On our first day trip of the year, we chose to fly to West Palm Beach in hopes of seeing a Manatee for the first time. Bryan had discovered the festival while searching for things to do in Florida, as we wanted to go somewhere warm. Manatee Fest was in full swing, and West Palm Beach was on the best bets list, so we jetted off. 

We took an Uber straight to the festival and walked around the conservation booths. We were saddened to learn of the struggles manatees are facing with disfigurement from boats. Boats are hitting manatees at alarming rates and maiming them. The festival has a conservation focus to bring awareness to the tragic situation manatees are currently facing.

After perusing the informative booths and grabbing a manatee sticker, we ate some seafood from a food truck, which was, admittedly, just okay. We strolled past the festival to a fence overlooking the lagoon where there was potential to spot a Manatee. 

Having a keen eye, I spotted not one but two manatees swimming. We had achieved our mission! The sea cows swam slowly along the shoreline, attracting a crowd as they progressed forward. We saw them emerge from the water briefly, only to dive back down and swim away. 

Like the manatees, we came and went from West Palm Beach swiftly. Having had our fill of Manatee Fest, we flew out a flight earlier than anticipated. This was a fortunate decision, as air force one was at PBI. We had arrived at the airport just in time to walk aboard an earlier flight, beating any potential delays pertaining to the president, and we were home by dinner. 

Apply for an American Express Card with this link. With your new Card, you could earn a welcome bonus (up to 125,000 points!) and I’ll earn a referral bonus. Terms Apply.