Activities, Camps and After School Classes in Crystal River, FL

Discover the heart of Crystal River on a 1.5-hour Historic Walking Tour guided by a local who was born and raised here. This relaxed experience takes you beyond the water to explore the town’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Covering about 1.5 miles in total, the route begins downtown at Abound Coffee and winds through historic streets and scenic waterfront areas before ending at Three Sisters Springs. It’s an easy, flat walk that takes around 45 minutes at a comfortable pace, with plenty of time for storytelling, photos, and shade breaks. Your tour includes admission to Three Sisters Springs, where you can stroll the boardwalk, enjoy the crystal-clear waters, and often spot manatees during the cooler months. This family-friendly experience is the perfect way to see Crystal River through the eyes of a true local.

Explore the stunning natural beauty of Crystal River, Florida, with your eco-friendly sightseeing boat tours. Glide through crystal river and kings bay encounter gentle manatees in their natural habitat, and learn about the region’s diverse wildlife from your expert guides. Your sustainable, small-group tours offer an unforgettable experience while preserving the beauty of Florida’s unique ecosystems. Keep an eye out for other wildlife Dolphins, River otters, birds and alligators could be roaming about.

We provide a top-quality rental experience at a competitive price, which Includes all fees! Free parking, safety equipment, and city launch fee. All at no extra cost! Crystal River is home to one of the largest manatee populations in the world. During the winter months hundreds of manatees congregate in the springs and you can't beat viewing these amazing animals up close from a stand up paddle board or kayak. Although Manatee season is during the winter time, resident manatees can still be spotted in our waterways year round. King’s Bay has more to offer than just manatees however, so whatever the time of year we'd love to get you out on the water to explore it! We have an excellent map so you can navigate the bay easily and save money by not paying for a guide. We will go over our map with you in detail before launch so you know how to get to the springs and where to look for manatees.

Discover the serene beauty of Crystal River on a guided kayak tour through Kings Bay, King Spring, and Three Sisters Springs. Paddle at a safe, steady pace while enjoying the calm, clear waters and the chance to encounter local wildlife including manatees, turtles, and dolphins. This tour caters to all skill levels, making it perfect for both beginners and those with some experience. Spend approximately 2.5 hours exploring without feeling rushed, allowing you to fully immerse in the scenic surroundings. - Guided kayak tour through Crystal River's stunning waterways - Spot diverse wildlife, including manatees, turtles, and ospreys - Safe and steady pace suitable for beginners to intermediate paddlers - Enjoy 2.5 hours of relaxing exploration in a beautiful setting

On our one of a kind tour, you will kayak AND swim inside of Three Sisters Springs on our guided eco-tour. This all inclusive tour includes a kayak, snorkel, mask, life vest, swim noodle, and one of our amazing LOCAL guides. Throughout the expedition, you will have the opportunity to view the beautiful nature and wildlife that we are known for including over 70 freshwater springs including the best spring, which is Three Sister Springs. You will have the opportunity to possibly view dolphins, manatees, pelicans, tarpon, turtles, otters, and many more of the local wildlife.  There will be plenty of chances to take pictures on our guided tours and a picture package will be available for purchase at the end of your tour.

We provide a top-quality rental experience at a competitive price, which Includes all fees! Free parking, safety equipment, and city launch fee. All at no extra cost! Crystal River is home to one of the largest manatee populations in the world. During the winter months hundreds of manatees congregate in the springs and you can't beat viewing these amazing animals up close from a stand up paddle board or kayak. Although Manatee season is during the winter time, resident manatees can still be spotted in the waterways year round. King’s Bay has more to offer than just manatees however, so whatever the time of year we'd love to get you out on the water to explore it! We have an excellent map so you can navigate the bay easily and save money by not paying for a guide. We will go over the map with you in detail before launch so you know how to get to the springs and where to look for manatees.

