Crystal River, Florida

Fishing & Travel Destination

Crystal River, Florida is located on King’s Bay near the Gulf coast of Florida approximately 90 miles north of Tampa. Best known as “The Home of the Manatee”, due to the largest herd of wild manatees that inhabit the river ways, Crystal River, Florida is also gaining fame for world-class flats fishing.  Eco tourism is a big part of Crystal River, and one of the most popular things to do is go swimming with the manatee.  Manatee flock to the Crystal and Homosassa Rivers from November to March to enjoy the calm gentle waters and many local tours are available to get up close and personal with these gentle creatures.  Being able to interact and even pet a manatee or scratch its belly is an experience that is not to be forgotten.

The Town of Crystal River borders the beautiful Crystal River Preserves State Park, a 20 mile long stretch of pristine wilderness along the Gulf Coast. Activities enjoyed in the park include: hiking and bicycling along 9 miles of trails, kayaking, canoeing, and angling in the calm Crystal River, exploring the pre-Colombian artifacts at the Crystal River Archeological site, an interpretive trail, and more.  Crystal River also boasts 9 beautiful golf courses.  Nature lovers will also enjoy a trip to nearby Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park where you will have an opportunity to view many of Florida’s Gulf Coast wildlife in a natural habitat setting including otter, deer, bobcat, owls, heron, alligator, deer, and more.  Explore the reptile house, or see the manatee from a unique perspective at the “fish bowl” floating underwater observatory. For a small town, Crystal River offers a wide variety of dining options.  From the freshest local seafood, steak houses, southern barbecue, oyster bars, and even Chinese, the choices are endless.  Tampa International Airport is the closest airport to Crystal River, with flights from many major airlines.