Need a laid-back Florida escape with wildlife, springs, and old-Florida charm? Head to Homosassa! Located on Florida’s Nature Coast, Homosassa is a peaceful retreat known for its natural springs, manatee sightings, and a relaxed, rustic atmosphere. Whether you’re kayaking with gentle sea cows or savoring fresh Gulf seafood, Homosassa is a nature lover’s dream.
Homosassa, FL Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Kayak or paddleboard the Homosassa River – Paddle past mangroves, manatees, and hidden springs in calm coastal waters.
- For History Buffs: Explore the Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park – Step back into Florida’s Civil War past at this preserved 1800s sugar mill site.
- For Shoppers: Browse Old Homosassa's artist shops and boutiques – Discover local pottery, crafts, and quirky finds in this artsy waterfront hamlet.
- For Couples: Take a sunset cruise on the Gulf of Mexico – Charter a boat or join a guided tour to experience tranquil waters and golden skies.
- For Families: Visit Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park – See manatees, panthers, and other Florida-native animals in a lush spring-fed park.
Best Time to Visit Homosassa, FL
The best time to visit Homosassa is from November through April when manatee viewing is at its peak and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Summer brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, but also humidity and occasional storms.
How to Get to Homosassa, FL
- If you are traveling by car: Homosassa is located off US-19, about 1.5 hours north of Tampa and 2 hours west of Orlando.
- By Air: The closest major airport is Tampa International Airport (TPA), with rental cars and shuttles available.
- By Bus: Bus options are limited, so driving or booking a regional shuttle is recommended.
Where to Stay in Homosassa, FL
- Recommended for Families: The Homosassa Riverside Resort – Waterfront resort with a pool, marina, and on-site restaurant near wildlife park access.
- For Couples: Riverfront Treetop Bungalows – Cozy, romantic stays with peaceful water views and nearby kayak access.
- For a Rustic Stay: Chassahowitzka Hotel – Historic charm meets Old Florida ambiance, steps from the Chassahowitzka River.
Best Things to Do in Homosassa, FL
⮕ The Homosassa River
Explore exciting wildlife or enjoy a romantic kayak trip through scenic waters.
© JEROME LABOUYRIE/stock.adobe.com
The Homosassa River is one of Western Florida's most gorgeous natural treasures, spanning 7.7 miles throughout Citrus County and flowing west into the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. The river is home to a lovely estuary habitat that provides an ecosystem for a plethora of native wildlife, including rare West Indian manatees, common bottlenose dolphins, nine-banded armadillos, and American alligators. Visitors can enjoy some of the state's best opportunities for canoeing and kayaking on the river throughout the year on its freshwater and saltwater areas, which are home to a wide variety of fish species for anglers to catch. The river is also known as a top spot for viewing manatees throughout the year due to its consistently temperate water conditions. Charming Monkey Island, located within the river near Homosassa's downtown district, is home to a small population of spider monkeys brought from nearby Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park.
⮕ Yulee Sugar Mills Ruins Historic State Park
Discover unusual historic ruins and enjoy a quick, peaceful stop.
© Phil Lowe/stock.adobe.com
Located on what was formerly a huge sugar plantation, belonging to David Levy Yulee, the Yulee Sugar Mills Ruins Historic State Park has a great many stories to tell. Operated mainly by enslaved workers, the old plantation used to produce large quantities of sugar cane which was processed on site. Visitors can still see remnants of the steam-driven mill which was used to press the cane and turn it into syrup, molasses and even rum. The park offers an interesting glimpse into the past through the use of an interpretive exhibit and has a picnic pavilion where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Yulee Sugar Mills Ruins Historic State Park, Co Rd 490, Homosassa, FL 34448,
352 795 3817
For Active Couples and Singles
⮕ River Safaris And Gulf Charters
Go on an exciting boat tour or explore unusual backwater wildlife.
© April/stock.adobe.com
River Safaris And Gulf Charters has offered excursions along Homosassa's Nature Coast since 1982, exploring the waters of the beautiful Homosassa River as part of guided pontoon and airboating tours. The company was originally founded to take tourists to the city's former Crow's Nest restaurant, which was located on an island within the river's pristine waters. Today, it has shifted its focus to offer narrated historic tours about the region's culture and ecosystems, with a focus on viewing native wildlife. Visitors can embark on guided manatee and alligator viewing excursions throughout the year, led by experienced tour guides. Airboat tours are also offered, along with private scalloping and fishing charter experiences for individuals and small groups. Visitors can also see the company's three American alligators, which are housed within an exhibit open to the public free of charge without tour ticket purchase.
