Activities

The Crystal Manatee Extended Stay Suites are conveniently located in the heart of beautiful downtown Crystal River, Florida. Situated just a few hundred feet from the shore of Kings Bay, there is a myriad of activities available on and around the water.

Crystal River is famous for the many natural springs that feed the rivers which flow into Kings Bay and then on to the nearby Gulf of Mexico. These spring fed waters are a constant 72 degrees and act as a warm water sanctuary to the West Indian Manatees which inhabit the area during the cooler winter months and some stay all year round.

These gentle mammals are a delight to watch. All around the motel there are local dive shops where you can rent snorkel gear and boats or go on a guided manatee tour. You can actually get in the water and swim with the manatees. These docile sea cows were once mistaken for mermaids by early sailors to the Americas.

There are many public boat ramps where you can launch your own boat or rent a john bots, pontoon boat, canoe or kayak. Kings Bay, the Crystal River and many canals and water ways offer excellent freshwater and saltwater fishing.

The Gulf of Mexico offers up an opportunity to go deep sea fishing in your own boat or on a guided tour with an experienced fishing guide. The daily catch can include; Redfish, Spotted Sea Trout, Jack Crevalle, Sheepshead or shallow water Grouper, Cobia, Mackerel, and of course Tarpon. In fact, the world record Tarpon was caught just off the coast of Homosassa, Florida.

The downtown area of Crystal River referred to as "Heritage Village" offers, many shops, and restaurants from casual to fine dining, all with the freshest seafood around. There is even an Irish Pub right down the street, all within quick walking distance.

A little further out of the center of town, Citrus County is host to numerous public parks and wildlife sanctuaries, including the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge with hiking trails, the Crystal River Archaeological State Park with its prehistoric burial mounds, and Fort Island Beach on the Gulf of Mexico at the end of Fort Island Trail in Crystal River.

Whatever reason brings you to Crystal River and the Crystal Manatee Extended Stay Suites, you will be sure to find plenty of exciting or relaxing activities during your stay with us.