Did you know that you don't have to travel outside the US to get a taste of a lush tropical
destination? Florida is host to over 40 natural springs that offer turquoise waters great for swimming, kayaking or tubing. Some are even host to the loveable manatee.
With these blue waters maintaining a refreshing temperature in the 70's they offer year round opportunities to explore. Here are some of our favorites.
Three Sister's Springs:
Three Sister's is not often accessible to swim or kayak, but you can take a stroll through the boardwalk during the winter months and see hundreds of manatees that have come to the area for sanctuary, rest and breeding. You can also kayak or swim outside the entrance in the river and hope to see the manatees.
When we kayaked Crystal River in January we saw over 40 manate
es on way to check out the entrance of the spring. I also recommend doing a tour to swim with the manatees with Bird's Underwater. We stopped outside the entrance and it was magical.
Rainbow River/Rainbow Springs
The bluest water I have seen in Florida was found when we swam and kayaked the Rainbow Springs. If you choose to bring your own kayak or canoe be advised its about a 1/3 mile portage
from the parking lot to the launch. Which may not seem like a lot, until you have supply laden kayaks. The water here was stunning in both the swim area and the river. Remember that your are floating down with the current first and will have to paddle back up it!
Kelly Park/Rock Springs
Imagine floating peacefully through the clear blue waters of Rock Springs. The water is calm
and beautiful, you can see wildlife along the banks. We saw birds and turtles. Once you get to the end you simply walk back and up and repeat. There is a spot to jump in the water and swim/float and a sandy beach to play along the banks. We had so much fun with our friends here.
Wekiwa Springs
Snorkel down and take an up close look at the spring. Many enjoy swimming down and getting shot back up through the force of the spring. The swimming area is fantastic here. It is fenced off under the bridge in the water so their is rarely an alligator visiting the swim area. This was the first spring we ever swam and it was a magical experience. There is an area past the bridge to launch kayaks or canoes and explore further down. We saw turtles large and small, birds, and even a juvenile alligator.
Want to go visit these springs?
Contact me for all of your travel planning needs, especially if you'd like to visit sunny Florida and see all this beautiful state has to offer.
(218) 301 - 3368 or sarah@thequeenoffuntravel.com
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