Citrus County is globally recognized as the “Manatee Capital of the World” and the crown jewel of Florida’s Nature Coast. If you want to experience the real, untouched Florida, this is the place to be.
From swimming alongside gentle manatees in crystal-clear springs to hunting for bay scallops in the Gulf of Mexico, here is your guide to the best outdoor excursions and water activities in the area.
Address: 498 SE Kings Bay Dr, Crystal River, FL 34429
Website: riverventures.com
Crystal River is the only place in North America where you can legally swim with manatees in their natural habitat. River Ventures offers highly-rated, guided in-water encounters where they provide the wetsuits, snorkeling gear, and Coast Guard-certified captains to ensure a safe, respectful experience.
Address: 4150 S Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL 34446
Website: floridastateparks.org/homosassa-springs
If you prefer to stay dry while wildlife spotting, this 210-acre state park is a must-visit. The highlight is the underwater observatory (“The Fish Bowl”) where you can walk beneath the surface of the spring to watch manatees and thousands of fish swim right past the glass. It is also home to rescued Florida panthers, black bears, and alligators.
Address: 104 NE 1st Ave, Crystal River, FL 34429 (Launch Point)
Website: threesistersspringsvisitor.org
Three Sisters Springs is visually stunning, featuring impossibly blue, 72-degree water year-round. While you cannot launch vessels directly from the wildlife refuge, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards from local outfitters near Hunter Springs Park and paddle your way into the pristine Three Sisters run.
Address: 8600 W Miss Maggie Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448
Website: chassahowitzkaflorida.com
Known affectionately by locals as “The Chaz,” this river offers one of the most scenic and wild paddling experiences in Florida. You can rent kayaks right at the campground store. Navigate through the lush wilderness to discover hidden spring heads like “The Crack” and Seven Sisters Springs.
Address: 9301 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429
Website: plantationoncrystalriver.com
Located at the Plantation Resort, this full-service marina is ground zero for guided charters. During the summer (typically July through September), they run highly popular scalloping trips—often described as an underwater Easter egg hunt. Year-round, you can book expert guides for inshore Gulf fishing targeting redfish, trout, and snook.