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Explore Silver Springs: Paddle with Manatees and Monkeys in Florida’s Unique Natural Spring

Explore Silver Springs: Paddle with Manatees and Monkeys in Florida’s Unique Natural Spring

2 Hours • Ages 4+

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  4. Explore Silver Springs: Paddle with Manatees and Monkeys in Florida’s Unique Natural Spring

Adventure Brief

Paddle through Silver Springs’ crystal-clear waters, where manatees and free-ranging monkeys coexist. Join this nationally recognized family-run tour near Daytona Beach for a unique wildlife adventure suitable for all ages.

2 hours
easy
From $84.38

Keep the Adventure Going

More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders

Family Friendly
No Experience Required

Located just outside Daytona Beach, Florida, Silver Springs stands apart as one of the state’s most distinctive natural wonders. This is the only place in America where visitors can paddle alongside both manatees and monkeys in the crystal-clear spring waters—an experience that blends wildlife observation with Florida’s rich, ecological heritage. The Manatees, Monkeys and Florida Natural Spring Tour invites adventurers of all ages to glide quietly through these glassy waters, discovering a vibrant ecosystem brimming with diverse wildlife and stunning scenery.

The tour centers around Silver Springs, a collection of artesian springs boasting some of the clearest water in the Southeast. This environment supports an unlikely coexistence of native Florida manatees—gentle, slow-moving mammals often spotted feeding on underwater plants—and a troop of free-ranging rhesus monkeys that arrived decades ago and have since made the surrounding forests their home. Paddle quietly with expert guides who share captivating stories of the area’s natural history, from the river’s role in local indigenous cultures to its designation as one of Florida’s first tourist attractions dating back to the 19th century.

What makes this tour truly special is the family-run legacy of the operator, Three Brothers Boards, who have been featured on national television for their commitment to sustainable wildlife viewing and local education. Their small-group paddling trips maintain a balance between adventure and conservation, ensuring that the tranquility of Silver Springs remains intact for future visitors and its resident animals.

Alongside manatees and monkeys, paddlers may glimpse bald eagles soaring overhead or otters playfully darting through the water. The clarity of the springs allows perfect views of submerged tree roots, limestone formations, and the vivid greens of aquatic vegetation beneath your paddleboard or kayak. This immersion in nature creates an accessible, family-friendly outdoor activity that’s both calming and invigorating.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a budding photographer, or a family seeking a unique day on the water, this tour provides a memorable gateway to Florida’s wild side with the convenience of Daytona Beach nearby. Discover why Silver Springs continues to draw those eager to experience its rare combination of wildlife and crystal-clear waters on an expertly guided and responsible adventure.

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Trip Details from the Operator

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the tour welcomes children aged 4 and older, with safety gear provided for all ages.

No prior experience is required; guides provide instruction for beginners to enjoy the tour safely.

Expect to see manatees, free-ranging monkeys, bald eagles, and river otters during your paddle.

Key Highlights

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels including children ages 4 and up; basic paddling ability recommended but beginners welcome

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Florida manatee
  • Rhesus macaque monkey

History

Silver Springs has been a Florida tourist destination since the 1870s, originally popularized for its glass-bottom boat tours showcasing the clear springs.

Conservation

The tour operates with a focus on minimizing impact to manatees and monkeys by limiting group sizes and encouraging respectful viewing distances.

Related Adventures & Guides

  • See other trips from Three Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours
  • Explore more Daytona Beach adventures
  • Browse more water activities experiences

Operated By

Three Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours

2 Hours • Ages 4+

About Three Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours

Three Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours is a Merritt Island, Florida-based outfitter offering paddle sport rentals and guided wildlife tours across Florida’s east and west coasts. The company provides kayak rentals, paddle board rentals, side-by-side and single water bike rentals, and guided dolphin and manatee adventure tours in multiple destinations.

Trips include Daytona Beach kayak and paddle board rentals, Daytona Beach side-by-side and single water bike rentals, and multi-hour guided dolphin and manatee tours in Cocoa Beach, Sarasota, Marco Island, and Naples. An Orlando Blue Springs manatee and natural spring tour is also offered, focused on West Indian Manatee viewing and spring ecology.

Each experience is designed for a wide range of skill levels, from first-time riders to experienced paddlers. Rentals are available in flexible durations, from one hour to multi-day options where specified. Guided tours are led by local guides who combine wildlife viewing with regional history and environmental context.

Safety and accessibility are emphasized through stable equipment such as nearly tip-proof water bikes and straightforward rental procedures. The offerings highlight local wildlife encounters—dolphins, manatees, sea turtles and shorebirds—while promoting responsible viewing in natural habitats.

Booking options and availability vary by location and season; customers should check specific trip pages for exact durations, equipment details, reservation requirements, and to confirm launch points, safety briefings.

Paddlers exploring crystal-clear turquoise water encountering manatee
Stand-up paddleboard lesson with group on calm coastal waters

Home Base

Merritt Island, FL

Central launch point for all trips

Activities

Kayaks, SUPs, Water Bikes

Multiple rental and guided options

Wildlife Tours

Dolphins & Manatees

Guided encounters in natural habitats

Tours Count

10 trips

Range of rentals and guided tours

CTA Section Background Image

Book a Paddle, Kayak, or Water Bike Adventure

Reserve guided dolphin and manatee tours or flexible rentals from Merritt Island to Daytona Beach, Cocoa Beach, Sarasota, Naples, Marco Island, and Blue Springs.

Adventure Tips

Respect Wildlife Distance

Keep a safe distance from manatees and monkeys to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.

essential

Wear Sun Protection

Florida sun can be intense even on cloudy days; bring sunscreen and a hat for protection.

essential

Stay Hydrated

Bring water to stay hydrated during your 2-hour paddle tour, especially in warm months.

info

Use Water-Resistant Footwear

Wear shoes that can get wet and provide traction on slippery riverbanks or docks.

info

Recommended Gear

Lightweight PFD (Personal Flotation Device)

Safety is a priority; a properly fitted PFD keeps you secure while paddling.

Essential

Waterproof Sunscreen

Protects your skin during exposed paddling sessions in Florida’s strong sun.

summer

Essential

Wide-Brim Hat

Provides shade and reduces sun exposure on the water.

summer

Waterproof Phone Case or Dry Bag

Keeps your valuables dry while you explore the springs by paddleboard or kayak.

Daytona Beach Things To Do
  • Read our Daytona Beach travel guide
  • Essential