DISCOVER CRYSTAL RIVER HOMOSASSA INVERNESS FLORAL CITY
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Find Your Adventure Only Minutes to the World Famous Three Sisters Springs! CLEAR KAYAKS GUIDED TOURS SWIM WITH MANATEES LARGEST SELECTION HunterSpringsKayak.com 352.228.4715 • 36 NE 4th St, Crystal River
Lake Henderson Full Calendar of Events Live | Work | Play Withlacoochee Trail Valerie Theatre • Top cycling destination • Home of the Cooter Festival as seen on the Daily Show • Inverness Grand Prix only kart street race in southeast USA • The Taste is a qualifier for the World Food Championship visitinvernessfl.com • Big Bass Classic draws hundreds of anglers each spring 203 E. Dampier Street | 352.341.7820
Three Sisters Springs Enjoy a trolley tour to the boardwalk to see manatees. The boardwalk and nature trails offer spectacular views of the world-renowned Three Sisters Springs. Hundreds of wild manatees visit the springs during cold weather events throughout the winter (November 15 - March 31). A trolley tour to the springs is included in admission. www.threesistersspringsvisitor.org See website for tour dates and times 123 NW US 19 Crystal River, FL 34428 352.586.1170 City of Crystal River Special Events Easter at The Springs Kings Bay Pirate Fest Old Fashioned 4th of July Christmas Tree Lighting Festival Movies on the Beach series Music Under the Stars City of Crystal River - Government @cityofcrystalriver #crystalriver @CrystalRiver_FL Three Sisters Springs @threesisterssprings #threesisterssprings
CONTENTS FEATURING 20 The Manatee Capital Of The World What is it that makes Florida’s Citrus County unique? It’s a perfect combination of critical elements that manatees need to live. 26 Manatees By The Numbers From how often a manatee breathes to the size of a manatee baby at birth, the details of manatees lives are hidden in the numbers. 28 Unforgettable Journey D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M A trip from London to the Homosassa River to meet a manatee proves unforgettable. // 352.794.5506 7 C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y
SECTIONS City Guide CITY GUIDE CITRUS COUNTY VISITORS & CONVENTION BUREAU 10 Timeless Randy Oliver MAP OF CITRUS COUNTY County Administrator 12 Gulf To Lakes John Pricher Miles Saunders 10 Director Media & Content Manager Veronica Kampschroer Marti Spewock Accomodations 16 Industry Relations Specialist Senior Secretary Rachel Ford Visitor Services ____ Water Adventures 32 EDITORIAL CHASSAHOWITZKA RIVER Miles Saunders 32 Into The Wild Managing Editor ____ 62 B O AT T O U R S CONTRIBUTORS 36 River Of Life Veronica Kampschroer C AT C H YO U R O W N S C A L L O P S 42 Diane Bedard Charli Moore 38 Living The Salt Life Mary Ann De Santis Manny Prades Matt Marriott Shane Reynolds FISHING GUIDE Melissa Mederos William Toney 42 An Island Feast ____ PHOTOGRAPHY Ursula Casutt von Batemberg Land Adventures cvb-photography.com PA R K S A N D W I L D L I F E P R E S E R V E S Carol Grant Manny Prades 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE oceangrant.com Pryme Production 48 Room 4 U2 Roam Matt Marriott Shane Reynolds HISTORY AND MUSEUMS Matt Marriott Photography Color Earth Production 54 Things That Comes In 3’s Melissa Mederos Romona Robbins Pryme Production Romona Robbins Photography W I T H L A C O O C H E E S TAT E F O R E S T Charli Moore Miles Saunders 58 Written In The Stars wanderlusters.com Discover Crystal River Florida ____ W I T H L A C O O C H E E S TAT E T R A I L DESIGN/PRODUCTION/SALES 62 Cycle City GOLF COURSES 66 Golf In Citrus County 66 Food and Fun 8 48 A U T H E N T I C R E S TA U R A N T S 68 Old Florida 41 108 5TH ST. LEESBURG, FL 34748 akersmediagroup.com BEER & WINE 352.787.4112 72 Keepers Of The Craft 72 D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A SHOPPING Kendra Akers James Combs Publisher Staff Editor 76 Been There. Done That! Doug Akers Chris Gerbasi President Staff Editor Jamie Ezra Mark Wendy Mak Calendar Chief Creative Officer Designer of Events 80 Leigh Neely Managing Editor Jason Fugate Designer Theresa Campbell Josh Clark Staff Editor Designer Meredith Bleakley Account Representative Discover Crystal River Florida 2019. Published annually by the Citrus County Visitors and Convention Bureau, 915 N. Suncoast Blvd., Crystal River, FL 34429. All editorial contents copyright 2018 by the Citrus County Visitors and Convention Bureau. All rights reserved. Discover Crystal River Florida is a registered trademark of the Citrus County Visitors and Convention Bureau. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. For back issues or billing information, call 352.794.5506. Return postage must accompany all unsolicited manuscripts and artwork if they are to be returned. Manuscripts are welcomed, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. Publisher is not responsible for claims or contents of advertisements. The ideas and opinions contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of the Citrus County Visitors and Convention Bureau.
C I T Y G U I D E Old Courthouse 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE Square 10 Timeless Welcome to timeless Florida, a place where INVERNESS Florida’s Small Town Done Right Inverness is the commercial hub, county seat, and largest town in Florida’s Citrus County. Anchored by Old Courthouse Square, its lively D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A the rhythm of days is set by the moon and sun downtown is full of restaurants and shops flanked by the fabulous and moments filled with fresh tastes and new boardwalks of Lake Henderson and wonders seem to last forever. Cooter Pond. As the hub of the 46- mile Withlacoochee State Trail and the Tsala Apopka Chain of Lakes, cycling, fishing, great dining, and a full slate of festivals give this happy, small city its ever upbeat and active spirit. Drop by a cycling shop to rent a bike for the day or catch an airboat ride on Henderson Lake. Don’t miss the new Inverness Visitors Center on Dampier Street at scenic Wallace Brooks Park.
Three Shelly’s Sisters Avenue of Seafood Springs the Oaks Stone Crab Season Three Sisters Springs Trolley Ferris Groves Fruit Stand HOMOSASSA CRYSTAL RIVER FLORAL CITY Florida for reel The gem of Made in the shade Historic Old Homosassa is one of Florida’s Nature Coast Elegant Old Florida charm defines Florida’s oldest fishing communi- The signs that welcome you as you this authentic small community ties and from the beginning right come into town say it all: “Gem of the canopied in majestic oak trees up to today, life here has centered Nature Coast” and “Home of the Man- and Spanish moss. The Floral City around the water—the Homosassa atee.” The city of Crystal River curves National Historic District is a turn- and Halls rivers, Mason Creek, and around the edges of magnificent back-the-clock village of historic the Gulf of Mexico just offshore. Kings Bay and, like the hundreds of homes built when Floral City was It is an amphibious village where wintering manatees, bears charms briefly Florida’s busiest phosphate boats are as common as cars and both old and new. Historic districts mining boomtown. Magnificent live trucks. The waterfront is always like Heritage Village, Citrus Avenue, oaks planted more than a century lively with the comings and goings and Michigan Town are connected ago have grown into the breathtak- at iconic institutions like MacRae’s by inviting waterfront parks and ing Avenue of the Oaks along East of Homosassa, the Atlanta Fishing trails—Hunter Springs, Kings Bay Orange Avenue. Surrounding lakes, Club, Homosassa Riverside Resort, Park, the new Riverwalk, and the art galleries, and classic Florida and Monkey Island. From fish mar- Crosstown Trail which leads to Three food, fruit stands, and shops give kets and artisan shops to legendary Sisters Springs Refuge. It’s a walk- this friendly small town with the restaurants, Homosassa comes with able, bike-able, lovable waterfront Withlacoochee State Trail running the unmistakable character and city of fine food, spectacular views, right through the middle its undeni- taste of the Florida Gulf Coast. endless fun, and no fuss. able charm.
