Manatees seen from the glass-bottom boats at Silver Springs State Park. Silver Springs is one of Florida’s largest and most consistent spring systems, and its clear, constant 72-degree water makes it an important refuge for manatees, especially during cooler months. Manatees are slow-moving, herbivorous mammals that rely on warm water to regulate their body temperature. Springs like Silver Springs provide stable conditions when surrounding rivers and coastal waters drop below safe temperatures.

Silver Springs kayaking: Exquisite river among best in state