Florida , USA

Manatee Springs Adventure Tour

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(2 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the serene waters of Manatee Springs State Park on a guided paddling adventure that brings you close to manatee, ancient cypress trees, and the waterways that Florida is so well known. During the winter months, this paddle will glide alongside manatees in their natural habitat, guided by an experienced naturalist who shares insights about these magnificent creatures and the delicate ecosystem around them. During the summer months, capture unique photos and create lasting memories while exploring vibrant and diverse cypress wetlands. This tour is perfect for nature lovers eager to connect with Florida's rich biodiversity while paddling peacefully through stunning waters.

Available options

Manatee Springs Adventure Tour

What's included

Kayak and all safety equipment

Detailed itinerary

The headwaters of the Suwannee River are in the Okefenokee Swamp in the town of Fargo, Georgia. The river runs southwestward into the Florida Panhandle, then drops in elevation through limestone layers into a rare Florida whitewater rapid. Past the rapid, the Suwanee turns west near the town of White Springs, Florida, then connects to the confluences of the Alapaha River and Withlacoochee River.

People have enjoyed the cool waters of Manatee Springs for more than 10,000 years, from early Paleo Indians to modern park visitors. The first-magnitude spring releases an astounding 100 million gallons of water daily. This makes it a popular cooling-off spot and a great place to stroll on the park boardwalk and gaze into watery depths.

True to its namesake, manatees can be seen in the cooler months, and birds, mammals and fish are spotted year-round.

What's not included

Manatee Springs State Park Admission

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not recommended for travelers who cannot swim.

Meeting point

Please go to the Chubby Mermaid Rental Station after entering the park. Let the desk agent know you are registered for a tour.

About Florida

Florida is a southeastern U.S. state known for its tropical climate, Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico beaches, and diverse wildlife. It's famous for its theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, as well as its vibrant cities like Miami and Tampa.

Top Attractions

Walt Disney World Resort

The world's largest and most famous theme park resort, featuring four theme parks, two water parks, and numerous entertainment and shopping districts.

Theme Park Multiple days recommended Expensive (Multi-day tickets required)

Kennedy Space Center

NASA's primary launch center for human spaceflight, offering interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, and guided tours.

Educational/Historical Half to full day Moderate to Expensive (Varies by tour and exhibit access)

Everglades National Park

A unique subtropical wilderness featuring diverse ecosystems, including sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and hardwood hammocks.

Nature Full day or overnight Free (Entrance fee for some areas and tours)

South Beach

A vibrant beachfront neighborhood in Miami known for its Art Deco architecture, lively nightlife, and beautiful sandy beaches.

Beach Half day to full day Free (Costs for rentals, food, and drinks)

The Florida Keys

A string of tropical islands stretching from the southern tip of Florida, offering stunning beaches, world-class fishing, and unique marine life.

Island/Scenic Multiple days recommended Moderate to Expensive (Varies by accommodation and activities)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Key Lime Pie

A tangy, sweet pie made with key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk, topped with whipped cream and a graham cracker crust.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, can be made gluten-free with a modified crust

Stone Crab

A Florida delicacy, served chilled with mustard sauce, typically enjoyed with drawn butter and coleslaw.

Main Course Seafood, gluten-free if prepared without cross-contamination

Cuban Sandwich

A pressed sandwich featuring roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread, often served with plantains and a side salad.

Lunch Contains pork and gluten, can be made vegetarian with substitutions

Grouper Sandwich

A fried or blackened grouper fillet served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar or remoulade sauce, often accompanied by fries or coleslaw.

Lunch Seafood, can be made gluten-free with a lettuce wrap or gluten-free bun

Popular Activities

Airboat tours in the Everglades Scuba diving and snorkeling in the Florida Keys Kayaking and paddleboarding in the Ten Thousand Islands Zip-lining at Gatorland (Orlando) Beachcombing and sunbathing on Florida's beaches Spa treatments and wellness retreats Yoga and meditation classes Stargazing at state parks and nature preserves

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the peak tourist season due to warm, comfortable temperatures and low humidity. It's ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits, but also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.

15-29°C 59-84°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Creole, Portuguese, French, Haitian Creole
English: Widely spoken

Currency

U.S. Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5:00, GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations

Florida is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates in most tourist areas. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded and popular destinations. Exercise caution in unfamiliar or isolated areas, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and rental companies
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Miami International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown Miami
Orlando International Airport • 19 km (12 miles) from downtown Orlando

By train

Amtrak Stations (e.g., Miami, Orlando, Tampa)

By bus

Greyhound Stations in major cities, Megabus Stations in select cities

Getting around

Public transport

Public bus systems are available in major cities and provide affordable transportation. However, schedules and coverage can be limited outside peak hours and in suburban areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

South Beach (SoBe) Wynwood Ybor City Cocoa Beach Sanibel Island

Day trips

Sanibel Island and Captiva Island

241 km (150 miles) from Miami • Full day or overnight

These barrier islands offer beautiful beaches, shelling, and nature preserves, providing a relaxing and scenic escape from the mainland.

St. Augustine

266 km (165 miles) from Orlando • Full day

The oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the U.S., offering historic sites, museums, and charming streets.

Everglades City and the Ten Thousand Islands

130 km (81 miles) from Naples • Full day

A unique and remote area offering eco-tours, airboat rides, and access to the Ten Thousand Islands for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Festivals

Miami Spice • August to September Art Basel Miami Beach • Early December Tampa Bay Margarita Festival • Late February to Early March

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions, such as theme parks and beaches, during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and save money
Explore lesser-known destinations and hidden gems for a more authentic and unique experience
Take advantage of free or low-cost activities, such as visiting beaches, parks, and nature preserves
Plan your trip around special events and festivals for a memorable and engaging experience
Research and book accommodations, attractions, and transportation in advance to secure the best deals and availability