River Safaris And Gulf Charters, 10823 W Yulee Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448, Phone: 352-628-5222
⮕ River Ventures - Homosassa
Swim with manatees and enjoy an affordable, unforgettable wildlife adventure.
© Jeff Stamer/stock.adobe.com
River Ventures - Homosassa offer some of the best tourist experiences on Florida's Nature Coast, leading group tours on the Homosassa River and the Gulf of Mexico throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy unique wildlife tour excursions guided by experienced tour guides, including Pontoon of Privilege tours taking six participants at a time aboard a luxury pontoon boat for wildlife viewing opportunities. Houseboat tours are also offered, along with opportunities to snorkel among the region's West Indian manatee populations. Other tour options provide opportunities for scallop harvesting and chances to see the Gulf of Mexico from a new perspective aboard airboat tours. Tours last approximately three hours from start to finish, providing snacks and beverages for all participants, including beer and wine for adult tour participants.
River Ventures - Homosassa, 10823 W Yulee Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448, Phone: 352-628-5222
Attractions for Couples
⮕ Monkey Island
Admire unusual island residents and enjoy quick views from nearby waterfront spots.
© coffeemill/stock.adobe.com
Monkey Island is a unique attraction within the beautiful Homosassa River, named for its current population of spider monkeys, which were transported to the location in the 1960s from nearby Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park. The small island was entirely undeveloped until the mid-20th century, when its terrain was dredged to create a picturesque landscape for a tourist attraction. Today, it is home to five spider monkeys that have free run of the island's lands. Though visitors cannot come directly ashore on the island due to its preservation as a wildlife habitat, its monkey population can be viewed as part of guided boat tours. Nearby, the Homosassa Riverside Resort offers excellent dining experiences for island visitors.
⮕ Howard's Flea Market
Discover cheap local treasures or explore exciting weekend finds and collectibles.
© stock.adobe.com
Howard's Flea Market is Citrus County's largest flea market, offering more than 800 covered booth spaces and more than 43 acres of outdoor vendor space. The market, which was established in 1972, is overseen by Swap-O-Rama and offers wholesome, family-friendly shopping experiences for visitors throughout the week. It has been named as one of the Homosassa region's best attractions each year since 1996 by the Citrus County Chronicle, acclaimed for its delightful selection of high-quality vendors selling clothing, antiques, and home goods. Visitors can enter the market for free throughout the week and peruse its excellent selection of merchandise, which ranges from vintage jewelry and locally-crafted artisan goods to hard-to-find books, collectibles, and unique locally-produced pantry goods. Restaurants on site at the flea market serve up a variety of locally-crafted fare at breakfast and lunch.
Howard's Flea Market, 6373 S Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL 34446, Phone: 352-628-3532
⮕ Little Tigertail Island
Explore unusual hidden beaches or enjoy a peaceful, romantic escape by kayak.
© Brian Lasenby/stock.adobe.com
Little Tigertail Island is a charming oasis within the beautiful Gulf of Mexico near the city of Homosassa, named in honor of its native bird population of the same name. The island is known as one of Florida's top holiday tourist destinations outside of the Miami region and has been featured in a number of major motion pictures and television series throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. Its beautiful flat landscape is covered in low-lying bushes and flanked by miles and miles of pristine sandy beachfront, which offer safe swimming and water play experiences for visitors of all ages. Massive hotels and resorts line one side of the island, offering all-inclusive accommodations and luxurious amenities. Sea kayaking and beach volleyball are popular activities throughout the year on the island's stunning beachfront, which draws crowds of all ages throughout the year.
Where to Eat
⮕ Breakfast Station
Savor affordable morning favorites or enjoy quick, hearty meals in a cozy setting.
© Breakfast Station
Breakfast Station is a charming all-day breakfast and lunch restaurant chain offering more than a dozen locations throughout the Florida area, including a location in downtown Homosassa. The restaurant chain, which was founded in 1995 in Port Richey, specializes in high-quality, affordable American breakfast options served up in a lovely dining space with travel-themed decor. Diners can enjoy the restaurant's signature Railroad Yard omelettes throughout the day, which are prepared with three eggs and stuffed with delicious toppings like homemade chili, turkey, peppers, and Swiss cheese. Classic skillet breakfasts, Benedicts, and breakfast burritos are also served up, along with Southern-style favorites like chicken and waffles. At lunch, diners can choose from favorites like patty melts, quesadillas, and mushroom and Swiss burgers.
