The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best places to enjoy close contact with the endangered West Indian manatees. This 40-acre sanctuary is a protected manatee habitat and is home to approximately only 2600 of these gentle vegetarian mammals under threat from development, pollution, and motorboats. Here you can choose to snorkel and swim in the crystal clear water, or just sit back, relax, and enjoy the natural surroundings on the boat tour. Manatees, also known Sea Cows, are gentle giants and when snorkeling they will often come to greet you or even roll over to be tickled.
Nearby is the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park - one of Florida’s best kept secrets. At this 185 acre sanctuary, you will have the chance to view many of Florida’s endangered animals such as the state panther and also visit an underwater viewing chamber for the manatees