Step into the heart of Florida’s Nature Coast. When you visit Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter, you’re just minutes from hidden gems, local flavors, outdoor adventures, and unforgettable memories.
Waterfront charm with cozy accommodations.
Stay, dine, and enjoy Florida’s waterside vibes.
A peaceful boutique stay close to the springs.
A unique getaway nestled in nature.
Camping made easy, from RVs to cabins.
Famous for manatee tours and snorkeling adventures.
Guided eco-tours highlighting the best of Crystal River.
Eco-tours, manatee swims, scuba diving, and family adventures.
Kayak rentals and guided tours of Crystal River.
Explore Homosassa and Halls rivers by kayak or paddleboard.
Relaxing atmosphere with teas, coffees, and treats.
A must-visit for BBQ lovers.
Local coffeehouse with multiple Citrus County locations.
Old-fashioned sweets with a local twist.
Fresh-caught seafood market and restaurant.
Waterfront Tiki Bar and Restaurant.
Handcrafted spirits, cocktails, tours, and tastings.
Casual waterfront seafood dining experience.
Seasonal dishes with local flavors in a greenhouse setting.
Cold drinks, casual bites, and Florida sunsets.
Waterfront dining combining the best of land and sea.
Dedicated to exotic bird care and rescue.
18 holes of family fun in downtown Crystal River.
Learn about manatees in a spectacular riverside setting.
Hiking and biking trail through Florida’s natural landscapes.
Explore Citrus County’s rich history.
Historic ruins set along the scenic Nature Coast.
Sunsets and relaxation on a beautiful Florida beach.
Stay a little longer, explore a little deeper, and discover the magic of Florida’s Nature Coast.
Plan Your VisitDiscover Citrus County
Welcome to a place where nature, history, and local charm blend into unforgettable memories. When you plan a trip to Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter, you’re also stepping into the heart of Citrus County, Florida — “The Nature Coast.” Explore hidden gems, delicious local eats, relaxing places to stay, and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Below are just a few of the places we love to recommend to our guests:
Rest, relax, and enjoy your trip with these local favorites:
Paddletail Lodge – Waterfront charm with cozy accommodations.
The Cove Resort & Pub – Stay, dine, and enjoy Florida’s waterside vibes.
Retreat at Crystal Manatee – A peaceful boutique stay close to the springs.
Sweet Citrus Acres – A unique getaway nestled in nature.
Crystal River KOA – Camping made easy, with everything from RV hookups to cabins.
See Citrus County from the water with unforgettable local tours:
Birds Underwater – Famous for manatee tours and snorkeling adventures.
Exlporida – Guided eco-tours and nature experiences highlighting the best of the Crystal River area.
Crystal River Watersports – Eco-tours, manatee swims, scuba diving, and family-friendly adventures.
Grab a bite, sip, or sweet treat at these local spots:
Tea House 650 – Relaxing atmosphere with teas, coffees, and treats.
Bubba Ques – A must-visit for BBQ lovers.
Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters – Local coffeehouse with multiple locations across Citrus County.
Guyer’s Ice Cream & Doughnuts – Old-fashioned sweets with a local twist.
The Crab Plant - Fresh-caught Seafood Market and Restaurant.
Crump's Landing - Waterfront Tiki Bar and Restaurant
Homosassa Distillery - Handcrafted small-batch spirits, unique cocktails, tours and tastings.
Ziggy’s Bird Sanctuary – A wonderful place dedicated to the care and rescue of exotic birds, perfect for animal lovers.
And that’s just the beginning! From hiking and biking the Withlacoochee State Trail, to exploring the history of The Old Courthouse Heritage Museum and the Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins, to sunsets at Fort Island Gulf Beach, there’s something for everyone to discover.
Pair your trip to Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter with local dining, tours, and attractions — and see why Citrus County truly is the hidden treasure of Florida’s Nature Coast.
Stay a little longer. Explore a little deeper. Discover Citrus County.
There’s so much to see and do here on the Nature Coast, we couldn’t possibly list it all! From swimming with manatees to exploring historic downtowns, Crystal River is the heartbeat of Citrus County adventures.
For a full guide to dining, lodging, shopping, events, and outdoor fun, visit our friends at Discover Crystal River — your one-stop resource for planning the perfect Florida getaway.