Can you see manatees in Florida in December?
Can you see manatees in Florida in December?
Widely dispersed in Florida’s waterways, these charming creatures can be found at any time of year, but are more commonly spotted in the winter months from November to March. Sensitive to cold temperatures, manatees migrate in the winter and early spring where they roam Florida’s warmer waters.
Where are manatees in December?
Winter is Wonderful for Swimming with the Manatees The main reason is that the waters of the Gulf of Mexico range in temperature between 58-66 degrees or so in the months of December, January, February and even March, and manatees, like humans, prefer their water warm.
Where do manatees go in winter Florida?
During the winter months, manatees head for warm waters, such as springs and power plant discharge basins. For the remainder of the year, manatees are widely dispersed in Florida’s waterways.
What is the best time of year to see manatees in Florida?
The peak season for observing manatees is November through April, and the local manatee population swells to its largest size between December and February. You can spot manatees in our waterways all year round, but the population is much smaller during the summer months.
Can you see manatees in Key West?
Key West. Cow Key Marina– Home to some resident manatees that provide daily sightings. They have cute names like Marshal, Big Moe, Speedy, and Little Runt, named for their unique personalities.
What time of day is best to see manatees?
early morning 6 am to 8.30 am
The Three Sisters Springs is a quieter viewing and swimming spot but wherever you are, the best time to be with the manatees is early morning 6 am to 8.30 am when they are most active.
Where can I swim with manatees in Florida for free?
Crystal River area
There’s only one place in North America where you legally swim with manatees, and that’s in the Crystal River area— located about 90 minutes north of Tampa, on the west coast of Florida. The headwaters of Crystal River are known as Kings Bay, where the water temperature is a consistent 72 degrees year-round.
Where is the best place to see manatees?
Crystal River is the #1 place to see manatees in Florida! It is known for its many natural springs. Three Sisters Springs, located in Crystal River, is one of Florida’s most popular springs and is known to have hundreds of manatees resting inside of it at one time!
Where is the best place to see manatees in the Florida Keys?
Middle Keys (Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key) Lorelei’s Restaurant Waterfront– The inlet at Lorelie’s contains seagrass, which makes the chances of seeing manatees high. It is also a great place to watch the sunset! Indian Key Causeway– A great place to rent a kayak and explore Indian Key Historic State Park.
What time of day are manatees most active in Florida?
morning 6 am to 8.30 am
The Three Sisters Springs is a quieter viewing and swimming spot but wherever you are, the best time to be with the manatees is early morning 6 am to 8.30 am when they are most active. You can also experience the manatee swim by visiting with a tour group.
Can you see manatees in Clearwater FL?
One great spot to see some majestic wildlife such as manatee is Clearwater, FL. What makes Clearwater a hotspot for spotting manatee is that manatee tours operate there, and also operate all year round.
Where are the best manatees in Florida?
Here are 5 of the top places to see manatees in Florida!
- #5 Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is located on the east coast.
- #4 Tarpon Springs.
- #3 Blue Springs.
- #2 Homosassa Springs.
- #1 Crystal River.