Wildlife & Nature in Daytona Beach

The Daytona Beach area sits at the intersection of several Florida ecosystems — Atlantic coast, river estuary, freshwater springs, and interior wetlands. The result is an incredible diversity of wildlife within a short drive.

Manatees

Blue Spring State Park (Orange City, 45 min west) — The premier manatee viewing spot in Florida. From November through March, hundreds of West Indian manatees migrate into the 73°F spring water to escape the cold river. A boardwalk parallels the spring run, giving you elevated views of the manatees — often dozens at once, floating, rolling, and nursing calves. Peak viewing is December through February on cold mornings when the most manatees seek warm water.