Entire home

Beautiful Waterfront • Scenic & Relaxing • Manatees • Kayaker’s Paradise

Photo gallery for Beautiful Waterfront • Scenic & Relaxing • Manatees • Kayaker’s Paradise

Beach
Property grounds
2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets
Dining
Smart TV, fireplace

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6149 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Pet friendly
  • Barbecue grill

About this property

Entire place

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

Beautiful Waterfront • Scenic & Relaxing • Manatees • Kayaker’s Paradise

Kayaks included! You can enjoy nature, fish and kayak right from the backyard in this beautiful waterfront vacation home.

Scenic and Relaxing, Halls River Retreat is located in the coveted north end of Homosassa Springs, only minutes from the centers of Crystal River, Homosassa Springs and Old Homosassa.

The Retreat is located on the Halls River, part of the Homosassa River, a pristine spring fed river where manatee come to give birth and relax away from the hustle and bustle of boat traffic on the main part of the river. It is a kayaker’s paradise.

The Halls and Homosassa Rivers offer year round world class fishing opportunities - and are home to an abundance of wildlife in the water, on shore and in the air!

AMENITIES and SPECIAL FEATURES

Kayaks for Guest Use. Single and tandem

Explore the unspoiled shores of the Halls River and the Homosassa River

Incredible Fishing and a Nature Lover’s Paradise

SWIM WITH THE MANATEE - Watch, get up-close, and swim with the Gentle Giants of Homosassa. Did you know that the waters of Citrus County (Homosassa and Crystal River) are the only place in the United States where you can legally swim with the manatee in the wild?

Kayak alongside Emu Island Florida and enjoy the antics of a mob of rare blue-eyed white and blonde emus

Screened room and a large outdoor deck overlook a spring fed canal where you can relax, fish and enjoy nature

BBQ grill in screened porch

Outdoor fire pit (we do not supply firewood 🪵)

Wi-Fi to keep you connected during your stay

Large fenced-in back yard

This waterfront home is only minutes from shopping, the world famous Three Sisters Springs, Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park and Crystal River. It is only an hour’s drive to some of Florida’s best theme parks, zoo, museums and attractions!

A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS. All of the nature photos on this page were taken either in the backyard or within a very short paddle from the Retreat.

Amazing, breathtaking, and captivating moments and memories await you at Halls River Retreat in Homosassa Springs Florida.

Prior to and throughout your stay, we are just a text or phone call away.

Your hosts,

Joanne and Gary

Additional notes about rates and cleaning policy:
1) House is to be left in the same clean condition as the time of check-in.
2) Rates are based on 4 guests; add $10.00 per night, per additional guest.

Property manager

Gary and Joanne Bartell

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: Smoking outdoors only. Must pick up butts.

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near the marina
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Spelunking nearby
  • Wildlife walks 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 (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Unit size: 1,600 square feet

Similar properties

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
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: Of course we love kids!

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
Note from host: Wedding & Family events! Contact us for details.
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 first aid kit and 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

We should mention

A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

Scenic Relaxing Waterfront Retreat House Homosassa
Scenic Relaxing Waterfront Retreat House
Scenic Relaxing Waterfront Retreat Homosassa
Scenic Relaxing Waterfront Retreat
Scenic Relaxing Waterfront Re
Scenic Relaxing Waterfront Retreat
Homosassa Waterfront Last Minute Weekend Special Deal!
Waterfront Home Kayaks Included Nature Lovers Paradise Manatee
Last Minute Christmas Opening for This Beautiful Waterfront Home

About the neighborhood

Map
Homosassa, FL

What's nearby

  • Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park - 4 min drive - 3.8 km
  • Homosassa Butterfly - 8 min drive - 9.3 km
  • Plantation Inn and Golf Resort - 8 min drive - 8.9 km
  • Three Sisters Springs - 9 min drive - 9.0 km
  • Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge - 9 min drive - 9.3 km

Getting around

  • Tampa Intl. Airport (TPA) - 70 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Sugarmill Restaurant - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Twistee Treat Homosassa - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Burger King - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬2 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautiful Waterfront • Scenic & Relaxing • Manatees • Kayaker’s Paradise pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Beautiful Waterfront • Scenic & Relaxing • Manatees • Kayaker’s Paradise?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Beautiful Waterfront • Scenic & Relaxing • Manatees • Kayaker’s Paradise?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Beautiful Waterfront • Scenic & Relaxing • Manatees • Kayaker’s Paradise located?

Situated on the waterfront, this vacation home is 2 mi (3.2 km) from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and within 6 mi (10 km) of Citrus County Dog Park and Old Mill House Gallery and Printing Museum. Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park and A Crystal River Kayak Company are also within 6 mi (10 km).

