Manatee Lagoon

Manatee Lagoon - an FPL Eco-Discovery Center is a free educational attraction with a dedicated area to view manatees up close. During the colder winter months, the center's observation deck is the ideal spot to view manatees basking in the clean, warm water outlaws of Florida Power & Light Company's adjacent Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center.

Visitors to Manatee Lagoon share an experience the whole family can enjoy where threatened Florida manatees gather in the warm-water outflows of Florida Power & Light Company’s (FPL) Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center, especially during cold weather. The manatee center was built shortly after FPL modernized this natural gas plant.

Test your knowledge of science and nature, and learn about FPL’s Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center and the role it plays in the manatees migratory habits. For decades, manatees have been attracted to the warm-water discharges of FPL’s energy center, following a watery travel route that mother manatees have taught to manatee calves. The best opportunity to witness these gentle giants at Manatee Lagoon is Nov. 15 through March 31 when local water temperatures may drop below 68 degrees.

There are other fun family options that are offered at Manatee Lagoon throughout the year. Manatee Lagoon staffers have created an extensive calendar of activities, ranging from daily educational presentations, yoga on the waterfront observation deck, programs for children and more. Visit our events calendar to access the schedule and registration details.

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