488 41 Inglis Lake Rousseau W Corrine St W G M art i nelli Blvd 488 lvd Inglis Island Trails B am N Northcut Ave kc ND N El el il y Tra to r na e Ba dD B he 19 oo lv d la cooc W River w lvd With sB ng ri Sp Citrus SpringsW Country trus Golf and Ci N Basswood Ave N Country Club W Dunklin St C Citronelle Sp Springs Blv 488 W Ci trus 495 d N Elkcam Blv W Power Line St W Hampsh ire Bl 98 vd Highland Hills Country Club Crystal River 49 vd Preserve Bl ge State Park Ri d Be ne Pi ve Mu stang Blvd rly W H W W Ro o N Citrus Ave W State Park St se ve lt N Sailboat Ave N Museum Pt Blv d Beve Crystal River Archaeological 495 Cross Town State Park Fort Island Trail Gulf Beach 44 44 NE 3rd St Black Diamond 486 Kings Bay Dr W Norvell Bryant Hwy 486 Citru Thr ee Sis ters Ki n Sp Kings gs and C ring B ay D Trai r l N Dunkenfield Ave Bay Welcome G Dunnellon dise Point Rd SE Para ul Citrus t Dixie Shores Center ft Trails W o N Rock Crusher Rd il 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE Fo Crystal River La Tra r t Is la n d Golf Club ke Plantation H 491 Golf & 44 ig Country Club hw St. Martins C RY S TA L R I V E R WV ena ble St ay Marsh Aquatic St Jefferson S Ave Preserve St Harrison Lincoln St Fillmore S s St S Columbu S S St Lucille St S Suncoast Boulevard Jefferson s St St Columbu Harrison S St Ave Fillmore St Lincoln Lucille S S S S S S Jefferson St S Harrison St S Jackson St S Bardour St S Monroe St S.Adams St l Tr el lo Oz l CRYSTAL RIVER Tr S Rock W a ss Ozello om os a Crush 19 H W er Rd Lecanto 490 12 W Grover Cleveland Blvd GULF OF W H a lls River Rd Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs MEXICO Homosassa lD r Wildlife D r ow State Park hb D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A lee Springs Fis Yu W W 98 HOMOSASSA Dr ee DRIVE TIMES ul S Y Ch er ok W ee W ay Chassahowitzka Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Salt Marsh Trails TAMPA: 1 hour, 15 minutes Rd Historic State Park ek ORLANDO: 1 hour, 45 minutes on Cr e as MIAMI: 5 hours SM W Cardinal St Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge Sugarmill Sugarmill Cy Woods pr Woods ess vd E Country Club Bl ORLANDO Southern TAMPA Woods Chassahowitzka Golf Club 480 480 W O ak Pa 19 98 rk Bl vd MIAMI
GULF TO LAKES Spruce Creek Preserve E Golf Club W hl it ac o oc he Tra e il N Huntington Golf Club Ath i a en D r From freshwater lakes to spring-fed rivers s Blvd vd Bl flowing to the Gulf of Mexico, discover lu b yC ng i r Sp adventure in Florida’s Citrus Oaks County. us itr Marion C E Citrus 200 Country Club prings 41 Two Mile vd Prairie Trails 491 Bike Fish Paddle Hernando Pine Bird Hike Swim W Ridge ith lac Boat Horse KEY oo Twisted Oaks Golf ch 91 Camp Manatee Club ee St N Great Florida Birding Trail at Fore st R Hil ls eT Blv d ra d i 200 il ge Blvd erly Hills Potts Preserve D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M W Norvell Bryant Hwy 486 N Citrus Hills Blvd us Hills Golf T 41 Country Club Lakeside s s Hills N Croft Ave Country Club N Kensington Ave a Point la O'Woods W 44 Golf Club ith la To I-75 co // o ch Trail 13 ee 352.794.5506 44 Ri 44 ve r A Withlacoochee INVERNESS 581 p State Forest W Inverness ith Golf & o 13 lac Country Club oo Fort Cooper c Trail 10 State Park he p Trail 10 e E Arbor St St C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y at eT k Flying Eagle ra E Anna Jo Dr 491 il 41 Preserve a 48 581 FLORAL CITY 48 480 l Tr 491 Trail 13 ch oa C e ag St E E Stage Coach Trl 480 41
D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE 14 LIGHTHOUSE AWARD WINNER
From the Gulf... ...To the golf course Plantation Realty, Inc 1250 N Country Club Dr., Crystal River, FL | 352.795.0784 918 E. Norvell Bryant Hwy., Hernando, FL | 352.423.1424 PlantationRealtyListings.com Plantation Rentals PlantationRentals.com | 352.795.0782
ACCO MM ODATI ONS CRYSTAL RIVER 5 Port Hotel & Marina Ensing Properties FLORAL CITY 1610 SE Paradise Cir 36-49 NE 4th St B E D & B R E A K FA S T S Crystal River, FL 34429 Crystal River, FL 34429 P R I VA T E R E N T A L S (352) 795-3111 (352) 795-1795 Crystal Blue Lagoon porthotelandmarina.com ensingproperties.com Sunshine Lodge 244 NE 2nd Ct 9161 E Devil’s Neck Rd Crystal River, FL 34429 6 Quality Inn 7 Plantation Rentals Floral City, FL 34436 (352) 220-1488 4486 N Suncoast Blvd 1250 N Country Club Dr (352) 344-1025 crystalbluelagoonbb.com Crystal River, FL 34428 Crystal River, FL 34429 sunshinelodgefl.com (352) 563-1500 (352) 795-0782 HOTELS & MOTELS qualityinn.com/hotel/FL249 plantationrentals.com RV & CAMPGROUNDS Best Western Crystal P R I VA T E R E N T A L S RV & CAMPGROUNDS Moonrise Resort River Resort Crystal River Big Oaks River Resort 8801 E Moonrise Ln Floral City, FL 34436 614 NW US Hwy 19 Manatee Manor 14025 W River Rd (352) 726-2553 Crystal River, FL 34428 2385 N Watersedge Dr Inglis, FL 34449 moonriseresort.com (352) 795-3171 Crystal River, FL 34429 (352) 447-5333 bestwestern.com (919) 349-1205 bigoaksriverresort.com HOMOSASSA Crystal Manatee Suites facebook.com/ 310 N Citrus Ave crystalrivermanateemanor Encore Crystal B E D & B R E A K FA S T S Crystal River, FL 34428 Manatee House Isles RV Resort (352) 586-1813 11844 W Bayshore Dr Tents Allowed Chassahowitzka Hotel 11419 W Fort Island Trail 8551 W Miss Maggie Dr Crystal River, FL 34429 Crystal River Motel (352) 476-6441 Crystal River, FL 34429 Homosassa, FL 34448 1151 US Hwy 19 (352) 795-3774 (352) 382-2075 manateehouserental.com rvonthego.com/crystal-isle.html chazhotel.com Crystal River, FL 34428 (352) 794-6185 Norwood House 10830 W Bentbow Path Gulf Coast RV Resort