As the temperatures drop in The Palm Beaches, it’s the perfect time to encounter one of our most beloved residents: the Florida manatee.

These gentle giants—often affectionately called “sea cows”—are massive marine mammals that thrive in the warm, shallow waters along Florida’s coastlines. On average, manatees weigh around 1,000 pounds and can stretch up to 10 feet long. Their slow, graceful movements and friendly nature make them easy to spot and a joy to observe.

From mid-November to late March, manatees migrate from cooler ocean waters to warmer inland waterways, seeking refuge where temperatures stay above 68°F. This makes winter the best time of year to see manatees in Palm Beach County.

Best Time to See Manatees in The Palm Beaches

While manatees can be seen year-round, the winter months (November 15–March 31) are peak viewing season. During this time, they gather near freshwater springs, estuaries, and coastal inlets where the water remains comfortably warm.

Their movements can vary with weather and water temperatures, but if you plan your visit during the cooler months, you’ll have the best chance of spotting them up close.

Please remember: The Florida manatee is a protected species under the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act. It’s illegal to touch, feed, or harass manatees in any way—and violations can lead to fines of up to $100,000. Always admire these creatures from a respectful distance.

Top 4 Places to See Manatees in Palm Beach County

1. Manatee Lagoon

Located: West Palm Beach

For a manatee experience for all ages, be sure to visit Manatee Lagoon in West Palm Beach. Manatees congregate at the Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center every winter, where the clean, warm water outflows of the power plant meet Lake Worth Lagoon. This free-admission facility is a designated FPL Eco-Discovery Center, with a mission in environmental education and stewardship. In addition to manatee viewing, its scenic location offers brilliant views of Peanut Island, sailboats mooring in the lagoon, and crystal-clear waters where you can witness tropical fish at play. Unique offerings on their schedule include outdoor yoga classes and Manatee Tales Story Time for the kids. Visitors can also explore featured exhibits, where they can learn more about the local environment.

2. Cato’s Bridge

Located: Tequesta

Cato’s Bridge is a popular local hangout for snorkeling, swimming, and stand-up paddleboarding. Manatees are frequent swimmers in this area since they’re attracted to the freshwater outflow of the Loxahatchee River into the Jupiter Inlet. The area has perpetual clear water views and is the best way to encounter nature like a Florida native. Since this area is trafficked by boats, it’s required by law to have a dive flag if snorkeling the area. If you prefer to stay dry, the area is accessible by foot, and manatees are easily visible in the water as you stand in the sand.

3. Keylypso of The Palm Beaches Snorkel Charters

Located: Lake Park

One of the best ways to find manatees in the wild is by way of a local guide. Keylypso of The Palm Beaches offers snorkel charters launching from Lake Park Marina. If you’re new to snorkeling, you can feel confident that you’re in good hands under the supervision of one of Keylypso’s U.S. Coast Guard-certified captains. The 34-foot power catamaran cruises through the Lake Worth Lagoon to various local snorkel locations. Encountering manatees in areas only accessible by boat allows for a more peaceful interaction without the crowds. Keylypso provides a mask, fins, snorkel, and vest, with the option to purchase underwater cameras to capture your manatee moments.

4. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park

Located: North Palm Beach

John D. MacArthur Beach State Park is an environmental treasure that offers 1.6 miles of pristine beach and many outdoor activities like kayaking, bird watching, swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. Occasionally, you might be able to spot a manatee while adventuring in the waters!

The park boasts four different habitats: beach and dune, estuary, maritime hammock, and Anastasia limestone rock reef. Be sure to also visit the nature center, where you will find different exhibits displaying local flora and fauna.

Frequently Asked Questions