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Beautiful Waterfront • Scenic & Relaxing • Manatees • Kayaker’s Paradise Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 148 out of 157 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 157 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 157 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 157 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 157 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

6.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Tina P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

We enjoyed our stay. The home was so clean and in a great location.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nicole D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place!

This is one of our favorite places to stay. Plenty of parking, clean and Joanne is a great hostess! This home is roomy and the AC works great. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matelon D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome!

Great location, super clean, loved kayaking!! Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

James D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Northern Escape

We stayed
Stayed 18 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Renee S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect place to relax

Enjoyed our stay and will be back next year.
Stayed 13 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Hilda Kay C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Florida experience

The cottage is adorable - comfortable and clean. Location is very private but convenient to everything. Would definitely stay there again!
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amelia W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

So much fun

Had a great time thank you for letting us enjoy your cute home . It was a blast will be back in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

robert p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great getaway

Very relaxing place. The nature around you is so wonderful and relaxing
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Richard D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Halls River

The area is beautiful
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Pauleah T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unable to stay

Sadly Hurricane Helene flooded the property. Owner and Vrbo were very prompt with info and refund. Will try again !
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melanie F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet and convenient

This home is Tucktaway on a quiet spot of the river. We had easy access to kayaking and multiple state parks. We would definitely stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Phil S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect place for a family getaway

Our family was looking for an all in one place by the river to stay, and Joanne’s house hit the mark. The house was large enough for a family of five to sleep comfortably, and with the water out back we spent hours fishing and kayaking. We also loved making s’mores each night at the fire pit. The property was calm, quiet, and beautiful, and from start to finish I couldn’t have been happier with communication and support from our host.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steven W., Villa Grove, Colorado

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Old Florida experience

Immaculate and clean home. Great Old Florida feel. Easy booking and pet friendly. Highly recommend a stay here. Close to the best Florida springs.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tina W., Ft. Lauderdale

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful woodsy setting

The hostess, Joanne, was amazingly accommodating. The property was in the midst of quiet and wildlife. Nearby are restaurants, shopping, boat adventures, private beach, and small city life. Good place for a getaway!!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

ethan b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vacation

Awesome! House was perfect. Great location. River and kayaking was wonderful.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Julie G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Memorial Day

Quiet neighborhood right on the river. Kayaks available to use, great host and great time.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robin M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved our stay

The property was as listed with a couple nice touches like the welcome board. We enjoyed the access to kayaks. Joanne was a great host helping us navigate finding fun things while kayaking in the river. I highly recommend this rental.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful pet friendly spot!

We had a fabulous time in this tranquil cottage! Joanne really goes out of her way to be sure the guest has a great experience. Upon arrival it was very clean and all the essentials present. We were traveling with our pets and they were so happy to play in the fenced backyard. We also took a trip on the river with the kayaks. It was a really hot day and we meet some local folks who parked their boats for a swim or float in the shallows. We would love to stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful, clean, beautiful retreat

I loved kayaking the river and touring nearby springs. There is so much to do here. The neighborhood was beautiful and everything was perfect. My mom stayed with me and said that it was her favorite rental. The kitchen layout was awesome and we also loved the large yard. We would love to stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

So Chill

Our family of four had a wonderful, relaxing time @ this river house! Ms. Joanne is an exceptional hostess & is very responsive in all communications. I don’t know how else to explain it but the vibe in this house is so chill. There are kayaks on site for use which is awesome! The house is clean, comfy & is equipped w all the essentials for a home away from home. The neighborhood is quiet & close to anything you want to do in the area. Thanks, we’d definitely stay again!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

“Old Florida” Getaway

Our stay at the house on the water was quiet and enjoyable. We got to see manatees right off the property seawall. Also got to see otters from the property. Kayaks available enabled us to see Emu Island and more manatees. Joanne was a great host and also interesting to ask questions to about the history of the area. We would definitely like to return for another stay to the house on the water!
Stayed 14 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ava D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Singh beauty and peace ❤️❤️

We loved our stay! It was so peaceful and quiet! Our son loves being able to fish from the backyard. The kayaks were an added bonus. We had a manatee visit during our stay! Great central location! We will definitely return!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Ginny H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Kayak from the house

Nice.
Stayed 16 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Halls River Pleasure

This is our 2nd trip to this home and and enjoyed each time, Joanne is a great host and very caring about your stay. Recommend this house and location when in this area without a doubt. Kayaking down the river is so peaceful and the wildlife is so beautiful. Will be back for sure.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Charlotte D., Southern Pines, NC

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A little piece of heaven

Wonderful property. Most comfortable bed I have ever slept in away from home. Nice sheets and towels too. A lot of effort has been put towards guests comfort, inculding outside towels, bug repellent, lots of kayaks and paddles and life jackets. I would definitely stay here again! And we did get to see 2 manatees right at the back of the house, amazing!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024