Springs at Kings Bay is a natural paradise where crystal-clear waters invite you to meet gentle manatees. This waterfront area offers boardwalks, viewing areas, and swimming spots at Three Sisters Springs and Hunter Spring Park. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge to observe native species. The area functions as a water-focused resort community with numerous tour operators and kayak rentals. Lush vegetation and protected waterways create a serene backdrop for visitors. The springs maintain a constant 72°F temperature year-round, perfect for swimming and snorkelling with the resident manatees.
While Pelican Cove may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Crystal River Watersports Marina and Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins.
Crystal Shores wraps around the pristine waters of Crystal River, where gentle manatees glide through crystal-clear springs. Three Sisters Springs boardwalk offers intimate wildlife viewing opportunities for nature enthusiasts. Hunter Springs Park provides perfect kayak launch spots and picnic areas surrounded by ancient cypress trees draped in Spanish moss. This waterfront area balances tourism with authentic coastal Florida living. Casual seafood eateries and upscale river-view restaurants serve fresh grouper and stone crab. Travellers can explore winding kayak trails through undeveloped wetlands or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere ideal for stargazing.
Indian Waters offers a serene waterfront escape along Crystal River's scenic canals. Holiday homes and condos with private docks line the quiet residential streets. Travellers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and direct access to crystal-clear waters perfect for manatee watching. From this tranquil base, you can easily explore nearby attractions like Crystal River Archaeological State Park. The area connects to Gulf waters for boating and fishing adventures. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the natural setting where tropical birds and gentle manatees make frequent appearances.
Crystal River's Dixie Shores is a peaceful waterfront community where natural beauty takes centre stage. Private homes and holiday rentals line the pristine waters, offering direct access for manatee watching and boating adventures. This residential haven provides a genuine Florida coastal experience away from busy tourist spots. Visitors can explore nearby Crystal River Archaeological State Park and Fort Island Trail Park. The neighborhood's lush tropical landscaping and quiet streets create an ideal retreat for nature lovers. With excellent water access and abundant wildlife, Dixie Shores perfectly balances tranquility and outdoor recreation.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Crystal River
Three Sisters Springs
9.2/10 (558 reviews)
Crystal-clear springs in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge provide a vital winter haven for manatees. Explore the boardwalk to view turquoise waters where these gentle giants gather from November to March.
Fort Island Gulf Beach
8.8/10 (299 reviews)
This serene Gulf Coast retreat offers white sandy shores and clear waters perfect for spotting dolphins. Bring a picnic to enjoy under pavilion shade while fishing from the pier or waiting for the spectacular sunset.
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
9.4/10 (530 reviews)
This wildlife refuge protects Florida manatees in their natural springs habitat, created specifically for these gentle giants. Winter visitors can observe hundreds of manatees seeking warmth in the crystal-clear waters.
Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge
9.0/10 (84 reviews)
This 31,000-acre coastal refuge shelters threatened West Indian manatees amid saltwater bays and marshes. Explore its pristine ecosystem by kayak or hike to the observation tower for panoramic habitat views.
Hunter Spring Park
9.0/10 (174 reviews)
This crystal-clear freshwater spring maintains a constant 72°F year-round, attracting manatees during winter months. Enjoy swimming in the roped-off area or observe wildlife from the scenic boardwalk.
A Crystal River Kayak Company
9.2/10 (74 reviews)
Paddle through Crystal River's pristine waters on guided tours to encounter majestic manatees and diverse wildlife. Winter visits offer the best chance to observe these gentle giants in their natural sanctuary.
Plantation Inn and Golf Resort
8.4/10 (219 reviews)
Swim alongside gentle manatees in their natural habitat at this waterfront resort on Florida's Crystal River. Winter visits offer the best chance to encounter these magnificent creatures during guided morning excursions.
The Suncoast Keys
Navigate the serene waterways of Suncoast Keys, where mangroves frame encounters with manatees and dolphins. Kayak through this natural paradise near Crystal River for an intimate glimpse of Florida's coastal wildlife.
What to do in Crystal River
Crystal River: Manatee Viewing & Sightseeing Boat Tour
"Property is obviously going through renovation; several room buildings were closed due to that and the grounds are also going through renovation. The building we stayed in was nice, it was clean and everything worked. The nicest part was the boat ramp and boat parking along the seawall where we could see the boat! They also told us they had security patrol at night. Nothing on our boat was disturbed and it felt safe. Should be a fantastic place once all the renovations on buildings and grounds...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
How much does a Crystal River holiday package cost?
You can snap up a holiday package to this destination on Expedia. But how much your holiday to Crystal River costs will depend on the length of stay, hotel choice and season.
What are the cheapest months to go to Crystal River?
You're likely to find lower rates and greater availability in August, September and October. Explore our cheap Crystal River holiday packages and you could get some great off-season discounts.
How many days is enough for Crystal River?
With about 2 days, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy popular neighbourhoods like Springs at Kings Bay and Dixie Shores during your Crystal River holiday. Make sure to also add Crystal River Archaeological State Park and Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge to your sightseeing list. Up for some more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Crystal River on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Crystal River?
Whether you're looking to visit major sights such as Three Sisters Springs and Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge on your Crystal River holiday, or coming for its excellent watersports, family-friendly attractions and walking trails, there's something for everyone here. With so many things to do, you'll soon learn why so many visitors think Crystal River is a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Crystal River package deals?
Begin your search for a Crystal River package deal by entering your preferred trip dates and destination under our "Packages" tab. Then apply some filters, like "Property type" and "Popular locations," to fine-tune the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and discover offers that come with irresistible savings. If you don't find the ideal Crystal River package deal straight away, simply tweak your dates and search again. Remember that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Crystal River adventure underway.
Is it cheaper to book a Crystal River holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to give you more bang for your buck. Bundle your flight, hotel and car rental into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll generally get a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still get the freedom to create a personalised Crystal River holiday by choosing your preferred accommodation type, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Crystal River?
If you're considering a spontaneous Crystal River holiday, check out our last-minute deals that can be booked up to one week before you take off. Don't want to leave things to the last minute? You can score amazing deals on your hotels and flights by booking well in advance.
How to plan a trip to Crystal River?
Pick your dates: What you plan to do in Crystal River and your favourite season can help you decide when to travel.
Set a budget: Consider costs like flights, food and transportation when working out how much to put aside for your trip to Crystal River. Then, select a hotel that matches your budget, whether that's an affordable option or a deluxe retreat.
Set the duration of your trip: Start by making a list of all the attractions you'd like to get to in Crystal River. Then, estimate how long you'll need for each, including any travel time.
Combine your airfare and accommodation: After you've settled on your trip dates and duration, lock in the right Crystal River holiday package for you.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.