Florida Rivers and Manatees Kayaking Adventure, Homosassa Springs, FL

Highlights

• Paddling with and viewing manatees in their natural environment.
• Visiting the Homosassa Springs Wildlife park to learn more about manatees and the area.
• Exploring the different rivers on the Nature Coast and the Chassahowitzka NWR.
• Visiting the Crystal River Archaeological site.

What's this trip about?

Go with the flow!  This trip is all about going with the flow while looking for manatees and other wildlife in the crystal clear, spring fed rivers of the area.  The first time a manatee sticks its snout out of the water right next to your kayak you'll be a "sea cow" lover forever. Homosassa Springs, Florida is located on the gulf coast approximately 70 miles north of Tampa.  This area is part of the Nature Coast Trail and well known for it's manatees, birding and archaeological sites.   Some other rivers in the area that we'll explore are the Chassahowitzka River (Chaz), Crystal River and Rainbow River. All offer crystal clear waters with a chance to see manatees and plentiful other wildlife including many species of ibis, heron, cormorants and anhinga.  Oh...  and don't forget about the monkeys!  Yes, we paddle past Monkey Island on the Homosassa River where a small family of monkeys live year-round. Our lodging while in this region is the Homosassa Riverside Resort, where you have a birds eye view of the river and Monkey Island.  Standard hotel rooms with mini-fridges and coffee makers are available, which are not riverfront, and riverfront suites with full kitchens are also available.  The resort has direct access to the river so we can simply walk out the door and go kayaking!  There is also an onsite restaurant, lounge, tiki bar and swimming pool. 

Accommodation