Manatee Park

About the Park

Manatee Park is a non-captive warm water refuge for the Florida Manatee. Optimum viewing months are late December, January, and February when the gulf temperature is below 68F. Manatees are generally not present during the warm summer months.

Manatee Park is a seasonal location for viewing non-captive Florida manatees in Lee County.  Manatees visit the park in search of warm water during the cooler days in winter when the temperature in the Gulf of Mexico is below 68° F (20° C).  The warm water in the Manatee Park canal comes from the Florida Power and Light Power Plant across the street and is created as a byproduct of cooling off their equipment.

• Mid-December – March: Manatees are more likely to be seen at Manatee Park when the temperature in the Gulf of Mexico drops below 68° F (20° C).
• April-November: Manatees are most likely to be seen in coastal habitats near the Gulf of Mexico.

Park Shelters

Pavilion, Chickee Hut & Amphitheater Rentals are available to rent from April to November. Call (239) 690-5030 ext. 224 or email LCarr@leegov.com for reservation information. Picnic areas are available first come, first serve.

Activities/Events

Hours

Open every day, including holidays, from 8 a.m. to sunset.

Public kayak launch available during park hours