In February 2018, the State of Florida’s Department of Fish and Game’s aerial survey found 6,131 manatees in Florida waters. Of those, one-sixth were found in one place: the waters of Crystal River’s Citrus County. Nowhere else in the world is there a greater number of manatees present in winter months.
Crystal River’s Citrus County is the only place in North America where you can legally swim with manatees. Our guides are certified to make sure we treat this beloved threatened species with the utmost respect by using responsible passive observation techniques approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
In the warm summer months, manatees head out to the Gulf of Mexico and the Big Bend and Saint Martins Marsh Seagrass Preserve, one of the largest seagrass beds in North America. Swimmers head there too, drawn by the delectable Florida Bay Scallop. Diving for scallops—July through September– is an unforgettable fun family adventure in one of the most incredible ocean environments on earth.
Paddling Paradise
There are endless choices for kayaking, paddle-boarding, and canoeing with seven rivers, a chain of fresh water lakes, the Gulf of Mexico, and an intricate world of islands, marshes, and mangroves. Local rental establishments can help you start your adventure.
Diving for Scallops in Summer
In the warm summer months, manatees head out to the Gulf of Mexico and the Big Bend and Saint Martins Marsh Seagrass Preserve, one of the largest seagrass beds in North America. Swimmers head there too, drawn by the delectable Florida Bay Scallop. Diving for scallops—July through September– is an unforgettable fun family adventure in one of the most incredible ocean environments on earth.
Shopping
Located in the heart of the historic downtown, The Shoppes of Heritage Village are just five minutes from the Plantation on Crystal River. Historic homes and cottages house unique boutiques and stores offering everything from locally made children’s clothes to hand-dipped ice cream. A collection of cafés and wine and tea bars line the avenue.
Eco-Friendly
A proud member of the Green Hotels Association and the Rues Selection of Eco Friendly Hotels Worldwide, Plantation on Crystal River is dedicated to energy, water and solid waste conservation, as well as the preservation of the natural beauty of the coast.
Fishing
We are among the oldest Sport Fishing centers of Florida, with the Atlanta Homosassa Fishing Club and Homosassa Guides Association dating back a hundred years or more. American baseball legend Ted Williams retired here just to fish! Here, you always come back with your catch and many of our restaurants are happy to cook it up for you.
Plantation on Crystal River At-A-Glance
A hidden gem tucked along Florida’s Nature Coast, the Plantation on Crystal River is surrounded by the natural springs of Kings Bay and more than 25,000 surface acres of pristine lakes, rivers, wildlife refuges and state parks. Just 80 miles north of Tampa and 95 miles from Orlando, this irresistibly charming resort has remained a popular escape for more than 50 years.
The 196 rooms offer comfort with a sophisticated Old Florida feel. In addition to spacious accommodations overlooking the garden or King’s Bay, eight junior suites are available and include a large seating area as well as a sleeper sofa for additional space. With a color palette of soothing grays, deep blues and bright greens, the rooms embrace the resort’s surrounding natural habitat. Flat screen TVs, new beds and furniture and are a few of the added luxuries.
