Table of Contents
Introduction
Manatee Viewing Center is among Florida’s secrets on Apollo Beach and appealing to nature lovers and families with wildlife enthusiasts. Visiting the location opens opportunities to encounter manatees, or as they are known, the ‘giant friendly giants of the sea,’ in their natural habitat.
To know everything you would be asking for about Manatee Viewing Center, let’s read on for what you should expect when visiting the location and how best to maximize your visit.
Whether it’s just to sit and view the wildlife or just looking for something to do to pass a memorable day outdoors, this tourist guide covers everything you need to know so you can have the experience of a lifetime.
What is the Manatee Viewing Center?
Located in Apollo Beach, Florida, the Tampa Electric Company- or TECO for short-is the managerial entity of this Manatee Viewing Center. The center was established in 1986 when it was found that manatees started congregating around the warm waters discharged by the Big Bend Power Station of TECO.
From then, the area became one of the natural safe havens for the endangered aquatic creature, and a need to raise one such special viewing place arose.
Today, visitors witness the look of manatees; they learn through education exhibits, walking trails, and ways to conserve these wonder animals.
Best Time to Visit
The Manatee Viewing Center is usually open from November 1st to April 15th of each year. Manatees view better during the cooler months, usually during December and February. This is because lesser localized water temperatures force manatees to go towards the warmer discharge water near the power plant.
- Peak Hours: Late morning from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM is a peak hour because the crowd hasn’t disbursed yet, and the area holds maximum manatees.
- Weekdays vs Weekends: Weekdays are much less crowded than weekends, thereby allowing maximum personal contact with nature.
Getting There and Parking
Manatee Viewing Center can be reached from 6990 Dick Man Rd, Apollo Beach, FL 33572 straight off of Interstate 75.
- By Car: 25 minutes from downtown Tampa, 45 minutes from St. Petersburg.
- Parking: Free parking is also available as well as RV and bus spaces. The center is also wheelchair accessible to ensure that everybody can take advantage of the facility.
Pro Tip: Plan to arrive early. During peak season, parking spaces at this facility are taken up quickly.
What to Expect at the Manatee Viewing Center
Manatee Viewing Platform
The attraction of your visit is the manatee viewing platform, offering access to a panoramic view from its elevated big deck over the warm waters where lots of manatees can be seen gathering. Peak season should expect tens of manatees swimming and feeding around or playing even in the water. The water is usually clear such that you can easily view these friendly giants.
Educational Exhibits
Several interactive displays in the center address manatee biology, behavior, and conservation. The presentations are family-friendly and do a good job of teaching you the issues that these animals need to face and how you can help make a difference in their protection.
Tidal Walk and Nature Trail
Those looking for adventure might also enjoy the Tidal Walk at the Manatee Viewing Center, which takes you through a mangrove habitat on an incredible 900-foot-long boardwalk. This path is fantastic for birding, photography, and a relaxing time amidst Florida’s coastal habitats.
Stingray Touch Tank
Another great and unique attraction is the touch tank of stingrays, where you come to get up close and personal with these amazing sea creatures. The courtesy staff will teach you how to handle and view the stingrays without harming them. This attraction brings smiles to both kids and adults.
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Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Bring Binoculars: The manatees can be viewed almost naked, but you might want to bring along your binoculars just in case you want to have a clearer view of the animal and other wildlife in the place.
- Dress Comfortably: The Florida sun is not something you should take lightly. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are a must. Comfortable walking shoes come in handy in case you want to explore most of the trails.
- Pack Water and Snacks: Bring water and snacks from home because, even if there’s a snack bar on site, you might need to just have some things there.
- Check the Weather: Since it is an outdoor center, the weather might hinder your visit. Manatees like cooler weather, so this keeps in mind how one would plan their day.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Apollo Beach Nature Preserve
Only a few miles away, at 63 acres preserved along the coast, the Apollo Beach Nature Preserve sits just minutes from the Manatee Viewing Center. It is a great spot for birding and picnicking or just taking a lazy stroll along the two miles of beach.
Little Manatee River State Park
If you have enough time take an extra 20 minutes and head north on US 41 to Little Manatee River State Park. You can kayak and canoe here, or simply hike and camp. It is a good way to get a glimpse of the rest of Florida’s natural environment.
Tampa Electric’s Clean Energy Center
Add an educational twist by visiting the Manatee Viewing Center to learn about how renewable energy is helping Tampa Electric make the world a cleaner place. Guided tours make it a fun and informative experience for visitors of all ages.
Supporting Conservation Efforts
The Manatee Viewing Centre is more than just a tourist spot; critical conservation work related to the care of the manatees is also conducted here. One can be part of this process in ways like:
- Donating: The money raised through donations supports the research, rehabilitation, and education programs.
- Adopt a Manatee: In Save the Manatee Club, the symbolic adoption of a manatee commits the money directly to conservation activities.
- Volunteering: People are free to visit and volunteer to help support educational programs, and maintenance, among others.
Dining and Accommodation
If you would love to spend a day at Manatee Viewing Center, here are some places where you can dine:
- Circles Waterfront Restaurant: Right next to the Manatee Viewing Center, fresh seafood and incredible Tampa Bay views can be enjoyed.
- Apollo’s Bistro: A fantastic family-friendly dining spot with all-American menu fare and very accommodating.
You can stay in Apollo Beach itself, where there are a couple of hotels to choose from, including the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ruskin, or you could opt for an even greater choice by staying in the city proper of Tampa.
Photography and Wildlife Viewing Tips
- Stay Quiet: Manatees avoid loud noises, so you must stay silent if you want to take a glimpse.
- Use a Zoom Lens: If you’re a photographer then a telephoto lens camera will click pretty close-ups without disturbing the animal.
- Respect the Wildlife: Do not feed and touch the manatees. It is illegal and may harm them.
Conclusion
The Manatee Viewing Center would be the best place for any individual who wishes to behold Florida’s wildlife and natural beauty. It’s an excellent combination of education, conservation, and adventure that makes it convenient for people from all walks of life. Though you may still hold some hope of catching a glimpse of the wondrous manatees, you can sightsee on the tidal walk, learn about marine conservation, or just spend time with families at the Manatee Viewing Center are certain to find this an experience you will never forget.
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FAQs
Is there an entrance fee for the Manatee Viewing Center?
No, and admission to Manatee Viewing Center is free. Admission is free however donations are accepted in support of continued conservation.
Are pets allowed at the Manatee Viewing Center?
No, pets are not allowed at the Manatee Viewing Center however service animals are permitted.
Can I swim with the manatees at the Manatee Viewing Center?
No. Swimming is not allowed in the sanctuary, however, there are tour operators located nearby, such as outside Florida in Crystal River.
