Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included - Homosassa

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Entire home

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

9.8

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4900 sq ft

Popular amenities

Washer

Barbecue grill

Kitchen

Air conditioning

Dryer

Outdoor Space

Check-in time

3:00 PM

Check-out time

12:00 PM

Explore the area

Homosassa, FL

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park1 min walk
7 Sisters Springs13 min drive
Three Sisters Springs14 min drive
Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)66 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed, 1 Double Futon and 1 Twin Bunk Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Outdoor play area

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included

One of a kind rental, because it is on a canal off the headsprings of the Homosassa River. Swim with the manatees very near the house in the winter months. They gather in the clear waters just 300 yards away, a short kayak paddle, and kayaks included. The water is always 72 degrees so don't let the cold air scare you off, it is quite pleasant. You are also allowed a 10% discount at Bird's Underwater Dive Center who manages the house. You can take a tour with them on the Crystal River with your discount or they will loan you masks and snorkels if you would rather go it alone from the house. This clean, popular house has been a rental unit for 11 years and many people return very good reviews. The Homosassa Springs State Park is across the street and over a short footbridge. There are two docks, you can fish, or sit and enjoy a fire on the LP gas burning fire pit. This is the Only vacation rental unit in Homosassa within 300 yards of the clear freshwater springs. Two-night minimum stay. Screened-in back porch overlooking the canal. Spacious backyard with banana, grapefruit, and fig trees. Canal has direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. Lots of unique waterfront restaurants that specialize in fresh seafood in this little old Florida town.

Paddle to the clear freshwaters of Homosassa River outside of the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, see their website. Manatees gather 300 yards from the house to winter in 72-degree water. You may swim with manatees. House owned by Bird's Underwater Dive Center, see the website, who will rent you necessary snorkel gear and explain rules of engagement with manatees.

Great swimming in summer. Great fishing. Walk to state park two blocks away to view manatees and other indigenous animals.

Keywords: Waterfront House

Property manager

Karl Oestreich

Languages

English

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Air conditioning

Outdoor Space

Water view

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Pet friendly

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 18

Check out before 12:00 PM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Please see the attached PDF for house rules, sign and return to ----@--------.---

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

We should mention

A car is required for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Homosassa

Located in Homosassa, this vacation home is on the waterfront. Riverhaven Marina and A Crystal River Kayak Company are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Three Sisters Springs and Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

View more Vacation Homes in Homosassa

Homosassa, FL

What's nearby

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park - 1 min walk
Homosassa Butterfly - 7 min drive
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge - 12 min drive
7 Sisters Springs - 13 min drive
Three Sisters Springs - 14 min drive

Getting around

Tampa Intl. Airport (TPA) - 66 min drive

Restaurants

‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
‪Moschello's Pizza - ‬3 min drive
‪The Freezer Tiki Bar - ‬6 min drive
‪Sugarmill Restaurant - ‬5 min drive
‪Two Guys From Italy - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included?

Check-out is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included located?

This family-friendly Homosassa vacation home is located on the waterfront, within 2 mi (3 km) of Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Old Mill House Gallery and Printing Museum, and Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park. Tiger Tail Island and Beli Island are also within 6 mi (10 km).

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.

Learn more

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Angela

Jun 21, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication

The kayaks, the manatees the area was so wonder!!

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Desiree F.

Jun 20, 2024

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

Manatees were out our back door!

This vacation home is perfect. We had a great time using the kayaks. Manatees were literally right off the dock! We paddled out to the springs and to monkey island. I definitely recommend both. The house itself its very clean and has everything you can think of. We would rent this unit again!

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amelia R.

May 22, 2024

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

Manatees galore!

We had the best time here kayaking down the springs, going to the state park and watching the manatees, and seeing all the animals they have to offer! The house is literally at the wildlife state park. The waterway we took out of from the house is the same one you see from the overlooks at the park. It was the best quick getaway we’ve had in a long time and we’ll definitely be back!

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Edward S.

May 1, 2024

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

Cozy house

Definitely a beautiful location. Right on the water. Manatees in the back yard. Easy drive to many local restaurants and attractions

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mary B.

Apr 25, 2024

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

Visiting the Manatee

My daughter and I had a fabulous stay. The property was very well located for kayaking and touring.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deb L.

Apr 22, 2024

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

Feels like home

This is an older home but very clean...everything works great....Cook a meal or grill out...Wash your clothes....but most of all.......enjoy the manatees right in front of your eyes....We did not canoe but they are there for you to use..a great rental.

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

John T.

Apr 22, 2024

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

Great Place

Clean, Neat and Manatees!

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jay B.

Apr 18, 2024

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

Great place

The house is great, has all the amenities, very clean. The owner is responsive and very nice.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

David R.

Apr 12, 2024

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

Lovely Place!

Second time staying, and we really enjoy the house and garden.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mike H.

Feb 1, 2024

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

Another great trip

Everythung at the house was fine, the manatees were friendly, and the food, service, and entertainment at MARGUERITA GRILL was GREAT !!!

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Renee A.

Jan 30, 2024

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

Manatee

The opportunity to be so close to the reserve was idyllic. We were able to take the kayaks for a paddle and within 1000 yds we were watching the Manatee stay warm at the entrance to the State park’s water side!

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike H.

Jan 8, 2024

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

Another great weekend !

