Experience Crystal River from the water with Hunter Springs Kayak’s 8-hour adventure package. Perfect for families and couples, this self-guided trip comes fully equipped for an unforgettable day paddling and snorkeling among Florida’s wildlife.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours (package length)
Fitness Level
Basic fitness required; should be comfortable paddling for several hours and moving in water.
Wildlife
History
Crystal River has long been a gathering place for Native American tribes and later settlers due to its abundant natural resources and warm springs.
Conservation
Hunter Springs Kayak emphasizes low-impact recreation and supports local efforts to protect manatee habitats and water quality.
Hunter Springs Kayak
Experience Crystal River from the water with Hunter Springs Kayak’s 8-hour adventure package. Perfect for families and couples, this self-guided trip comes fully equipped for an unforgettable day paddling and snorkeling among Florida’s wildlife.
Hunter Springs Kayak is a Crystal River, Florida outfitter specializing in guided kayak tours, manatee swim experiences, and watercraft rentals.
The company operates a range of guided and self-guided options, including private and shared kayak manatee swim tours, eco-tours, spring-viewing excursions, and rental packages for clear kayaks, tandem kayaks, single kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes. Guided experiences include the Guided Kayak Manatee Swim Tour and private three-hour King’s Bay tours with a maximum of 10 participants and a full photo package from professional underwater photographers.
The Guided Kayak Manatee Viewing & Spring Tour visits over 40 major springs, including Three Sisters Springs and Hidden Spring. The All-Clear Paddle Tour offers a two- to two-and-a-half-hour guided paddle in All-Clear tandem kayaks with dry-box storage, included photos, and the option to swim with manatees. Equipment such as wetsuits and snorkeling gear is provided on select guided tours. Rental options cover multiple durations—two, three, five, and eight hours—as well as multi-day rentals with drop-off and pick-up service within a five-mile radius and operating hours from 7:30 am to 5 pm.
Specialized offerings include a four-hour Guided Eco-Tour for outback exploration and annual memberships for frequent visitors. Hunter Springs Kayak emphasizes small groups, direct access to Crystal River springs and islands, and photographic documentation on select tours, making it a practical choice for visitors seeking guided wildlife viewing, spring exploration, or flexible watercraft rentals.
Completed waivers are required for rental participants to ensure a seamless experience and confirm readiness before boat drop-off and pick-up safety procedures.
Location
Crystal River, FL
Operates from Hunter Springs area
Small Groups
10 max
Private tours limited to 10 participants
Rental Lengths
2–8 hrs +
2, 3, 5, 8 hour and multi-day
Photo Packages
Select tours
Professional photos on guided trips
Reserve guided manatee swims, clear kayak rentals, or multi-day packages — small-group tours, photo packages, and flexible rental lengths available.
Wear Appropriate Footwear
Water shoes or sandals with straps are essential for walking on rocky or slippery shorelines.
Bring Waterproof Storage
Use the included dry boxes or bring your own to protect valuables from water exposure.
Stay Aware of Wildlife Regulations
Maintain a respectful distance from manatees and protected species to avoid disturbing them.
Plan for Sun Protection
Apply reef-safe sunscreen and wear UV-protective clothing to avoid sunburn on open water.
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm during cooler months in the spring-fed waters.
winter
Reef-safe Sunscreen
Protects skin while minimizing environmental impact.
summer
Water Shoes
Provides grip and foot protection around rocky shorelines.
Drybox
Protects valuables and electronics from water exposure on the kayak.