Even though it's fresh water, you will see some saltwater friends come in occasionally, such as blue crabs or various fish since it's connected to the gulf. I did not see any manatees there, but I did see some in the river further downstream.
Personally, I think this is an OK place for hanging out and kayaking. The river is enormous and long with many streams. There are many chances to see one Manatee or two here or even more. It is not called Crystal River for no reason, of course. However, the river was not in a wild and quiet place as I had expected. A large community was built surrounding the river. Many yachts floating on the river, flowing traffic on the bridges, local people doing their things on the river banks were kind of rowdy and turbulent to me as far as I kayaked. Many young adults, whom I met at this place, were having parties with beers and spirits in the middle of the river. Crystal River might be suitable for someone else who comes in a group of friends but is not an appropriate option for families.
We are in full agreement with the previous review commenting on how crowded this area of the river is. After it was to late we read the reviews that said to go very early to beat the crowds so if that is an option for you we suggest going as early as possible. The Springs are very beautiful and we saw manatee, fish, and birds. Lacking was the peace and quiet of nature. Still this is a place that should be on every nature lovers bucket list to visit. It's crossed off of ours. When we return we plan to spend time on some of the other quieter rivers and lakes in the area.
But it was a lot of fun being there and finally getting to see the springs. You can watch the water "boil" out of the sand. It's very pristine and blue, and a lot of fun.
Although you can't get on the land around the springs, they do have a walkway built around them so those who want to see the springs but don't plan on getting in the water can stroll around that. I got there early, and it was low tide with not many other people there. Although did seem to get crowded as the morning turned into afternoon and the tide started coming in. It became very congested with all the people and boats crowding the area.
Really nice springs, it's only accessable by water. There is no land entry. In fact you're not supposed to get out of the water on the rocks or shore once you're there either, to protect the habitat of the springs. So if you want to swim it, you have to come by boat, kayak, paddle board, or swim in. It's cool, refreshing water at about 72°F, and Crystal clear since they're springs.
This place is absolutely beautiful. We rented paddle boards and snorkel gear for a few hours and had a great time. We were able to see a few manatees and experience three sisters spring. The water at the springs is crystal clear and pristine. Would highly recommend!
The most gorgeous water I have ever seen IN MY LIFE!!! It was so clear that I could actually SEE the water coming up from the vents on the bottom quite a few feet down! Stunning beauty! Absolutely gorgeous, truly. No manatees but it was October and was too early for them. It's like this gorgeous little Oasis just off of the main river. Scuba lessons were going on and they churned up the bottom a little, clouding the water slightly near them. The color is breath taking my cell doesn't do it justice...will return to see the manatees from the walkway later this season. A fish/wildlife volunteer said the whole bottom gets covered with manatees in winter, and the area gets closed off from kayaks etc mid November once the gulf begins to cool down. Will return for sure!
Three Sisters Spring is a US Point Of Interest based in Crystal River, Florida. Three Sisters Spring is located at 601 Three Sisters Springs Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429, USA.
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