Crystal River might be small in size, but this coastal Florida gem packs in adventures that even longtime Sunshine State visitors often miss. From up-close encounters with gentle manatees to kayaking ...

The river is world renowned for its manatees. But what about sharks? Max Chesnes is the Tampa Bay Times' environment and climate reporter, covering public lands, water quality, wildlife and everything ...

CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — To Vickie Hall, manatee season is about educating others on how to respectfully experience swimming with manatees and the importance of their conservation. Hall is the operations ...

Editor’s Note: This was a hosted trip experience. It’s easy to pack a week full of family fun in Citrus County, Florida. The most well known city there is Crystal River – the Manatee Capitol of the ...

Hunters Cove in Crystal River is arguably one of the best spots to view manatees in the wild, especially in the colder months — and now a rare home with direct access to the freshwater spring lagoon ...

It’s one thing to visit an aquarium and gaze in awe at a 1,000-pound manatee swimming just behind the glass. It’s another thing to share the same water with Florida’s sea cows, encountering them in an ...

Explore scenic Florida river walks perfect for March, featuring beautiful waterfront views, charming downtown paths, wildlife ...