Three Sisters Springs
The only place in the US where you can legally snorkel alongside wild manatees, plus a boardwalk view for families staying dry.
Crystal River is the one place in the country with a sanctioned wild-manatee swim, and Three Sisters is its centre - a group of springs inside a refuge where the animals shelter through winter. There are two completely different visits here. The boardwalk looks down into the springs, costs a few dollars, needs no booking and works at any age. The in-water version goes through a licensed operator who briefs you on passive observation rules, and has a realistic minimum around age six because it means floating quietly in a wetsuit for an hour. Manatee numbers peak on the coldest mornings, which is also when the water outside the springs is least pleasant.
Pricing
Boardwalk entry is a few dollars; in-water tours are booked through licensed operators (verify)
Common Questions
- How much does Three Sisters Springs cost?
- Three Sisters Springs charges admission. Boardwalk entry is a few dollars; in-water tours are booked through licensed operators (verify)
- What ages is Three Sisters Springs good for?
- Three Sisters Springs is best for kids ages 6 to 18+.
- Is Three Sisters Springs stroller friendly?
- No, Three Sisters Springs is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Three Sisters Springs?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Three Sisters Springs.
- How hard is Three Sisters Springs?
- The difficulty level is easy. Plan for about 3 hours.
- Is Three Sisters Springs free?
- No, there is a cost to visit Three Sisters Springs. Boardwalk entry is a few dollars; in-water tours are booked through licensed operators (verify)
- What should I bring to Three Sisters Springs?
- Swimsuit under warm layers; operators supply wetsuits, masks and snorkels
- How long does Three Sisters Springs take?
- Most families spend about 3 hours at Three Sisters Springs.
- When is the best time to visit Three Sisters Springs?
- November to March, earliest morning. Cold snaps push the most manatees in.