Nestled in the heart of Hernando County, Florida, Weeki Wachee is a small town that is big on natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor adventures. With its crystal-clear springs, scenic rivers, and diverse wildlife, Weeki Wachee is the perfect place to spend a relaxing and rejuvenating day with family and friends. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best ways to spend a day in Weeki Wachee, Florida!

1. Swim in Weeki Wachee Springs 

Weeki Wachee means “little spring” or “winding river” but in all reality, there really aren’t words to capture the magnitude or magic of this spring. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park covers more than 538 acres and features a natural spring that pumps out around 117 million gallons of freshwater daily. Most notably known for their Underwater Mermaid Theater, where guests have had the chance to watch real live mermaids sing and swim through their crystal clear waters, for 75 years now! After the show, you can take a picture with a mermaid then see for yourself how cold the 72 degree water really feels! Swim in the natural spring waters or challenge yourself to a waterslide at Buccaneer Bay, take a riverboat tour, or enjoy a picnic in the park's scenic surroundings. Although it’s important to plan ahead, because during busy summer months the park often reaches capacity. Once the park is full, they cannot admit further entry for the rest of the day, so make sure to get there early! You can be alerted by text, when closure occurs, by texting the keyword ‘Weeki’ to 82149. 

$13 per adult and $8 per child. 

6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee, FL 34606

2. Kayak, Canoe, or Paddleboard on the Weeki Wachee River

For those looking for a more active and adventurous way to explore Weeki Wachee, kayaking or canoeing on the Weeki Wachee River is a must-do activity! The river is known for its clear, calm waters, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife, including manatees, turtles, and alligators.  If seeing wildlife is your goal keep in mind, November 14-March 31st is manatee season in Florida!  

If you have your own kayak or canoe, be sure to read on to #3 for more information on where to park/launch your kayak for just $10! 

Visitors in need of kayaks or canoes can rent them from local shops (listed below) and explore the river at their own pace.

Local Kayak Rentals: 

• Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Kayak Rentals: (352) 597-8484

• The Kayak Shack: (352) 610-4169

• Weeki Wachee Canoe and Kayak: (352) 597-0360 

• SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) Weeki: (727) 480-4294

• Get Up & Go Kayaking: (352) 234-4568  **Kayaks launch out of Mary's Fish Camp. Must paddle up small portion of the Mud River to access The Weeki Wachee, if you launch here** 
  
  

3. Enjoy a Day at Rogers Park

Rogers Park is a popular destination, located along Shoal Line Blvd. where it crosses the Weeki Wachee River in Hernando County This park offers a variety of amenities, including boat ramp, canoe/kayak launch, swimming area, showers, seasonal lifeguards, observation deck, restrooms, picnic tables/shelter, playground, barbecue grills and a volleyball court. Most paddlers opt to head up river as there's a roughly 6 mile stretch to paddle. Once you've reached the boundaries for the state park, you'll know it's time to head home! Boaters are typically more interested in heading downstream for 2 miles where the Weeki Wachee flows into the Mud River and the Gulf of Mexico, although boat traffic is allowed upstream. Trailer parking is also provided - but fills up quickly on weekends so be sure to get there early! 

Pro tip: Don’t forget to pay for parking ($10 cash or card) because authorities WILL check your windshield for a parking pass! 

7244 Shoal Line Blvd, Spring Hill, FL 34607

4. Explore the Weeki Wachee Preserves

The Weeki Wachee Wildlife Preserve (or as the locals call it “The Preserves”) is a beautiful and serene nature reserve that is home to a variety of native Florida wildlife. At first glance, it may seem unassuming, but don't let that fool you! Once you take a short 5-10 minute walk into the preserve's 11,000 acres, you'll be transported to a tropical oasis that will make you forget you're in Hernando Beach. With 5.5 miles of marked hiking trails, stunning lakes, and hills ranging from 20-50 feet, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can explore the preserve on foot, bike, or horseback, and soak in the peaceful surroundings and beautiful scenery. 

There are two entrances to The Preserves, but we recommend taking the Shoal Line Blvd. entrance because it's a shorter walk to the good stuff. And trust us, there is plenty of good stuff to explore! 

Entrance 1: Parking lot is at the intersection of Shoal Line Blvd. and Petit Ln. in Hernando Beach. The entrance is clearly marked, on the east side side of Shoal Line Blvd.

Entrance 2: 2345 Osowaw Blvd, Spring Hill, FL 34607

5. Visit Pine Island Beach for Sunset

If you're looking for a relaxing and secluded beach experience, Pine Island Beach is the perfect destination. Just a boat ride or short drive away from Bayport, this is the ONLY public Gulf beach in Hernando County! This beautiful beach is known for its shallow waters, perfect for snorkeling, and peaceful surroundings. The park sits on three acres, surrounded on three sides by water where sea grasses, fish and crabs enjoy the salt marsh and estuary.  Amenities include beach and swimming area, picnic tables, shelters, barbecue grills, observation point, volleyball court, playground and concession stand. Pavilions and grills are available on a first come, first served, basis. 

Parking is $10 for the day and Pine Island is NOT pet friendly, so be sure to leave your furry friends at home for this beach trip! 

10800 Pine Island Drive. Spring Hill, FL 34607

Weeki Wachee, Florida, offers a variety of outdoor adventures, natural beauty, and serene surroundings that are perfect for a relaxing and rejuvenating day with family and friends. Whether you're looking to swim in crystal-clear springs, explore scenic rivers, or enjoy a picnic in a peaceful park, Weeki Wachee has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your friends, and head to Weeki Wachee for a day of fun and adventure in the great outdoors!