![]() ![]() There is a beautiful swimming area filled with cool, fresh spring water from the springs that eventually fuels the Alafia River. Lithia Springs is the easiest natural Florida spring to get to, located right in Lithia near the Fishhawk area. (In partnership with our sister site: and ) MORE Florida natural springs within driving distance of Tampa Bay: Water craft are prohibited between November and March, but visitors can observe and even swim with the hundreds of manatees that flock to the natural refuge to escape the colder waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Three Sisters Springs is open year-round. Living in this special corner of the sunshine state means there are still more springs to explore and more memories to be made. It’s the sort of place where time flies and stress dissolves.Īs our too-short visit wound down, we began planning the next one. And thanks to the rule prohibiting motorized boats, they are quiet and serene. Surrounded by 57 acres of vegetation, the springs feel like a world away from urban life. Fortunately, on this weekday afternoon, we were able to easily spread out among only a handful of fellow kayakers and swimmers. It’s no wonder visitors flock here on weekends. Maintaining a temperature of 72 degrees year-round, the spring water was a refreshing antidote to the summer heat. Even at its deepest point- about 18 feet- we could still see straight through to the bottom. We’d heard about the famous, crystalline water, but were shocked to discover it’s even more clear than a swimming pool. Less than 10 minutes later, we reached the narrow spring run that leads into Three Sisters Springs, an inlet naturally divided into three pools where fresh water flows up from sand boils and vents and feeds the surrounding waterways. Related: What you need to know about kayaking on the spring-fed Weeki Wachee RiverĬruising down meandering canals flanked by lush trees, we were pleasantly surprised to find that our only other companions were turtles perched on logs and birds resting on branches. Now able to remove our masks and breathe in the fresh air, we relaxed and took in the scenery. We rented two tandem kayaks for the minimum three hours ($55 each).Īfter a quick rundown of the surroundings, we set out to explore King’s Bay. (Keep scrolling for even MORE springs we love near Tampa Bay.)Īrriving at Crystal River Kayak Company, we encountered another family returning from their time out on the water and gave us a thumbs-up when we asked about their experience. Known for its sparkling blue, natural spring-fed rivers and chains of lakes, it’s just 90 minutes north of Tampa. We chose Crystal River on Florida’s Nature Coast. The biggest problem you may encounter when planning a day trip to the springs is deciding which one to visit. Luckily, the Tampa Bay area is home to natural Florida springs where plenty of good, clean, outdoor fun awaits. Enjoying traditional summer fun has been challenging this year this past year, with limited access to our favorite activities. ![]()
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