Chaz Lodge 1 Days Inn Crystal River, FL 34428 13790 W Foss Grove Path Accessible by water only 2380 NW US Hwy 19 (352) 795-7387 Inglis, FL 34449 Homosassa, FL 34448 (352) 447-2900 (813) 310-2521 Crystal River, FL 34428 vrbo.com/775165 chazlodge.com (352) 795-2111 gulfcoastrvfl.com visitcrystalriver.com Paradise Found Island Retreat Lake Rousseau RV Park HOTELS & MOTELS Econo Lodge 14195 W Beachview Dr & Fishing Resort Bella Oasis Hotel 2575 NW US Hwy 19 Crystal River, FL 34429 Tents Allowed 4076 S Suncoast Blvd Crystal River, FL 34428 (352) 564-1757 10811 N Coverview Ter (352) 795-9447 paradisefoundisland.com Homosassa, FL 34446 Crystal River, FL 34428 (352) 628-4311 econolodge.com (352) 795-6336 bellaoasis.com PROPERTY lakerousseaurvpark.com 2 Hampton Inn MANAGEMENT Bell Villa Motel 1103 N Suncoast Blvd Nature Coast Landings 3430 S Suncoast Blvd Crystal River, FL 34429 Action Rental 10173 N Suncoast Blvd Homosassa, FL 34446 (352) 564-6464 417 NE 2nd St Crystal River, FL 34428 (352) 398-5328 crystalriver.hamptoninn.com Crystal River, FL 34429 (352) 447-5820 (352) 795-7368 Homosassa Holiday Inn Express nclrv.com 3 citruscountyhomerentals.com Riverside Resort 1203 NE 5th St Quail Roost RV 5297 S Cherokee Way Crystal River, FL 34429 Century 21 Nature Coast Campground Homosassa, FL 34448 (352) 563-1111 825 NE US Hwy 19 9835 N Citrus Ave (352) 628-2474 hiexpress.com/crystalriverfl Crystal River, FL 34429 riversideresorts.com (352) 795-0021 Crystal River, FL 34428 Kings Bay Lodge c21naturecoast.com/ (352) 563-0404 MacRae’s of Homosassa 506 NW 1st Ave vacation-rentals.php quailroostrvpark.com 5300 S Cherokee Way Crystal River, FL 34428 Homosassa, FL 34448 (352) 795-2850 Coldwell Banker 8 Rock Crusher (352) 628-2602 kingsbaylodge.com Next Generation Realty Canyon RV Park macraesofhomosassa.com 531 N Citrus Ave 237 S Rock Crusher Rd 4 Plantation Crystal River, FL 34428 Crystal River, FL 34429 Seagrass on Crystal River (352) 794-6100 (352) 564-9350 Waterfront Resort 9301 W Fort Island Trail coldwellbankernextgeneration. rockcrusherrvpark.com 10386 W Halls River Rd com/rentals Crystal River, FL 34429 Homosassa, FL 34448 (352) 795-4211 (352) 503-6808 plantationoncrystalriver.com seagrassresort.com 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 Three Rivers Motel Riverfront Treetop Chassahowitzka River P R I VA T E R E N T A L S 4891 S Suncoast Blvd Bungalow Lodge & Campground Homosassa, FL 34446 10823 W Yulee Dr 8501 W Miss Maggie Dr Rustic Comfort (352) 628-6629 Homosassa, FL 34448 Homosassa, FL 34448 Log Cabin (352) 628-5222 (352) 382-2081 S Mohican Trail P R I VAT E R E N TA L S riversafaris.com/ Inverness, FL 34450 homosassa-vacation-rental.html Chassa Oaks RV Resort (727) 446-1200 Bird’s Nest 11000 S Suncoast Blvd woodedretreats.net/ Vacation Rentals Sunshine Acres Homosassa, FL 34446 rustic-comfort-log-cabin.html Multiple locations 6730 S Pine Meadow Ave (352) 628-0900 Homosassa, FL 34448 Homosassa, FL 34446 chassaoaksrvresort.com Van der Valk Golf Resort (352) 563-2763 (352) 207-6227 4543 E Windmill Dr birdsunderwater.com/ evolvevacationrental.com/364274 Covered Wagon Inverness, FL 34453 vacation-rentals TradeWinds Homosassa Campground (352) 637-1140 valkusa.com Classic Old Marine Resort 6049 S Suncoast Blvd Homosassa Tree House 4849 S Amstel Dr Homosassa, FL 34446 (352) 628-4669 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 10823 W Yulee Dr Homosassa, FL 34448 coveredwagoncampground.com Homosassa, FL 34448 (352) 287-1326 Black Diamond Rentals (352) 628-5222 tradewinds-homosassa.com Homosassa River D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M riversafaris.com/ 2600 W Black Diamond Cir homosassa-vacation-rental.html The Upper Deck RV Resort Lecanto, FL 34461 Tents Allowed (352) 453-5454 4402 S Capecove Loop Dreamcatcher Island Homosassa, FL 34448 10200 W Fishbowl Dr blackdiamondranch.com/stay 12585 The Homosassa River Homosassa, FL 34448 Homosassa, FL 34448 (352) 207-6227 evolvevacationrental.com/372400 (352) 628-2928 Florida Villa Rentals (352) 302-7441 sunrvresorts.com/resorts/south/ 4794 E Van Ness Rd facebook.com/dreamcatcherisland PROPERTY florida/homosassa-river Hernando, FL 34442 MANAGEMENT (352) 726-8122 Heilig Haus 9 Nature’s Resort RV Park fl-villa.com 8022 W Grove St All Citrus Rentals Tents Allowed Homosassa, FL 34446 8375 S Suncoast Blvd 10359 Halls River Rd Greenbriar Rentals (352) 765-4037 Homosassa, FL 34446 Homosassa, FL 34448 1049 E Norvell Bryant Hwy heilighaus.com (352) 503-2050 (352) 628-9544 Hernando, FL 34442 allcitrusrentals.com naturesresortfla.com (352) 746-5921 Homosassa Island Lodge greenbriarrental.com Property Management // 5900 Hellgate Island Homosassa, FL 34448 Citrus County INVERNESS Lakeside Vacations 352.794.5506 (863) 602-3114 5366 S Cherokee Way 4543 E Windmill Dr homosassaislandlodge.com B E D & B R E A K FA S T S Inverness, FL 34453 Homosassa, FL 34448 (352) 419-7901 Homosassa Riverfront (352) 628-5600 property-managementgroup.com Lake House lakesidevacations.net Retreat Home Bed & Breakfast 4453 S Capecove Loop Sunset Vacation Rentals 8604 E Gospel Island Rd Realtors Association Homosassa, FL 34448 on Homosassa River Inverness, FL 34450 of Citrus County (443) 252-7220 (352) 344-3586 vrbo.com/702531 5650 S Sea Otter Path 714 Scarboro Ave thelakehouse.biz Lecanto, FL 34461 Homosassa River Retreat Homosassa, FL 34487 (352) 628-5482 (352) 746-7550 17 vrbo.com/3517172ha HOTELS & MOTELS raccfl.com 10605 W Halls River Rd Homosassa, FL 34448 (352) 628-7072 RV & CAMPGROUNDS Central Motel Vacation Golf Homes & Townhouses PO Box 1236 