Entire home

Waterfront Old Florida Charm with Modern Amenities

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December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for Waterfront Old Florida Charm with Modern Amenities

Smart TV, DVD player, books
Aerial view
Exterior
Property grounds
Lake

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 12

Popular amenities

  • Washer
  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air conditioning
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Homosassa, FL
  • Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
    4 min walk
  • Old Mill House Gallery and Printing Museum
    5 min drive
  • Hardee's
    3 min walk
  • Michael Anthony's Pizza
    4 min walk

Room options

Similar properties

About the area

Homosassa Springs

Located in Homosassa, this vacation home is on the waterfront, a 4-minute walk from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and within a 5-minute drive of Citrus County Dog Park. .This family-friendly vacation home is 3.1 mi (4.9 km) from Old Mill House Gallery and Printing Museum and 3.1 mi (5 km) from Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park.

What's nearby

  • Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park - 4 min walk
  • Old Mill House Gallery and Printing Museum - 5 min drive
  • Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge - 10 min drive
  • 7 Sisters Springs - 11 min drive
  • Three Sisters Springs - 12 min drive

Getting around

  • Tampa Intl. Airport (TPA) - 65 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Sugarmill Restaurant - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Twistee Treat Homosassa - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Burger King - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬5 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Waterfront Old Florida Charm with Modern Amenities

Welcome! This is where you can experience wild Florida while enjoying all your favorite comforts. Our completely remodeled home is on a canal just 200 feet away from the Halls River (note about the map below: our home is a few miles north, east of 98, from blue dot; near Love Honda). Located in a friendly residential neighborhood, this immaculate 3 bedroom 2 bath (plus upstairs loft) home is perfect for your year-round getaway. The open concept living, dining, and kitchen areas overlook the canal, with ample opportunities to watch otters, manatees, and birds as you drink your coffee.

We have a fully stocked kitchen, or take the kitchen outside and cook on the propane grill.

Three kayaks and a canoe are provided for your enjoyment, and you can put them in right at the dock. It’s about an hour to hour and a half kayak trip to excellent water front restaurants! If you bring your boat, there are multiple boat launches less than 10 minutes away - these launches are perfect area to access the Homosassa River and go scalloping. Boat access to our dock is limited to small, flat bottom boats due to the shallow nature of portions of the Halls River. Boat and boat trailer parking is provided on site.* The water in the canal is also is very clear and perfect for swimming.

For those of you who need to put in some hours for work, we have a desk available in the Fish Room, as well, as high speed internet.

Additionally, we are a short drive away from excellent restaurants, grocery stores, and local attractions. A bit further afield, Disney World is only a couple hours drive if you’d like to take a day trip.

We welcome large groups and families with young children! We have a pack n’ play and high chair for your convenience. Furry friends are also welcome, although we do limit it to two dogs, each under 30 pounds for a fee of $150. Please be aware that there are two big flights of stairs (one leading to the house, the other to the loft area). For safety, please do not leave any children or pets unattended, and please keep your dog on a leash.
For guests added peace of mind and security, we have cameras in the carport area and on the outside of the front door. (there are no cameras within the interior of the home)

We hope to welcome you to our home soon!

*Any boats up to 30ft, inquire for fees for anything larger

**Please note that booking a stay at our home implies your consent to abide by our rental agreement. It is your responsibility to read this rental agreement in full and give a copy to any guests or other persons who may enter our property at your request.
Make yourself comfortable in this air-conditioned vacation home, featuring a kitchen with a refrigerator and an oven. A Smart television and a DVD player are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Conveniences include a desk and a microwave.
Take in the views from a garden and make use of amenities such as barbecue grills.
Guests will find features like internet access and onsite parking.

Property manager

Jennifer & David Rogers

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach towels

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • On-site parking options include a carport
  • On-site parking

Kitchen

  • Fridge
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Toaster
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Paper towels

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bath or shower
  • Towels provided
  • Toilet paper

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • DVD player
  • Books
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue
  • Garden
  • Dock

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer
  • Near a laundromat

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 2 total (up to 23 kg per pet)
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • On the river
  • On the waterfront
  • Near a health or beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo

Things to do

  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Kayaking on site
  • Fishing nearby
  • Waterskiing nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Deadbolt lock

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total (up to 50 lbs per pet)
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation
Note from host: Less than 30lbs; must be on leash!

