Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

Have you ever wanted to visit a magical place with crystal clear blue waters for swimming and mermaids who perform in them? A place with live animals, a water park, mermaid shows, river cruises, and kayaking? Sounds like a dream come true, but does such a place exist? YES! At Weeki Wachee Springs State Park you can find all of that!

After I visited the springs in 2022, I was reeling with excitement! It was such a wonderful experience, and in this article I am going to share all the details about the park, from its history to its iconic mermaid shows.

Where is Weeki Wachee Springs located?

Weeki Wachee State Park is located in Hernando County, Florida, in the United States. It is situated on the Gulf of Mexico, about an hour and a half north of Tampa and an hour and a half west of Orlando.

When did Weeki Wachee Springs State Park open?

Weeki Wachee opened on October 13th, 1947.

How long does the Weeki Wachee mermaid show last?

A Weeki Wachee mermaid show lasts between 45-60 minutes. The show is so magical and entertaining that you'll wish it lasted longer!

How much do Weeki Wachee mermaids get paid?

The starting pay for Weeki Wachee's mermaids is $15 per hour, and they are required to work a minimum of 4 days per week.

This pay has always seemed low to me, given the training and stress on your body these mermaids endure. Professional mermaids typically make from $25-$250 per hour, depending on if you're running your own business or employed by someone else.

One reason the pay can be so low is because the training and tails are provided. Weeki Wachee mermaids are also state employees, usually part time, so their wages are determined by the state.

When a mermaid has their own business, they can charge more because of the startup and maintenance costs. Weeki Wachee mermaids don't travel around for gigs with expensive tails. Pro mermaids with their own company spend money on tails, costume accessories, websites, marketing, travel, and certifications. These things are not necessary to be a Weeki Wachee mermaid.

How long can Weeki Wachee mermaids hold their breath?

The mermaid performers remain underwater for around 45 minutes, using breathing tubes to get air. However, they have to hold their breath for up to 30 seconds to a minute while performing certain parts of the choreography.

Learning how to hold your breath is an important part of mermaid training. Breath control is one of the core facets of being an underwater mermaid performer. Many mermaids will take free diving classes to master this art.

How much does the Weeki Wachee mermaid show cost?

Admission into the park costs $13 for adults and $8 for kids ages 6-12. The mermaid show is included in this.

Weeki Wachee history

Weeki Wachee was founded in 1947 by Newton Perry, a former navy diver. After World War II, Perry searched for the perfect spot for his business venture, finding the Weeki Wachee springs.

At the time, the spring was full of rusted cars and refrigerators, which Newton had cleared out. He went on to develop the breathing apparatus that is still used today.

He then scouted out women to swim in his underwater theater, smiling and performing acts like eating a banana and drinking a beverage underwater.

Weeki Wachee opened on October 13, 1947, and became the most popular tourist attraction in the 50s, with iconic shows full of underwater ballet performances.

How cold is the water at Weeki Wachee?

The water in Weeki Wachee spring is 72–74 °F year round. This is a comfortable temperature for swimming.

Can you swim in the Weeki Wachee spring?

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park has a water park, called Buccaneer Bay, where visitors get to swim in the glorious spring.

You can sunbathe on the sandy beach, jump off the dock, or take a trip down the water slide.

Are mermaid tails allowed at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park?

As desperate as I was to swim in a mermaid tail during my visit to the Weeki Wachee Springs, it was forbidden. This may be a rule because seeing people swim around in mermaid tails in the water park may detract from the magic of the mermaid show. It would also be a safety liability, as mermaid tails can be dangerous.

Fortunately, you have the opportunity to swim in a mermaid tail in the spring by participating in the Mermaid Experience. It is a program held by Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs that allows participants to don mermaid tails that are provided, while swimming in the spring.

Is Weeki Wachee open year round?

Yes, Weeki Wachee is open 9am to 5:30pm, 365 days a year.

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If this article hasn't enticed you to visit Weeki Wachee, I don't know what will! For me, it was a fantastical experience that awakened my inner child and delighted my soul.

If you're a lover of all things mermaid, you have to visit this park.

To find out about more mermaid shows and attractions, check out this other article of mine.