Discover the heart and soul of authentic Florida in Crystal River, where you can have one unique adventure after another. Crystal River is known as the “Manatee Capital of the World” for the hundreds of manatees who annually gather here to bask in the warm spring-fed waters of Kings Bay and Three Sisters Springs. It is the only place in the world where you can swim with these gentle creatures.
Swim with a Manatee!
Let a trained guide take you out for an up-close-and-personal experience to swim with a manatee. It’s an adventure you won’t soon forget, as each manatee has its own unique personality. Please practice passive observation while in or on the water to keep the manatee population safe and coming back to the springs for future generations to enjoy.
Summer Scalloping
Prime scalloping season runs from July to September, so get ready to dive into this Florida tradition, likened to an underwater easter egg hunt. The waters off Crystal River and Homosassa are two of only a handful of places in Florida where you can gather buckets of fresh, juicy scallops. Don your snorkeling gear and dive in to gather your dinner.
Paddle Untouched Florida
Paddle through beautiful, crystal clear springs, down the still wild Chassahowitzka River, into open bays, and around freshwater lakes in Florida’s paddling paradise. Stand-up paddleboards and sit-in kayaks are both available for this incredible, on-the-water experience.
Cast A Line
Reel in your next trophy fish with any of our professional fishing guides in Crystal River, Homosassa, Inverness, and Floral City. Our world-class fishing destination offers a true taste of adventure with opportunities to hook a variety of fish from largemouth bass to cobia or tarpon. Choose to fish offshore or inshore, in freshwater or salt. Get ready to dive into a real fishing adventure in Citrus County.
Festivals, Fun & More
Join in on the fun at some of Citrus County’s exciting summer festivals. Check out the Kings Bay Pirate Fest which includes live performers, pirate floats, and raft races. Or, celebrate any of our patriotic celebrations like the Inverness Patriotic Evening or the Old-Fashioned 4th of July celebration in Crystal River.
Ride the Trails
Discover miles of scenic trails to explore on two wheels, from rugged mountain bike paths through the Withlacoochee State Forest to the paved 46-mile Withlacoochee State Trail, one of Florida’s longest-paved rail trails. Enjoy a picturesque ride through forests, past lakes, and into quaint downtowns.
Fish-to-Fork Cuisine
Feast your way through our burgeoning food scene, with fresh-off-the-boat seafood daily and super-tasty seasonal stone crab. Or fish for your dinner, then have one of our talented chefs cook your catch. It’s an adventure of culinary delights. Dig into the delicious dining options.
Whatever Floats Your Boat
Explore the best of untouched Florida on a boat, from eco-tours and sunset cruises to fishing charters and thrilling airboat rides. Discover all the ways you can enjoy the waters.
Get into the Wild
In addition to 600 acres of natural springs, there is more to explore on Florida’s Nature Coast. Discover two National Wildlife Refuges, the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, and the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, along with numerous parks and preserves where you can discover native plants and wildlife.
Discover the Roots
Explore the cultural and historical attractions that tell a story, from art galleries to archaeological sites and even a courthouse-turned-museum where Elvis Presley filmed scenes for the musical classic, Follow That Dream.
Birding Paradise
Birding in Citrus County can include anything from a flock of whooping cranes to a soaring eagle to nesting sandhill cranes. Many of Citrus County’s public parks and preserves have huge avian populations. The Great Florida Birding Trail has 445 official sites and 23 of them are in Citrus County.
Explore Our Cities
The quaint untouched Old Florida towns of Crystal River, Homosassa, Inverness, and Floral City each offer authentic experiences and incredible opportunities to enjoy great dining, rich history, and plenty more.
Virtual Inspiration
Take a sneak peek at just some of our cities, top attractions, and authentic adventures you’ll find in the soul of Florida. Get inspired with these exciting videos then plan your adventure in Crystal River to see it for yourself.