Your Own Manatee Sanctuary

A unique house has just hit the market, offering something you won't find in typical real estate listings - manatees in the backyard. The listing photos show these gentle creatures lounging in the water behind the back deck, creating a truly special viewing experience for the homeowner.

A Front-Row Seat to Nature

Imagine sitting around your fireplace while watching manatees swim peacefully in your own backyard. Over time, you might even start to recognize individual manatees and give them names, making them feel like neighbors rather than visitors.

The Property Details

The house doesn't come cheap, but it does offer plenty of space with five bedrooms. This opens up the possibility for a group of manatee-loving friends to share the cost and enjoy this unique living situation together.

A Natural Manatee Haven

The water area where the manatees gather connects to a spring off Crystal River in Florida. What makes this spot special is that the water maintains a constant temperature of about 72 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year.

During winter months, when the Gulf of Mexico becomes cold, manatees seek out this warmer spring water. The location has become so important for these animals that it's officially designated as a manatee refuge.

Seasonal Sea Potato Neighbors

While federal protection laws make it illegal to touch or directly interact with manatees, having them right in your backyard creates a sense of connection with these gentle creatures that most people never experience.

The manatees (sometimes affectionately called "sea potatoes") are most commonly seen on the property from November through March. During these cooler months, they congregate in the warm spring waters. Once spring arrives, they leave their natural hot tub and head back toward the Gulf.

A Rare Opportunity

Not many homes offer the chance to share your living space with protected wildlife in such a close and personal way. For manatee enthusiasts, this property represents more than just a home – it's a gateway to daily encounters with some of Florida's most beloved marine mammals.