Summer ushers in a rare yet awe-inspiring visitor to the Outer Banks’ coastal waters: the Florida manatee. These gentle giants, accustomed to the warmer climes of Florida, navigate northward to explore the calm canals and inlets of North Carolina’s barrier islands. Jennette’s Pier, a beacon for marine observation at Nags Head, not only welcomes these seasonal guests but offers critical guidance to ensure their safety and well-being.

As you venture out to witness these majestic creatures, the first rule is to observe passively. Keep your distance and enjoy the spectacle from above the waterline. Avoid any direct contact—feeding, touching, or offering water is against strict wildlife protection laws designed to keep manatees wild and untroubled.

Noise levels matter here. Manatees often rest just beneath the surface, their quiet presence betrayed only by gentle ripples. Loud voices, splashing, or chasing can startle them, disrupting their rest and migration patterns. The recommended approach is patience and respect, letting the animals choose their path without interference.

Polarized sunglasses become an adventurer’s ally on the water, clarifying surface reflections and revealing telltale signs of manatee presence: subtle "footprints" formed by tails or nostrils breaking the water’s skin. Boaters bear a special responsibility—slow your speed, especially near marinas, to avoid collisions. It’s not just courteous; it’s required under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act.

Their presence is growing, with sightings increasing sharply in recent years. Scientists track these movements, identifying individuals by healed propeller scars, linking visits from Nags Head to locations down Chesapeake Bay. But this growth carries risk: lingering beyond their migration due to human feeding can expose manatees to dangerous cold stress.

Local experts at Jennette’s Pier encourage visitors to report sightings to the Outer Banks Marine Mammal Network. These records help researchers map where manatees prefer to rest and feed, guiding conservation efforts effectively.

For adventurers, this experience is a unique chance to connect with one of the coast’s most gentle and impressive marine residents, framed by sweeping oceanfront views and the rhythmic sounds of waves. With respect, care, and a watchful eye, you’ll contribute to their protection while making memories of a lifetime.

Jennette’s Pier remains a prime vantage and learning point. Here, the air buzzes not only with summer life but with a commitment to shared stewardship — all under the vast skies and watchful eyes of seabirds and dolphins. This is adventure with purpose, where discovery meets conservation on the edge of the Atlantic.