Mellow Manatee Cottage

08/06/2026

A perfect Crystal River day: Shopping on Main Street followed by a trip to Guyer’s Ice cream

08/06/2026

Monty the Manatee is a charming, uplifting tale which explores themes of bullying and friendship and emphasises the importance of being kind. It is a firm favourite of both children and parents across the globe.

Meet Monty. He's a big creature with an even bigger heart.

Monty's nervous because it's his first day at Sea School. He tries to make new friends but the other sea creatures think he's a bit slow and strange....so they're mean to him and call him names!

When a dangerous predator invades the classroom and threatens to eat them all for his supper, Monty comes up with a plan.
Is he brave or clever enough to save them all? The other creatures don't think he is.

This beautifully illustrated picture book is suitable for young readers aged from two to ten. It is perfect either as a bedtime read or as a story in the classroom to encourage discussions on friendships, bullying and being kind to others.

It is reminiscent of 'Chu's First Day at School' by Neil Gaiman and 'The Pout Pout Fish Goes to School' by Deborah Diesen. Fans of Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae and We're All Wonders by R J Palacio will love this feel good rhyming story which promotes a positive message about the importance of being kind.

07/11/2026

07/08/2026

It’s a fact!
Manatees do not form permanent pair bonds like some animal species. Breeding and birth may occur at any time during the year and males assume no responsibility for raising the calf. Mothers nurse their young for one to two years, so calves may remain dependent on their mothers during that time. Find more facts at savethemanatee.org/facts

07/08/2026

Looking for a fun, screen-free activity for the kids? Our adorable Manatee Connect-the-Dots is perfect for little ocean lovers!

06/13/2026

There are some incredible paddling opportunities around Crystal River and Citrus County:

https://www.discovercrystalriverfl.com/things-to-do/on-water/kayak-paddleboard/?utm_source=fb&utm_medium=paidsocial&utm_campaign=evg_prospecting&utm_content=Manatees+Moonlight+Video&fbclid=IwZnRzaASZ20dleHRuA2FlbQEwAGFkaWQBqzEGPgzITnNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR5Cdp6pjKkBCu7oU9WlM_yHORSwQ6n7x3rP5VbGUo6u33YDDYYsU4LjHLuvfw_aem_zBPOTdXNxN8LQMg9MYqfzQ&utm_id=120231902287030014&utm_term=120231902287220014

Go on a Florida adventure by kayak, paddle board, or canoe! Rivers and open bays await discovery in Citrus County.

05/04/2026

Another reason we love our guests