FAQs
Get help planning your visit to Crystal River and Citrus County, FL, with answers to our visitors' most frequently asked questions.
Learn more about planning your visit. Browse these frequently asked questions and answers covering everything from swimming with manatees to weather and nearby airports.
When is the best time to see manatees?
If you are looking forward to seeing manatees on your Florida getaway, these beautiful sea creatures inhabit our waterways throughout the entire year. The manatee population does increase dramatically between November and April and reaches its height between December and February.
Can you swim with the manatees?
Yes, Crystal River is one of the only places in Florida where you can swim with manatees. Please visit our guide to meeting a manatee to find out more about all of the ways you can observe and learn about manatees while you’re here.
What is the weather like in Citrus County, Florida?
Here’s a glimpse of the average high and low temperatures, plus precipitation throughout the year. For the current forecast, please visit our weather page.
January
| February | March |
High 70°
Low 43°
Rain 6 days | High 70°
Low 46°
Rain 5 days | High 78°
Low 51°
Rain 5 days |
| April | May | June |
High 83°
Low 51°
Rain 4 days | High 88°
Low 63°
Rain 5 days | High 91°
Low 70°
Rain 11 days |
| July | August | September |
High 92°
Low 71°
Rain 14 days | High 91°
Low 72°
Rain 14 days | High 90°
Low 70°
Rain 10 days |
| October | November | December |
High 84°
Low 61°
Rain 5 days | High 78°
Low 52°
Rain 4 days | High 72°
Low 46°
Rain 4 days |
What should I pack?
If you’re visiting during the winter months, you’ll want to pack in layers as temperatures may vary from the 70s and low 80s during the day, down into the 40s at night. June through September is our rainy season, so plan for intermittent showers. Be sure to pack sun protective clothing and sunscreen to keep you safe under the warm Florida sun. If you plan to do any camping or exploring outdoors, then we also recommend bug spray, especially during the summer months.
Which airport is closest to Crystal River, Florida?
Tampa International Airport (TPA) is about 74 miles south of Citrus County Florida. Tampa International is served by more than twenty major carriers and features 93 nonstop flights daily. This airport is a hub for Southwest Airlines. Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) is located about 65 miles Northeast of the area and offers more limited, regional service from carriers American Eagle and Delta Air Lines.
Where can you go swimming?
With abundant coastal and inland waterways, there are plenty of options for swimming in Crystal River. Some of the most popular places to swim include Fort Island Gulf Beach, Hunter Spring Park, and at Hernando Beach. Crystal River is also one of the only places in Florida where you can go swimming with Manatees.
What is there to do in Citrus County, FL?
Find the top things to do in Citrus County, Florida, including information on how to meet a manatee while you’re here. Citrus County is also home to tons of festivals and events. For more travel inspiration, view our itineraries or download a copy of the visitor’s guide.
Where are the natural springs near Crystal River, FL?
There are several breathtaking natural springs to explore near Crystal River for fantastic wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures. The most popular springs are the Three Sisters Springs, Homosassa Spring, Seven Sisters Spring, and the seventy springs of Kings Bay.
