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Overview

Crystal River Manatee Retreat 2026
Crystal River, FL, USA
Feb 6 - 9, 2026
Girl Paddlers image
Girl Paddlers
$960
Deposit: $250

About your trip

Escape to the serene waters of Crystal River, Florida, for a long weekend of co-existing with the gentle giants of the sea. Imagine gliding alongside these majestic creatures, your paddle parting the crystal-clear waters under the warm Florida sun. 


This second annual getaway is designed for adventurous women who cherish nature and seek tranquility. Each excursion brings you closer to friendly manatees in their natural habitat during peak season with a community of like-minded female paddlers.

Ticket sales end December 19th

Cancellation Policy:  A 50% refund may be issued until Jan 9th. No refunds will be issued within 14 days of the retreat. 

Payment plans are available. If your total payment is not complete by Jan 9th, your room may be released to someone on the waitlist. 

What's included

Accomodation

3 night hotel stay

Daily Breakfast

A continental breakfast and coffee is offered daily at the Lodge

Meet & Greet

Light snacks and drinks

Manatee Snorkel Tour

Wet suit, mask, snorkel, warm beverage, and a towel

Saturday Dinner

Guided Paddle Tour

Kayak, paddle, and PFD - you may bring your own paddleboard for no extra cost

Box Lunch

A box lunch will be provided during your Sunday paddle excursion

Coffee Discount

Enjoy a 20% discount at Grassroots Coffee (lobby cafe)

Yoga/Meditation

Multiple yoga and/or meditation sessions will be hosted through the weekend

Welcome Bag

Girl Paddlers Shirt

What's not included

Travel

Travel to and from the destination is not included.

Travel Insurance

We recommend you book travel insurance. One option is through a service like Allianz www.allianztravelinsurance.com

Meals

All other meals not mentioned will not be provided. However, there are a number of food and drink options within walking distance.

Night 1 - Friday

Night 1 - Friday image

Check-in and Meet & Greet

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM on Friday at Paddletail Waterfront Lodge.


After settling into your room, join the group in the meeting room of the Lodge for a Meet & Greet, 5:30 - 7:30 PM. The perfect setting for getting to know the girls you'll be spending the rest of your weekend with.

Light snacks and drinks will be provided. 

Day 1 - Saturday

Day 1 - Saturday image

Manatee Snorkel Tour

Join us at 7 AM Saturday to explore the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge to swim alongside the manatees. As we embark on our 3 hour journey, the In-Water Guide (Divemaster) will teach you everything you need to know about interacting with these gentle giants. 


Tours include: Full 5MM wet suits, mask, snorkel, hot chocolate, coffee, and a towel service.  Tour leaves from the onsite private docks, no shuttle needed.


After a morning of exploring with the manatees, you'll be free to lunch at your leisure. 


Optional afternoon activities:

  • 3:00 - 4:00 PM yoga

  • Explore the local town shops

  • Enjoy the on-site pool

Night 2 - Saturday

Night 2 - Saturday image

Dinner with the Girls

Join the group for dinner at Bayside Kraft Kitchen, located just 400 yards south of the resort. A Modern American atmosphere with breathtaking views of the Kings Bay waterfront. They'll be creating a custom menu just for our group!

This meal is included in your retreat ticket.

Day 2 - Sunday

Day 2 - Sunday image

Guided Paddle Tour

Our 3 hour paddle tour starts at 12 PM.  Box lunches will be provided.


Paddle through the serene waterways of Crystal River surrounded by lush vegetation and breathtaking scenery. Led by an expert female guide, the tour prioritizes the well-being of the precious creatures we've come to see and the preservation of their environment. 


Kayak rentals are included. You may bring your own kayak or paddleboard to use on the tour at no extra cost.  

Night 3 - Sunday

Night 3 - Sunday image

Dinner

Join us for a farewell dinner on our last night of the retreat at The Tiki at PaddleTail Lodge. This waterfront watering hole serves casual food, craft beers, and creative cocktails, with great views of King’s Bay.

Day 3 - Monday

Day 3 - Monday image

Yoga & Check-out

Come say your farewells at 8 AM waterside morning yoga & meditation (mats provided).

Breakfast at your leisure. Don't forget to enjoy 20% off at Grassroots Coffee located in the resort lobby. 


Check-out by 12:00 PM, Monday. 

Location

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1. Crystal River, FL, USA

Crystal River, FL, USA

About your organizer

GP
Girl Paddlers
Girl Paddlers is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community. We welcome women of all skill and experience levels to join us in kayaking, SUP, canoeing, and anything in between. We provide an environment where women feel safe, supported, and inspired to enjoy their paddling journey.

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