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Kayaking Florida’s springs is truly an amazing experience. The water is so clear that you can see the fish swimming underneath your paddles. Time it right, and you’ll find yourself sharing the water with manatees, which is exactly as cool as it sounds. If you’re into outdoor adventures and haven’t done this yet, it’s worth bumping to the top of your list.

Paddling with manatees on the Crystal River in Florida

The Best Springs for Kayaking with Manatees

Whether you’re on a cruise and stopping for a day trip or you’re planning a full outdoor getaway, these springs offer unforgettable kayaking adventures.

Related: Swimming with manatees on the Crystal River

Crystal River / Three Sisters Springs

Crystal River is often referred to as the manatee capital of the world and is one of the only places where you can legally swim near these gentle giants.

The best time to visit Three Sisters Springs is in winter because this is when hundreds of manatees make their way here for warmth. There are also several places you can rent kayaks and take guided tours, so even beginners can join in.

A manatee breaches in the springs at Blue Springs State Park

Blue Spring State Park

This spring stays at a steady 72°F, so it’s another top spot to see manatees during the winter months. You won’t be able to enter the manatee refuge areas, but the rivers surrounding them have some peaceful routes for kayaking.

Florida Manatee on the Weeki Wachi River

Weeki Wachi Springs

This spring-fed river is a great place for a quieter, more scenic paddle through a forest at any time of the year. If you want to see the manatees, you will need to come when the weather is cooler.

Silver Springs

Silver Springs is a kayaker’s dream, especially if you hire one of the glass-bottomed boats. Along with the manatees, you’ll also get the chance to see turtles and monkeys. The spring is open year-round, and rentals are readily available.

The color is so vibrant on the Weeki Wachee that I actually have to turn the saturation down to make it look more believable

Kayaking Tips for Visitors and Beginners

These springs are definitely one of Florida’s hidden gems, and if you’re new to kayaking, they’re a great place to get started.

When planning your trip, think about renting a kayak if you don’t have your own, and bringing a fitted life jacket, polarized sunglasses, and a dry bag to keep your valuables and snacks safe.

Once you’re out on the water, you can usually expect a gentle ride. However, it’s still important to stay alert for boat traffic, sudden weather changes, and light currents, especially where the springs meet rivers.

If you are a first-timer, you may also want to look into guided eco-tours, as they can take a lot of the stress out of navigating, and you’ll get some interesting wildlife insights at the same time.

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A Note On Wildlife Etiquette

Sharing these springs with manatees and other wildlife is a privilege, and it comes with some responsibility.

Always remember the golden rule: look, don’t touch. Attempting to chase, feed, or ride the manatees can stress and injure them, so keep a respectful distance and follow all of the sanctuary signs.

It’s also best to avoid any shallower areas with sensitive vegetation and minimize any noise that might disturb the birds or turtles.
Drifting Among the Manatees
Kayaking Florida’s springs is a chance to slow down and share the water with some of the state’s most remarkable wildlife. So, remember to tread lightly and respect the springs to leave them as beautiful as you found them.