Exploring True Florida: Springs, Rivers & Manatees by Canoe

Day 1. February 11. Wednesday

Our group meets at 1 PM near Fort Tampa International Airport, where we’ll get acquainted and go over the plan for the days ahead. After introductions, we’ll drive approximately two hours to our hotel in Crystal River, FL. Once checked in, we’ll launch our canoes for a relaxed evening paddle — a perfect opportunity to get comfortable with canoeing, practice getting in and out, and simply enjoy the water. If conditions are right (temperatures below 45°F), we may be lucky enough to spot manatees gathering in the warm spring waters.

Overnight in the hotel in Crystal River, FL

Day 2. February 12. Thursday 

Early risers have the option to join a guided snorkeling trip with manatees — an unforgettable experience that includes a wetsuit, snorkeling gear, and a boat ride to the springs (additional cost applies; approx. $100 per person in February 2025). Let us know as soon as possible if you’d like to participate so we can reserve your spot.

By 9 AM, we’ll be back in our canoes, paddling through calm waters toward a spring where manatees gather in large numbers during the cooler months. Around midday, we’ll visit the spring again — this time on foot — using the boardwalks for a great view of these gentle giants from the shore.

Later, we’ll drive to our first crystal-clear river paddle. This winding waterway leads to a hidden gem — a narrow, photogenic creek with calm waters, lush vegetation, and plenty of opportunities for unforgettable shots. With spring-fed waters holding steady at 70–72°F, you might even take a refreshing swim regardless of the air temperature. We’ll paddle up to 5 miles today, 

Overnight in the hotel in Ocala, FL.

Day 3. February 13. Friday 

By 8 AM, we’ll launch our canoes at one of Florida’s most iconic spring-fed headwaters. The water here is unbelievably clear — like paddling across glass — offering a window straight into the underwater world. You’ll be able to see fish, turtles, and the bubbling springs beneath your canoe as we quietly explore the area.

From there, we’ll begin a scenic 5-mile downstream paddle along a gently meandering river. This section of the journey is rich in wildlife: expect to see a variety of bird species, more turtles basking in the sun, and, with a bit of luck, a few of Florida’s legendary alligators resting along the riverbanks. 

Overnight in the hotel in Alachua, FL.

Day 4. February 14. Saturday 

Today, we’ll explore what I consider the most magical paddling destination in all of Florida — a place I can’t wait to share with you. Picture yourself gliding silently downstream on a narrow, spring-fed river, where the water is so clear it seems to vanish beneath your canoe. Every bend reveals something new — ancient cypress trees mirrored in the glassy surface, swaying underwater grasses, and lush greenery arching overhead like a living tunnel.

Along the way, we might spot turtles basking on logs, fish darting below, great blue herons stalking the shoreline, and — if we’re lucky — a manatee gently drifting through the current beside us. Otters and even deer occasionally make appearances near the water’s edge, adding a touch of wild charm to this peaceful journey.

This stretch is about 4 miles of easy, downstream paddling, but if the group is up for more, we can extend our adventure by visiting several nearby hidden springs or continuing several more scenic miles along a larger spring-fed river that winds through wild Florida terrain.

Overnight in the hotel in Spring Hill, FL.

Day 5. February 15. Sunday 

Today’s adventure takes us along one of the most iconic and photogenic spring-fed rivers in Florida — a 7-mile paddle that feels like moving through a dream. The water is a surreal shade of turquoise, so clear that every pebble, fish, and blade of grass beneath your canoe is visible. Towering palms and live oaks draped in Spanish moss line the riverbanks, while birds flit through the canopy and mullet leap from the water in flashes of silver.

This river winds its way gently downstream, giving us time to soak in the scenery, take photographs, and maybe even stop for a swim in one of the calm, shallow spots. Don’t be surprised if you come across manatees here too — they’re often seen drifting lazily through these warm waters.

The paddle is easy and relaxing, with just enough twists and turns to keep things interesting. It’s a perfect mix of wild beauty and tranquility, and a true highlight of Florida’s spring ecosystem.

After finishing our paddle, we’ll load our canoes onto the trailer and begin our drive back toward Tampa. As we return to the city, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the week, on the hidden springs, close wildlife encounters, and moments of tranquility that showed us the wilder, more authentic side of Florida. We expect to arrive back in the Tampa area by early evening, where our journey officially ends — but the memories and connections will travel with us far beyond.