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5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10

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The pond House is a peaceful retreat for Families.
Enjoy outdoors gathering with family and friends.
The pond house is surrounded by nature and mature trees.
View from the all property sitting on 1 acres of land.
Large pool to entertain family and friends

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% based on
5 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 103000 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View in a map
Gainesville, FL
  • Place, Regal Royal Park
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Place, Regal Royal Park
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, University of Florida
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Airport, Gainesville, FL (GNV-Gainesville Regional)
    ‪21 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 5

1 Queen Sofa Bed

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Jetted bathtub · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10

Your Private Family Retreat Near the University of Florida

Welcome to The Pond House, a serene and spacious 5-bedroom retreat set on a full acre of peaceful natural surroundings just 2 miles from the University of Florida. Thoughtfully designed for comfort, connection, and memorable gatherings, this home offers the perfect setting for UF graduations, game day weekends, holidays, and extended family stays.

Here, you’ll enjoy the rare combination of privacy, nature, and proximity to everything Gainesville has to offer.

⸻

A Home Designed for Gathering

From the moment you arrive, The Pond House invites you to slow down and settle in. With expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces, everyone can be together while still having room to relax.

The open and welcoming layout makes it easy to:
   •   share meals
   •   celebrate milestones
   •   enjoy game nights
   •   unwind after a day on campus

The large dining areas and fully equipped gourmet kitchen are ideal for preparing everything from casual breakfasts to graduation celebrations.

⸻

Outdoor Living at Its Best

The outdoor spaces are where The Pond House truly shines.

Spend your days:

☀️ Swimming in the large private pool
🌿 Enjoying the wide open green space for kids to play
🍽 Dining together outdoors
🔥 Relaxing by the fire pits under the stars
☕ Sipping morning coffee with tranquil pond views

The one-acre setting creates a peaceful, private atmosphere that feels like a true escape — while still being minutes from UF.

⸻

Fun for All Ages

Inside, the game room brings everyone together for friendly competition and evening entertainment, featuring:

🎱 Pool table
🎮 Nintendo gaming system

Whether it’s kids, teens, or adults, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

⸻

Comfort for Up to 10 Guests

With five beautifully appointed bedrooms, the home comfortably accommodates up to 10 guests, making it ideal for:
   •   multi-generation families
   •   two families traveling together
   •   graduation gatherings
   •   group getaways

There is plenty of space to spread out, recharge, and feel at home.

⸻

Perfect for UF Events & Gainesville Visits

The Pond House is especially loved by guests visiting for:

🎓 UF Graduations
🏈 Football weekends
👨‍👩‍👧 Parent & family visits
🎉 Celebrations and reunions

Being just 2 miles from the University of Florida, you’re close to campus, restaurants, shopping, and local attractions — while still enjoying a peaceful retreat at the end of the day.

⸻

Thoughtful Amenities

✔ Large private pool
✔ Game room with pool table & Nintendo
✔ Fully equipped gourmet kitchen
✔ Spacious indoor & outdoor dining areas
✔ Fire pits for evening gatherings
✔ Fast Wi-Fi
✔ Parking for multiple vehicles
✔ 1-acre private setting with pond views

Every detail is designed to make your stay comfortable, easy, and memorable.

⸻

The Experience

More than just a place to stay, The Pond House is a place to:
   •   reconnect
   •   celebrate
   •   relax
   •   create lasting family memories

Whether you’re cheering on a Gator, celebrating a milestone, or simply escaping for a peaceful getaway, this home offers the space and setting to make it special. Wildlife Notice – Natural Pond Area

Our pond is part of Florida’s natural ecosystem and is occasionally visited by a small local alligator.

He is not aggressive and usually stays in or near the water, but for everyone’s safety:
   •   Do not feed the alligator
   •   Do not approach or attempt to touch
   •   Do not throw objects into the pond
   •   No swimming or fishing in the pond
   •   Please supervise children and pets at all times near the water

During warmer months, he may rest on the edge of the pond to sunbathe.

This is very common in Florida and completely safe as long as these simple rules are respected.

We love our peaceful backyard and the wildlife that comes with it — thank you for helping us keep both guests and nature safe. This is a private, serene retreat intended for quiet enjoyment.
Parties, events, and unregistered guests are not permitted
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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Events

No events allowed
Small and quiet gatherings upon request only.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 4 total)
The pet fee is $50
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load the dishwasher
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Quiet hours 10pm–8am. No parties or events. Driveway parking only. Thank you for helping us keep a peaceful, family-friendly retreat.
Excessive noise or disturbances reported by neighbors or authorities may result in immediate termination of the stay without refund.
The host reserves the right to address noise complaints promptly and take appropriate action, including contacting local authorities if necessary.

