Bas & CatalinaCrystal River is a small town in Citrus County, Florida, known for its crystal-clear springs and resident manatees. The springs are a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, and the manatees can be seen swimming in the springs year-round. In addition, during the summer, people visit Crystal River to scallop in the Gulf of Mexico.
Is Crystal River worth a visit?
Yes! Crystal River is a fantastic area that is worth a visit. Crystal River offers fabulous tours and unique experiences that will create memories that will last a lifetime.
What is the best time of the year to visit Crystal River?
The best time to visit Crystal River is winter when the weather is cooler, and the manatees are more active. However, the springs in the area are popular year-round, and there are plenty of things to do regardless of the season. Remember, scalloping is the popular thing to do in the summer!
We have visited at different times of the year. The first time we visited was during the winter, and the number of manatees was incredible. If your primary focus is to swim with the manatees, wait for the cooler temperatures. The colder the temperature, the more manatees will congregate in the area.
Another time we visited was during the summer. We still booked a manatee tour, and although we could swim with the manatees, the number of manatees was minimal compared to the winter. Still, though, it was an extraordinary experience with fewer people. In addition, we were able to book a scalloping charter and clear kayak tour to the Three Sister Springs, where we indulged in the refreshing temperature of the spring water on a hot summer day. It was perfect for swimming.
You can do more activities by visiting Crystal River during the summer months.
Where to stay
When visiting Crystal River, you will likely not spend too much time at your accommodation. Also, remember that Crystal River is pretty busy year-round (manatees in the winter and scalloping in the summer); therefore, making reservations with plenty of time is super important.
Plantation Resort on Crystal River: This resort is near King’s Bay. It features a 27-hole championship golf course, a swimming pool, and four on-site restaurants. Three Sisters Spring is 1.1 mi from the property. It is perfect for families or couples.
Holiday Inn Express Crystal River: This Florida hotel is one mile from River Ventures Manatee Swim Tours and Kings Bay. It features an outdoor pool and rooms with flat-screen cable TVs and free Wi-Fi. Holiday Inn Express Crystal River guest rooms have microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers. This hotel is recommended for couples and small families.
House of Shells: is a charming 4-bedroom house featuring a beautiful garden, fenced yard, outdoor dining area, dog friendly, and a fire pit. The House of Shells is ideal for families or groups of friends. It is located 3.4 miles from the Three Sister Springs.
Vacation Home with Game Room: This is another excellent accommodation for small families or groups. This 3-bedroom vacation dog-friendly home offers updated interiors, a beautiful garden, and a fully stocked kitchen. The game room has a foosball table, ping pong, and an indoor basketball hoop game. It is located 1.6 miles from the Three Sister Springs.
How many days do you need for Crystal River?
Two to three days are more than enough to explore the area and partake in different activities in Crystal River.
Things to Do in Crystal River
Crystal River has so many things to do! You can swim with manatees: This is the number one thing to do in Crystal River. In the summer, people venture into Crystal River to go scalloping. You can also visit Three Sisters Springs: Three Sisters Springs is a popular spot for swimming, Kayaking, and paddleboarding. The springs are home to many manatees, and you can often see them swimming in the clear waters.
Moreover, you can Kayak or paddleboard in the springs. Finally, there are many different springs to explore in Crystal River, and Kayaking or paddleboarding is a great way to see them. You can paddle through the clear waters and see fish, turtles, and other wildlife.
Swimming with the Manatees in Crystal River
Crystal River is one of the few places where you can legally swim with manatees in their natural habitat. Swimming with the manatees in Crystal River is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. These gentle giants are endangered, and the federal government protects them. The manatees in Crystal River are attracted to the springs because the water is warm and full of nutrients.
We booked a swim with the manatee tour when we visited Crystal River, once in the winter and once in the summer. The tour operators tell you everything you need to know about the laws that protect the manatees. They provide you with all the gear necessary to make it an enjoyable experience and share their expertise.
Is it safe to swim with manatees in Crystal River?
Manatees are docile creatures that are not aggressive; however, don’t forget that swimming in any water in Florida has its risks (alligators, snakes, sharks, etc.).
I have lived in Florida for 25 years. I am very conscious about checking the water before going in. One of the things I like about going on a tour is that you are not in an isolated, quiet area. Alligators try to avoid human interactions, and they try to avoid noisy places. We did not see any alligators during our two trips to Crystal River.
What is the best time of year to swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida?
The best time to swim with manatees in Crystal River is during the winter months, from November to April. Having said that, you can swim with manatees in Crystal River year-round.
We have visited at different times of the year. The first time we visited was during the winter, and the number of manatees was incredible. If your primary focus is to swim with the manatees, wait for the cooler temperatures. The colder the temperature, the more manatees will congregate in the area.
Another time we visited was during the summer. We still booked a manatee tour, and although we could swim with the manatees, the number of manatees was minimal compared to the winter. Still, though, it was an extraordinary experience with fewer people.
