Manatees are quite the creatures. These pudgy mammals love to be in warm waters and have a surprisingly low body fat despite their size and appearance. Historically, they have been mistaken as mermaids by European sailors who ventured into the New World but you will make no such mistake as you will get to see them up close if you come down here in The Sunshine State. There are many spots where you can see manatees and we’ll share some of what we know to you to help you begin to create those lasting memories with the cow of the sea.
Lovers Key State Park
This semi-remote island is teeming with wildlife. It has a gorgeous beach that you can enjoy as well. It is two miles long and you can take the boardwalk or ride a tram to get there. Lovers prefer this place for its detachment from the busier mainland. Here you can catch rabbits, eagles, dolphins and, of course, manatees. You can best see them when you’re kayaking with your loved one. They are a bit rare in this spot though but just in case you don’t see any of them, the dolphins would love to have you for company.
Three Sisters Springs
Manatees love warm water and Three Sisters Springs inside Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Complex offers just that. The place has warm spring waters that flow down into its river – the perfect playground for our gentle giants. It’s such a sight to see them wade almost above clear blue waters, as if inviting you to come join them. The best time to come and visit is during summer season where the manatees swim around and you can go swimming or kayaking to play with them too.
Blue Springs State Park
This park in Orange city boasts its unique kayaking and boating opportunities as well as a nice beach where you can swim. With the exception of the winter season, you can usually find manatees here sleeping and eating notorious sea weeds. If you want to see them in action, snorkeling will be your best option. So get your gear ready so you can frolic with the manatees as soon as possible.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
This wildlife refuge in Titusville, Florida was originally meant to be a sanctuary for migratory birds but people soon discovered that the place is inhabited by other wildlife species as well; some of them are in the endangered list. One of the many animal species who call this place home are the manatees. And one interesting fact about this is the place is right next to the Kennedy Space Center. So, if you want to watch a rocket launch while chilling with the manatees, then this place is for you.
Manatees are friendly creatures that are always seem to be looking forward to human contact. If you want to get to know them, then you should know more about the places on which you can find them. Visit divinenaples.com and go to our Business Directory section to know about the establishments in and around southwestern Florida and to our Tourist Guide section where we give suggestions on the best places to go.
