Monkey Island Homosassa, Florida: Complete Visitor Guide
Monkey Island is a small, artificial island in the Homosassa River, home to spider monkeys since the 1960s. Located in Old Homosassa, Citrus County, it’s one of Florida’s most unique attractions.
This guide covers the island’s history, viewing spots, boat tours, nearby dining, and where to stay.
Monkey Island At a Glance
Monkey Island – At a Glance
- Location: Homosassa River, Old Homosassa, Citrus County, Florida
- Residents: 3 spider monkeys (Ralph, Ebony, & Emily)
- Cost to View: Free from the public boat ramp or shoreline
- Best Viewing Times: 8-10 AM and 4-6 PM during feeding times
- Best Season: October through April for comfortable weather and manatee season
- Can You Land?: No, the island is off-limits; view by boat, kayak, or from shore
- Best Viewing Spot: Monkey Island Riverside Resort waterfront deck
- Tours Available: Yes, boat tours starting at $25 per person
- Managed By: Historic Monkey Island Inc., a nonprofit organization
In this article, you’ll find:
What Is Monkey Island?
Monkey Island is a privately managed island in the middle of the Homosassa River in Old Homosassa, Citrus County, Florida, that serves as home to a colony of spider monkeys. As of April, 2026, three spider monkeys live on the island: Ralph, Ebony, and Emily
Spider monkeys are semi-arboreal primates that won’t swim, which keeps them safely on the island without fences. The island is off-limits to the public and can only be viewed from boats, kayaks, or from nearby shorelines.
Monkey Island History
In 1964, the Norris Development Company purchased and expanded Homosassa Springs as “Nature’s Own Attraction,” featuring native animals and exotic species. G.A. “Furgy” Furgason, a key developer in the area, brought in spider monkeys and other exotic animals to entertain visitors.
The island was created accidentally during dredging operations in the Homosassa River in the 1960s. When deposited material formed a small island, someone realized it could serve as a natural enclosure for the spider monkeys, who won’t swim. The monkeys were moved to what became known as Monkey Island.
In December 1984, the Citrus County Commission purchased the property to protect it as an environmentally sensitive area. On January 1, 1989, the State of Florida officially took over and converted it into a state park focused on native species. The non-native spider monkeys were grandfathered in at their island location.
Today, Historic Monkey Island Inc., a nonprofit organization, manages the island and ensures the animals receive proper nutrition, veterinary care, and habitat maintenance.
Planning Your Visit
How to See Monkey Island
The most popular viewing location is the Monkey Island Riverside Resort (previously the Florida Cracker Riverside Resort) at 5297 S. Cherokee Way. The waterfront deck provides direct views of the island.
The public boat ramp at the end of S. Boulevard Drive offers free viewing, though binoculars are helpful since the distance is greater. This location also provides free boat launch access for kayaks or small boats.
River cruises and boat tours offer close-up views, approaching the island from multiple angles while guides share its history. Kayaking offers flexible viewing, letting you set your own pace while enjoying the Homosassa River.
Best Time to See Monkey Island’s Spider Monkeys
Monkeys are most active during feeding times: early morning (8-10 AM) and late afternoon (4-6 PM). Avoid midday when monkeys rest in the shade.
The best seasons for comfortable weather are October through April. Winter months (November-March) are ideal for combining monkey viewing with manatee watching at nearby springs.
Getting There
- From Tampa: Take I-75 North to Exit 329, follow US-98 West to Homosassa (70 miles, 1.5 hours).
- From Crystal River: Drive south on US-19 for 8 miles, turn right on Halls River Road, follow signs to Old Homosassa.
- From Orlando: Take Florida’s Turnpike to I-75 North, follow Tampa directions (110 miles, 2 hours).
Parking is available at Monkey Island Riverside Resort (if dining) or the public boat ramp at S. Boulevard Drive.
Where to Eat Near Monkey Island Homosassa
Monkey Bar at Monkey Island Riverside Resort
- Address: 5297 S. Cherokee Way, Homosassa, FL 34448
- Phone: (352) 765-4167
- Hours: Mon closed, Tue-Thu 11 AM-10 PM, Fri-Sat 11 AM-11 PM, Sun 11 AM-9 PM
The Monkey Bar offers the best combination of food, drinks, and Monkey Island views. The deck provides direct sightlines to the island, making it the premier dining location for monkey watchers. Menu features brick-oven pizzas, craft cocktails, Florida seafood, burgers and casual fare. Happy hour 2-5 PM weekdays.
Crump’s Landing
- Address: 11210 W Halls River Rd, Homosassa, FL 34448
- Phone: (352) 765-4942
- Hours: Mon closed, Tue-Thu 11:30 AM-9 PM, Fri 11 AM-10 PM, Sat 11 AM-10 PM, Sun 11 AM-9 PM
Waterfront tiki bar and restaurant with over 1,000 feet of river views. Some tables feature views of Monkey Island. Known for bang bang shrimp, grouper sandwiches, and family-friendly atmosphere with live music on weekends.
The Freezer Tiki Bar
- Address: 5590 S Boulevard Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448
- Phone: (352) 628-2452
- Hours: Sun-Thu 11:30 AM-9 PM, Fri-Sat 11:30 AM-10 PM
Converted fish freezer turned seafood spot. Famous for peel-and-eat shrimp, stone crabs, and fish dip. Cash only. Waterfront location with picnic table seating.
