Q: We want to snorkel with manatees in January and also stay in cabins and/or a lodge (not a hotel) for 20 to 30 people. Any ideas? -- Beth Yager

A: January is a good time for seeing manatees in Florida, Beth, especially in springs and inland waters. Make sure you have a wet suit or dry suit when you snorkel because water and air temperatures can be cool.

One of the best places for viewing manatees is the Nature Coast area. For lodging, try the cottages at Steinhatchee Landing, which says it's the "Gateway to Florida's Nature Coast," or Chassahowitzka River Lodge and Campground (352-382-2081). You may want to contact cabins and lodges as soon as possible because they generally book up quickly.

For the manatees' sake, I'd caution your group not to go in the water all at once. Twenty or more people in the water can overwhelm manatees. Be sure to follow manatee manners when near these endangered creatures.

Please see our article for tips on snorkeling with manatees.

Do you have a question? Contact the editor.