7781 S Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL 34448, Phone: 352-503-2031
More Places to Eat in Homosassa, FL
- Recommended for Families: The Freezer Tiki Bar – Funky seafood shack with picnic tables, steamed shrimp, and a fun vibe.
- For Fresh Fish: Crump’s Landing – Casual riverfront dining with open-air seating, live music, and a kid-friendly setting.
- For a Casual Meal: Seagrass Waterfront & Tiki Bar – Waterfront favorite offering classic seafood, cocktails, and sunset views.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Nature Fans: Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park Manatee Festival (January) – Celebrate Florida’s iconic sea cows with family-friendly fun and environmental exhibits.
- For Seafood Lovers: Homosassa Arts, Crafts & Seafood Festival (November) – Local seafood, live music, and artisan booths in the heart of Old Homosassa.
- For Holiday Cheer: Christmas on the River Boat Parade (December) – Lighted boats parade down the Homosassa River in a festive holiday tradition.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–60 Minutes of Homosassa, Florida:
- For Kayakers: Chassahowitzka River (15–20 min) – Remote, wild spring-fed river with "The Crack" and Seven Sisters Spring.
- For History Buffs: Crystal River Archaeological State Park (25 min) – Visit ancient Native American ceremonial mounds near the coast.
- For Manatee Encounters: Crystal River (20–25 min) – Swim or snorkel with manatees in warm natural springs.
- For Beach Time: Fort Island Gulf Beach (35–40 min) – Small, family-friendly Gulf beach with soft sand and shallow swimming.
- For Hikers: Withlacoochee State Forest (30–45 min) – Explore forest trails, scenic overlooks, and birdwatching in one of Florida’s best hiking areas.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Homosassa located and what is it famous for?
- Homosassa is a lovely former fishing town located along the banks of the Gulf of Mexico, home to the famed Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park.
- Why is Homosassa popular among nature and water sports enthusiasts?
- The town is a paradise for nature and water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities to snorkel alongside native populations of West Indian manatees and view animals such as American alligators in their natural habitats.
- What unique attractions are near Homosassa?
- Unique attraction Monkey Island preserves a habitat for spider monkeys, while nearby Little Tigertail Island is known as one of Florida's top seasonal holiday resort areas.
Best Time to Visit Homosassa, Florida
- November to April – Cooler months with mild temperatures, perfect for manatee viewing.
- March to May – Pleasant spring weather, great for fishing, boating, and outdoor exploration.
- June to August – Hot summer months, ideal for scalloping season and water sports.
- September & October – Mild fall temperatures, great for hiking and wildlife viewing.
- Late January – Best time for peak manatee viewing at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park.
Getting to Homosassa, Florida
- By Air
- Fly into Tampa International Airport (TPA), about 70 miles away.
- Other options include Orlando International Airport (MCO), about 100 miles away.
- By Car
- Drive from Tampa in about 1.5 hours via US-589 North.
- Accessible from Orlando in about 2 hours via FL-44 West.
- By Bus
- Limited bus services are available; driving is the most convenient option.
- By Boat
- Boating access via the Homosassa River is popular for visitors arriving by water.
Hotels in Homosassa, Florida
- Plantation on Crystal River – Nearby resort offering golf, a spa, and manatee tours.
- Homosassa River RV Resort – Cozy and budget-friendly, perfect for RV travelers and nature lovers.
- Florida Cracker Riverside Resort – Charming waterfront stay with easy access to boating and fishing.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit |
Places to Stay |
Tips for Visiting |
Spring (March-May) – Warm weather, vibrant nature, and excellent wildlife viewing. |
Plantation on Crystal River – Charming accommodations with riverfront views. |
Visit Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park – Spot manatees, birds, and native wildlife. |
Summer (June-August) – Hot temperatures ideal for water-based activities and relaxing outdoors. |
Hampton Inn Crystal River – Comfortable stay close to local attractions and waterways. |
Enjoy kayaking on Crystal River – Paddle through clear waters, spotting manatees and birds. |
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and scenic outdoor adventures. |
The Chassahowitzka Hotel – Cozy accommodations near nature preserves and trails. |
Explore Withlacoochee State Forest – Hike beautiful trails amid stunning autumn foliage. |
Winter (December-February) – Mild, cool temperatures perfect for outdoor exploration. |
Best Western Crystal River Resort – Relaxing accommodations near riverfront attractions. |
Swim with manatees in Crystal River – Experience this unique seasonal wildlife encounter. |
Map:
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