Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Skip to footer

Visit the Manatee River

Information on renting a boat to visit the Manatee River

Quick Details

The Manatee River, flowing into the Gulf of Mexico, is a 36-mile river that provides excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Explore its calm waters, witness the abundant marine life, and appreciate the natural beauty of this scenic river.

Cruise this 36-mile river to fish, visit popular restaurants, view waterfront houses, and explore natural habitats for Florida’s animals including: alligators, manatees, dolphins, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, herons, bass, bluegill, catfish, gar, and sharks. Manatees are seen best in the early cool months and bull sharks are more often spotted closer to the outlet in brackish water.