WATCH: Group of manatees swims up to family in Siesta Key

SIESTA KEY, Fla. — An Oklahoma family on vacation in Siesta Key got a big surprise on the beach Tuesday.

Lauren Harwi, from Edmond, Oklahoma, said a large group of manatees swam right up to her and her family.

“It’s apparently mating season, and the female came up on the sand next to us to rest,” she said. “There were three males surrounding the female."

She said a marine biologist at the beach told her it was a rare sight.

Another woman said she’s lived in Siesta Key for 35 years and had never seen manatees get so close to shore.

“It was the most amazing experience,” said Harwi.

Harwi captured the manatees on video.

Cox Media Group