Weeki Wachee Springs

Newton Perry, a former navy swimming instructor, developed a method of breathing from a free-flowing air hose rather than a tank, and in 1947 built a theatre with seating below ground level looking through glass into the spring. Performers have used that technique ever since - they hold the hose, breathe as needed, and swim without visible equipment against the current, which runs strongly. The spring is one of the deepest known freshwater cave systems in the country and its full extent has still not been mapped. It became a state park in 2008, having spent decades as a private roadside attraction. A river runs from the spring for kayaking, and Buccaneer Bay beside it is a small water park fed by the spring.

What you actually see

• Performers breathing from air hoses - the technique developed in 1947.
• A submerged theatre - seating below ground behind glass.
• A very deep spring system - not fully mapped.
• A river for kayaking - running from the spring.

When to go

October to May; the water is a constant 23 degrees. Half a day.

Honest expectations

The park caps daily attendance and closes when full, often by mid-morning at weekends. Show times are limited. Kayak launches must be booked and sell out. The water is cold year round.

Nearby

Homosassa Springs is north; Tampa is south.