Can you swim with manatees in Crystal River without a tour?
Yes! If you know where to go or you know a local that knows where to take you, you can swim with manatees without a tour.
If you intend to swim with manatees, I recommend a tour, as they know exactly where to take you. Tour companies will also provide you with the necessary gear, and you will have an organized experience.
We have swam with manatees in both settings, through a tour and with a local friend. We had much more success with the tour than on our own.
Swimming with Manatees Tours in Crystal River
We had a great experience scalloping and swimming with the manatees with River Ventures in Crystal River. We also received a small discount by booking our swim with the manatees and scalloping adventure together through them.
Do I need a wetsuit to swim with manatees in Crystal River?
It is not legally required to wear a wetsuit when swimming with manatees; however, if you are part of a group with a tour company, you may be expected to wear a wetsuit. Wetsuits keep you warm in the spring water (72 degrees year round) and provide some buoyancy.
I tend to swim in the Florida Springs without a wetsuit, but keep in mind that when you are there to observe manatees, you are less active. You will get much colder floating around watching manatees; therefore, I highly recommend wearing a wetsuit. It will make your experience much more enjoyable.
What do you wear when swimming with manatees in Crystal River?
It is highly recommended to wear a wetsuit and snorkel equipment when swimming with manatees in Crystal River, Florida.
Wear a bathing suit if you swim with the manatees via a tour. Your tour manager will provide a wet suit, but you want to wear a bathing suit underneath.
Can I touch manatees in Crystal River?
It is illegal to touch, harass, feed, or chase manatees in Florida. Manatees are protected. Having said that, manatees are curious and social animals that may choose to swim toward you.
Both times I swam with manatees, I floated with a pool noodle provided by our tour operator. The more still and calm you are, the more relaxed the manatees are. In both instances, the manatees came close enough to me to make it a memorable experience.
Scalloping in Crystal River
Crystal River can be an excellent place to visit year-round. During the summer, one of the most popular activities is scalloping. Scalloping is a great way to exercise and enjoy the beautiful waters of Crystal River. It is also a delicious way to get seafood. Bay scallops are small, sweet, and tender. They can be cooked in a variety of ways, but they are often grilled or sauteed.
What is Scalloping in Florida?
Scalloping is the act of looking for scallops. In Florida, people compare it to a marine easter egg hunt. You float and swim in shallow water with grassy bottoms, looking for scallops. It sounds simple, but it’s a fun adventure.
I am not a big seafood fan, so I knew I wouldn’t be eating the scallops; however, it was so much fun finding them and getting dinner for my husband. We did this activity with my then 9-year-old son, who had a blast actively searching the grounds for scallops and filling his net bag.
What time of the year is best for scalloping in Crystal River?
Scalloping season in Crystal River runs from July 1 to September 24.
We went scalloping at the end of the season, and although our captain mentioned there weren’t many left, we found plenty for the whole semi-private charter to enjoy.
How deep in the water do you go for scalloping?
Scalloping doesn’t require big depths. The recommendation for scalloping is between 3-7 feet.
You want to be a strong swimmer as you cannot wear a life jacket and scallop simultaneously.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer to go scalloping in Crystal River?
Yes! You must be a strong swimmer as you cannot wear a life jacket and scallop simultaneously.
Scalloping tours in Crystal River, Florida
You can go scalloping in Crystal River by booking a private, semi-private charter or going on your own. We chose to do a semi-private charter and had a phenomenal experience.
Crystal River Watersports offers scalloping charters and many other tours.
River Ventures Mild & Wild offers a variety of scalloping charters, including private and semi-private. They also offer many other tours and activities.
High Octane Fishing Charters offers private scalloping charters and fishing charters.
We had a great experience scalloping and swimming with the manatees with River Ventures. We also received a small discount by booking our swim with the manatees and scalloping adventure together through them.
River Venture provided us with mesh bags, put up the snorkeling flag, provided instruction on how to find scallops, and helped us shuck them.
Do you need a license to scallop in Florida?
Yes! You need a license to scallop in Florida; however, if you are taking a tour or scalloping with a charter boat, you are good as long as they have a license.
Do you need to wear gloves for scalloping?
Gloves are not necessary. You can grab scallops with your bare hands. Scallops don’t bite but can close their shells and sometimes pinch your fingers. Because of this, some people prefer to scoop them up with a net.
During our semi-private charter, nobody used gloves. My then 9-year-old son was initially hesitant and tried to scoop them with the net. He started using his hands once he realized it was a bit harder with the net.
Is there a limit on how many scallops you can catch in Florida?
Yes. Each vessel has a limit of 10 gallons of whole bay scallops in the shell or ½ gallon scallop meat. OR each person can have up to 2 gallons of whole bay scallops in the shell or 1 pint of scallop meat.
During our semi-private charter, we came close to the limit, but each of us had plenty.