We got there later than normal, because, due to the inclement weather, we decided we wouldn't try to swim with the manatees. I love the keybox entry. The house was clean and orderly, it had everything we needed. We always enjoy our stay here, whether we swim with the manatees or not!

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

Dec 10, 2023

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

Another excellent stay

We stay there every Thanksgiving and have not been disappointed! See you next year!

Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Angela M.

Dec 2, 2023

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

Truly OUTSTANDING location!

The location of this house is suburb, especially if you like to kayak and particularly if you like to kayak to hang out with manatees. Diana made the whole process easy and clear and was prompt in answering any questions we had. We visited for a couple of nights in late November and felt so lucky to have just a 4 or 5 minute paddle to the Homosassa Head Spring where manatees congregate in the colder months. And the Ellie Schiller Wildlife State Park is just a 5 minute walk from the house as well. The backyard with 2 docks, kayak ramp, chairs and a gas fire-pit is a lovely place to relax. Other nearby adventures (all within 30 miles away )we recommend are: swimming with manatees in Kings Bay with Bird's Underwater Dive Center, stand up paddle boarding on the Rainbow River (turtles and otters)and kayaking the Weeki Wachee River(manatees and raccoons). One recommendation would be to plan on cooking or grilling out at the house if you're visiting on a Monday night since most local restaurants seem to be closed on Mondays!

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Haley H.

Nov 23, 2023

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

Great property

Perfect for my small group of friends. We loved using the kayaks. No manatee sightings in early November but we did see a dolphin and swam in the head springs. The town is real cute too! We loved the freezer for shrimp and the ice cream Barr — they had really unique flavors.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robin B.

Oct 15, 2023

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

Great place!

The house was perfect for a short stay. Clean, great location, perfect size, great outdoor space.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deanna P.

Oct 8, 2023

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

Wonderful location for boating and kayaking

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michele B.

Aug 22, 2023

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

Perfect location

This cute place is right on the water and just a few paddles to the springs. It is perfectly cozy and we will definitely be returning! Communication with the host was very simple. Location Location !!!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Antoinette H.

Aug 21, 2023

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

Loved this place

Loved this place. It was so cute and the water was in the back yard. We will stay here again

Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Caleb B.

Aug 20, 2023

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

Great location

Perfect location! Close to the spring, minutes from local stores and restaurants, and right on the water. The place is well kept and has everything you need. We will definitely stay here again when we need a little stay-cation.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Jul 27, 2023

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

Very Nice house

The house was right on the water and very close to the springs. We were able to take or boat out scalloping and stop by the springs on the way back everyday. You just need to make sure your boat fits under the bridge. We have a pontoon boat and had to take down the canopy to get under.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

6/10 Okay

Ashley P.

Jul 20, 2023

Liked: Check-in, location, listing accuracy

Disliked: Cleanliness

Great Spot…

We loved this spot on the canal it was awesome and had great access to the spring. Down Side was the inside of the house had fruit flys and porch smelt like cat pee. Bathroom was tiny and flys seemed to accumulate their. Coach was broke and and fridge doors don’t shut all the way which causes it to beep all day and night. Previous guest trash was left which made dumpster smell up the whole yard. This property does bode have a dishwasher and if you leave a few dishes in the sink you will be charged $100. We were also blamed for broken vintage blinds.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amanda K.

May 29, 2023

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

Quick getaway

Perfect location! Quiet, clean, tons of amenities. Highly recommend it!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

tony

Apr 29, 2023

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

Location!

It’s all about location with this property. It’s right on the water and there are kayaks and fishing poles to use. It was really nice being able to paddle around without having to transport or rent a boat or coordinate a drive back. Diane was responsive, check in and check out were a breeze and the home has all the basics you’ll need. But if you’re like us you’ll be outside most of the time. We’d stay again!

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tina M.

Apr 23, 2023

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

Fun Time in Homosassa

We enjoyed our stay in this house on the waterway. We saw lots of different birds and other wildlife. We kayaked to the river and visited some of the local attractions.

Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2023

About the host

Hosted by Karl Oestreich

Bill and Diane Oestreich own Bird's Underwater Dive Center in Crystal River. Originally from Elkhart and LaPorte Indiana, met in high school. After 11 years on the road as musicians, we settled into the Crystal River, had one son, adopted 4 more boys over the years, who are now moving on. Still active in scuba diving, Bill "Bird" teaches cave, re-breather, and other technical diving. We also have two other rental houses listed on VRBO as 12055 and 1019739

Why they chose this property

When you rent one of our houses you also get 10% off a Manatee Tour with Bird's Underwater and 10% off a Scalloping Tour (July - Sept) as well as use of the kayaks at Bird's Underwater which is located on King's Bay.
For groups larger than 5 persons see our VRBO listing #12055 located on the Hall's River in Homosassa, FL.
Our newest addition is a small blockhouse on 5 acres of land in Branford Florida, not far from Gainesville, Ginnie Springs, Poe Springs, and Ichnetucknee Springs parks. Great places to dive, snorkel, fish, kayak and other water-related sports. Listing number 1019739

What makes this property unique

Short walk to the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Wildlife State Park.
Kayaks included.
Waterfront has access to the Gulf of Mexico, very popular during scallop season July 1 - Sept. 24th. Disadvantage: If you have a fly bridge or hardtop on your boat you cannot get under the Fishbowl Drive bridge.
See manatees near the house in the wild in the cold winter months.
Fishing
bike rentals in Crystal River
Great waterfront restaurants in Homosassa, easy to Google.