Around 800 manatees seek refuge in the warm springs of Crystal River, Florida every winter.
Florida is known for making dreams come true.
And while many associateOrlandowith vacation magic (Hello, Disney!
Credit: Ai Angel Gentel/Getty Images
While manatees are the main attraction in Crystal River, they’re far from the only reason to visit.
In summer months, locals and visitors love scalloping, the underwater equivalent of a giant Easter egg hunt.
The city’s charming downtown shops, Buffet-esque Tiki bars, and excellent seafood restaurants are a draw year-round.
Credit: Plantation on Crystal River
Outfitters likeRiver VenturesandCrystal River Watersportsoffer 3-hour swim with manatee tours starting at just $65.
Pro tip: Book your tour for early morning for the best chance of spotting them.
Manatees are most active searching for food in the morning hours.
July through September is scalloping season in Crystal River.
Inside are super succulent bay scallops.
Head Downtown
When it’s time to clean up, head to Crystal River’s historic downtown.
Weekends bring live music and plenty of drink specials.
For an upscale dining experience, head toVintage on 5th.
The restaurant is housed in a cozy 1940s church that oozes old-world charm.
Menu items range from fresh Gulf grouper and Cioppino to veal chops and roasted duckling.
The restaurant earned the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for having an outstanding wine collection for six consecutive years.
TheResort on Crystal Riverdelivers in that department and several more.
But this isn’t a resort that encourages you to never leave the property.
Want to feel like a local?
The cottage-style hotel’s surrounding tropical gardens elicit the coveted “ahhh” response you only get on vacation.
