with onboard restrooms. Call for a free manatee report at 352-322-3722! Choose your boat!

Nature-Dolphin

Sightsee and enjoy Old Florida at its best while you look for dolphins, fish, river otters, turtles, birds, and you never know, even a manatee! Cruise to the Springs or out to the Gulf. Let us be your captain and guide of the incredible Homosassa River!

Monkey Island

Check Back Soon! The monkeys are on vacation right now. This tour focuses on monkey island. See the famous monkeys and Monkey Island plus enjoy a cruise of the beautiful Homosassa River. Look for manatees, birds, fish, and turtles of the clear Homosassa Springs.

Scalloping season runs during the warmer months from July to September! We know the river and the Gulf. We know where the scallops are! Fishing license, masks, snorkels, fins and everything you need for your perfect Scallop Adventure is included! Pack a lunch and a cooler full of drinks and step aboard!

Bird Island

Come join us for a beautiful river adventure where you can venture around Bird Island, out to the Estuary, and towards the Gulf for a peaceful and beautiful Homosassa Nature Coast Adventure! Kick back, enjoy the ride, view wildlife, and admire nature's beauty! This tour is for the birds!

Give them an experience they will always remember! This is a gift of memories and photos. Give a gift of a Manatee, Nature-Dolphin, Fun in the Sun, or Scalloping tour to bring smiles to your friends and families. Perfect for Christmas, birthday, Mother's Day, Father's Day, anniversary, retirement, and more!

***** Over 500 Five Star Reviews*****

Don't get stuck on some old beat up crowded boat without a restroom it's no wonder we have so many repeat customers from all over the world that come to us for the ultimate manatee adventure.

Need help? Call (352) 322-3722

Call Chuck and Mary Call: +(352) 322-3722

Email Us [email protected]

Boat Location: 5380 S Boulevard Homosassa FL 34448

Blue Spring Stand Up Paddle Board Tours

Book without a worry! We offer a 100% refund if we cancel your tour due to weather.

Orlando Manatee and Natural Spring Tour at Blue Spring

Up Close & Personal

Manatees of Silver Springs State Park

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Florida’s Mermaids

Blue Springs Manatees Fun Facts  

Here are a few facts about our magnificent Florida manatees. The West Indian Manatee is divided into two subspecies, the Florida manatee and the Antillean or Caribbean manatee. The average Florida manatee is approximately  (8.9–11.5 ft.) long and weighs (440–1,320 lb.), with females normally larger than males. The Florida manatee can be found all over in the warm waters of Florida in the summer.  The West Indian manatee is surprisingly agile in water, and individuals have been seen doing rolls, somersaults, and even swimming upside-down. Manatees are not territorial and do not have complex predator avoidance behavior. In other words , they have no fear of anything. The common predators of marine mammals, such as orcas and large sharks, are rarely, if ever found in habitats inhabited by this species.

Manatees have sensitive tactile hairs that cover their bodies and face called vibrissae. Vibrissae are blood filled sinuses bound by a dense connective tissue capsule with sensitive nerve endings that provides haptic feedback to the manatee. In other words Vibrissae are like little antennas. Vibrissae are found on the facial regions of land critters and are called whiskers. Manatees however, have vibrissae all over their body. The vibrissae on their facial region are roughly 30 times denser than the vibrissae on the rest of their body. Their mouth consists of very mobile prehensile lips which are used for grasping food. The vibrissae on these lips are turned outward during grasping and are used in locating vegetation. The vibrissa on their bodies, not only help them find food, but also help in their navigation of turbid waters.

Manatees are herbivores, meaning they feed on mostly plants, although they do dine on some small fish and invertebrates ( little spineless creatures). There are about 60 plant species which the Florida manatee chow on,  which include sea grasses as their major food source. Because manatees feed on abrasive plants, their molars are often worn down and are continually replaced throughout their life, hence called marching molars. The Florida manatee may have up to 150 ft. of intestines, which is a lot  of intestines for an animal this size. Due to the major digesting of the course plants they eat, manatees produce massive amounts of gas, or manatee farts. Watch for the little bubbles in the water, around the tail of the manatee. lol! Manatees can eat up 10 to 15% of their body weight per day. Captive/injured manatees are fed 72 heads of lettuce and 12 bunches of kale per day. No wonder they call them sea cows!

