Unlike other locations in Florida where you can interact with manatees – the Crystal River area north of Tampa is probably the most famous – the water here isn’t clear, so it isn’t always easy to see ...

One of the ways you can see gorgeous manatees in Florida is by renting a kayak and gently paddling in the warm waters where manatees are present. If you've very lucky, one of these gentle giants may ...

A first-magnitude spring, towering cypress swamps, and wildlife-rich forests shape this serene North Florida escape.

What’s happening: Enjoy a free garden tour of the Manatee Park butterfly garden and habitats. Participants also have the opportunity to see manatees with the weather bringing cooler water temperatures ...

“There’s Lily,” said Wayne Hartley, gesturing underneath the water’s surface within Blue Spring run from atop his signature red canoe that displays the label, “manatee research.” In the 80 years he’s ...

This story is part of our weekly Hidden Gems feature series as the USA TODAY Network – Florida takes readers around the state to highlight some of our most interesting attractions. Round Island ...

Sunshine State? 697 manatees flocked to Blue Spring State Park in Orange City, Florida, on New Year's Day, Jan. 1, 2026, ...

Florida is known for making dreams come true. And while many associate Orlando with vacation magic (Hello, Disney!), a lesser-known destination about an hour and a half northwest brings the same ...