Visit the Manatee Viewing Center ASAP!

The Clock is ticking! You need to visit Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach before it closes for the season in mid-April!

Manatees (and humans!) love the TECO Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach.

The sea cows huddle in the power station’s discharge canal to enjoy the warm water during the winter months. The viewing platforms provide great places to snap photos as they come up for air and look for other sea creatures, like sharks and sting rays!

While the number of manatees in the area dwindles as the weather warms up, it’s still worth a visit because there’s plenty to see beyond the main area!

SarahsWalkingClub.com Subscribers striking a pose! We had a great time visiting in December!

I always recommend parking in the overflow lot, south of the main entrance on Dickman Road. You’ll be away from the congestion and closer to the Clean Energy Center, shell trails, boardwalks, and 50-foot observation tower.

You can even walk further south on the trail system to visit the Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center.

It spans nearly 20,000 square feet and has rehab pools, a foraging pool, and a veterinary suite.

And hey, I bet you’ll be a little parched after your visit!

Drive 20 minutes south of the Manatee Viewing Center to Dooley Groves. This sweet spot offers U-Pick during different times throughout the year. You can also enjoy browsing their country store!

It’s a good idea to check their Facebook page and website before you visit so you have an idea of what to expect.