The Florida manatee has a high casualty rate due to thermal shock from cold water temperatures. Their digestive tract shuts down if they linger too long in water temperatures below 68 degrees.  Many manatee deaths are caused by collision with motorized boats. Most people believe that the propeller of the boat is the main culprit in manatee deaths, however the brunt collision of a speeding boat is the main killer. A manatee lungs are about 4 ft. long and run down the manatees back, when the boat hits it, the lungs collapse. Manatees may also be crushed by flood gates and canal locks, also other human related items such as entangled in monofilament line, fishing nets, fishing hooks, litter, and poaching.  The state and various  private organizations around the world, have done a good job bringing  public awareness to this fact.

Reproduction:

Although the Florida  manatee is mostly a solitary creature, they do form mating herds while the female is in estrus. Most females first breed successfully between ages of seven and nine; they are, however, capable of reproduction as early as age four. Most males reach sexually maturity by the time they are three or four. The gestation period is 12 to 14 months. As the norm, one calf is born, although on rare occasions two have been recorded. We saw a mother with two calves last year on one of our tours to Blue Springs. (see pic above) It was a rare and special treat! The young are born with molars, within the first three weeks of birth, allowing them to consume seagrass, although they will still nurse from their mother. On average, manatees that survive to adulthood will have between five and seven offspring between the ages of 20 and 26. When a calf is born, it usually weighs between 60 and 70 pounds and is between 4.0 and 4.5 feet long. The family unit consists of mother and calf, which remain together for up to two years. Many calves have been born at Blue Springs, and are simply amazing to see! Males aggregate in mating herds around a female when she is ready to mate, however they are dead beat dad’s and contribute no parental care to the calf.

Fun Fact ~  The name  manatí comes from the Taíno, a pre-Columbian people of the Caribbean, meaning breast

Paddle Board with Manatees

It's cold again and the manatees are gathering. Where to watch Florida live feeds

Cold weather in Florida means manatees will be huddling for warmth in many of the state's warmer fresh water springs. The threatened mammal can sometimes be difficult to catch a glimpse of in person, but several state parks offer live feeds of manatee gathering zones. The time to watch is now, since a cold front moving through this week is bringing temperatures as low as 30 degrees to interior parts of the state where manatees are known to hang out. Here's your guide to wild manatee live web cams from around the state:

Blue Spring State Park

Manatees use Blue Spring as a sanctuary from colder weather due to the water's constant temperature of 72 degrees even during winter.

Blue Spring State Park in Volusia County is one of the most popular manatee viewing spots in the state, drawing hundreds of the aquatic mammals which take refuge in the clear blue waters. Approximately 700 manatees visit the park each year.

Silver Springs

Another freshwater spring ensures manatees can stay warm in 72-degree water year-round, Silver Springs in Marion County is an additional popular manatee viewing spot.

Manatees are known to reach Silver Springs through the St. Johns River and its tributaries, finding the warm water spot a haven in colder weather. It's also known for having much of the vegetation needed to sustain the massive creatures' diet.

Located at the edge of the Ocala National Forest, Silver Spring lies between Orlando and Gainesville.

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

Another popular hangout for manatees sojourning from colder waters, Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs is also home to two permanent residents: Ariel and Betsy. Those two manatees can be viewed alongside manatees undergoing rehabilitation at the park can be seen on the webcam when they are freely roaming during the spring.

Located around 80 miles west of Orlando and 70 miles north of Tampa, Homosassa Springs is home to some manatees who are unable to survive in the wild on their own. They are fed four times daily: around 7:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Times vary slightly depending on programming, weather and routine care.

Manatee population status in Florida

Manatees in Florida remain threatened as famine continues to kill off many of the massive yet gentle estuary herbivores across the state. Recent data shows there could be between 8,350 and 11,730 manatees in the state, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Geological Survey.

Although manatees were "downlisted" to threatened from endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2017 , a record 1,100 manatees died in 2022 as a result of diminishing sea grass leading the massive yet gentle creatures to starve in startling numbers.

Having struggled with disease, starvation and violent encounters with boat propellers, manatees are possibly the most beloved animal in Florida. Save the Manatee Foundation has also designated March as Seagrass Awareness Month in honor of the manatee's favorite food.

According to the Save the Manatee Foundation, the Indian River Lagoon has lost 95% of its seagrass biomass due to human-induced harmful algal blooms.