Crystal River Florida

The gem of Florida’s beautiful Nature Coast, is about a two hour drive from Tampa/St. Petersburg. Because Kings Bay is one of the best places in the world to observe manatees Crystal River is an international destination. Kings Bay, which has been designated an “Outstanding Florida Waterway,” offers opportunities for boating, diving, swimming, fishing as well as a variety of Manatee and Eco-Tours. In addition, there are miles of nature trails to hike, bike and observe an abundance of birds, deer, alligators and other wildlife.

Crystal River is a city on the west side of Citrus County, Florida. The population was 3,485 in the 2000 census. (4,044 in 1990). According to the U.S Census estimates of 2005, the city had a population of 3,539. The city was incorporated in 1903 and is the self professed “Home of the Manatee”. Crystal River Preserve State Park is located nearby, and Crystal River Archaeological State Park is located in the city’s northwest side. Crystal River is at the heart of the Nature Coast of Florida. The City is situated around the magnificent Kings Bay, which is spring-fed and so keeps a constant 72-degrees Fahrenheit temperature year round. A cluster of 50 springs designated as a first-magnitude system feeds Kings Bay. A first-magnitude system discharges 100 cubic feet or more of water per second, which equals about 64 million gallons of water per day. Because of this discharge amount, the Crystal River Springs group is the second largest springs group in Florida, the first being Spring Creek Springs in Wakulla County near Tallahassee.

Kings Bay is home to over 400 manatees during the winter when the water temperature in the Gulf of Mexico cools, and is the only place in the United States where people can legally interact with them in their natural conditions without that interaction being viewed as harassment by law enforcement agencies. Tourism based on watching and swimming with manatee is the fastest growing contribution to the local economy. In 2005 there was a movement to dissolve the city however this did not succeed and the City has since grown by annexure.

Crystal River is truly the City of festivals! It is home to many much loved festivals that draw thousands of people, such as the Manatee Festival, Scarecrow Fest, Octoberfest, the Stone Crab Jam, the Scallop Festival, the 4th of July Fireworks Show and the annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade.

Additionally, the City sponsors free entertainment in the form of “Music In The Park” which takes place at the Gazebo behind City Hall the third weekend of each month. There are numerous fine restaurants, cafes and pubs both in Crystal River and within a short drive. Also nearby are other great attractions such as the Homosassa Wildlife Park, ancient Indian Mounds and the cultural center of Citrus County, the Art Center Theater which is a first rate performing arts center.

Crystal River is proud of it’s history, parks, natural beauty, low tax structure and first rate municipal services. Treat yourself and your family to our many attractions, warm laid back welcoming folks and a slower pace.

Crystal River Manatee