They’re about as cute as a 1,000-pound whiskered mammal can be. Head to Kings Bay or Three Sisters Spring in Crystal River when the Florida air shifts from a sweltering heat to a slight chill to snorkel alongside West Indian manatees. Trichechus manatus can’t survive in waters colder than 60 degrees F, so in winter they move to warmer water. It’s illegal to chase after manatees, and you’ll spook them if you swim underneath them, so it’s best to let the creatures approach you. The reward: an amazing connection when you lock eyes with one of the gentle giants, see a mother protecting her calf, or even have one come up and nudge you.

When to go: November through March

Where to go: Plantation on Crystal River

Adopt-a-Manatee

After you connect with these lovable marine mammals in the water, support conservation efforts by adopting one. With a $25 donation to the Save the Manatee Club, you get to choose a specific manatee from the adoption program, with your dollars going toward protection efforts.
savethemanatee.org