At Manatees in Paradise, we are a small, family-owned company with a passion for wildlife & the environment! Founded in 2005 by manatee rescue volunteers focused on safeguarding the dwindling manatee population, our goal has always been to bring you the very best in educational, animal friendly tours. It has never been our ambition to have the largest fleet of boats on the water. Instead, we aim to have the smallest possible impact…which is why we only offer small tours & are proud to be 1 of 2 Guardian Guides with Save the Manatee Club! Regardless of whether you book a tour with us, we kindly ask that you respect the manatees & their space…not crowd or prey on them. Any tour company promoting the petting of wild manatees is truly part of an ongoing local problem. We love snorkeling with the manatees, but always remain mindful not to interfere with their natural behavior. You can also see them very well from the boat, so whether in the water or out, it's truly a magical adventure!

We are a locally owned business. I am the owner and operator, I possess extensive expertise in leading tours on Kings Bay, gained from years of experience. I am ardently committed to preserving the beauty of our waterways and strive to maintain a negligible environmental footprint.

We have the newest rental equipment in Crystal River with top-notch customer service. Our kayaks are Crescent Kayaks, which are top-rated for stability and very easy to paddle as well.

We’re proud to be the only manatee tour company in Crystal River that’s fully owned and operated by true local natives — born and raised right here in downtown Crystal River. As a small, owner-operated business, Go Local Manatee Tours is built on passion, experience, and a deep connection to the springs, the wildlife, and the history of this special place. We specialize in small group tours to ensure a more personal, engaging, and respectful experience for every guest. Our tours offer more than just sightseeing — we share the rich local history, educate you about the gentle manatees, and operate with an eco-conscious mindset to help preserve the waters we call home. Come experience Crystal River the way only a local can show you.

At Manatee Paddle, we provide you with our brand new fleet of clear-bottom kayaks for an unforgettable experience. This is a summer swim tour, and includes masks and snorkels free-of-charge! Our local tour guides are there to ensure you have the best possible experience our waters have to offer. Our summer tours take you through Three Sisters Springs! Three Sisters is a large freshwater springs area with three individual springs feeding into the swim area! Three Sisters features crystal-clear turquoise water that stays a perfect 72º during the summer. While manatees sightings are hit-or-miss during the summer, we still have manatees in the bay year-round, and there are possible chances among other wildlife. Turtles, various birds, and fish species are common in the area. We can't wait to show you everything that Crystal River has to offer! Clear Kayaks are tandem vessels, even numbers are paired together! Odd-numbered guests are not guaranteed single seat kayaks if the tour is full!

If you are looking for an experience that is both serene and thrilling, look no further than the motorized paddleboard tour at Crystal River Preserve. With Old Florida waters that are lively and exciting, it’s the perfect place to indulge in some much-needed relaxation or dive into the world of adventure. This is a seriously fun, unforgettable experience! On the tour we will explore around the preserve, stopping along the way to enjoy the scenery and wildlife. We might see alligators, manatees, different species of fish and birds. Our electric paddleboards are wide and stable, even beginners will have a great time. All skill levels are welcome to join, we offer a lesson before each tour. We typically cruise 4-6 mph but can paddle even faster if we want. Going on the days where the wind pushes you in the opposite direction ? Our PowerBoard keeps you on course going into the breeze. Finally, a watersport that everyone can enjoy!

We provide a top-quality rental experience at a competitive price, which Includes all fees! Free parking, safety equipment, and city launch fee. All at no extra cost! Crystal River is home to one of the largest manatee populations in the world. During the winter months hundreds of manatees congregate in the springs and you can't beat viewing these amazing animals up close from a stand up paddle board or kayak. Although Manatee season is during the winter time, resident manatees can still be spotted in the waterways year round. King’s Bay has more to offer than just manatees however, so whatever the time of year we'd love to get you out on the water to explore it! We have an excellent map so you can navigate the bay easily and save money by not paying for a guide. We will go over the map with you in detail before launch so you know how to get to the springs and where to look for manatees.

Our tours stand out as a unique experience in Crystal River. Aboard the 24-passenger vessel, Monroe, our knowledgeable naturalists provide engaging narrations about the park’s rich history, cultural resources, and the spring-fed estuary that nurtures the Gulf of Mexico’s wildlife. You can see a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, shorebirds, bottle-nosed dolphins, and the elusive manatee. The best way to experience the beauty and biodiversity of the park is by boat. Welcome aboard!

