Manatees are one of the great surprises of a Tampa winter. When the water in the Gulf and the bay cools, these large, slow-moving mammals gather in warmer water, and several places near Tampa let you see them up close without disturbing them. This guide covers the best-known spots, when to go and how to watch manatees responsibly.
Key takeaways
- Manatees gather in warm water in the cooler months, roughly November through March.
- The Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach is free and open from November 1 to April 15.
- Manatees are protected; look but do not touch, feed or chase them.
Why manatees gather in winter
Manatees cannot tolerate cold water for long. When water temperatures drop, they move to warm refuges such as natural springs and the warm water discharged by some power plants. On cold mornings, dozens of manatees can gather in a single spot, which makes winter the best time to see them.
The Manatee Viewing Center, Apollo Beach
Southeast of Tampa, in Apollo Beach, a power station releases warm water into a canal that has become a manatee sanctuary. Next to it, the Manatee Viewing Center has boardwalks and viewing platforms, exhibits and a butterfly garden. According to the operator, admission is free and the center is open from November 1 to April 15, closed on a few holidays. It is one of the easiest ways for families to see manatees in the Tampa area.
Springs to the north
North of Tampa, natural springs stay warm all year, and manatees gather in several of them in winter. Crystal River and its Three Sisters Springs area are the best known, with guided boat and paddle trips. Weeki Wachee River also has manatees in the cooler months. These trips take more planning and follow strict rules to protect the animals.
Viewing options compared
| Manatee Viewing Center | Crystal River area | Weeki Wachee River | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distance from Tampa | Short drive southeast | Longer drive north | About an hour or so north |
| How you see them | From boardwalks and platforms | Guided tours, some in the water | From kayaks and boats |
| Cost | Free | Tour fees | Park entry and rentals |
| Best for | Families, quick trips | Close encounters with rules | Paddlers |
Tip: Go on the coldest mornings of the season. The cooler the water in the bay, the more manatees gather in the warm refuge.
Watching manatees responsibly
- Do not touch, feed, chase or give water to manatees.
- In the water, keep your distance and let manatees approach or pass on their own.
- Follow posted rules and any sanctuary boundaries; some areas are closed to people in winter.
- When boating, obey manatee speed zones.
Manatees are protected by federal and state law, and disturbing them can bring fines. Guided tours and viewing centers are the best way to see them without causing harm.
Who it suits
- Families looking for a free winter outing.
- Newcomers experiencing their first Florida winter.
- Paddlers and nature photographers.
Planning a visit to the viewing center
The Manatee Viewing Center is easy to visit in an hour or two. Walk the boardwalk and viewing platform first, then explore the exhibits and gardens. Arrive early on cold weekend mornings, when many people have the same idea. Bring binoculars if you have them; manatees are sometimes a short distance out in the canal.
The best viewing is usually on the coldest days, when the bay is chilly and the warm canal draws the most animals. On warmer days, fewer manatees may be present.
Other wildlife to look for
Manatees are not the only wildlife you may see. Around Tampa Bay, look for dolphins, pelicans, herons, egrets, ospreys and, at the viewing center, rays and fish in the canal. In rivers and springs, turtles and alligators are common. Winter is also a busy season for migrating birds along the coast, which makes it a good time for birdwatching.
Common mistakes
The most common mistake is visiting on a warm day and seeing few manatees. The second is getting too close in the water. The third is assuming the viewing center is open all year; it is seasonal.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to see manatees near Tampa?
On cold mornings between roughly November and March.
Is the Manatee Viewing Center free?
Yes, according to the operator, admission is free during its season.
Can you swim with manatees near Tampa?
In some areas north of Tampa, guided tours allow in-water viewing under strict rules. Never touch or chase them.
For more about the springs, read Springs Day Trips From Tampa: Weeki Wachee and Crystal River. For winter weather, see Tampa Weather Through the Year: What Newcomers Should Expect.