C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y homosassariverretreat.com Camp N’ Water 721 US Hwy 41 S Hernando, FL 34442 The Jockey’s Quarters Outdoor Resort Inverness, FL 34450 (352) 613-2644 10605 W Yulee Dr (352) 726-4515 vacationgolfhomesflorida.com 11465 W Priest Ln Homosassa, FL 34448 Homosassa, FL 34448 centralmotel.com RV & CAMPGROUNDS (352) 503-2076 (352) 628-2000 thestartinggaterestaurant.com/ campnwater.com Florida Motel Lecanto Hills RV Park homosassa-rental 1301 US Hwy 41 N 4400 W Gulf to Lake Hwy Cedars Lake Mobile Inverness, FL 34450 La Casa Del Rio Home & RV Park (352) 726-2631 Lecanto, FL 34461 4431 S Capecove Loop (352) 746-4648 6400 S Mason Creek Rd lecantohills.com Homosassa, FL 34448 Homosassa, FL 34448 Holiday Inn Express (352) 503-9294 evolvevacationrental.com/402139 (352) 628-4441 903 E Gulf to Lake Hwy Riverside Lodge cedarslakervpark.com Lecanto, FL 34461 Cabins & RV Resort La Casa of Mason Creek Chassahowitzka River (352) 341-3515 (888) 465-4329 Tents Allowed 6850 S Hancock Rd 12561 E Gulf to Lake Hwy Homosassa, FL 34448 Campground invernessflhotel.com Inverness, FL 34450 Tents Allowed (352) 726-2002 (352) 228-0308 vrbo.com/718798 8600 W Miss Maggie Dr Quality Inn Conference riversidelodgerv.com Homosassa, FL 34448 Center at Citrus Hills The Last Resort (352) 382-2200 350 E Norvell Bryant Hwy Sandy Oaks RV Resort campnpaddle.com Hernando, FL 34442 10738 W Halls River Rd 6760 N Lecanto Hwy Homosassa, FL 34448 (352) 527-0015 Beverly Hills, FL 34465 (352) 628-7117 citrushillshotel.com (352) 465-7233 facebook.com/thelastresort sandyoaksrvresort.com
CITRUS MUSTCOUNTY’S SEE EVENT IN 2019 S ! JANUARY 19 & 20 • 2019 $5 PER PERSON, 12 AND UNDER FREE MARCH FREE SHUTTLE FROM CRYSTAL RIVER MALL 2 & 3 • 2019 FREE THREE SISTERS SPRINGS TOURS $5 PER PERSON, 12 AND UNDER FREE FINE ART / CRAFT • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT FREE SHUTTLE FROM CITRUS CO. AUDITORIUM MANATEE BOAT TOURS ARTS & CRAFTS • STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE FOOD • BEER AND WINE GARDENS MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT • BEER AND WINE GARDEN CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES & MORE! PIE EATING CONTESTS • CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES STRAWBERRY PRINCESS PAGEANT & MORE! For complete details visit: For complete details visit: 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE www.GoManateeFest.com CitrusCountyChamber.com www.GoStrawberryFest.com We cater to our RV vacationers with the biggest and best RV park in all of Citrus County! 18 ont 0 fe e t o f waterfr ith Over 250 ate boat ramp w D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A iv and a pr ct Gulf access!ans dire s and flex ible pl able rate rnished Our afford s, tents, and fully fu s. w fo r R V rk m od el allo alets or pa A-frame ch Full Hookups and Concrete Pads 30 or 50 Amp Electrical // Water // Sewage // Cable TV // Wifi Camp Sites and Rental Units Available Daily // Weekly // Monthly // Annually On Site Rental Equipment Pontoons // Kayaks // Canoes // Paddle Boards // Golf Carts We now have 400 sites along with the addition of pull through sites Planned activities all year // Tiki bar open 7 days a week // Huge waterslide & bounce pad 352.628.9544 / 800.301.7880 Waterfront and Fully wooded sites available 10359 West Halls River Road, Homosassa www.NaturesResortFla.com
® The Port Hotel & Marina Fun il y P la ce fo r t h e E n ti r e F a m
Location, location, location! It’s the famous mantra heard again and again in Florida, the land of endless sea and sunshine. It’s also what makes this strip of the Gulf Coast the 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE manatee capital 20 D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A of the world STORY: MILES SAUNDERS
C all it a con- vergence. It’s Bob Bonde, “I would want to be here.” 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE the two things Location is what makes manatees need most com- the springs, which are ing together in one place. the source of the Crystal, Here, the vast upwelling Homosassa and Chassa- of the Florida aquifer—a howitzka rivers, uniquely freshwater sea beneath the perfect in all of Florida. surface of Florida—meets The result: more the Gulf of Mexico and one manatees gather here of the largest seagrass beds each winter than in North America. anywhere else—usually Manatees sheltered in Crystal The seagrass provides one-sixth of the River’s Three Sisters Springs. manatees an endless state’s entire manatee 22 food supply all summer population, which is just PHOTO: (Underwater) Carol Grant, (Aerial) Matt Marriott long. The springs provide over 6,000. an abundant warm-water “It’s literally priceless,” Kings Bay D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A refuge only a few miles says Pat Rose of Save the The king of all natural pulsates between 72 and inland once winter sets in. Manatee Club. “There’s no warm-water shelters in 74 degrees Fahrenheit “If I were a manatee,” question: for manatees, Florida is Crystal Riv- (23 Celsius). says manatee scientist this place is number one.” er’s Kings Bay. In terms For manatees, that’s of springs, it is a mar- critical since, despite vel—at least 70 springs their apparent heft, with many more seeps they have surprisingly and boils providing a little fat on board. When near-constant flow of 225 surrounding water million gallons (852K m3) temperatures dip below of water a day at a tem- 68 (20 C), manatees are perature that constantly vulnerable to cold stress.
