The Vibe
The Paddletail Waterfront Lodge in Crystal River, Florida, is just 90 miles from Orlando but offers a relaxed, authentic “Old Florida” experience beyond the popular theme parks. Named for the wide, paddle-shaped tail of the manatees that frequent the area, the lodge has an on-site dive shop, swimming pool, hot tub and covered outdoor social area.
Historic fishing boats dot the landscape of the 113-room waterfront property. Rooms, located in a cluster of two-story buildings, open directly to the parking lot. Limited mobility guests should request a mobility-accessible room on the first floor. The spacious lobby serves as an anchor to the lodge, with comfortable lounge space, books on Florida history and a selection of games and puzzles for guests to use. My husband and I enjoyed the tabletop shuffleboard one rainy morning. Manatee sculptures and photos pay tribute to the large aquatic mammals that many guests come to see.
Kirsten Harrington 