Crystal River Manatee Viewing Clear-Kayak Guided Tour Experience
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join us for an unforgettable guided clear-kayak tour of Crystal River! Our expert local guides provide you with the best chances to see wild manatees and other wildlife in our beautiful waterways! The maximum weight allowed for one rider is 250 lbs, and the maximum weight is 450 lbs for two riders. Includes all necessary safety equipment, as well as free parking at our shop! We can't wait to get you out on the water!
Before you arrive:
All participants must complete liability waivers and safety video available on our website home page (manateepaddle.com). Please arrive 25 min prior to your booking time to ensure all waivers and videos are completed, as well as to receive your launch wrist bands!
Keep in mind:
All Clear-Kayak Tours have a 2 person minimum! We do not allow for a single-person tour, we reserve the right to cancel a booking on the morning of the booking if it doesn't meet our 2 person requirements.
Available options
Crystal River Manatee Viewing Clear-Kayak Guided Tour Experience
What's included
We provide free parking on-site at our shop!
An expert local tour guide!
$5 City Launch Fee included in the price!
Clear-bottom kayak
Paddles, life jackets, and adjustable seats!
Detailed itinerary
1
Our Local Tour Guide will guide you throughout Crystal River from Kings Bay Park in search of wild manatees and the best sight-seeing our waterways have to offer! Our guides do their very best to get you to all of the action using their local knowledge of the manatees whereabouts!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Come to our shop roughly 20-30 min before your booking time to make sure you've completed waivers, watched the safety video, and received wrist-bands! Launch leaves at the time you booked for, so make sure everything is completed beforehand!
About Crystal River
Crystal River is a unique destination known for its clear springs and manatee population. It offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and historical sites, making it a great place for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
This refuge is home to the largest concentration of manatees in the world. Visitors can see these gentle giants year-round, with the best viewing from November to March.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free entry, but guided tours and activities may have fees
Crystal River Archaeological State Park
This park preserves the site of an ancient Native American settlement. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the region's rich history.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free entry, but donations are appreciated
Three Sisters Springs
This stunning spring system is part of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge and offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Nature
Half day
Free entry, but guided tours and activities may have fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Grilled Grouper
Fresh grouper caught locally and grilled to perfection, often served with a lemon butter sauce.
Main Course
Gluten-free, can be made without dairy
Key Lime Pie
A classic Florida dessert made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Snorkeling
Hiking
Swimming
Sunbathing
Waterfront dining
Museum visits
Historical tours
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the best time to visit for manatee viewing and outdoor activities. The weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the springs and wildlife.
15-27°C
60-80°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
EST (UTC-5) or EDT (UTC-4) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Crystal River is a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when swimming in natural springs, as currents can be strong.
- • Lock your car and secure valuables when parking in public areas.
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Crystal River Regional Airport • 5 km from city center
- Tampa International Airport • 110 km from city center
By bus
Crystal River Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable and convenient for getting around, but schedules may be limited.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Homesite Park
Day trips
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
30 km from Crystal River • Half day to full day
This state park is home to a variety of wildlife, including manatees, alligators, and black bears. Visitors can enjoy wildlife shows, nature trails, and a scenic boat ride.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
40 km from Crystal River • Full day
This state park is famous for its mermaid shows and crystal-clear springs. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and riverboat cruises.
Festivals
Crystal River Manatee Festival • November
Pro tips
- Visit the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge early in the morning for the best manatee viewing experience and fewer crowds.
- Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season (November-April).
- Bring waterproof gear for kayaking and snorkeling, as you may get wet.
- Respect the environment and wildlife by following guidelines and regulations.
- Try local seafood specialties, especially grouper and shrimp.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