D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M // 352.794.5506 10 YEA R TR END OF MA N AT E E S I N C I T R U S CO U N T Y Each year an aerial survey is done as part 1042 of Florida’s statewide synoptic survey. A reduction in numbers from year to 1025 year may be related to how cold or warm waters are and does not necessarily 23 suggest a population trend. Source: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Complex 887 C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y 797 794 651 657 621 476 473 443 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Face to Face with a manatee in Homosassa Spring. “This is the most critical place for the future of manatees in Florida.” — PAT ROSE 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE When water temperatures Judy Matthews checks the drop even further—as they water temperature seven do in winter—the risk is miles away off Shell Island hypothermia. at the Gulf of Mexico. A The springs here pro- temperature gauge at the vide what scientists call bottom of the mouth of the a “thermal refuge,” warm Crystal River reads 63 (18 pockets where manatees C) and the temperature can survive. “This is the graph shows a steep most critical place for downward trend. the future of manatees “There will be a lot more 24 in Florida,” Pat says. “It’s manatees here in the absolutely essential.” morning,” Judy says. Her certainty is the D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A The Cold Front benefit of many years It is mid-afternoon at of painstaking research Three Sisters Springs by scientists tracking Refuge. A big cold front manatees with radio is moving in from the and satellite telemetry. It upper Midwest. Overnight clearly links the number temperatures are predicted of manatees in Kings to drop below freezing even Bay with what’s going on here in Central Florida. with water temperature at On her smartphone, Shell Island. Manatees rest in Three Sisters Springs Crystal River National “We see that when the on a cold winter morning. Wildlife Refuge volunteer temperature drops to 62
degrees (17 C), you see a manatees are huddled mass shift of manatees in the headwaters of away from the Gulf and the Homosassa River at into the springs,” says Ellie Schiller Homosassa Joyce Palmer, manager Springs Wildlife of the Crystal River State Park. National Wildlife As the warming sun Refuge. “At that point, comes up over the trees they have to seek warm that surround Three water to maintain Sisters, the light reveals body temperature.” hundreds of manatees tightly packed together. Sanctuary The final count here this The next morning at day is 360. From the Three Sisters Springs, boardwalk, visitors gaze Judy is wrapped in a in wonder. parka. “Too many to They call it a count!” she shouts. Boat “sanctuary.” On a morning captains and guides like this, surrounded by report hundreds of living presence—birds PHOTO: Miles Saunders, (Fishbowl) Ursula Casutt von Batemburg, (Underwater) Carol Grant manatees at the bay’s singing in the trees, the largest spring, King manatees’ loud breaths Spring. Just around from the water—Three the corner at Magnolia Sisters Springs does Spring, the backs of indeed seem like a place manatees bob up and set apart. down as far as one It’s the crown jewel of can see. Kings Bay—the beating Six miles south, heart of the Manatee about 200 more Capital of the World. A passive observation manatee encounter.
MANATEES BY THE NUMBERS Manatees are one of the most fascinating mammals on earth. The list of 20 facts and figures about them is nearly endless. Here are just a few: PHOTO-ILLUSTRATIONS: JOSH CLARK The number of minutes a manatee can stay underwa- ter between breaths while sleeping. When active, man- atees come up for air every one to three minutes. 489 The record number of manatees gathered at Kings 3 There are three species of manatees in the world— West Indian, West African, and Amazonian. The Florida 15 The typical length of an adult manatee is 10 to 15 feet (3 to 5 meters). A new- born calf is usually 3 feet 68 The critical water tempera- ture in Fahrenheit degrees (20 Celsius) below which manatees suffer cold stress Bay’s Three Sisters Springs manatee is a subspecies of long (1m). and fatal hypothermia. on Feb. 11, 2016. the West Indian manatee.
73 The mean fahrenheit temperature (23 C) of springs in Florida’s Citrus County year round. Manatees need to be in water warmer than 68 degrees (20 C) to survive winter cold. Coastal springs were the natural thermal refuges that allow manatees to extend their range north into Florida long ago. Crystal River 1500 National Wildlife Refuge 1493 On Jan. 9, 1493, Christopher Columbus mistakes mana- tees for mermaids along the coast of Haiti. It’s the first The typical weight of an adult written account of manatees manatee is 900 to 1,500 pounds in the Americas. Ellie Schiller Homosassa (400 to 700 kilograms). A newborn Springs Wildlife 1042 weighs about 65 pounds (30kg). State Park The number of manatees recorded by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologist Joyce Kleen during an ae- rial survey of coastal Citrus County in February 2016— one-sixth of Florida’s entire manatee population. Chassahowitzka National Wildlife 1983 Refuge The year the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge was established to protect the habitat of the West Indi- an manatee in Kings Bay. 2 The number of years a 69 6131 The age of the oldest known The number of manatees manatee calf usually spends manatee, Snooty, a captive reported in the state of with its mother before set- Florida manatee who died in Florida during the 2018 ting off on its own. 2017. Manatees in the wild are Synoptic Survey, a two-day known to live into their 50s. aerial survey of the entire state. The first aerial survey in 1991 found 1,267.
Unf Ourney J rgettable A trip from London to the Homosassa River to meet a manatee proves unforgettable. STORY AND PHOTO: CHARLI MOORE 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE 28 D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A
I t’s 6:30am on a cold I swim toward the I barely breathe for fear I soak in every minute February morning. warm water of a spring, of scaring her away, but as of this magical happen- I’m clad in a five-mil- the favorite resting spot of the seconds pass, we both stance. At times, other limeter wetsuit but as I manatees. Suddenly, in the settle into the encounter. manatees appear beside slip into the water, the distance, I spot the outline She accepts my presence. us, intrigued by our chill of the Homosassa of a large gray form. My Nudging my shoul- interaction. None linger River penetrates my core. heart begins to race. der with her snout, she as long. Floating silently on the I stop paddling and investigates me before I return to the boat surface, mask submerged, stretch my camera out performing somersaults, teary-eyed as the gravity I’m scanning for signs of in front of me, poised to one after another, beside of what I’ve just experi- a creature I’ve traveled capture the moment. The me. It’s clear she’s enjoy- enced dawns on me. This across the Atlantic to meet. manatee makes her way ing this moment just as morning, all but alone in My guide and I are the toward me. Her jet-black much as I am. the Homosassa River, I only people on the water. eyes—small compared She stays with me for met a wild manatee. “Keep your feet crossed to her size—pierce right what feels like an eternity. Charli Moore travels the world behind you,” he tells me, through me as though The tide draws us slowly at www.wanderlusters.com “only use your hands. she’s looking deep into out into the main channel Move slowly.” my soul. of the river. D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M // 352.794.5506 29 C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y
Step away FUN PEOPLE from the amusement parks, and dive into COOL ADVENTURES adventure! Manatee Tours and GREAT MEMORIES so much more… PROOF # New proof requested 1 3 Approved with changes shown RIVERVENTURES.COM 'Many Companies offer Manatee OF Approved Tours, as shown but there is only one River Ventures!' 352-564-8687 Additional revisions beyond Please make sure all marks are clear. Once EW three proofs may be subject an approval is received, any further changes are APPROVAL'OSTAMP U R A W ES O M E C R to a $40 fee per proof. 877-581-8401 subject to the publisher’s discretion. SMILING FACES M48 A sign & fax within hoursKto ES TH E Please respond via email or D IF FE R EN C E! ' Adventures in both Crystal 352.323.8161 Authorization Use promo code 'Discover10' If a response is not received within 48 Date All information contained is strictly confidential. If you are neither the intended recipient or the employee or agent of the intended recipient responsible for the delivery of this information, you are hereby notified that the disclosure, copying, use or distribution of River and Homosassa hours, the publisher reserves the right for a 10% discount 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE this information is strictly prohibited. All information is © 2018 Akers Media Group, Inc. to publish the provided proof as is. DBA HEALTHY LIVING Magazine, STYLE Magazines. 30 D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A • Fully Appointed • Shower Facilities Vacation Rentals • Playground • Spacious RV Sites • Activities • Gated Resort • Close to Local Attractions • Heated Swimming Pool • Full Hookups • Hot Tub • 50 Amp Service • Horseshoes • Big Rig Friendly • Shuffleboard • Pull Thru Sites • Library • Pet Friendly • Recreation Hall • Cable T.V. • Laundry Facilities • WiFi Available 1-877-722-7875 • 352-564-9350 • rockcrusherrvpark.com 237 South Rock Crusher Rd. • Crystal River, FL 34429