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Waterfront Old Florida Charm with Modern Amenities Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 32 out of 32 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 32 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 32 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 32 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 32 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Alexa W.

Liked: Cleanliness
A riverside retreat to remember for the ages!
We had an all-girls nature retreat at this amazing home and I can’t imagine having spent such a magical weekend anywhere else. The house comes with some kayaks and a canoe, which was so helpful. We had additional yaks dropped off by a local company called Sassa Style Rentals. We saw so many manatees on the water, enjoyed emu island, fishing, campfires, yoga by the river, and we experienced some incredible sunsets while exploring the marshes. The best surprise of all was the bioluminescence off the dock on our last night - it was truly a once in a lifetime experience watching glowing turtles and fish swimming through the dark waters. As for the space itself, there was enough indoor space for everyone to be comfortable and the outdoor space was plentiful and private. I can say without a doubt everyone will always cherish this special slice of paradise and the memories we shared here. Needless to say, I can’t recommend this place enough :)
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jay T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Incredible Place!
Our stay at this river house was absolutely amazing. The beds were comfy, and the air was nice and cold. The home had such a peaceful setting. We made many memories as a family kayaking and canoeing. We loved visiting the state parks and local springs. Grocery shopping and restaurants were all close by. The host was amazing. They were helpful and always available. We are blessed to travel often and experience many different properties, and this property is at the top of our list. We look forward to return!  
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Randolph H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great floor plan and location
We loved the openness of this property. It let us enjoy visiting and talking while giving privacy to those who needed it. The covered parking was very helpful especially during summer storms. We enjoyed our stay very much!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sarah P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Vacation Spot!
This was a great place to stay, central to a ton of things. We were a large group (12 people) with young kids and had plenty of space in the house. The dock was a hit for fishing and kayaking/canoeing. Restaurants are close by, up to 15 min drive for some of them which provided nice views of the salt marshes. There are springs for swimming just up the road in Crystal River and beach access about 10 min away in the gulf. The kitchen was well stocked, plenty of towels and blankets for when we needed them, and a nice firepit outside for s'mores nights with the kids. Definitely hit up the Ellie Schiller park just a few miles down the road to see manatees and other local wildlife! This was an ideal HQ for our vacation and we would definitely stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patricia P., Palm Harbor

Liked: Cleanliness
Homosassa retreat
Beautiful house on the river. Very spacious and clean. Nice dock with a canoe and kayaks. Quiet neighborhood yet close to everything.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl S.

Liked: Cleanliness
This lively place had everything!
From age 5 to age 68, we all had fun! Kayaking, manatees, fishing, and a large open homey place offered the perfect grt-together place. Convenient to stores and restaurants, it was a lovely place and area.
Stayed 12 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tine N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect hideaway
It is the second time we stayed at this lovely home and it won’t be the last. It really feels more like a home than a rental with fluffy towels and soft comforters. We love being on the water and they provide good quality kayaks and paddles. The house is situated on a quiet canal and within a few minutes on the water you are surrounded by nature and, if you are lucky like we were, dozens of manatees. Our stay was perfect and we will come back next year!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice hideaway
Had a real good time here. Place was really spacious. Everything here to cook great meals and kayaks and canoe were awesome. Only problem we had was couldnt figure how to get the light to come on until you were at bottom of stairs. Thank you for letting us stay. Wud highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Janet W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing host~!
Host was so accommodating, answered fast and timely, really made our stay! It was a nice place, so thankful it had the amenities, it was close to everything as well! House was very nice and cozy!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Edward C.

Liked: Cleanliness
great property
we had a magmificent time.The master suite and other bedrooms on the main floor worked great for the adults and the kids loved the loft.The place was very clean an well equiped.What a nice surprise seeing a mother and baby Manatee come right up to the dock.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Doug E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Springs and Scalloping
Everything you need is already here , lg. house and family room. GREAT AIR CONDITIONING !!! +++ 6 adults 3 children 7 , 4 , and 6mos.old. The water at the dock behind the house is perfectly crystal clear and the kids enjoyed swimming in it and being taken out in canoe and kayak into the Hall river , saw emu island and lots of different fish. Beautiful drive out to Ozella , and great seafood restaurants are close by, we really enjoyed "THE CRAB PLANT". I recommend it !! Easy access to several springs and numerous parks all around We rented a pontoon boat for 2 days and we had a blast , got a few scallop , left the rest for you ! Plenty of local guides for scallops and fishing . Homosassa springs river waterfront is a happening place on both sides of the river . A large time was had by all .
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

April K.

