Monkey Island, Manatees, and Natural Springs: Explore Homosassa, Florida

In the late 1960s, an eccentric Florida developer named G.A. “Furgy” Fergason is Homosassa, Florida asked one of his associates to spruce up a rocky outcropping that had been damaging incoming boats. Furgy’s righthand man got a little carried away with his rock beautification efforts and ended up creating a small island. Eventually, the man-made micro island became known as Monkey Island because it hosted a family of mischievous spider monkeys who were booted from a nearby animal sanctuary for bad behavior.

Visitors can’t actually set foot on Monkey Island, but there are plenty of Homosassa River Safaris that allow onlookers to cruise past Florida‘s most playful simians. Monkey Island features a small lighthouse, an air-conditioned monkey enclosure, and several palm trees. Monkey lovers can check out the latest Monkey Island antics on a live feed that also includes an osprey nest.

Animal lovers who yearn to stand a few feet away from some of Florida‘s most exotic fauna can explore Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. The wildlife park is home to several pristine natural springs that create a unique “bowl” that allows visitors to view manatees, vibrant fish, and even an alligator or two from an Underwater Observatory. The Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is also home to numerous trails where onlookers can spot animals such as the elusive Florida panther, the sleek red wolf, and the elegant whooping crane.

One of Florida‘s most beloved wildlife attractions—Crystal River—is located less than 20 minutes from Homosassa. Travelers can spend hours relaxing in the peaceful, jewel-toned waters of Crystal River alongside gentle manatees.

If you love kayaking and soaking in natural springs, a trip to nearby Seven Sisters Springs is an excellent way to round out your exploration of the wonders of Homosassa and the surrounding area. Located in the Chassahowitzka River, Seven Sisters Springs is an excellent spot for kayaking, swimming, and dangling from a rope swing which sways above the water. There is even a mysterious “crack” where saltwater from the ocean seeps into the freshwater river. Visitors can float like a carefree duck in a bubbling pocket of saltwater.

Exploring Homosassa and the surrounding waterways offers a glimpse of some of Florida’s most gorgeous landscapes and treasured wildlife. No trip to Florida is complete without kayaking through the pristine waters of a natural spring, swimming with a mellow family of manatees, or cruising past an island of hyperactive monkeys.

The best time to visit Homosassa and Monkey Island depends on your interests:

• Winter (Nov–Mar): Ideal for manatee viewing as they migrate to warm springs. Cool weather (50–70°F) is perfect for wildlife observation and kayaking.
• Spring (Apr–May): Mild temperatures (60–80°F) and fewer crowds make it great for kayaking, fishing, and exploring nature trails.
• Summer (Jun–Aug): Warm and humid (up to 90°F), perfect for water activities like swimming and kayaking in the springs. Morning visits avoid afternoon storms.
• Fall (Sep–Oct): Cooler weather (60–80°F) and fewer crowds, ideal for river tours and wildlife spotting.

Best Times: November to March for manatees, April to May for outdoor adventures.

Location on Google Maps.