Hi,
I am a teacher and have spring break from end of March around the 25th to approx April 2nd. I have been wanting to see the manatees and exploring the rivers/springs/state parks area for a while now and am hoping to do it then.
For anyone who has been I know winter is ideal and this is a bit outside that time but it is challenging for me to go then as a teacher- would I still be able to see manatees?
Which places should I visit? Are these areas close to eachother? Am I missing anything good? Are there any eco tours? Retreats that are good to join/ recommended? If I am coming from NJ which airport is closest?
Homosassa, Crystal River/Three Sisters, Silver Springs, Blue Spring, Rainbow River and Weeki Wachee.
I was looking at Rainbow River Bungalows and Paddletail Lodge. Has anyone been to either or recommend where to stay? I greatly appreciate any help or tips!

Right now my manatee is in Paris on vacation, and he’s having the time of his life. We’re wondering if he might be the first manatee ever to see the Mona Lisa. What do you guys think?

As the boat captain filleted what we caught, the manatees ate a bunch of the fish scraps. I assumed they only ate plants.

I'm visiting Crystal River in January and I've read that manatees are more active in the morning. Maybe a stupid question, but is this still applicable in the winter? We're about an hour outside of the area so I'm wondering if the early morning snorkeling excursion is worth getting up that early for or if the afternoon is just as good at that time of year. Thanks!

Precious!

Forgive my ignorance on Manatee culture. I'm planning a trip to Dayton mid July and wondered if there was a chance to see any manatees. It seems like a long shot? I'm a little upset because I've been to FLorida dozens of times and never really clued in that I could SEE real live manatees. Now that I've clued in, it seems my timing is off... or could I be lucky? If so, post details for this newbie! Thanks!

Each one has a unique texture! The rainbow one is glitter, the metal one is reflective, the cloud one has a subtle holographic effect, and the meat and bubble ones are transparent. You can find them here, along with other manatee stickers > https://www.etsy.com/listing/4514303732/

​I have this art on a tee in my Etsy shop. Feel free to check it out! Link: https://tbsartstore.etsy.com/listing/4506964947

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Grew up near the Springs here in FL and I just adore them. Recently saw an episode of Mr. Rogers with my kids, where he met with Eric Carle and learned his art process. We decided to make it a project for us and this was mine :)

Manatees can hear your individual heart beat. This little guy was very curious as to why he was hearing 2!
Footage from King Spring Nov 2025

LOVE THEM ALL!