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Where to Spot Manatees Near Sarasota
Sarasota sits in Florida's beautiful Sarasota County, but its "sister city," Bradenton, is in Manatee County. What is a manatee? It's one of the most iconic animals of Florida's ecosystem. If you want to meet some of these amazing creatures in person, our real estate agents know where to look.
No matter whether you prefer Sarasota homes for sale or Bradenton homes for sale, you'll only be a short drive – or even a quick walk – from one of America's most gorgeous coastlines. If you want an unforgettable experience with majestic sea creatures, it may be even closer than you think.
Let's get ready for an adventure with a review of the best places near Sarasota to spot a manatee.
General Information About Manatee Spotting
Manatees are out and about all throughout the year, but you'll have the best chance of seeing them during their breeding season. Between April and November, these "sea cows" are attracted to warm waters where they eat, sleep, and socialize. They take a relaxed pace, so boaters should watch out.
To stay healthy, a manatee requires water warmer than 60 degrees. During the winter, they journey away from Sarasota and head south. During this period of the year, they can still be spotted here in Florida – but you'd have to travel down to Key West for the best opportunity.
When the time is ripe, you can find Sarasota manatees in all these locations:
- Lido Key
Lido Key is a beautiful barrier island and is largely understood to be the best place in Florida if you want to see manatees. You're most likely to sight a manatee during the day, when they are more active and look for food. Bring or rent a kayak, and you'll maximize your chances of seeing manatees up close. They are also found in the nearby mangrove forests along with dolphins, crabs, rays, and all sorts of fish. - Jim Neville Marine Preserve at Siesta Key – Little Sarasota Bay, Sarasota, FL 34242
Siesta Key is just off the coast of Sarasota. In addition to its manatees, it is well known for its coral reefs. Although ecologists were concerned about the reefs as recently as a few years ago, there are signs they are starting to bounce back. Visit Jim Neville Marine Preserve at Siesta Key for some great manatee viewing. A kayak or paddleboard will be your best bet here! - Longboat Key
Longboat Key is famous for its luxury resorts, some of the best in Florida. They are dotted along the 12 miles of white sand beaches. Kayaking is highly popular in the area, and there are plenty of areas to rent one for the day. The slow-moving, vegetable-loving manatees sometimes come right up to kayakers. - Phillippi Creek
Last but not least is Phillippi Creek, a river of about seven miles that feeds into Sarasota Bay. The calm, warm waters are highly popular with manatees, and you can view them from the riverside as well as on a kayak. Due to the river's relatively narrow span, boat traffic is minimal. - Mote Marine Labs and Aquarium – 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
Open 365 days a year, rain or shine, Mote Marine Labs and Aquarium gives you the chance to meet a whole host of aquatic creatures native to the waters around Florida. Many of these animals come to the Aquarium for care after being injured in the wild. Sharks, sea turtles, otters, and several others are always in attendance, along with the playful community of manatees.
Contact us to find out more or get started with real estate in Sarasota County.