D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE 32 W A T E R THE INTO
wonder of Florida. STORY & PHOTOS: CHARLI MOORE still alive with the natural an unspoiled gem—a place The Chassahowitzka River is C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y 352.794.5506 // D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M 33
W A T E R 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE I f I could give just Our group paddles one tip to someone downriver for over half an planning a visit to hour with eyes trained on Florida, it would be this: the treetops above. King- Leave enough time to fisher, heron, egrets, and explore the pristine waters two kinds of vultures all 34 of the Chassahowitzka call this part of Florida’s River, a spring-fed river Nature Coast home. An that winds through anhinga poses gracefully D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A some of Florida’s most while I snap away with unfettered terrain to the my camera. Gulf of Mexico. Our attention quickly For those with an avid shifts below. A group of interest in the natural manatees moves just world, “The Chaz” is full of beneath us. We meet an unexpected surprises. inquisitive baby who We launch just after relishes the opportunity sunrise. The water is dark to play with its reflection and mirrors a cloudy sky in the dome lens of my above. And yet, only sec- underwater camera. onds from shore, I clearly From the wide river, make out a baby manatee we turn into a narrow and its mother swimming outflow, Baird Creek. The slowly toward us. banks draw ever closer
We meet an inquisitive baby and we paddle single-file. As the creek grows up the limestone river bed below in vibrant shades of who relishes the opportunity shallow, we’re soon forced turquoise and green. We to play with its reflection out of our kayaks and onto swim to the deepest point foot. We slosh up a clear, where the warm waters of in the dome lens of my shallow, sandy-bottomed stream and climb over fall- the spring well up from a deep narrow gap. underwater camera. en branches to reach the On the way back, the site of another spring, this rising tide aids our jour- one named “The Crack.” ney. The current delivers Surrounded by lush us to the dock in good vegetation, the sun lights time, but I loiter at water’s edge, eager for a final sighting of the river’s most beguiling inhabitants. I’m in luck. Just as the sun begins its de- scent, I look down and D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M a gray-whiskered nose protrudes from the water. A manatee takes a loud breath and slips away into the darkness. DISCOVER more at discovercrystalriverfl.com // 352.794.5506 35 C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y
W A T E R The Crystal River Preserve State Park’s Eco-Tour Cruise is not so much a journey in distance. It’s a journey in time. STORY AND PHOTOS: MILES SAUNDERS 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE T 36 he Monroe is a the river before us and rises largest of six mounds at highest landform in Crys- sturdy boat. Its big, again with its catch. the Crystal River Archaeo- tal River. throaty outboards The Crystal River, like logical State Park and it is “Most people are familiar D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A manage the currents well, its biblical namesake, is a entirely built of shells. with the Seminoles and which is important when river of life. Each one is what’s left people who came to Florida you launch midway along It has been for a very of an oyster or some other later,” Holly tells us, “but the Crystal River. Captain long time. shellfish plucked from the the people at this site were Jeff Beeler takes us out Just ahead, Temple river by some other fisher- here hundreds of years into the strong current Mound A, a grassy knoll men a thousand years ago. before Christ until about pouring in from the Gulf 45 feet high and crowned The mound is still the 1000 AD.” of Mexico and turns us with oaks overlooks the toward Kings Bay. river. Guide Holly Alexander on the lookout. Entering The Flow An Ancient Village Along the river’s edge, Guide Holly Alexan- fishermen pull in crab traps. der of the Friends of the Kids cast out lines from a Crystal River State Parks pier. An osprey dives into explains that this is the
Captain Jeff Beeler at the helm of the Monroe. It’s high noon under a serve which protects over this river is written along its blazing sky as Captain Jeff 20 miles of coastline. margins. turns us toward Gulf Up ahead looms Shell Any fisherman today can waters tucked safely Island and the open water tell you this is still a place of beneath the Monroe’s of the Gulf of Mexico. “Shell abundance. The oyster shell canopy, all we notice is the Island is a u-shaped atoll islands and shell mounds comfortable Gulf breeze. covered with thousands speak from a time before, of oyster shells,” Holly ex- a period of super-abun- The Coastal Isles plains. “Native Americans dance—a piece of original Shoreline houses slip would come out here for Florida still lingering before away as we pass into coast- extended periods of time to our eyes. al marshlands and pick up harvest shellfish and bring the sweet smell of the sea. them back to their families The Heritage Eco-Tour runs An osprey Like sentries, eagles and in dugout canoes.” twice a day, three days a week, scans the from Labor Day to Memorial osprey sit atop the high As we circle back along river for fish. Day. Call (352) 228-6028 for palm trees. the island’s shoreline and schedule and details. To DIS- We’re surrounded now by head for home, it all begins COVER more boat tours visit the vast Crystal River Pre- to fit together: The history of discovercrystalriverfl.com
W A T E R Living the life 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE Florida is home to more than 20 million people, but to truly live in Florida, one must have an affinity for the salt life… 38 STORY: SHANE REYNOLDS PHOTOS: ROMONA ROBBINS & SHANE REYNOLDS D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A
D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M // 352.794.5506 39 C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y A “salt life” is an destination where you can amphibious one get up close and personal that you not only with manatees, summer live but breathe. And if brings something more you want it with a little to our family table—the extra salt, Crystal River delectable Florida bay and Homosassa are just scallop. the flavor for you. Scallop season It’s Mother Nature’s typically runs July theme park. And while it’s through September. It’s known mainly as a winter an unforgettable family
W A T E R experience for any age, but once you’ve seen one, and if you’re looking to others begin to appear. catch your limit, I suggest The bonus is the going with a guide. supporting cast of characters this fertile The Art Of environment brings. A Scalloping variety of fish, dolphin, “Fishing alone is always seahorses, and yes, worth a visit,” says our manatees, are just a few guide, Captain Sean familiar faces you may Daugherty, “but the most come across. unique family activity for the summer by far is A Taste Of Florida scalloping.” At the end of the day, Scalloping sounds nothing beats the payoff. simple enough. Take a Honestly, the best meal “Fishing alone is breathtaking boat ride I’ve ever eaten is one that out to the Gulf of Mexico. my family and friends Watch your guide choose a perfect spot and then hoist spent the day catching and preparing. Pepper in the always worth a visit, a dive flag. sound of the kids’ laughter but the most unique family activity for As you slip into the and you have the recipe for warm water, you enter the perfect moment. another world. You’ll soon come to That is the salt life, my friends…and when you the summer by far realize that scalloping is an art form. find yourself in this perfect summer paradise, you’ll be is scalloping.” They lay hidden in the living it to the fullest. — CAPTAIN SEAN DAUGHERTY swaying grass and it takes Shane Reynolds is an award- a while to adjust your eyes winning international travel to their secretive ways. filmmaker. When not filming in some wild part of the globe, his At first they’re nowhere, family calls Destin, Florida, home.
