Manatees are majestic and gentle aquatic creatures who love the warm waters of the Florida Gulf Coast. In this blog post, we will guide you through everything you need to know about manatees in Sarasota. Learn what to expect if you would like to catch a glimpse of the curious “Sea Cow”.
When is Manatee Season in Florida
These “gentle giants” inhabit the waters along Sarasota’s coast year-round. However, peak viewing season is from November through March when they gather in warm inland waterways. As warm-blooded mammals, manatees travel to natural springs or warmer, shallower waters during the colder months. They typically leave dangerous, colder waters for a mild and welcoming environment.
Manatees love warm water, which is why they can often be found in large aggregations near power stations' outflows. The plants circulate water from the Gulf as a cooling agent, which returns as perfectly warmed water—perfect for a Sea Cow habitat.
Meet the Manatee
Manatees are slow‑moving marine mammals that can be found through the Southeastern coast of the United States. In Florida, the most familiar species is the Florida manatee. This is a subspecies of the West Indian manatee that inhabits the state’s coastal waters, rivers, and estuaries. These animals are recognized by their rounded bodies, small eyes, broad paddle‑shaped tails, and front flippers that help them steer and maneuver while feeding.
Most adults measure around 9–10 feet long and typically weigh close to 1,000 pounds, though some individuals become much larger. As herbivores, manatees graze on seagrass and other aquatic vegetation, which gave them the nickname “Sea Cow”. Manatees often swim in water less than six feet deep, where underwater vegetation is most abundant. This is great for viewing and observing. Unfortunately, this makes them susceptible to boat strikes, causing injuries and even death.
Although Florida’s manatee population has increased over recent decades, now numbering more than 8,000 in the state, the species continues to face serious challenges. They are currently classified as “threatened” under the Endangered Species Act, largely due to hazards such as boat collisions, loss of seagrass habitat, harmful algal blooms, and poor water quality. Conservation initiatives aim to protect manatees by restoring habitat, implementing rescue and rehabilitation programs, and educating the public to reduce human‑related threats.
Where to See Manatees Near Sarasota
Manatees in Sarasota and nearby areas are easy to spot during the winter months. These gentle animals are most active during the day when the water is the warmest. The best time to see manatees is often in the morning when they are feeding. If you would like to catch a glimpse of these marvelous creatures, here are a few of the top spots:
Lido Key and South Lido Mangrove Tunnels
Lido Key is a scenic barrier island and one of the top spots in Florida to see manatees. Renting or bringing a kayak is the best way to get close to them, and you may also spot dolphins, crabs, rays, and various fish in the nearby mangrove areas.
You can also take a kayak tour with Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures for a chance to see manatees and other aquatic animals. The mangrove tunnels and the open waters that surround them make the perfect habitat for marine life sightings. Because kayaks are quiet and can navigate various water depths, this is an ideal way to get up close and personal with nature.
If you have your own kayak or paddleboard, you can access the mangrove tunnels via the Ted Sperling Nature Park.
Jim Neville Marine Preserve – Siesta Key
Just off Sarasota’s coast, Siesta Key is known not only for its manatees but also for its recovering coral reefs. The Jim Neville Marine Preserve is a great place to look for manatees in calm, natural surroundings. A kayak or paddleboard gives you the best chance to see them in Little Sarasota Bay.
Longboat Key
Longboat Key is famous for its upscale resorts and long, beautiful stretch of white‑sand beaches. Kayaking is extremely popular here, and rentals are easy to find. Manatees can be seen gliding through the water and may even approach kayakers, making for a memorable experience.
Phillippi Creek
Phillippi Creek is a peaceful, seven‑mile river that flows into Sarasota Bay. Its warm, quiet waters attract manatees year‑round. You can watch them from the riverbank or paddle alongside them in a kayak. With very little boat traffic, it’s one of the safest and calmest places to enjoy manatee sightings.
Apollo Beach Manatee Viewing Center
The Apollo Beach Manatee Viewing Center is a free, family‑friendly attraction where visitors can watch large groups of manatees gather in the warm waters discharged from Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station during the winter months. The site is a designated state and federal manatee sanctuary, offering safe, elevated viewing platforms, nature trails, and educational displays. Open seasonally from November through mid‑April, it’s one of the best places in Florida to observe manatees without being in or on the water.
Responsible Viewing Guidelines
Please review state guidelines for viewing manatees to ensure a safe and success trip. While manatees are typically friendly and curious, it is illegal to touch, chase, or feed them. It is important to maintain a respectful distance and avoid startling them with loud noises or aggressive movements. When a threat is perceived, these very large animals may thrash or thump their tails, which could cause injury to them and those around them. If a manatee approaches you, whether you are snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding, simply stay still and let it observe you. And as difficult as it is (because they are so cute), do not reach for or pet the manatees.
Please be aware that certain areas along the Florida coast can be closed to boat or human traffic. Obey all posted signs and placards. This is to keep you, our wildlife, and our coastal habitats safe.
If you see a manatee that is sick, injured, dead, stunned by the cold, distressed, tagged, orphaned, or being harassed, please report it to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Call the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC.
Do you love Florida wildlife and conservation? Be sure to check out our blog post about Sea Turtle season on the Gulf Coast!
Plan Your Manatee-Watching Getaway
Now that you have all the information you need to view manatees in Sarasota, it is time to start planning your getaway. Whether you are looking forward to a family beach vacation, a couple's retreat, or an escape to paradise with your best friends, we have a vacation rental that is right for you. Book your stay with Resort Vacations for the best rental experience on the coast.
With accommodations in Longboat Key, Siesta Key, Sarasota, and beyond, we are confident you will find the vacation rental you’ve been dreaming of. We also offer a selection of pet-friendly homes and resort condos.
Check availability for your preferred travel dates and book today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q) Are beach towels and chairs provided?
A) Beach towels and chairs are provided at resort properties.
Q) What else is there to do in the Sarasota area?
A) There are so many incredible things to do! Area attractions include aquariums, museums, bars, comedy clubs, state & local parks, farmer’s markets, golf courses, water sports, tours, fantastic restaurants, amazing beaches, and much more!