Where to Meet Manatees in The Palm Beaches
November 8, 2022
As temperatures cool in The Palm Beaches, it provides the ultimate opportunity to meet one of our most-loved local residents, the Florida manatee.
If you’re not familiar with our beloved “sea cows,” the iconic Florida creatures are massive marine mammals that occupy the coastal waterways of our state.
From mid-November to late March, the mesmerizing mammoths migrate from the cold ocean waters to seek refuge in warmer inland waterways. The peaceful and playful nature of manatees makes for a magical wildlife encounter, but before you go seeking sea cows, there are a few things you should know first.
The Florida manatee is a subspecies of the West Indian manatee. They’re a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act and are also guarded under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. It could pose a fine of up to $100,000 if you chase, touch, feed or harm a manatee.
Manatee Lagoon, West Palm Beach
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. There are also featured exhibit, where guests can learn more about the local environment.
Cato’s Bridge, Tequesta
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.
Keylypso of The Palm Beaches Snorkel Charters, Lake Park
The 34-foot power catamaran cruises through Lake Worth Lagoon to various local snorkel locations. By encountering manatees at areas only accessible by boat, it 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.