C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y 352.794.5506 // D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M 41
D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE 42 W A T E R
D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M Fishing is a way of life in Old Homosassa. It’s Florida’s original fishing village— a place where // venerable traditions 352.794.5506 like the Shore Lunch still thrive. STORY: CAPTAIN WILLIAM TONEY 43 PHOTOS: MILES SAUNDERS C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y
W A T E R B ack in the day before Yeti coolers and their prede- cessors, there was a need for fishermen to keep things fresh and readily available so they’d have something to eat while out on the vast frontier of Gulf waters. Mason jars holding some lard, a bag of cornmeal, some salt and pepper, and a jug of water were the only non-perish- able ingredients com- mercial mullet fishermen had in their dry box—that and plenty of freshly caught fish. A high island with plentiful cedar driftwood would make for a good 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE fire. A few rocks placed just so would balance a cast-iron pan. Clean a couple of fish, fry them up and fill your belly. This became the foundation for the Homosassa Guides Association Shore Lunch. Traditions Although today it’s a little more gourmet 44 than “back in the day,” the tradition of eating fresh caught fish on an D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A island has been passed down from generation to generation. When I first started guiding, I was instructed by senior guides that if the traditional methods of cooking were not followed exactly, I could “take my- self back out to the dock and clean more fish.” Today, we cook with Coleman stoves or gas burners. Cast-iron pans are still used, but lard is
The sweet and salty mix of flavors is very good on land but, to tell you the truth, nothing is better than sitting on an island D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M eating these. // 352.794.5506 45 not. The new method isn’t jelly. The sweet and salty es. Most everything is I’ve been asked the much more heart-healthy mix of flavors is very packed just for that trip to question, “What happens C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y but, hey, it’s fresh fish. good on land but, to tell save space on the boat. if we don’t catch any fish?” Fish is healthy! you the truth, nothing is “Well”, I say, “I guess then better than sitting on an Seasons we’ll have to eat hot dogs!” Homosassa-Style island eating these. Cooler weather in the Just kidding. I can’t re- First we heat up Frying the fish is the last fall, winter, and spring are member a trip where there vegetable oil and deep- part, plus heating up the the most popular times wasn’t enough fish caught fry bacon in it. This baked beans. Rounding out to have a Shore Lunch. to provide the main course. seasons the oil for good the dinner is fresh cole- I’ve had anglers who Some days you have to things to come. slaw, pickles and cocktail have no way of taking earn it and then some days Next, the appetizer: tartar. Prepping the Shore their catch home with it’s easy. That’s fishing. Homosassa Hush Pup- Lunch takes longer than them, but a Shore Lunch Captain William Toney is a pies. The hush puppies cooking it. Minding the provides a way of enjoy- fourth-generation fishing are served with the bacon temperature of the oil is ing a few trout or redfish guide and provides a weekly Homosassa Inshore Fishing and, in my case, my fam- an art because, if it burns, without “filling the box” Report on our Discover Crystal River Fishing Facebook Page: ily’s homemade guava there are no second chanc- with fish. @DiscoverCRFishing.
Visitor Center on U.S. 19, Homosassa, FL 352-628-5343 FloridaStateParks.org • View manatees all year! • Daily programs on manatees, alligators, and wildlife encounters • See endangered Florida panthers, whooping cranes, red wolves, key 20% OFF deer, and more Regular admission to Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park Good for up to 6 in party. Not to be used with other offers. 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE CCVG Expires 12/31/2019 46 352-746-6691 D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A 7 NIGHTS A WEEK 4:30 P.M.–9 P.M. katchtwentytwo.com Your Choice Destination for American Contemporary Cuisine Red Brick Place GALLERY & UNIQUE GIFTS COME SEE OUR “NEW LOOK” 8305 E. Orange Ave. • Florida City 352-419-7937 info@redbrickplace.com www.redbrickplace.com Wed-Sat 10A.M.–4P.M. Deedra Harris OWNER Laura Hennings OWNER
MUSIC AT THE MUSEUM FLORAL CITY Third Thursday of every month November HERITAGE MUSEUM through April, except on December 13. 2018 Floral City Heritage Days To order tickets: First weekend in December cccourthouse.org | (352) 341-6428 8394 E. Orange Ave., PO Box 328 Floral City, FL 34436 (352) 860-0101 Friday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Past is Present in Museums the-fchc@hotmail.com floralcity.org OLD COURTHOUSE HERITAGE MUSEUM COASTAL Call, e-mail, or visit website for complete HERITAGE MUSEUM listing of concerts and activities. 532 N. Citrus Ave. 1 Courthouse Square Crystal River, FL 34428 Inverness FL 34450 D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L . C O M Hernando Heritage Council (352) 257-3870 (352) 341-6428 HISTORIC HERNANDO Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. SCHOOL RESTORATION Monday – Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PROJECT crcoastalmuseum@aol.com citrushistoricalsociety@gmail.com historichernando.com cccourthouse.org Facebook: Hernando Heritage Council // 352.794.5506 47 Adventures on the Homosassa River C R Y S TA L R I V E R . H O M O S A S S A . I N V E R N E S S . F L O R A L C I T Y • Air Boat Adventures • Heated Manatee Swim Tours • Pontoon Rentals • Scallop Tours • Eco-Tours & Fishing Charters • Alligator exhibit & Cafe 352-628-5222 "Take a BITE out of Real Florida riversafaris.com Adventure at River Safaris!" Use promo code 'Discover10' for a 10% discount
ROOM L A N D 4 U2 ROAM From the Gulf of Mexico to the vast Tsala Apopka Lakes, the possibilities to explore are endless in Florida's Citrus County. STORY: VERONICA KAMPSCHROER 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE 48 D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A Chassahowitzka Salt Marsh Trails
