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.
Amphitheater, boardwalk, charcoal grills, event rentals, fishing, food/concessions, hiking trails, pavilion, playground, viewing area, Paddlecraft landing/launch
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. Current Gulf temperature may be found at SCCF Recon.
Kayak rentals and gift shop provided by the Manatee Kayaking Company
Kayak launch available for self-launching.
Dogs are not allowed at this park except for service animals.
Bicycles are not permitted in the park. A bike rack is available for use while you explore the area.
Volunteer Opportunities are available.
Educational programs, fishing, gardens, playgrounds, restrooms, walking path, wildlife viewing, paddlecraft launch and picnic areas.
The park has an extensive butterfly garden and is a demonstration landscape for the Florida Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) program.
Group Tours and programs are available on request.