Manatee Park is a non-captive warm water refuge for the Florida Manatee.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. Optimum viewing months are late December, January, and February when the gulf temperature is below 68°F (20°C). Manatees are not present during warm months, April to early December. Current Gulf temperature may be found at SCCF Recon.
The park also offers educational programs, butterfly garden, playgrounds, restrooms, walking path, wildlife viewing, paddlecraft launch and picnic areas.
- Parking fee is $2 per hour or $5 per day. $10 for a Shuttle Van or $20 for a Tour Bus per visit. Lee County Parks & Recreation Annual Parking Pass is valid at this location.
- Pavilion rentals are available to rent from April through November. Call (239) 533-7524 for reservation information. Picnic areas are available first-come, first-served unless rented for a private event. Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, and Discover accepted.
