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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

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Home Care In Crystal Beach, FL

Home Care Crystal Beach, FL

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Bolivar Peninsula Tourism and Visitors Center gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Crystal Beach, FL is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Crystal Beach, FL

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent agency, Great bosses and competitive pay, great service with your caregivers”

YAMPIERO E.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We have used Always Best Senior Care many times. Their service has always exceeded our expectations. I would not hesitate to recommend them. I can not thank them enough for the care and support over the years!”

Colleen C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Maria has been the best caregiver I had for in home care from Always Best Care in Tarpon Springs for over a year! She helps with the daily task, transportation and food preparation. All around wonderful service and well-trained caregiver. The difference is that she wants to help you, not just there to get paid. Maria is something special and a very good cook. I highly recommend Always Best Care for senior services. (Stephen Loyek)”

Stephen
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC was a life saver for my family and me. The care givers were all fantastic. My step-mom’s final year and days and the quality of her life were certainly enhanced with the help of this awesome company. Everyone at the company, especially Lisa Crase was so helpful and compassionate. They were all here for us at a very difficult time. I would highly recommend this company if you need an easy and flexible care giver situation for a family member. I just really cannot thank ABC for everything they did for us. Nancy Chango, Tampa, FL”

Nancy C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“had very good service with wonderful caring workers for my mom”

Carlos R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Let me start off by saying that Always Best Care is the best home health company I’ve ever worked for ! The management treats you like family , they are very considerate and understanding & they make sure we are treating our clients like family as well ! They help make sure that we are providing our clients with the best care possible by choosing the best caregiver that fits each client. Also , There is flexible scheduling where you can pick what schedule fits you best. I love this company because they show me every day that I am appreciated it.”

Tiara C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“If you’re looking for care for a loved one, or a job as a caregiver this is the best place. The owners are very hands on, and they service a wide area. I’ve been with the company for years, I’ve seen the work from staff and it’s amazing the way everyone comes together so that every client receives the best possible care.”

Hanifah B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care tarpon Springs office has been a life saver with caring for my mother with dementia. Her caregiver Linda is so dedicated to her job, and my mom and me love her to death. She is very communicative, and passionate about what she does. My mom could not live independently if i did not have always best care and linda by her side. Also whenever speaking with scheduling and office staff- they are always helpful and friendly too! Thanks guys! Yall do amazing work!”

Kristi D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”

Joan C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I'm a former employee of ABC and I had an awesome experience working with them. The office staff is very warm and welcoming. The owners, Keith and Jeri are super nice and personable. They recognize their employees every month, they also have different events where we could get together and socialize. I've learned so much more, that wasn't taught at "school". Not a bad company to work for.”

Sonia M.
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“I'm a HHA for this company and there amazing people to work for!!”

Ashley C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”

Linda C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have used Always Best Care for two extended periods. All the staff assigned to take care of my father were excellent and punctual. The office staff are great and have become great friends. I would recommend this company for the care of your family members.”

Jef K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Raina King is a true angel, a gift from God. Our beloved Grandmother passed away today and unfortunately we live far away. Raina was in constant communication with us through the entire journey. She gave great comfort to our loved one and we could not have been blessed with a better person to be by Gram’s side. God Bless you and all that you do. ????????❤️ Highly recommend.”

Erika V.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I love working for for ABC. The owner's are very compassionate about their clients and caregivers. They go above and beyond to help those in need. I have 20+ years in healthcare and I have never worked with such an AMAZING team!”

Jessica C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I’ve worked for Always Best Care going on a year. I love Jeri and Keith, very understanding. Rebeca, Natalie and Lisa, Also in the office, all listen to our needs and concerns. They are very understanding to all the caregivers, I feel like a big family with our clients. Working for this company is like having a very big extended family and I love it and would not give it up. And yes I would definitely and highly recommend Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs Florida. The extended family that I don’t have, but I do now. Thank you for letting me be a part of Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs Florida.”

Dawn U.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Keith and Jeri are angels that walk among us. My in-laws have been receiving care from Always Best since May 2019. They are in their 90’s and still in their own home. This has been a year of challenges as my mother-in-law has dementia and my father-in-law’s health has gotten more tenuous. Keith has taken my dad to the hospital and urgent care, grocery shopped for them and scrambled to provide aides on short notice after hospitalization. We live out of state and I have had to depend on them so much. Jeri and Keith go above and beyond and I trust them implicitly! I can’t say enough good about them and I know that they will be successful because they are ethical, caring and operate their business with the highest degree of integrity. We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have been referred to them.”

Karen M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC is a well managed and high quality home health care service. All the workers have been consistently good and provide excellent care for our father. Rebeca has been awesome to ensure our needs are satisfied and that we always have the round the clock coverage we need.”

