FAQ
The short version of everything in the guides — what people actually ask before they go.
From November 15 to March 31. That is when the refuge's seven warm-water sanctuaries are in effect and more than 600 manatees migrate into Kings Bay, by the refuge's count. The best days are cold ones, when the Gulf drops below 68°F; our Three Sisters Springs and manatee rules guide explains the closures.
Prices vary by operator. On one Kings Bay operator's own list in October 2026, a 3-hour group snorkel tour costs $80 for an adult with the wetsuit included, $68 for children 6 and under and $65 for a ride-along non-swimmer; private boats start at $750. Our guide to swimming with manatees compares the formats.
By car, take the Florida Turnpike north to Wildwood, I-75 north to the Highway 44 exit, then Highway 44 west through Inverness to the coast. Without a car, a day tour from Orlando that includes the swim is the simplest option; see our Orlando and Tampa guide.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service puts Crystal River one hour north of Tampa. Take the Veterans Expressway (589) north to U.S. 98, then 98 west to Highway 19, and north through Homosassa.
Yes, but only by arriving through the water, never from the boardwalk. From November 15 to March 31 kayaks and paddleboards must stay outside, swimming stops between sunset and sunrise, and on the coldest days the springs can close to everyone.
Yes. On the City's current list an adult pays $20 from November 15 to March 31 and $12.50 the rest of the year, children 6 to 15 pay $7.50, and the shuttle from the Three Sisters Springs Center is included. The last ticket is sold at 3:30 p.m.; see our Three Sisters Springs and manatee rules guide.
No. In all of Kings Bay it is prohibited to touch or disturb a resting or feeding manatee, to chase, corner or feed one, or to dive onto one from the surface. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service asks for passive observation: watch calmly from the surface.
On your own you rent a kayak or paddleboard and launch from Hunter Springs Park, King's Bay Park or an outfitter's dock; from November 15 to March 31 paddle craft cannot enter Three Sisters Springs. A guided tour handles the gear, the briefing and where to find manatees. The tours page compares them.