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Guides

Long-form Crystal River guides

Aerial view of Crystal River canal where manatees gather in winter

Wildlife

Manatee season in Crystal River

Crystal River is the only place in the U.S. you can legally swim with wild manatees. Season runs mid-November through March. Here's how to plan it.

Boat dock with manatee zone signage on the Crystal River canal

Springs

Three Sisters Springs — what to know before you go

Three Sisters Springs is the centerpiece of the Crystal River manatee refuge. Here's how to access it, when to go, and what to bring.

Game room with arcade games, pool table, and large TV wall

Families

A family trip to Crystal River with kids

Crystal River is built for family vacations. Here's a kid-friendly itinerary plus what's at the house: pack and play, baby monitor, highchair, game room, pool.

Private dock at Bayshore Getaway

On the water

Scalloping and fishing on the Crystal River coast

Scallop season runs July 1 to September 24. Fishing is year-round. Here's licenses, charters, and what's on the menu for a Crystal River water day.

Aerial photo of Bayshore Getaway and the surrounding Crystal River neighborhood

Logistics

Getting to Crystal River, FL

Drive times from Tampa, Orlando, Miami, and Atlanta. Which airport to fly into. Parking at the house, rental car logistics.

Crystal River downtown waterfront restaurant scene

Food + drink

Where to eat in Crystal River

Where to eat in Crystal River: seafood on the water, downtown breakfast, sunset cocktails, and the spots locals actually go. Curated for Bayshore Getaway guests.

Private dock on the Navarre Canal behind Bayshore Getaway in Crystal River

On the water

Boat rentals in Crystal River

Where to rent a boat in Crystal River, what kind of boat fits Kings Bay, scalloping vs manatee boats, and whether to bring your own. Tips from the dock at Bayshore Getaway.

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