Hotel at a Glance: Homosassa Riverside Resort

Florida’s Homosassa River and its surroundings are home to all sorts of wildlife: manatees, dolphins, otters, tropical birds—and even a family of five spider monkeys. The primates, who dwell on the manmade Monkey Island, are free to roam and play on the isle’s jungle gym. Guests staying at the Homosassa Riverside Resort can watch the monkeys’ antics from several vantage points around the remote lodge, which is surrounded by subtropical forest and wetlands.

• Swim with manatees: Book a tour through the resort and go swimming with the gentle sea creatures just outside the lodge.
• Admire the view of the river through the floor-to-ceiling windows at Yardarm Lounge.
• Recreation: Strike up a volleyball match, rent a canoe, or play a game of pool.
• Go for a swim in the riverfront swimming pool.
• Cruise the river on a pontoon boat (1-day rental included with this Groupon).
• Watch the primates from a comfy perch at the double-decker tiki bar known as Monkey Bar.
• Fresh seafood including blue crabs are on the menu at the Riverside Crab House. Your stay includes a $50 dining credit valid at any of the onsite restaurants.

Homosassa, Florida: Thriving Estuary Home to Manatees and Dolphins

The Homosassa River brims with life, as a swampy estuary that splinters off in several directions and dumps into the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors flock here to see and occasionally swim with manatees and dolphins. At Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, you can catch a glimpse of life beneath the river—and maybe see a manatee or two—thanks to an underwater observatory known as The Fish Bowl. The park also features an elevated boardwalk system, which offers a chance to see alligators, bobcats, deer, and various birds.

Love to travel? Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for travel tips, inspiration, and photos from around the world.