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: Small and quiet gatherings upon request only.
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock

About the neighborhood

Gainesville

Located in Sugarfoot, a neighborhood in Gainesville, this vacation home is next to a golf course and on the waterfront. Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History and Florida Museum of Natural History are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention and Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. Traveling with kids? Consider Haile Village Playground and Hammock Ridge Park. Kayaking, water tubing, and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding nearby.
View more Vacation Homes in GainesvilleOpens in a new window
Map
Gainesville, FL

What's nearby

  • Regal Royal Park - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Regal Royal Park - 3 min drive - 2.4 km
  • University of Florida - 4 min drive - 2.4 km
  • Ben Hill Griffin Stadium - 7 min drive - 4.3 km
  • Shands at the University of Florida - 9 min drive - 5.3 km

Getting around

  • Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) - 28 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Circle K - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Mi Apá Latin Café - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Las Carretas - ‬20 min walk
  • ‪Gator's Dockside - ‬17 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Does 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10 have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

How much does it cost to stay at 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10?

As of Feb 28, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10 on Mar 3, 2026 start from 571.28, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10 pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 4 total).

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10 located?

This family-friendly Gainesville vacation home is located on the waterfront, within 2 mi (3 km) of Regal Royal Park and University of Florida. Regal Royal Park and Spyglass Dog Park are also within 2 mi (3 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 41 out of 43 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 43 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 43 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 43 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 43 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our family had a wonderful stay! The property was perfect, and every detail was attended to. Definitely a five star property!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Beauty B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was perfect- clean; great layout; and comfortable!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house is AMAZING. Wish we were staying longer.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing stay! Great house! Great host!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sydna A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We could not have asked for a better house for our family to gather for the weekend of our daughter’s wedding. We were lacking for nothing. It was so well stocked and so pristine. My husband and I enjoyed our morning coffee while watching the birds in the pond. Although we did not use the pool, it was beautiful. The pool table was enjoyed even though it was chilly outside. I could think of no reason anyone would not enjoy The Pond House. Thank you for providing it! We will find a reason to stay there in the future.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Robert O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect location close to UF with so much room for a family to enjoy. Seamless stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Krista R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Relaxing atmosphere and well-equipped home for a crowd.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peter G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed in the Pond House Friday and Saturday night for the FL/FSU game. We had three adult couples and two college students. The house was the perfect size for us, plenty of room. We grilled out Friday and Saturday night, grille was great, kitchen is excellent, fully equipped. Check in and check out was easy and communication with the host was seamless. Weather was cold so we used both the gas and the real wood firepits. Brought our own wood. Great backyard and pond. I highly recommend this house and would definitely come back again with my family.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a wonderful stay here! The entire house was spotless, and you could tell the owners take great pride in keeping everything clean and comfortable. Each bathroom had thoughtful little touches like Q-tips, razor, toothbrush, ear plugs which made our stay more welcoming. Plenty of paper products were supplied throughout the house, too.The decor was beautiful. The layout was perfect for our family get-together, giving everyone space while feeling connected. We didn't get a chance to enjoy the pool this time, but we would absolutely love to come back and make use of it.The host was responsive and helpful from start to finish. Overall, an excellent stay. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Diana S.

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

Beautiful Home

The home was beautiful and the kitchen was well stocked with everything you could possibly need. We enjoyed the wildlife around the pond.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chris W.

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

Great place

Will definitely come back. Wish we were there longer.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cedric W.

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

Great Property

We were really impressed with the property. The layout was fantastic and had all of the amenities we desired. Definitely recommend it!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

fvhaven

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

very nice location and setting

Two weeks, lots of room and well-appointed, generous basic supplies, loverly views and settings, splendid back yard, nice quiet neighborhood, everything worked well, very much enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Greg T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This house was stunning! It has it all plus a great host! Whether you are here for a gator game, a relaxing family retreat or in our case both, you won’t regret it. The home is stocked with fun, games, and everyday essentials most rentals don’t have, even had more than 1 roll of paper towels and toilet paper. The home was stocked with coffee, Nespresso and even creamer. We had a family party of 8 with plenty of space to split up and have our alone time as well. You can tell this host cares about their property. You will love it and we will definitely be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carol E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This vacation home is a winner! The home was spacious, comfortable and very clean. The kitchen and bathrooms were so thoughtfully stocked, as well as a game room and a pool table. The pool was a hit! It was in a good neighborhood. The host was great. I can't think of anything that was negative about it. All in all, the house was very inviting, and I would definitely book it again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian W.