Do you need fins or snorkel gear for scalloping in Crystal River?
Yes! Snorkel gear and fins will make your experience much more enjoyable.
Our tour operator, River Venture, provided our fins and snorkel equipment.
Where can I cook scallops in Crystal River, Florida?
You can cook your scallops if you have a kitchen in your accommodation. In addition, you may go to one of the many local Crystal River restaurants that will be happy to cook your catch for you.
What restaurants will cook my scallops in Crystal River, Florida?
Many Crystal River, Florida, restaurants will cook your scallops after a long day on the water. We recommend calling them and letting me know you plan on bringing your scallops.
Here is a list of restaurants that cook your scallops in Crystal River, Florida:
The Crab Plant
(352) 796 4700
Backwater Fins Island Bar & Grill
(352) 794 6000
Dan’s Clam Stand – Crystal River
(352) 795 9081
Marguerita Grill
(352) 628 1336
The Boil Yard
(352) 564 2529
Oysters of Crystal River
(352) 795 2633
Plantation West 82 Bar & Grill
(352) 795 4211
Fish Tales Restaurant & Bar
(352) 419 5530
Shrimp Landing
(352) 795 4380
Cracker’s Bar & Grill
(352) 795 3999
Charlie’s Fish House
(352) 795 3949
Kayaking
Kayaking in Crystal River is a great way to see the beautiful springs and wildlife in the area. There are many different places to kayak in Crystal River, but some of the most popular spots include:
Three Sisters Springs: This is a great place to see manatees, as they are known to gather in the springs during the winter months.
Kings Bay: This is a large bay that is home to a variety of springs, including Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, and Kings Spring.
Chassahowitzka River: This is a scenic river that is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and birds.
Where can I rent a kayak in Crystal River?
Many companies will rent Kayaks, canoes, and other equipment. You can also find guided kayaking tours that will take you to some of the best spots in the area. Here are a few:
Get up and Go Kayaking – Clear Kayaks
Kayaking in Crystal River is a great way to experience the beauty of Florida’s natural springs. With so many different places to kayak and so much wildlife to see, you are sure to have a memorable experience.
We chose to book a tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking primarily because of their clear kayaks. We were also excited about seeing the Three Sister Springs with them. We started the tour at a local boat ramp and explored the area. The tour eventually took us to the Three Sister Springs. First, we explored it from the kayaks, but since we accessed it via the waterway, we were able to tie our kayaks and swim into the Three Sister Spring. It was an incredible experience. The water is so clear it’s unreal.
Visiting Three Sister Springs
Three Sisters Springs is a group of three freshwater springs in Crystal River, Florida. The springs are known for their clear, blue water and abundance of manatees. During the winter months, when the water temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico drop, manatees migrate to Three Sisters Springs to find warmer water. This makes Three Sisters Springs a popular destination for people who want to see manatees in their natural habitat.
You cannot swim in the water if you access the Three Sister Springs via land. To swim, you must access it via a waterway. We chose to book a tour via Get Up and Go Kayaking.
Is the water clear at the Three Sister Springs?
Yes! The water in Three Sisters Springs is crystal clear, with up to 150 feet of visibility. This makes it a great place to snorkel or scuba dive. Visitors can also swim, kayak, or paddleboard in the spring run.
We were so happy to explore the Spring via clear kayaks, as the color of the water is truly magical.
Can you swim at the Three Sister Springs?
Yes, you can swim at the Three Sister Springs, but if you want to swim, you must arrive through the waterways as there is no access to the water from the land.
We recommend booking a clear kayak tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking.
We chose to book a tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking primarily because of their clear kayaks. We were also excited about seeing the Three Sister Springs with them. We started the tour at a local boat ramp and explored the area. The tour eventually took us to the Three Sister Springs. First, we explored it from the kayaks, but since we accessed it via the waterway, we were able to tie our kayaks and swim into the Three Sister Spring. It was an incredible experience. The water is so clear it’s unreal.
Are there alligators at the Three Sister Springs?
Yes, there are alligators at Three Sisters Springs. Alligators are native to Florida and can live in any freshwater body, including springs. However, they will typically avoid humans if they are given space.
I have lived in Florida for 25 years. I am very conscious about checking the water before going in. One of the things I like about going on a tour is that you are not in an isolated, quiet area. Alligators try to avoid human interactions, and they try to avoid noisy places. We did not see any alligators during our two trips to Crystal River.
Additional tips for planning your trip to Crystal River:
- Book your accommodations in advance, especially if you are visiting during the peak season.
- Apply and re-apply sunscreen, especially during your scalloping tour. Alternatively, wear a rash guard or a long-sleeved bathing suit.
- Be respectful of the manatees. Please do not feed them, touch them, or get too close to them.
- Be aware of the weather conditions. The weather in Crystal River can change quickly, so it is essential to be prepared for anything.