Old Mill Tavern
- Address: 10465 W Yulee Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448
- Phone: (352) 628-2669
- Hours: Mon 11 AM-12 AM, Tue closed, Wed-Thu 11 AM-12 AM, Fri-Sat 11 AM-2 AM, Sun 11 AM-12 AM
Neighborhood bar with American fare. Known for hot wings, ribeye cheesesteaks, and prime rib specials. Live music and karaoke on weekends. Pet-friendly patio available.
Photo by ChrisNovak, via Wikimedia Commons.
Where to Stay Near Monkey Island Homosassa, FL
TradeWinds Homosassa offers vacation rental homes in a gated community along the river, with boat slips, a community pool, and fishing piers. Rentals range from 2-bedroom villas to 4-bedroom homes with full kitchens and private outdoor space.
Insider Tip: Request a canal-side unit for easier boat access and sunrise views. Book early for the winter season (prime manatee-viewing months).
Things to Do Near Monkey Island: Homosassa & Crystal River
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Located 2.5 miles from Monkey Island. Features an underwater observatory for watching manatees, native Florida animals including black bears and bobcats, and manatee programs at 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:30 PM. Free pontoon boat ride connects visitor center to park entrance.
River Boat Tours
Multiple tour operators offer narrated cruises that include Monkey Island viewing.
Island Girl Cruises
- Tour: 2-hour narrated river tour
- Price: $25 per person
- Highlights: Monkey Island, freshwater springs, local history
- Captains: Captain Joe and First Mate Janey
- Website: islandgirlcruiseshomosassa.com
Blue Heaven River Tours
- Tours: Manatee tours, dolphin/nature tours, Monkey Island tours
- Highlights: Swimming with manatees (seasonal), dolphin watching
- Website: blueheavenrivertours.com
River Adventure Tours
- Tours: Spring tours, backwater tours, airboat tours
- Highlights: Old Florida views, abundant wildlife
- Website: riveradventuretours.com
Monkey Island Adventures
- Location: Inside Monkey Island Riverside Resort
- Tours: Eco river tours, scalloping (seasonal), manatee encounters
- Starting at: $35 per person
- Website: monkeyislandadventures.com
TradeWinds Insider Tip: Book morning tours for the best monkey activity and wildlife viewing. Tours that include historical commentary provide fascinating background on the island’s creation.
Old Homosassa
Explore this charming historic waterfront community with art galleries, local shops, and scenic river views.
Highlights:
- Art galleries and local markets
- Riverside dining with Monkey Island views
- Historic downtown walkways
- Fishing spots along the river
TradeWinds Insider Tip: Several waterfront restaurants offer Monkey Island views. The Monkey Island Riverside Resort’s Monkey Bar provides the best vantage point for photographs while enjoying a meal.
Water Activities
Kayaking: Rent kayaks and paddle to view Monkey Island up close from the water
Fishing: Homosassa River offers excellent freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities
Scalloping: Seasonal activity (June-September) in nearby Gulf waters
Manatee Viewing: Winter months (November-March) bring manatees to warm spring waters
Conservation and Etiquette
Never attempt to land on the island (trespassing) and do not feed the animals. The monkeys receive professionally designed diets. Keep noise levels reasonable and observe from appropriate distances.
Support conservation by contributing to Historic Monkey Island Inc. Choose tour operators who prioritize animal welfare and follow USDA wildlife viewing guidelines. Report welfare concerns to Historic Monkey Island Inc. or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you go to Monkey Island?
No. The island is off-limits to visitors and managed by Historic Monkey Island Inc. Attempting to land is trespassing. View monkeys from boats, kayaks, or nearby shoreline locations.
How many monkeys live on Monkey Island today?
Three spider monkeys currently live on the island as of late 2026. The number varies as Historic Monkey Island Inc. manages the population and may add rescue monkeys.
What’s the best way to see them?
Book a river boat tour for closest views and educational commentary, or visit the area around Monkey Island Riverside Resort for viewing opportunities.
Are there any tours that include Monkey Island?
Yes. Most Homosassa River tours include Monkey Island as a featured stop, including Island Girl Cruises ($25/person), Blue Heaven River Tours, River Adventure Tours, and Monkey Island Adventures. Morning tours provide the best monkey activity.
Who cares for the monkeys?
Historic Monkey Island Inc., a nonprofit organization, manages daily care. The organization provides food, fresh water, veterinary care, habitat maintenance, and monitoring. Trained staff follow USDA-approved protocols.
How does Historic Monkey Island Inc. support them?
The organization relies on donations, fundraising, and community partnerships to fund food purchases, veterinary care, habitat maintenance, and infrastructure improvements. The Monkey Island Riverside Resort donates a portion of its proceeds to monkey care. All funding maintains USDA-compliant care standards.
Final Thoughts
Monkey Island represents Old Florida history and character. Combine your visit with manatee viewing at nearby springs, fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, and a stay at TradeWinds Homosassa. Supporting Historic Monkey Island Inc. through donations or patronizing supporting businesses helps ensure this unique attraction continues.