Liked: Cleanliness
At peace with nature
Our stay was wonderful. Perfect space for 9 adults and 2 children. The outside was so peaceful and our two grandchildren looked forward to a kayak ride every evening.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Diane J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place to relax
We all totally enjoyed our stay. We got to see manatees, bald eagles, hawks, we caught fish! Great place for relaxation!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chris M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical Wildlife Location
Saw lots of manatees…and one juvenile hung out by the house dock for a day. Lots of great bird watching as well.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jackie H., usa

Liked: Cleanliness
Homosassa hidden treasure
Everything about the house was perfect. It was in a very quiet area. It had everything we needed for an extended stay (30 days). We kayaked often and saw manatees every time except one time. The kayaks that were provided were nice too. The master bed was very comfortable and having the bathroom in the bedroom was very convenient. We loved our stay and are considering renting again in the future.
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tine N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect for a quiet retreat
We go to Homosassa every year and love the location on Halls River. We bring paddle boards but the kayaks were a big plus. We love that it has little boating traffic so nothing disturbs the wildlife and there were about 13 manatees right around the bend. It was the coldest weather we e er had up there which was great for watching manatees and there are always a couple hanging around the dock in case the weather is not inviting enough to venture outside. The house itself is beautifully decorated, more like a home than a rental property. And has everything and more than you could wish for. Even the instructions are written in such a friendly and welcoming tone that you feel right at home. Had the weather been better I think we would have missed outdoor seating/eating option but as it was I was happily watching manatees from inside! We already booked for next year!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kay C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful spot!
Great location and lovely rental! Had everything you would need - to cook in, or good places to eat out!! Home was really comfortable!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jason H., Vine Grove, KY

Liked: Cleanliness
Great spot to see manatees
Our family enjoyed our time celebrating Thanksgiving together. We really enjoyed seeing all the cool fish and even manatees come up to the dock. The house was very close to stores and restaurants. Kitchen was big and had everything we needed to cook some great meals. Lots of fun. I really enjoyed the fire pit outside.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Erika S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Labor day weekend
We stayed at the river rats nest for labor day weekend and couldn't have selected a better place. It is clean and such a comfy home. We loved all the decor in the home as well. The owners were easy to communicate with. We will definitely stay here again.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Hollie A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay!
Such a beautiful home and property! A great coastal vibe to the home. Clean and well laid out. My family and I come to this area every year and this has been one of our favorite houses. We also loved kayaking the beautiful river on property!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nancy N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Thank you!
We really enjoyed the property and its owners! Often when we stay at rental properties, we will bring along supplies. However, we did not need to bring any supplies with us - everything was provided for at the property. From towels to linens and cookware/dishes, we were very impressed. We have stayed at many properties over the years for scalloping and this was the first time we were able to stay at a place that provided everything. We really appreciated the sweet welcome basket and the thoughtfulness that went behind our welcome. Cannot recommend this property enough!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dan W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great home
The kids and the adults had a blast. The Williams family.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Suzie S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family Staycation
We booked River Rats Retreat as a vacation for our extended family that wasn't too far from home in Jacksonville. The check in process was easy and the home was beautiful. The kitchen was fully stocked not only with cookware but also spices and even some disposable items. The layout of the house and bedroom set up was perfect. All 4 kids stayed in the loft area and the one bedroom with the desk was perfect for my sister who worked remotely during our stay. We enjoyed using the kayaks that were available and will bring a fishing pole next time since there were tons of fish right off the dock. I would highly recommend eating at the Biscuit Barn for breakfast. The staff was super friendly, service was quick and the food was great (make sure to get a cinnamon roll) We also rented a pontoon boat from Manatee Swim Center. For only $150 for 4 hours it was a great affordable was to explore Kings Bay and 3 Sisters Spring. This was the perfect vacation for our family and I would highly recommend staying here. I look forward to booking again in the winter when we can see more manatees.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Shelia W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fishing retreat
Our first time in this area of Florida, we really love this area. A wonderful home was icing on the cake.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Heather D., pinellas county, fl

Liked: Cleanliness
This house was very nice and comfortable for our group of 12
Definitely would recommend this property
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022