Jack B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my mom is in good hands. She enjoys their services and I highly recommend them! Thank you for your love and kindness.”

Barb W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my mom is in good hands. She enjoys their services and I highly recommend them!”

Barb W.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Crystal Beach, FL?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Crystal Beach, FL

Types of Elderly Care in Crystal Beach, FL

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Crystal Beach, FL
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Crystal Beach, FL
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Lazy Pelican RV Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Crystal Beach, FL
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Vintage On 5th or visit USS Cavalla (SS 244), don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Crystal Beach, FL

Benefits of Home Care in Crystal Beach, FL

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Crystal Beach, FL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Crystal Beach, FL

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your FL's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Crystal Beach, FL

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Crystal Beach, FL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Crystal Beach, FL

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Crystal Beach, FL

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • The Legacy at Crystal Falls
  • Estia Care, LLC Assisted living/Personal Care homes
  • The Gardens Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care
  • The Reserve at Pearland Assisted Living and Memory Care
  • Sunrise of Crystal Lake
  • Cypress Cove Care Center
Home Care Crystal Beach, FL

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Crystal Beach, FL

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Crystal Beach, FL 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Crystal Beach, FL

Latest News in Crystal Beach, FL

This Magical Florida Town Is The Only Place In The U.S. Where You Can Swim With Manatees

Florida is known for making dreams come true. And while many associate Orlando with vacation magic (Hello, Disney!), a lesser-known destination about an hour and a half northwest brings the same levels of memorable awe—with much less planning and hassle.Crystal River, Florida, is home to just over 3,000 residents, but it's the town's aquatic population—manatees in particular—that make the tiny town truly special. Every winter, around 800 manatees seek refuge in the warm waters of Crystal River's Kings Bay and its 70 ...

Florida is known for making dreams come true. And while many associate Orlando with vacation magic (Hello, Disney!), a lesser-known destination about an hour and a half northwest brings the same levels of memorable awe—with much less planning and hassle.

Crystal River, Florida, is home to just over 3,000 residents, but it's the town's aquatic population—manatees in particular—that make the tiny town truly special. Every winter, around 800 manatees seek refuge in the warm waters of Crystal River's Kings Bay and its 70 natural springs. From November through March, visitors and wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world flock to the quiet Old Florida town to snag face time with the gentle giants. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, located in Kings Bay, is one of the few places in the world, and the only place in the country, where you can legally swim with the spud-shaped mammals.

While manatees are the main attraction in Crystal River, they're far from the only reason to visit. In summer months, locals and visitors love scalloping, the underwater equivalent of a giant Easter egg hunt. The city's charming downtown shops, Buffet-esque Tiki bars, and excellent seafood restaurants are a draw year-round.

How To See The Manatees

There are several ways to see the majestic sea cows in the Manatee Capital of the World. The National Wildlife Refuge hosts dozens of licensed operators who will take you out on their boat and provide everything you need for an optimal encounter, from wetsuits and snorkels to expert navigation through all the manatees' favorite springs and hideouts. Outfitters like River Ventures and Crystal River Watersports offer 3-hour swim with manatee tours starting at just $65. Pro tip: Book your tour for early morning for the best chance of spotting them. Manatees are most active searching for food in the morning hours.

If you'd rather stay dry, a clear-bottom kayak tour of Three Sisters Springs and the surrounding area gets you as close to the action as possible with no towel required. Get Up and Go Kayaking can help you embark on an epic paddling adventure in winding turquoise canals shaded by a dense canopy of palms, ferns, and Spanish moss-covered live oaks. Don't be surprised if you see other wildlife like dragonflies, turtles, fish, and ospreys while you keep an eye out for clusters of manatees munching on sea grass.

Other Things To Do In Crystal River

Though winter is peak manatee-viewing season in Crystal River, summer brings the opportunity for another magical activity: scalloping. July through September is scalloping season in Crystal River. During those months, locals and visitors take to the seas to catch their own dinner—with no rod or reel required. Instead, individuals grab a snorkel mask and dive three to six feet to the shallow eelgrass flats in search of tiny fan-shaped shells. Inside are super succulent bay scallops. Once you've filled your bag, take your bounty to a local restaurant where you can enjoy the fruits of your labor through popular "cook your catch" programs.

For more wildlife encounters, check out Hunters Springs Park, a public park complete with a small beach, swimming area, canoe and kayak launch, and a boardwalk along the waterway that's ideal for bird spotting. At Three Sisters Springs Wildlife Refuge, you can't get in the water, but you can get an overhead view of manatees from a boardwalk system overlooking the gorgeous natural springs.

