Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
that feed Kings Bay, near the town of Crystal River. Maintaining an average temperature
of 72°F (22.5°C), the water attracts upwards of 400 manatees (and many more tourists)
during the winter months between October and March. Were it not for the manatees, Crys-
tal River, like Homosassa and Cedar Key, would be a low-key fishing community.
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE RESERVE
( 352-563-2088;
www.fws.gov/crystalriver
;
1502 SE Kings Bay Dr; 8am-5:30pm Mon-Fri)
The winter home of more than 20% of Florida's West Indian manatee population, this
wildlife refuge protects almost the whole of Kings Bay. Up to 560 of these gentle, en-
dangered sea creatures have been counted in a single January day, and like any wildlife
spectacle, this draws crowds of onlookers. Nearly 40 commercial operators offer rentals
and guided tours, via every type of nautical conveyance, and the chance to swim with wild
manatees. Many conservationists advise against the latter (or touching manatees),
however, arguing this causes the animals undue stress. Certainly, in season, the corralled
manatees and crowded bay are a far cry from any natural wildlife interaction, which is bet-
ter gained by taking one of the area's top-notch paddle tours.
There is no public viewing area on land; the only access to the refuge is by boat. The
best place to begin is the refuge
headquarters
(from 8am to 4pm), which has tons of ex-
cellent information and a list of approved operators. Also, although manatees live in Kings
Bay year-round, the population dwindles to a few dozen between April and September.
Nature Coast Canoe & Kayak Trail
KAYAKING, CANOEING
This trail is 20 miles long and carves a protected path through the rich estuarine ecosys-
tem. It begins on the Salt River off Crystal River, then meanders east on the Homosassa
River finally cutting south to the mouth of the Chassahowitzka River. As part of the Great
Florida Birding Trail, the early stages of the route are rich with birdlife and you'll likely
spot pelicans, gulls, hawks, bald eagles, cormorants, storks and other wading birds. Partic-
ularly good is the 5.3-mile
Ozello Trail
, which passes through the
St Martins Aquatic
Preserve
.
Beware, this is not a beginners trail and much of the paddle is remote, so come prepared
with a GPS and file a float plan. Otherwise, hire a guide.
To reach Ozello and the aquatic preserve follow Hwy 494W through Crystal River State
Park.
