From Florida with Love: Manatee Sightings in South Carolina

Every summer, as the waters of South Carolina warm up, a delightful phenomenon occurs: gentle Florida manatees embark on their annual vacation to the Palmetto State. Continue reading to discover where you might spot them on your Grand Palms Resort vacation.

Key Points

• Manatees travel up to South Carolina in the summer months, enjoying the warm water.

• These gentle giants are slow moving and vulnerable to boat strikes.

• If you spot a manatee, be aware of your speed and let them eat their natural food.

• Manatees have been spotted in several locations around the state.

These majestic creatures, often referred to as "sea cows," are not just rare visitors; recent reports indicate that they may have been hiding here all along.

The Manatee's Summer Sojourn

Typically arriving in South Carolina around May and staying until November, manatees thrive in the state's warm, shallow waters. They can grow over 10 feet long and weigh up to a ton, making them an extraordinary sight. However, their slow movements and tendency to swim near the surface make them vulnerable to boat strikes, which is a leading cause of injury and death for these gentle giants.

Habitat and Behavior

Manatees are adaptable and can thrive in salt, brackish, and fresh water. They have been spotted in various locations, including the Cooper River and even as far inland as Lake Moultrie.

Where to Spot Manatees in South Carolina

Manatees have been seen in various locations around South Carolina, including:

• Beaufort and its tidal creeks: This area is known for its shallow waters, which are perfect for manatees to feed and socialize.

• The Cooper River: Reports have even noted manatees venturing far enough up the river to get trapped in the Lake Moultrie locks.

• Coastal regions: Sightings have been reported along the southern coast, especially as temperatures rise in the late spring and summer months.

  
  

• Murrells Inlet and Intracoastal Waterway: While incredibly rare, manatees do occasionally find their way into waterways along the Grand Strand and Lowcountry while heading south to warmer waters. These rare sightings are important to report to SCDNR.

Help Keep Manatees Safe

Despite their size and strength, manatees face numerous threats. Boat collisions are a significant danger, particularly in shallow areas where they feed. To help protect them, boaters are encouraged to stay alert and adhere to safe boating practices, such as reducing speeds in known manatee habitats and being cautious when starting motors.

Conservation Efforts

Manatees are protected under federal law, and it is illegal to harass, hunt, or feed them. This includes not providing water or food, as such actions can encourage manatees to congregate in dangerous areas, increasing their risk of boat strikes. If you spot a manatee, you can report your sighting to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) through their website.

How to Help Manatees

Here are some tips for being manatee-friendly while relaxing in South Carolina's waters:

• Stay Alert: Always watch for manatees while boating. Look for their backs, tails, and the distinctive "footprints" they leave on the water's surface.

• Slow Down: Adhere to "slow speed" and "no wake" zones, especially near marinas and shallow waters.

• Avoid Feeding: Never feed or give water to manatees. This behavior can lead to dangerous situations for them.

• Report Sightings: If you see a manatee, especially if it appears injured, report it to the SC Department of Natural Resources hotline at 1-800-922-5431.

Manatees are a treasured part of South Carolina's marine ecosystem, and with your help, we can ensure their continued presence in our waters. So, grab your polarized sunglasses, head out to the coastal waterways, and keep an eye out for these enchanting creatures as they bask in their summer vacation in the Palmetto State!

Come Stay at Grand Palms Resort

Grand Palms Resort is a short drive from local manatee habitats. Let us know if you happen to be one of the lucky few to spot a manatee! Be sure to call and reserve your stay by calling one of our friendly Guest Services Representatives at 888-913-4477.

Kristen Meeker

(She/her)

Kristen spent her childhood on the Grand Strand. She studied English and editing in college, spent time in Appalachia and currently lives in the Pacific Northwest. Kristen enjoys quilting, reading, and traveling with her family. She makes her way back to the beach as often as she can!