When it's time to clean up, head to Crystal River's historic downtown. Walk along the newly opened Kings Bay Riverwalk that connects King's Bay to downtown's many shops and restaurants. There, along North Citrus Avenue, you'll find tons to explore, from the locally owned Coastal Art Gallery to Tea House 650, an artisan loose-leaf tea shop and café. The Shoppes of Heritage Village encompass several boutiques, shops, and restaurants housed in renovated Cracker cottages.

Where To Eat In Crystal River

Crystal River may be small but that doesn't mean the town is short on great places to eat. Start your morning at Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters with a cup of hot joe and a breakfast sandwich, toast, or housemade pastry. Grab lunch or dinner with a view at Crackers Bar and Grill, a laidback waterfront eatery where you can watch for manatees and dolphins as you dine on fresh seafood and another local specialty—deep-fried alligator bites. Weekends bring live music and plenty of drink specials. For an upscale dining experience, head to Vintage on 5th. The restaurant is housed in a cozy 1940s church that oozes old-world charm. Menu items range from fresh Gulf grouper and Cioppino to veal chops and roasted duckling. The restaurant earned the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for having an outstanding wine collection for six consecutive years.

Where To Stay In Crystal River

After long days on the water, you'll need a comfortable place to rest your head at night. The Resort on Crystal River delivers in that department and several more. Just a 15-minute walk from the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, the 232-acre resort offers well-appointed rooms and private one-bedroom villas with kitchenettes and living rooms. The resort also features an outdoor lagoon pool, 27-hole golf course, two restaurants, a poolside Tiki bar, and a spa. But this isn't a resort that encourages you to never leave the property. Nearly every water excursion imaginable (snorkeling, boating, fishing, scalloping, kayaking, and swimming with manatees) is available for embarkation directly from the resort.

Want to feel like a local? Book one of three rooms at the Retreat at Crystal Manatee, a small family-owned hotel located in the heart of Crystal River. The cottage-style hotel's surrounding tropical gardens elicit the coveted "ahhh" response you only get on vacation.

Okaloosa County and Destin set groundbreaking ceremony for Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park

The Destin LogAdditional public beach access in Destin is coming soon thanks to a partnership between the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners, the city of Destin and the Trust for Public Land.The public is invited to celebrate a groundbreaking ceremony for Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park on July 7 at 9 a.m. at 3310 Scenic Highway 98.This new beachfront park will offer 340 feet of additional public beach access, free parking with 49 standard spaces, three ADA accessible spaces, 29 low-speed vehicle spaces, bathroom...

The Destin Log

Additional public beach access in Destin is coming soon thanks to a partnership between the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners, the city of Destin and the Trust for Public Land.

The public is invited to celebrate a groundbreaking ceremony for Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park on July 7 at 9 a.m. at 3310 Scenic Highway 98.

This new beachfront park will offer 340 feet of additional public beach access, free parking with 49 standard spaces, three ADA accessible spaces, 29 low-speed vehicle spaces, bathrooms, four pavilions and breathtaking views of the Gulf waters.

“This is a great example of how partnerships can benefit the public,” said Okaloosa County Commissioner Drew Palmer (District 5) in a news release.

“Our beaches are an amazing asset that should be enjoyed by both our locals and visitors. We are fortunate to continue to expand beach access to the public as a vital part of our efforts to create opportunities for families to make memories in the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area,” Palmer said in the release.

Destin Mayor Bobby Wagner agrees with Palmer about expanding beach access and creating opportunities for future generations.

“Through initiatives like Tarpon Beach Park, we're safeguarding our coastal ecosystems, ensuring that the natural beauty and biodiversity of our shores remain intact for future generations to experience and cherish,” Wagner said in the release.

'Just an open white beach:' Destin opens up the view, clears the way for Tarpon Beach Park

The Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park project is Phase II of a dedicated effort by the city of Destin and Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners to effectively use tourism revenue and expand public beach access for residents and visitors with a total investment of $26.5 million shared between the city and county.

Phase I includes expanded public beach access at nearby Crystal Beach, with a total project cost of $9.75 million. The total project cost for the Phase II Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park project is $16.75 million.

Trust for Public Land was the lead agency that helped negotiate the purchase of the properties for both Crystal Beach and Tarpon Beach projects.

“Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park is the result of years of collaboration to ensure that everyone can enjoy walkable access to Florida’s iconic shoreline,” said Doug Hattaway, land conservation director for Trust for Public Land, in a news release.

“This park not only reconnects the community with a beautiful stretch of waterfront and long-closed amenities but also reinforces our shared commitment to protecting public access to nature and preserving the unique coastal character that makes Destin so special,” Hattaway said in the release.

This news release was provided by Nick Tomecek, Okaloosa County Public Information Officer.

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