Weeki Wachee Springs
Weeki Wachee, FL
Mermaid shows have run in an underwater theater since 1947. You can also paddle the clear spring run.
Weeki Wachee Springs in Weeki Wachee, Florida, is a state park (since November 1, 2008) built around a first-magnitude spring. Several hundred million liters of water (over 100 million gallons) flow from it every day, feeding the roughly 12-mile (19 km) Weeki Wachee River. Former Navy frogman and stunt swimmer Newton Perry founded the attraction in 1947: performers breathe through air hoses underwater and play “mermaids”; the first show took place on October 13, 1947.
The performances take place in a theater built into the limestone, with windows below the water surface. At a depth of 5 to 6 m (16 to 20 feet) there is a current of about 8 km/h (5 mph). In 1959 the broadcaster ABC took over the attraction and built a larger theater; later, shows with former mermaids were added. On the river you can rent canoes and kayaks or take a boat tour; manatees, alligators and otters live here. The park lies at the intersection of State Road 50 and US 19 between Spring Hill and Homosassa Springs. Pets are not allowed, service animals are. Check opening hours and show times in advance.
- Nearest town
- Weeki Wachee, FL
- Category
- Roadside oddities
- GPS
- 28.5170, -82.5730
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually November–April. Still fine, with some compromises, in May and September–October. Hot in June–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Lakewood Travel ParkMotorhome stopover13 mi from Weeki Wachee SpringsMotorhomes
- Chassahowitzka River CampgroundMotorhome stopover14 mi from Weeki Wachee SpringsMotorhomesElectricityWi-Fi
- Tillis Hill Equestrian CampgroundCampsite17 mi from Weeki Wachee SpringsTentsCaravansDrinking waterShowersToiletsWaste disposalDogs allowed
- The Woods RV and Park Model ResortMotorhome stopover19 mi from Weeki Wachee SpringsMotorhomesElectricityWi-Fi
- Bare RV ResortMotorhome stopover19 mi from Weeki Wachee SpringsMotorhomesElectricity
- Quail Run RV ResortMotorhome stopover23 mi from Weeki Wachee SpringsMotorhomesElectricityWaste disposalWi-Fi
All campsites in Florida · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Weeki Wachee Springs?
Weeki Wachee Springs is in Weeki Wachee, FL, at GPS 28.5170, -82.5730. It is about 27 mi from Crystal River.
Can you camp near Weeki Wachee Springs?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Horsefly Hill, about 1 mi away; within 25 mi there are 56 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Weeki Wachee Springs?
Weeki Wachee Springs is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Manatees and springs on Florida’s Nature Coast.
What is there to see near Weeki Wachee Springs?
Places worth a stop nearby: Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park (20 mi), Three Sisters Springs (26 mi), Rainbow Springs State Park (41 mi) and Cedar Key (51 mi).
When is the best time to visit Weeki Wachee Springs?
The most pleasant months are usually November–April. Still fine, with some compromises, in May and September–October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)