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manatees

hi, End of April trip. Is there a place to see manatees close by? thanks!

End of April is a good time to try and see manatees around Clearwater, Florida. By this time, most manatees have started moving out of the warmer winter refuge areas, but there are still a few places where you can encounter them.

Manatee Viewing Opportunities:

  • Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park: About 1.5 hours north of Clearwater, this park has a large manatee population in the spring and early summer. There are observation areas and boardwalks to safely view them.
  • Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge: Roughly 2 hours north of Clearwater, this area is famous for manatee sightings. Many tours operate from here, including kayak and boat tours to observe manatees in the wild.
  • Clearwater Marine Aquarium: While not a wild encounter, the aquarium occasionally has rescued manatees and offers educational programs about them.
  • Local boat tours around Tampa Bay and Clearwater: Some eco-tour companies offer tours in April that may include manatee sightings, especially in the protected inlets and rivers where they feed.

Tips for Seeing Manatees:

  • Early morning is often the best time for wildlife viewing.
  • Bring binoculars for spotting manatees from shore or on boat tours.
  • Respect wildlife rules: do not touch or disturb manatees; they are protected under federal law.

Overall, while peak manatee season in Florida is generally November through March, you still have a decent chance to see them at places like Homosassa Springs or on guided tours in the Clearwater and surrounding areas in late April.

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