M ICON KEY Great Florida Birding Trail Access Boat Hike Paddle Bike Camp Horse Picnic Bird Fish Manatee Swim Crystal River Archaeological State Park CRYSTAL R I V ER Crystal River Fort Island Gulf Beach Hunter Springs Park Archaeological State Park 16000 W. Fort Island Trail, Crystal River 104 NE 1st Ave., Crystal River 3400 N. Museum Point, Crystal River View the Gulf of Mexico and feel Hunter Springs has a lot to offer, A National Historic Landmark, this the sand between your toes at this making it one of the hottest spots in 61-acre park represents 2,500 years family-friendly beach. The beach is town. People of all ages love the san- of Native American history. Winding a daytime favorite, especially in the dy beach and spring-fed swimming trails surround ancient burial and summer months. If you’re looking to area. Start your Kings Bay paddling midden mounds. An observation experience one of our fabled Florida adventure at the onsite kayak launch. deck, located on the largest mound, sunsets, this is a great vantage point. Pro tip: The boardwalk is a perfect place to try to spot some manatees! offers one of the most beautiful views of the Crystal River. Visit the park’s Fort Island Trail Park 12073 W. Fort Island Trail, Crystal River Inglis Dam & Island museum, open Thursday-Monday, Recreation Area to learn more about the culture that 1905 W. Riverwood Drive, Crystal River created these fascinating structures. On your way out to Fort Island Gulf Beach, consider making a stop at Part of the Cross Florida Greenway, Crystal River this hidden gem—or bring a picnic this recreation area has more than National Wildlife Refuge lunch and make an afternoon of it! 110 miles of trails to explore. Along Visitors Center: 865 N. Suncoast Blvd., Crystal River Just off the beaten path, this park the way, there are many places to offers a glimpse of the beautiful stop and fish, enjoy a picnic, or watch Crystal River. This refuge was established in 1983 for native birds. If you are lucky, you specifically to protect the threatened might just spot a manatee in the PHOTOS: Miles Saunders West Indian manatee. The expan- adjacent waterways. sive area is made up of more than 177 acres of land and waterways, including 20 islands and some of the friendly mammals’ favorite winter- ing locations: King Spring, Tarpon Hole, and Three Sisters Springs. Fort Island Gulf Beach
L A N D CRYSTAL RIVER PRESERVE STATE PARK CHURCHHOUSE HAMMOCK TRAIL 1.25 miles north of Citrus Avenue on U.S. Highway 19 This hidden gem is suitable for hikers of all ages and levels of experience. During your mile-long loop through the hammocks and flatwoods, keep an eye (and ear) out for the many native birds that can be spotted here. CRYSTAL COVE TRAIL Just south of West State Park Street on ECO-WALK TRAIL SEVEN-MILE LOOP North Sailboat Avenue, Crystal River 5990 N. Tallahassee Road, Crystal River Intersection of State Park Street & Sailboat Avenue, Crystal River At the head of this trail is a fabled This trail is an easy two-mile loop, Looping through many distinct fishing spot known as the “Mullet making it a pleasant excursion for Florida landscapes, this seven-mile Hole.” Farther down, the trail follows hikers of all skill levels. Meandering trail begins at the trailhead just off a freshwater pond into hardwood through prairie, hammock, pine for- State Park Street. It can take two forest, scrublands, and a salt marsh. est, and freshwater swamp habitats, to three hours to complete this The trail is also part of the Great there are many opportunities to see 2019 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE circuit on foot, so make sure you’re Florida Birding Trail, so keep your a diverse range of native wildlife. PHOTO: (Crystal River Preserve State Park, Opposite Page-Three Sisters Springs) Miles Saunders prepared for a longer hike. No matter binoculars handy. Children and adults will appreciate how you decide to explore, take only the interpretive stations that are DIXIE SHORES TRAILS photos and leave only footprints (or, located along the trail. Mile Marker 2.5 (Dixie Shores entrance), if you’re cycling, tire treads!) West Fort Island Trail, Crystal River REDFISH HOLE Mile Marker 4, West Fort Island Trail, These unique trails are a well-kept Crystal River secret, directly across from one another at the entrance to the Dixie Take a half-mile walk down to Red- Shores community and each about a fish Hole and step into the laid-back mile long. Hikers can choose to take lifestyle of Florida fishing. Just set 50 a left to explore Hammock Island down your chair, pick up your pole, Trail, showcasing hammock island and relax. Not interested in fishing? scenery, or take a right to discover Simply take it all in, from the peace- D I S C O V E R C R Y S TA L R I V E R F L O R I D A Seven-Mile Loop pristine lakeside views. ful scenery to the many wading birds. Withlacoochee Kings Bay Park St. Martins Marsh Bay Trail 268 NW 3rd St., Crystal River Aquatic Preserve Accessible by water only. Launch from 401 N. Pirate Point, Ozello Part of the city of Crystal River’s Kings Bay Riverwalk, this park is Spanning 23,000 acres of land and just one block away from the Crystal water, this preserve showcases coast- River Main Street district. There is al salt marshes, freshwater tributaries, something for everyone at this fam- mangrove islands, and more. There ily-friendly park, which also offers a are many ways to explore the natural prime view of Kings Bay. beauty of these areas, including by boat, kayak, or by walking the trails of the Crystal River Preserve State Park.
H O MOSASSA Bluebird Springs Park 8950 Bluebird Springs Lane, Homosassa Looking for a place to take your pup? Bluebird Springs is a 5½-acre, Three Sisters Springs dog-friendly park that includes an enclosure in which your furry friend can run and play. This quiet, Three Sisters Springs pull your kayak or canoe a few feet laid-back park also is a popular Visitor Center: 123 NW U.S. Highway 19, Crystal River before discovering “The Crack.” This spot for birding, especially in the private piece of paradise must be early-morning hours. seen to be believed, and the journey Three Sisters Springs is one of the most important wintering sites is just as exciting as the destination. Chassahowitzka Salt for manatees in all of Florida. Marsh Trails The boardwalk surrounding this Seven Sisters Springs Just west of Westview Drive on South Mason Creek Road, Homosassa Accessible by water only. Launch from 8600 W. Miss Maggie Drive, Homosassa crystal-clear system of springs is the perfect place to view manatees These picturesque trails wander during the winter months. Vehi- Just a few minutes of paddling will through the wetlands of Homosas- PHOTO: (Opposite Page-Withlacoochee Bay Trail) Chris Kubiak, (This Page-The Crack) Melissa Mederos cle access to this site is restricted; get you to the crystal-clear waters of sa. There are three trails of varying however, the city of Crystal River Seven Sisters. A favorite spot for lo- lengths, so you can choose your own runs a trolley that drops visitors off cals and visitors alike, these springs path: Red Cedar Trail (1/3 mile), Dick directly at the boardwalk entrance are a breathtaking oasis. The largest Blewett Salt Marsh Trail (1/2 mile), throughout manatee season (Nov. spring is a limestone cavern that is and Lastinger Tower Trail (1/4 mile). 15-March 31). The boardwalk and 13½ feet deep. Make sure to bring a All three will lead you to the Last- surrounding 57 acres of hiking trails mask and snorkel, then dive in and inger Tower, which offers a stunning and wetlands are also open to walk- take a look! river vista. on access year-round. Withlacoochee Bay Trail The Crack 10201 N. Suncoast Blvd., Crystal River A scenic paved trail that follows the Cross Florida Barge Canal, this is an excellent place to walk, bike, or even ride your horse while enjoying the scenic maritime hammock and salt marsh habitats. When reaching the end of the five-mile trail, explorers are granted a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Mexico. CHASSAHOW I TZ KA RIV ER The Crack Accessible by water only. Launch from 8600 W. Miss Maggie Drive, Homosassa After a short trip down the wild and unspoiled Chassahowitzka River, you may have to get out and
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