Waterworld Tours Club Med Sandpiper

During the winter, manatees congregate in Moore's Creek to warm up. The manatee, a mammal, needs warmth when surrounding water temperatures drop below 62°f. The Fort Pierce Utilities Authority operates a power plant across the street from the Center and uses water from Moore's Creek to help cool pipes in the electrical plant. As the water leaves the plant and goes back into Moore's Creek, it is 7 degrees warmer than the surrounding water. So, as many as 30 manatees stay close to the Center and enjoy the warm water during December - March. As the weather becomes warmer, manatees travel in and out of Moore's Creek, and will visit the creek the rest of the year to drink fresh water.

The endangered Florida manatee, also called sea cow, is the main attraction. Manatees can be viewed at the Center year-round! Stand along the covered observation walkway or climb the second story observation tower to see Florida's "Gentle Giants" resting or playing in Moore's Creek. These are wild, not captive manatees, so one never knows when they might swim by.

Outside the Center, you will see a variety of wildlife including Bottlenose Dolphin, Mullet, Brown Pelicans, and Terns.

For brilliant color, stroll through the Center's butterfly garden where red, yellow, and purple flowers abound.

Also, see the replica of a natural spring which provides an important habitat for manatees in the colder winter months.