Around here, our seasonal visitors are so cute and chubby they draw crowds from miles away to ooh and aaah. No, I am not talking about the snowbirds from Canada.

It’s the manatees that everyone loves to ogle!

But where do you go to see the adorable animals when the weather heats up and they abandon the protected waterways? Look no farther than Crystal River.

For a mere $10 you can take a relaxing boat ride (discount price offered only at 7 a.m. in the summer months) and see the gentle giants up close and personal in the glassy waters.

If you want to actually swim with them, it will cost you. It’s $50 to rent the equipment (including wetsuit, the water is chilly) and get in with the river with the state mammal.  Check out Crystal River Tours for booking information.

In the fall, when the manatees return to the warm waters of the TECO power plant, the Big Bend Manatee viewing Center reopens.  It’s free to see them and visit the education center although donations are accepted.