All of the manatees await in WPB, y'all. Get to Manatee Lagoon already.
Courtesy: FPL
If you’re craving an easy, outdoorsy, uniquely Florida day trip that won’t break the bank, Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center needs to be on your Broward getaway radar, pronto.
“Manatee Lagoon has become a favorite local spot to get up close to manatees and learn about the natural world in a fun, welcoming environment,” Meredith Rollo, the center’s manager, tells Browardist. “With free admission and activities for all ages, there’s always something new to explore.”
Just 45 to 60 minutes from most Broward corners, this West Palm Beach eco-hub delivers exactly what its name promises: manatees, and lots of them – especially during manatee season, which runs November 15 through March 31. The warm-water outflow from FPL’s adjacent Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center naturally draws these gentle giants on cool days, and when the temps drop, you might see dozens lounging right off the observation deck. The best part? No boats, no tours, no wetsuits, no problems, folks.
The 16,000-square-foot center is packed with hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, two floors of viewing areas, and free daily walking tours led by “Manatee Masters” at 2 and 3 p.m. Younger guests can try the new Manatee Rescue Adventure – it’s a simulated rescue experience where kids “weigh,” “measure,” and learn how conservationists identify manatees.
Adults can unwind lakeside with $5 yoga classes several days a week, and everyone can snack, shop and browse the gift store between sightings. And if you want a sneak peek before heading north, the Manatee Cam streams underwater views 24/7.
Big things are ahead, too: Manatee Lagoon celebrates its 10th anniversary on February 7, 2026, with ManateeFest. It promises to be a free community festival filled with eco-exhibitors, family fun, live presentations, music, food vendors and photo ops with Mia the Manatee.
Manatee Lagoon is open daily during manatee season and closed Mondays from April 1 to November 14. Admission and parking are always free. For the full logistical scoop, visit visitmanateelagoon.com.