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

Very nice

Really enjoyed the stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Randy T.

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

Amazing place 10/10

We were here for my daughter’s graduation. This house surpassed our expectations. The beds were comfortable, the neighborhood was very peaceful and the kitchen was well stocked. The pool was relaxing. We don’t have the opportunity to be together often and this place just made it perfect.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Holly C.

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

Great stay!

We enjoyed our stay here and had everything we needed! It was clean and perfect for our extended family for a long weekend. The beds were comfy and we loved the pool table area and the pool!! Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

kerry b.

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

Hidden Gem

The pond house was very centrally located but tucked away on a side street. The house was very spacious and had several different areas to come together as a group or find a quiet place to relax. We also enjoyed the large back yard.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carrie H.

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

Pond house

This house provided so much space for our family of teens and young adults to spread out or hang out together playing pool, swimming, eating, playing games.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leslie T.

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

Super comfy

Lots and lots of space! Beds were super comfy and everything was a quick drive! Very clean. Would stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laurie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We found this house to be AMAZING! Everything was just as described and all of the rooms are large. It is a very expansive home. Huge pool and game room area. Huge kitchen. Huge dining table (we played cards!).....huge driveway. All so tucked away in a cool, old Gainesville neighborhood. The pond was so pretty, and it even had a friendly small gator in it that would watch from a distance. We rode our bikes to the stadium for game day and thought it was an easy 2.5 mile ride. You won't be disappointed!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shannon S.

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

Great family Thanksgiving

We had a delightful time together at the pond house! Plenty of space for our family. Great kitchen for cooking a Thanksgiving meal for all of us. Peaceful surroundings by the pond and fun in the pool!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Drew D.

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

Retreat!

What an amazing stay. I brought my extended family here to evacuate from a hurricane. The host was gracious, the property had everything you could want or need. I would highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Justin R.

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

Pictures do not do justice

This property is soooo much better in person. Great for lounging with friedns and family. Love this property.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

About the host

Hosted by Kathleen

Host profile image

We are a French–Argentinian family with four children and a deep love for nature, travel, and meaningful gatherings. As longtime Airbnb guests since 2014, we had the privilege of staying in beautiful homes around the world and learned firsthand what makes a place feel truly special, welcoming, and effortless.

In 2023, we decided to share our own vision of hospitality by opening The Pond House — a peaceful property where families and friends can slow down, reconnect, and create lasting memories together. Our lifestyle is centered around balance, the outdoors, and spending quality time with the people we love, and we designed this home to reflect exactly that feeling.

As animal lovers and experienced travelers, we care deeply about comfort, thoughtful details, and providing a stay that feels both personal and seamless. We hope you feel at home from the moment you arrive and enjoy The Pond House as much as we do.

Why they chose this property

We chose this area for its unique blend of peace, space, and proximity to everything Gainesville has to offer. Just minutes from the University of Florida, the neighborhood allows our guests to be close to campus, stadium events, shopping, and restaurants while still enjoying the privacy of a quiet, residential setting.

What makes this location truly special is its authentic Gainesville character and strong sense of community. The area has a rich cultural history and a long-standing neighborhood spirit that gives it a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Surrounded by greenery and mature trees, it’s perfect for morning walks, outdoor time with the family, and relaxing after a busy day at UF. For us, it offers the ideal balance between convenience and the feeling of a peaceful retreat — which is exactly what we wanted our guests to experience at The Pond House.

What makes this property unique

What sets The Pond House apart is the rare combination of space, nature, and location. Set on a full private acre just minutes from the University of Florida, it offers the peaceful feeling of a retreat while keeping you close to everything Gainesville has to offer.

The tranquil pond views, expansive outdoor areas, and mature greenery create a setting that is incredibly hard to find this close to campus. Whether you’re enjoying your morning coffee by the water, spending the afternoon in the large private pool, or gathering around the fire pits in the evening, the home is designed for connection and relaxation.

Inside, the house is equally made for shared experiences — from the gourmet kitchen and large dining spaces for group meals to the game room with pool table and Nintendo for all ages.

It’s not just a place to stay — it’s a private, nature-filled gathering space where families and friends can slow down, celebrate, and create lasting memories together.

Languages:

English, French, Spanish

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