What is the Best Month of the Year to See Manatees?

Manatees, often called “sea cows,” are one of Florida’s most beloved creatures. Gentle and slow-moving, these fascinating mammals attract visitors from all over the world who want to catch a glimpse of them in their natural habitat. If you’re wondering when the best time of year to see manatees is, the answer depends on their migration patterns, which are directly tied to water temperatures. Let’s explore how these lovable giants move throughout the year and when you’re most likely to spot them.

Understanding the Manatee Migration

Unlike whales or other marine mammals that migrate vast distances, manatees have a more localized migration, primarily influenced by water temperature. Despite their large, round bodies, manatees do not have much insulation. It’s a common misconception that they have a thick layer of blubber, like seals or whales, to keep them warm. In reality, manatees have only 3-5% body fat, which is less than some Olympic athletes! Instead of fat, a manatee’s large, round shape comes from its intestines and digestive system, which help process the 100-200 pounds of vegetation they consume each day. Because they lack sufficient fat to retain body heat, they are highly sensitive to cold water and must seek out warm environments when temperatures drop. If water temperatures fall below 68°F, manatees can experience cold stress, which can be fatal.

Where Do Manatees Go in the Winter?

During the colder months, manatees migrate to warmer waters to survive. This is why you’ll often hear about them gathering at natural springs in Florida. Natural freshwater springs, like those in Crystal River and Blue Spring State Park, maintain a consistent temperature of around 71°F year-round, making them ideal winter refuges.
Manatees are most commonly found in:

• Springs (Crystal River, Blue Spring State Park, Silver Springs)
• Marinas and slow-moving rivers (where the sun warms the shallow water)
• Power plant outflows (Tampa Bay, Riviera Beach, Fort Myers)

What is the Best Month to See Manatees?

The best time to see manatees depends on where you are in Florida. Here’s a breakdown by region:
Southwest Florida (Fort Myers, Marco Island, Naples) In Southwest Florida, where water temperatures remain relatively warm year-round, manatees can be seen in every month of the year. Places like the Fort Myers region offers great opportunities to see them no matter when you visit. However, during winter, you might find them in even greater numbers as they seek the warmest waters available. Booking a manatee paddle board tour in this area will ensure you experience these gentle giants up close.

Central Florida (Orlando, Silver Spring) For those looking to see large gatherings of manatees, the winter months (December through February) are the best. During this time, manatees travel inland to springs and warm-water refuges, making them easier to find in predictable locations. Crystal River and Blue Spring State Park are two of the most famous places to see hundreds of manatees congregating in crystal-clear waters. A guided paddle board tour with manatees is one of the best ways to witness their beauty up close.

Central East Coast Florida (Daytona Beach, St. Augustine, Cocoa Beach) In Central East Florida, manatee sightings are much more seasonal. When temperatures drop in the winter, manatees leave the open waters and move into marinas, slow-moving rivers, and warm springs. The best time to see them here is between November and March, when they seek shelter from the cold. Booking a Florida paddleboarding tour with manatees in these areas can increase your chances of spotting them in their seasonal habitats.