Perfect Weekends - Weeki Wachee

By Kayla Baker

This month's getaway is a magical one! We will explore the City of Live Mermaids, or also commonly known as Weeki Wachee. Weeki Wachee is located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, about two hours from Longwood, FL. With endless opportunities at this enchanted spring, the Weeki Wachee River is a place where unforgettable memories can be made. Called the City of Live Mermaids, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is a place for kids and adults alike to enjoy the mermaid shows and the carefree outdoors of this beautiful place.

Open every day of the year from 9:00am-5:30pm, the city of Weeki Wachee is actually one of the smallest in the nation. In fact, it only holds a population of 9...yes, I said 9. One of these includes the mayor, who was a mermaid herself years ago. "Weeki Wachee" actually means "winding river" and was named by the Seminole Indians long ago.

So what's so great about this state park, besides mermaids? Let me tell you! If you are looking for a day of canoeing or kayaking, you have come to the right place! This river is unlike any other. The water is so crystal clear, you can see so far down, you won't know when to stop looking! In fact, the spring is so deep that the bottom has never even been found yet! That is amazing! Keep an eye out for the famous West Indian Manatees of Weeki Wachee, turtles, birds, fish, alligators, and more! Starting at Paddling Adventures (Weeki Wachee's kayak and canoe rental facility), the river is a downstream, winding experience. Along the way, you might even run into the 53-foot Tree Swing! (Don't worry, you don't have to go all 53 feet). Weeki Wachee also allows diving, but you must contact one of the listed registered dive shops on the website.

Not only can you enjoy the river, but Buccaneer Bay is a MUST SEE when you arrive at the state park! Buccaneer Bay is the only spring fed water park in all of Florida. You can get the sand between your toes, jump into the spring off the dock, and lay out by the water, or enjoy the exciting, fast-paced water slides! Bring your friends and play some beach volleyball or take a lazy river ride!

For only $13 admission into the state park, you can enjoy the water park, mermaid shows, animal shows, river boat cruise, and so much more!

Weeki Wachee is a place that my family holds near to our hearts. Many family vacations and memories have been made here, and I hope you can make some beautiful memories there, too!! Visit http://weekiwachee.com/ to get more information!