Looking for an adventure that takes you into nature? Florida have many hidden gems and perhaps one that many Floridians and visitors alike are not aware of is Crystal River. This is a perfect place to visit if you want pure outdoor fun and here are a few things you will love:
Swimming with Manatees
There’s only one place in North America where you legally swim with manatees, and that’s in the Crystal River area— located about 90 minutes north of Tampa, on the west coast of Florida.
During the winter months more than 400 manatees migrate here to escape the cold waters of the Gulf of Mexico. These migrating and resident manatees make Crystal River the perfect spot for you to get up close and personal with these gentle giants. They are docile, slow-moving swimmers that eat 10-15 percent of their body weight daily in aquatic plants.
In Crystal River you’re legally permitted to swim with manatees in their natural habitat, but only after being briefed on all of the do’s and don’ts of interacting with these gentle animals.
Scalloping
Call it an Easter Egg Hunt: Florida-style. It’s a fun family-friendly underwater adventure; all you need is a mask, snorkel, flippers, and one exceptional charter captain. As you float in the shallow waters, searching the sea grass beds for the tiny blue eyes that line the scallops shell, you will hear everyone calling to each other in excitement as they get one step closer to filling their bag.
Don’t worry about dinner either. Once you’re back, you can even bring your catch to a local restaurant that will cook them for you.
Natural Springs
Florida’s natural wonder like no other. “Is it real or am I dreaming?” The thought will cross your mind more than once when you first see one of Florida’s incredible natural springs. If you haven’t had the privilege of visiting many Florida springs in the past, prepare to be amazed.
Plantation on Crystal River
Plantation on Crystal River is the perfect place to station while you explore this area. It’s a beautiful 232-acre eco-friendly resort offering comfortable accommodations, a full service spa, and its own marina. Onsite activities range from golf to boating and fishing with so much in-between.
These are the kind of experiences that families tell stories about for years to come.
