Itineraries for Your Trip to Crystal River
3 Days in Crystal River for Families
Crystal River is a special place in Central Florida, even for longtime locals. It’s a quiet, coastal city that showcases Florida’s serene side. Clear rivers and warm natural springs create ideal environments swimming, snorkeling, and observing wildlife. If your family likes splashing, kayaking, and fishing, Crystal River is the perfect place for a trip.
You'll never forget that Crystal River is the Manatee Capital of the World once you've swam with these gentle animals. Nearly a thousand of them spend the winter months in Kings Bay—and they’re always keen to meet friendly visitors. See the manatees and so much more on a 3-day stay in Crystal River.
Sunshine and seasonal rains are in the regular forecasts.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a swim session with the manatees.
A memorable family vacation begins at Crystal River. Round up the kiddos and take a swim and kayak trip at Three Sister Springs. A guided eco-tour introduces you to the area; you can opt to include a photo package to preserve the memories.
The kids will have a blast on the kayak tour—so much so that they might not want it to end. Consider renting a couple of tandem kayaks for the rest of the day so they can explore the waterways as much as they want.
Combine on-the-water fun with a timeless activity, and you’ll get your first experience of day two: a water bike ride. These hydrobikes are pedal-powered, allowing kids and parents to cycle around the surface of the water in style. Younger kids can ride alongside in a pontoon, too.
It’s safe to assume that the little ones might be tired from pedaling all afternoon. When they’re ready for a break, let them rest their bodies while captivating their senses on a cruise around the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.
For your final day, give the kids a chance to hunt the fishing holes around Crystal River. A private charter will take your little anglers out to the Gulf waters in search of triple tail, black drum, flounder, and more.
Get one last activity and photo session in before you leave as your family snorkels with the manatees. Wave to the camera for a quick keepsake and then wave goodbye to the manatees and the clear waters of Crystal River.
