Swimming at Wakulla Springs in Wakulla Springs State Park
Swimming at Wakulla Springs in Wakulla Springs State Park
Wakulla Springs State Park is home to one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world, offering visitors a unique swimming experience in its crystal-clear, 70-degree waters year-round. The park’s designated swimming area provides an ideal location to cool off, observe the native wildlife, and enjoy the natural beauty of this historic site. Unlike many Florida springs, Wakulla Springs features a high dive platform, adding an element of excitement for thrill-seekers.
### Adventure Guide to Swimming at Wakulla Springs
1. Designated Swimming Area
- Located near the historic Wakulla Springs Lodge, the swimming area offers a sandy-bottomed, roped-off section for safe swimming.
- The constant 69-70°F water temperature provides a refreshing escape from Florida’s heat.
- Expect to see manatees, fish, and turtles in the clear waters, especially in cooler months when manatees congregate.
2. High Dive Platform
- One of the few high dives still permitted in Florida state parks, this platform offers a safe but thrilling experience.
- The 12-foot dive into deep spring waters allows swimmers to enjoy a quick adrenaline rush before floating in the expansive spring basin.
- Lifeguards are not always present, so swimmers should assess their comfort level before jumping.
3. Seasonal Swimming Considerations
- During winter months, manatees frequent the spring, sometimes leading to swimming restrictions.
- Summer offers peak swimming conditions, but the area can become crowded early in the afternoon.
- Swimming is dependent on water clarity and park regulations, which may temporarily restrict access after heavy rains.
### Local Insights
- The water contains natural tannins from the surrounding swamp, which can create a darker appearance but does not affect cleanliness.
- Wakulla Springs is home to ancient artifacts, with human presence dating back more than 14,000 years.
- The park was a filming site for classic movies like Creature from the Black Lagoon.
### Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Arrive before 10 AM in summer for fewer crowds and clearer water.
- What to Bring: Swimsuits, water shoes, towels, non-spray sunscreen, and cash for park entry.
- Directions: From Tallahassee, take FL-363 South (Woodville Highway), then follow signs to Wakulla Springs (approximately 30 minutes).
Adventure Map
Reviews
Erika R6 months ago
Loved it! Really loved the boat tour! (Tip: Sit on the same side as the captain for the best views) We saw manatees, alligators, turtles, birds, and more. The food in the little cafe in the gift shop was really good too.
Carol CC Miller3 weeks ago
My first time visiting and I will be back! The food in restaurant was good, service pleasant, but it was the boat ride that made it everything! We saw manatees, alligators, deer, turtles, a barred owl, and so many varieties of birds.
Make sure to reserve your spot (I didn't) and I had to wait a couple hours for an opening on the boat. It was well worth the wait.
Lee Moore3 months ago
I've only been twice- both times were fabulous.
The lodge is amazing. It's history is worth learning before going.
The dining room/restaurant is great. Views are great.
Lots of folks go in the summer just to swim/picnic etc.
The BEST part is taking a boat tour. Great guides, quiet boats, and WILDLIFE on top of the beauty of the spring and river. These tours last a bit over 30 minutes, and you see...what you see. We were there in October and saw about a dozen manatees, probably 25 gators and tons of different birds. Also a bunch of turtles and mullet.
Do it! Worth a drive from PC, SGI or certainly Tallahasse.
Zachary Warnera month ago
Gorgeous spring! The water is so clear you can see to the bottom (and it's deep) and it's about 70° even in January! Saw several manatees, a turtle, a water snake, and of course some beautiful birds. There was a dock with boat tours next to the observation/diving platform. Only qualms were the lack of hiking trails and no dogs allowed within 200 feet of the beach or dock.
Valanka Fernandesa month ago
Beautiful state park with water springs. Reasonable prices for the boat tour and the park. We came in when it was little chilly in the morning so only saw some wildlife which included manatees, alligators, blue heron, vultures , white ibis and many more birds. The park itself also has a lodge to stay as well with cafe.
