Manatees, often referred to as “gentle giants” or “sea cows,” are some of the most captivating marine mammals to encounter while kayaking.
These curious and peaceful creatures thrive in warm, shallow waters, providing paddlers with a unique opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. While we love kayaking almost anywhere we can find a launch spot, there’s something incredibly calming about seeing manatees in their natural habitat, especially in a sport that usually calls for adventure.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Florida or exploring international waters, here are twelve of the best places to go kayaking with manatees.
1. Anna Maria Island, Florida
For a fantastic chance to kayak with manatees, head to the warm, gentle waters of Anna Maria Island. The best time to spot manatees here is during the winter, from around November through March.
The best places to spot manatees in Anna Maria Island are off Bean Point or even from the shore around Anna Maria City Pier or the marina at Holmes Beach.
For the best bet at spotting a manatee while kayaking, I recommend you go with a tour guide that knows the areas and the habits of the beloved sea cows. There are a number of tour companies to choose from, so go with the one that best fits what you’re looking for.
If you need a place to stay to enjoy a full getaway to Anna Maria Island, we recommend either Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals for vacation rentals home, or if you prefer condos, Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals.
2. Manatee Park, Fort Myers, Florida
Manatee Park in Fort Myers is a great spot for kayaking alongside manatees. This park features warm waters from a nearby power plant, which attract manatees during cooler months.
The area is beginner-friendly, with kayak rentals available for those who don’t have their own gear.
Another great thing about Manatee Park in Fort Myers is that it’s close enough to easily access local shopping and dining, but far enough into the wild to be able to enjoy the peace and quiet.
Just know that since Fort Myers is a popular tourist destination, you likely won’t get the manatees to yourself like you can in lesser-known areas.
3. Crystal River, Florida
Crystal River is the premier destination for kayaking with manatees in the United States. This small coastal city is in western Florida on the Gulf of Mexico between Gainesville and Tampa.
This area, known for its crystal-clear waters and warm springs, attracts hundreds of manatees, especially during the winter months when they seek refuge from colder waters.
Kings Bay and Three Sisters Springs are hotspots for manatee sightings. The calm, clear waters make this an unforgettable experience for paddlers.
Crystal River has long been a popular place for families to gather on the holidays and during spring and fall break. If you’re trying to find a beautiful, peaceful area, you’ll be happy with your visit to Crystal River, Florida.
Crystal River Kayak Company offers kayak rentals and clear kayak tours in Crystal River.
4. Indian River Lagoon, Florida
The Indian River Lagoon system is a biodiverse ecosystem home to manatees year-round. The lagoon is a short drive from Orlando and just south of Cape Canaveral.
Paddlers can enjoy scenic views of mangroves and calm waterways while spotting these gentle mammals. This area also offers the chance to see other wildlife, such as otters and herons.
If you’re a photography buff, you’ll love the incredible photos you’ll be able to capture when you visit Indian River Lagoon for your next kayaking trip in Florida.
5. Blue Spring State Park, Florida
Blue Spring State Park, located near Orlando, is a designated manatee refuge. During manatee season (November through March), this spring becomes home to hundreds of Florida manatees.
Kayakers can paddle near the spring run, observing these mammals in their natural habitat. A nearby boardwalk offers additional viewing opportunities for visitors.
If you’re not up for kayaking or are traveling with small kids, you can also book boat cruises so you can check out the manatees during manatee season. The cruises are perfect for romantic escapes from the city, as well as for trips with the whole family.
6. Silver Springs State Park, Florida
Silver Springs State Park provides a different experience for paddlers seeking manatees. Surprisingly enough, this park is located in central Florida, a short drive from Gainesville. Many paddlers are surprised to find manatees here since it’s not on the coast.
The park’s spring water is exceptionally clear, allowing for unobstructed views of the wildlife below. While manatees are not as abundant here as in other locations, lucky paddlers may still encounter them amidst the park’s serene setting.
You’ll also find that the atmosphere in Silver Springs State Park is perfect for those who want to relax and unwind on the water.
7. Homosassa Springs, Florida
Homosassa Springs is another incredible location for kayaking with manatees. Like Crystal River, it boasts warm waters and an abundance of West Indian manatees during the winter months.
It’s just a few miles south of Crystal River so you could easily kayak both areas in one weekend getaway.
The Homosassa River offers paddlers the chance to encounter manatees in a serene, less crowded setting compared to other popular spots. This peaceful area is perfect for relaxing and soaking in nature for hours on end.
8. Tampa Bay, Florida
Tampa Bay is home to a thriving population of manatees, particularly around the warm waters near Apollo Beach and the Manatee Viewing Center.
Kayakers can launch from various access points to explore calm waterways and enjoy close encounters with manatees during the cooler months.
The Tampa Bay area also offers a wide array of hot spots for dining out to eat fresh seafood, shop for local crafts, or even go out for a night of dancing and fun with friends and family after spending the day on the water.
9. Everglades National Park, Florida
Everglades National Park, a vast ecosystem of mangroves and waterways, offers a unique setting for kayaking with manatees. While paddling, visitors may encounter manatees along with alligators, otters, and a variety of bird species.
This area is best suited for experienced paddlers due to its expansive and remote nature. Be sure to take along a camera so you won’t miss a spectacular shot of a manatee, or even a gator while you’re out on the water.
10. Cape Canaveral, Florida
The waters near Cape Canaveral, including the Banana River and Mosquito Lagoon, are excellent for kayaking with manatees. These areas provide warm, shallow waters where manatees often gather.
Paddlers can also enjoy a bioluminescence experience during summer nights, adding an extra layer of magic to their trip.
Cape Canaveral is an amazing place to check out when you’re looking for manatees in Florida.
11. Sanibel Island, Florida
Sanibel Island’s calm bays and estuaries provide a tranquil environment for manatee sightings. The island is perfect for a relaxing kayak trip, with plenty of opportunities to observe manatees in their natural habitat.
The island’s focus on conservation makes it a favorite spot for nature lovers.
12. Puerto Rico (Vieques Island)
Vieques Island in Puerto Rico offers an incredible opportunity to kayak with manatees in the Caribbean. The warm waters and lush seagrass beds around the island are frequented by manatees.
Additionally, the island’s famous bioluminescent bays provide a magical nighttime paddling experience.
13. Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Outside the U.S., Belize is a top international destination for kayaking with manatees. The warm waters near the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provide an ideal environment for these gentle mammals.
Paddlers can explore mangroves and coral reefs while keeping an eye out for manatees and other marine wildlife. Belize is the perfect place for a romantic getaway, and has long been known to be ideal for spotting manatees.
Belize Master Tour specializes in eco-friendly tours near the Belize Barrier Reef.
Where Will You Kayak with Manatees?
Kayaking with manatees is an amazing experience that combines adventure, wildlife observation, and a deeper appreciation for these gentle giants. Whether you’re paddling through Florida’s warm springs or exploring tropical waters abroad, these destinations promise unforgettable encounters with these magnificent mammals.
So grab your kayak, head to one of these top spots, and enjoy the magic of kayaking with manatees!
