Crystal River Travel Guide | Manatee Capital of the World
Known as the “Manatee Capital of the World,” Crystal River is a great year-round destination. Manatees gather in the springs during the winter, and scalloping takes over in the summer. Here are five ways to make the most of your trip.
#1: Swim with Manatees in the Winter and Scallop in the Summer
Crystal River is the only place in Florida, and one of the few places in the world, where swimming with manatees is legal. In the winter months, manatees gather in the springs (like Three Sisters Springs), where the water stays 72 degrees year-round and provides a refuge from colder Gulf temperatures.
Paddletail Waterfront Adventures is one of my favorite companies to go out with. Their guides share manatee facts and show guests how to passively observe these gentle animals. Tours include a 5 mm wetsuit, mask, snorkel, towels, and hot coffee.
In the summer, the company also runs scalloping charters where you head offshore for what feels like an underwater Easter egg hunt in the seagrass beds, searching for scallops and even sampling some of the catch.
#2: Explore Crystal River Archaeological State Park
Crystal River Archaeological State Park is best known for its ancient six-mound complex and is considered one of the longest continuously occupied sites in Florida. In addition to the history, the park has plenty of places to hike.
The Seven-Mile Loop Trail crosses tidal creeks, passes through pine forest, and has beautiful views of the surrounding salt marsh.
#3: Dine in Crystal River
Crystal River has no shortage of yummy places to eat. A few local favorites include:
Breakfast/coffee: Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters and Beans and Greens Coffee House
Lunch: Amy’s On The Avenue (Make sure to order the Key Lime cake for desert)
Dinner: Bayside Kraft Kitchen
#4: Shop at Heritage Village
Heritage Village is a great place to take a walk and browse local shops. One standout stop is the Franklin Anderson Gallery of Arts, which features work from Nature Coast artists.
#5: Stay in Crystal River at Paddletail Lodge
Crystal River is worth spending a few days exploring. Paddletail Lodge is a cozy, manatee-themed hotel and a convenient home base for a visit.
One of the biggest perks is location. The Paddletail Waterfront Adventures dive shop is located right on site, making it easy to rent kayaks or head out on manatee or scalloping tours (depending on the season) without needing to drive anywhere.
