Manatees
Ok, please don't get mad, I'm asking this question because I've never been here or seen them in the wild. I would like to know the best place to see manatees in late February/ first of March from a boardwalk or pier. We are driving up from Naples heading back home
Great question — seeing manatees in Crystal River in late February through early March is one of the best times, and there *are* some very good land-based (boardwalk or pier) spots for viewing, though some of the most spectacular views come from the water. Here’s a detailed guide, tips, and things to know.
Why Late February / Early March Is a Good Time
- The manatee season in Crystal River runs from November 15 to March 31, when manatees concentrate in the warm spring-fed waters.
- February is often among the peak months for manatee density, and early March can still be very strong — according to local guides, early March still feels like “peak” in many years.
- Because the springs are very clear and relatively calm, boardwalk viewing can be excellent for spotting resting or slowly moving manatees.
Best Places to See Manatees from a Boardwalk / Pier in Crystal River
Here are some of the top land-based viewing points:- Three Sisters Springs Boardwalk
- This is the most iconic boardwalk spot in Crystal River for manatee viewing.
- The boardwalk circles around the spring run, giving you multiple vantage points above the water.
- Note: to access the boardwalk, you must go through the Three Sisters Springs Center. There’s no direct parking at the boardwalk itself, so visitors use a trolley from the center.
- There’s an admission fee for the boardwalk during winter months (manatee season).
- Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
- The Visitor Center is located on Kings Bay (1502 SE Kings Bay Drive) and offers good views of nearby islands and waterways where manatees may be present.
- From there, you can walk trails around the refuge for wildlife viewing, though manatee sightings from land are less guaranteed than in the springs.
Important Rules, Tips & Cautions
- Passive observation only — The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service strongly encourages you to watch manatees from a distance, not to chase or touch them.
- Some areas are designated *manatee sanctuaries* and have access restrictions.
- When using the boardwalk, go in the morning if possible: manatees are often more active, the water tends to be clearer, and crowds may be smaller.
- Bring binoculars or a good camera — many manatee encounters from land may be subtle (a tail, a body rising, or a resting animal), especially in deep or shadowed spring channels.
- Respect the environment — don’t litter, stick to boardwalks, and follow posted refuge rules. The manatees are there because the springs provide vital warm-water refuge in winter.
Alternative / Supplemental Viewing Ideas
If you have some flexibility or want to combine boardwalk viewing with water-based excursions:- Consider a guided kayak or boat tour — Many local outfitters run tours that let you get closer in the water (but still follow rules) for better manatee viewing.
- If you’re open to swimming (and have a wetsuit), you can sometimes snorkel (with a licensed operator) in areas near the springs — though rules can be strict, and some sanctuary areas are off-limits in winter.
Bottom Line
Yes — you have a very good shot of seeing manatees from land in late February / early March at Crystal River. The Three Sisters Springs boardwalk is by far your best bet for dry (no-water) viewing, especially during the winter “manatee season.” Combine that with a visit to the refuge visitor center and some patient observation, and you're likely to spot these gentle giants. Plus, if you want to deepen your experience, you can always add a water-based tour for a chance to see manatees more up-close (as long as you follow all the sanctuary rules).
