Scoop Up Scalloping Season Deals in Crystal River and Homosassa, Florida
Save and savor the season with these accommodation packages
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CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. (May 23, 2024) – The eagerly awaited 2024 bay scalloping season along the Nature Coast of Crystal River and Homosassa, Florida, starts July 1 and runs through Sep. 24. A unique Florida tradition, scalloping season brings excited visitors from far and wide to dive in for their share of delicious, fresh-caught bay scallops. Those still making summer plans can take advantage of three local lodging packages, offering a chance to save and savor the 2024 scalloping season.
PaddleTail Waterfront Lodge – Newly renovated and under new ownership, the PaddleTail Waterfront Lodge is offering 10% off any room type starting June 24. In addition, guests can book the Stay N Scallop Package, including two-night accommodations, a five-hour scalloping charter, two souvenirs per person, and a 20% discount at the Grassroots Coffee Shop on property. To book, call (352) 405-9188.
Plantation Resort on Crystal River – This local favorite is offering a Scalloping Package that includes two-night accommodations, a welcome souvenir bag, and a one-day guided scalloping trip. Rates vary. To book, call (800) 632-6262.
Sweet Citrus Acres RV Resort – This new RV resort is offering Premium Sites at $61.50 and Elite Sites at just $69.00 (plus tax) per night though Sep. 30. Guests who book at least 30 days can also take advantage of the “Bring Your Boat” special, which includes a free spot for their boat adjacent to their campsite at no extra charge. To book, call (352) 565-4284.
Hidden like underwater Easter eggs in the grassy ocean floor, bay scallops are found four to six feet below the water’s surface in the shallows of the Gulf of Mexico. Their many blue “eyes” glow like tiny lights around the rim of their shells, making them easier to find. The scallops can propel themselves through the water by opening and closing their shells, sometimes giving a lively chase. Scalloping is a family-friendly underwater adventure that only requires a mask, snorkel, flippers, and scoop net. As a bonus, divers usually also encounter starfish, seahorses, and other marine animals during the process. A saltwater fishing license is required unless scalloping with a charter captain, which is one reason hiring a local guide is highly recommended. Guides know the water well, taking divers straight to the best spots to find scallops and providing everything needed for a fun and productive day on the water.
Located about 75 minutes north of Tampa and 90 minutes west of Orlando, Crystal River and Homosassa are perfectly located on Florida’s Nature Coast, making it easy to access, yet pleasantly off the beaten path. Aside from scalloping, summer visitors can enjoy catch-and-cook dining, a variety of fishing, and even enter the ongoing 2024 STAR Fishing Tournament (ends Sep. 2). For more information, visit DiscoverCrystalRiverFL.com/where-to-stay.
About Crystal River Florida
Widely known as the Manatee Capital of the World, Crystal River, Florida, is the best place in North America to have an in-water experience with these gentle giants in their natural environment. Located on Central Florida’s Gulf Coast, Crystal River and the surrounding cities of Old Homosassa, Inverness and Floral City are an authentic showcase of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Within tens of thousands of acres of protected state parks, forests and wildlife refuges, visitors can explore miles of bicycling, walking, birding, and hiking trails to unlock a wild and wonderful world of natural, recreational and archaeological treasures. Pristine swimmable springs and a shimmering network of rivers, lakes, marshlands and mangroves make Crystal River perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, boating, fishing, scalloping and floating. Feeding the fun is a creative collection of restaurants, pubs, bistros and bars serving up freshly caught seafood and other seasonal favorites all year long. Begin your adventure at DiscoverCrystalRiverFL.com or call (800) 587-6667.
