Kings Bay Georgia
Home to strategic submarines and a gateway to Florida's manatee havens, Kings Bay offers a blend of naval importance and natural wonder.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing
Kings Bay Georgia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to strategic submarines and a gateway to Florida's manatee havens, Kings Bay offers a blend of naval importance and natural wonder.
"Beautiful views of the bay and springs, great place to see wildlife!"
🚗 Early Bird Gets the Spot
Arrive before 9:30 AM on busy days for entry to Crystal River springs.
🤿 Manatee Etiquette
Respect manatees: no touching, chasing, or feeding. Observe from a distance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay
Kings Bay, Georgia
Explore the strategic home of the U.S. Navy's submarine fleet. Witness impressive vessels and learn about naval operations.
Crystal River & Three Sisters Springs
Crystal River, Florida (near Kings Bay)
Swim with gentle manatees in crystal-clear springs. A truly unforgettable wildlife experience.
Kings Bay Wildlife Viewing
Coastal areas around Kings Bay
Spot diverse birdlife and marine creatures in the bay's rich ecosystem. A haven for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Kings Bay: Essential Pre-Visit Intel
Timing Your Kings Bay Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Early Bird Gets the Spot
Arrive before 9:30 AM on busy days for entry to Crystal River springs.
🤿 Manatee Etiquette
Respect manatees: no touching, chasing, or feeding. Observe from a distance.
⚓ Base Access Info
Verify access to NSB Kings Bay; tours are limited.
🛶 Paddleboard Adventures
Explore Kings Bay's calm waters by paddleboard for a serene experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Early Bird Gets the Spot
Arrive before 9:30 AM on busy days for entry to Crystal River springs.
🤿 Manatee Etiquette
Respect manatees: no touching, chasing, or feeding. Observe from a distance.
⚓ Base Access Info
Verify access to NSB Kings Bay; tours are limited.
🛶 Paddleboard Adventures
Explore Kings Bay's calm waters by paddleboard for a serene experience.
📍 Nearby Attractions
Consider Kingsland, GA for charming small-town vibes near the base.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Kings Bay for its strategic naval significance and the natural beauty of its coastal environment. The nearby Crystal River is a major draw for its unique manatee encounters. Some find access to the base itself limited, but the surrounding areas offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing.
"What a beautiful place, hard to leave, so much to enjoy 🤩"
Justin King
"Good fishing, GOOD WALKING AND PLENTY TO SEE"
Jeffrey S
"Beautiful views of the bay and springs. This picture was taken on the farside of the bay...near Pete's pier"
Cheryl Madison
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is located in Camden County, Georgia. The closest major airport is Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), about an hour's drive south. From Jacksonville, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach the base and surrounding areas like Kingsland.
Driving is the primary way to get around Kings Bay and its surrounding areas. Roads are generally well-maintained. If visiting Crystal River for manatee tours, be prepared for potential traffic and limited parking, especially on weekends.
Within the base, personal vehicles are common. For exploring the wider region, car rentals are recommended. Public transportation is limited in this area.
Direct bus services to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay are not readily available. Travelers typically fly into Jacksonville and then arrange ground transportation.
Three Sisters Springs is located in Crystal River, Florida, about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Kings Bay. Driving your own vehicle is the most convenient option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is an active military installation, and public access is restricted. Tours are limited and require advance planning. Check the official base website for any available public access or tour information.
Manatee tours in Crystal River can range from $40 to $100 or more, depending on the duration and inclusions. Some tours offer boat rides, while others include snorkeling gear.
While you can access the water, a boat tour is often the easiest way to reach the prime manatee viewing areas like Three Sisters Springs. Some visitors opt for kayak or paddleboard rentals.
Entry to NSB Kings Bay is typically restricted to authorized personnel and their dependents. Visitors may need to be sponsored or have a specific reason for access. Always verify current regulations.
While the base itself has access restrictions, nearby natural areas like Crystal River springs may have entrance fees or parking charges, especially during peak season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, you can learn about naval operations and see submarines. The surrounding area offers wildlife viewing, fishing, and paddleboarding. Nearby Crystal River is famous for manatee encounters.
Kings Bay is a habitat for various marine life and bird species. You might spot dolphins, sea turtles, and numerous coastal birds. The nearby Crystal River is a sanctuary for manatees.
Yes, the waters around Kings Bay offer good fishing opportunities. Anglers can target various saltwater species.
The most famous natural springs near Kings Bay are in Crystal River, Florida, particularly Three Sisters Springs, known for its manatee population.
Yes, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities in the calmer waters of Kings Bay, offering a peaceful way to explore the coastline and observe wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay likely has dining facilities for service members and authorized personnel, such as the Navy Lodge or exchange food courts. Specific public access to these may vary. [^N1]
Kingsland, GA, offers a range of dining options from casual eateries to family restaurants, catering to locals and visitors near the base.
Crystal River has numerous seafood restaurants and casual dining spots, perfect for a meal before or after your manatee tour.
While specific recommendations vary, coastal Georgia and Florida are known for fresh seafood. Exploring local reviews in Kingsland or Crystal River will yield many options.
Generally, bringing your own food and drinks is allowed in many public areas around the springs, but check specific park regulations. Pack out all trash to keep the area clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of submarines at the naval base, diverse wildlife along the coast, and the serene beauty of the natural springs.
Photography policies at military bases can be strict. Always check official guidelines regarding photography on Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay to avoid issues.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography in Crystal River, especially for capturing the ethereal glow of the springs and wildlife.
Yes, you can take photos of manatees, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid using flash, which can disturb them.
Drone usage is often restricted, especially near military installations like NSB Kings Bay and in sensitive wildlife areas like Crystal River. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
⚓ Military Families & Personnel
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay
Beyond its primary military function, NSB Kings Bay is also a significant employer and community hub. The base supports various units and commands, contributing to the region's economy. For those with authorized access, amenities like the Navy Lodge Kings Bay Georgia offer lodging options. [^N1] The base also plays a role in research and development, with scientists working on various naval technologies.
The Magic of Crystal River and Manatee Encounters
To ensure the well-being of the manatees, strict regulations are in place. Visitors are prohibited from touching, chasing, or feeding them. Tours are highly recommended as guides are knowledgeable about manatee behavior and ensure compliance with conservation rules. Many tours offer snorkeling gear and boat transportation to the best viewing areas. It's crucial to book tours in advance, especially during peak season, as entry to popular spots like Three Sisters Springs can be limited. Arriving very early is advised to secure a spot, as capacity is often capped.
Outdoor Adventures in and around Kings Bay
For those seeking more active pursuits, the surrounding areas offer hiking and walking trails. The natural springs in nearby Florida, like those in Crystal River, provide opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. Whether you're interested in the strategic importance of the naval base or the natural beauty of the coastline, Kings Bay and its environs offer a diverse range of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit