Just 5 miles south of our marina in DeLand, Florida, Blue Spring State Park transforms into one of the best manatee viewing destinations in Florida each winter. Every year, hundreds of manatees migrate to Blue Spring to escape the cold, gathering in the crystal-clear spring run where the water stays a steady 72°F year-round. As the largest warm-water manatee refuge on the St. Johns River, the park offers an unforgettable opportunity to see manatees up close in their natural habitat — attracting millions of visitors from across the world each November through March. Skip the line and visit Blue Spring by boat! Rent a pontoon from Holly Bluff Resort Marina, cruise down the St. Johns River, and moor up along the shoreline (see map below). Park entry is just $2 per person when arriving by water.