We provide a top-quality rental experience at a competitive price, which Includes all fees! Free parking, safety equipment, and city launch fee. All at no extra cost! Crystal River is home to one of the largest manatee populations in the world. During the winter months hundreds of manatees congregate in the springs and you can't beat viewing these amazing animals up close from a stand up paddle board or kayak. Although Manatee season is during the winter time, resident manatees can still be spotted in the waterways year round. King’s Bay has more to offer than just manatees however, so whatever the time of year we'd love to get you out on the water to explore it! We have an excellent map so you can navigate the bay easily and save money by not paying for a guide. We will go over the map with you in detail before launch so you know how to get to the springs and where to look for manatees.

As the leaders in the industry we feel it is our duty to have all our tours conducted by professionals. Our Manatee snorkel tours are guided by USCG Captain as well as a licensed and insured dive professional. Our in water professionals are trained as first responders, with First aid, CPR, AED administration and in-water rescue training. Captain and guides are also trained in manatee manners, through the Manatee Eco Tourism Association in coordination with United States Fish and Wildlife Service. The training allows us to lead the industry by operating the safest tours on the water for our guest and manatees alike.

Enjoy a close, personal encounter with the West Indian Manatee as you snorkel with them under the guidance of a U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captain. Our small group (no more than six guests) tours are conducted daily in the beautiful Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. Get up close and personal with these amazing mammals and learn about the ecosystem and their habitat.  Unlike many tours, these Captains will actually swim with you and your group to ensure that you have a memorable experience. While in the water, your captain/tour guide will take high-definition photos and videos of you and your group which you will be able to view and purchase at the end of your trip.  Your price includes all snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, wetsuit) and complimentary coffee or hot cocoa.

Discover Florida's springs with the original clear kayak tour company in Crystal River, running since 2018. Small groups, expert local guides, and 100% clear kayaks. We run two tours by season — you'll choose yours when you book. Three Sisters Springs Tour (Apr 1 – Nov 14): Paddle Kings Bay to Three Sisters Springs, turquoise and 72° year-round, with time to swim. Manatees are occasional in warmer months. Manatee Season Tour (Nov 15 – Mar 31): Hundreds of manatees move into the warm springs of Kings Bay. You'll watch them through a clear hull — no wetsuit, no getting in the water. This is a no-swim tour; we practice passive observation only, in line with FWC guidelines. Two hours, ten guests max, photos from your guide included. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Cold days are the best manatee days.

Self-Guided Clear Bottom Kayak Tour – Explore King’s Bay Glide through the crystal-clear waters of King’s Bay at your own pace on a self-guided kayak adventure! Perfect for all skill levels, this family-friendly experience lets you soak in the bay’s natural beauty and spot manatees (best in January & February). Want a closer look? Snorkeling gear is available to rent from the dive shop to enhance your adventure! Beginner & family-friendly. Manatee viewing opportunities. Explore crystal-clear spring waters Available year-round—Book your adventure today! Clear Bottom Kayaks have a maximum capacity of 285 pounds.

Embark on an electric journey through Crystal River with Explorida! Family-owned and operated since 2018, we are excited to expand our adventures from the water and onto the pavement! Located in the historic downtown district of Crystal River, we provide a central location for guests to explore our charming town's wonderful gems. At Explorida, you can plan your vacation all in one spot. Spend your morning swimming with the Florida Manatee, and afterward take your explorations on shore to experience the Gem of the Nature Coast through one trusted source. Our Electric Bikes are perfect for anyone who wants to explore with no limits.

Join us for an unforgettable guided clear-kayak tour of Crystal River! Our expert local guides provide you with the best chances to see wild manatees and other wildlife in our beautiful waterways! The maximum weight allowed for one rider is 250 lbs, and the maximum weight is 450 lbs for two riders. Includes all necessary safety equipment, as well as free parking at our shop! We can't wait to get you out on the water! Before you arrive: All participants must complete liability waivers and safety video available on our website home page. Please arrive 25 min prior to your booking time to ensure all waivers and videos are completed, as well as to receive your launch wrist bands! Keep in mind: All Clear-Kayak Tours have a 2 person minimum! We do not allow for a single-person tour, we reserve the right to cancel a booking on the morning of the booking if it doesn't meet our 2 person requirements. Important: 5 kayak max capacity, so even-numbers must be doubled up on tandem kayaks!