During cold snaps, manatees migrate to huddle up in the warmer waters of Central Florida Springs. That’s why the winter season in Orlando is the perfect time to catch a glimpse of Florida manatees at Blue Spring State Park.
Florida manatees retreat to the designated refuge each year because of the consistent water temperature of 72 degrees. On a cold day, you may be able to view up to several hundred from the spring’s overlooks. Manatee season usually lasts through March.
Manatees at Blue Spring State Park.
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MANATEES NEAR ORLANDO
Blue Spring State Park
2100 W. French Avenue
Orange City FL 32763
(386) 775-3663
The destination is a great place to take visitors or bring the entire family for an educational experience. Plan to arrive as soon as the park opens because it usually fills quickly, especially on the weekends.
You can drive your car to Blue Spring State Park, or for the more adventurous, arrive by boat or kayak along the St. John’s River.
- Approximately 1 hour from Orlando
- $6 per vehicle to enter
- Call to get the manatee count before you go, or check this manatee webcam
- Hours of operation: 8am until sundown
Blue Spring State Park kayak rentals. Image: Laura Perry
THINGS TO DO AT BLUE SPRING STATE PARK
- Walk along the boardwalk and stop at outlook points to discover Florida native manatees, fish, and birds.
- Hike 4.5 miles on the Pine Island Trail.
- Blue Springs Adventures provides two-hour narrated Nature and Ecological Cruises on the St. Johns River. They also offer canoe/kayak rentals and a Guided Kayak Experience.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of many picnic pavilions.
- Let the kids run around at the playground.
- During the summer months, take a refreshing dip in the chilly 72-degree freshwater spring.
- You can camp here, too!
The Manatee Festival
January 27 & 28, 2024
Valentine Park in Orange City, Florida
Adults $10, kids $2 (kids 3 and under get in free; dogs $10).
Celebrate the arrival of the manatees with a weekend of entertainment, arts and crafts, live music, rides, activities, food, and more. Take the FREE shuttle ride to Blue Spring State Park to see the manatees.
MORE SPOTS TO SEE MANATEES IN FLORIDA
Three Sister Springs
917 Three Sisters Springs Trail
City of Crystal River, 34429
(352) 586-1170
Another popular spot in Florida to see hundreds of manatees is Three Sister Springs in Crystal River.
- Approximately two hours away from Orlando
- $20 for adults, $7.50 for kids, and free for kids 5 and under
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
4150 S. Suncoast Blvd.
Homosassa FL 34446
(352) 628-5343
- Approximately two hours away from Orlando
- Adults (age 13+) $13; children ages 6-12 $5; children 5 and under admitted FREE.
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Frances says
I highly recommend visiting Blue Springs Park from the water. We boated there on the St. John’s from the Debary Boat Ramp. It was so exciting to see the manatee in crystal clear water. On the way, You can pack a lunch or eat inside or outside at the Swamp Restaurant.