See all properties
House boat

REELAXATION 'A comfortable Cabin on Apalachicola River.' New Water Filtration

Photo gallery for REELAXATION 'A comfortable Cabin on Apalachicola River.' New Water Filtration

Exterior
Outdoor dining
Private kitchen
Living area
Room

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2950 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Apalachicola, FL
  • Place, Riverfront Therapy & Spirit of the River Spa
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Port St. Joe Beach
    ‪31 min drive‬
  • Place, Mexico Beach
    ‪45 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom

1 King Bed

Living Room

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

REELAXATION 'A comfortable Cabin on Apalachicola River.' New Water Filtration

Reelaxation: Rustic Floating Cabin Houseboat Adventure in Apalachicola


Escape to "Old Florida" with this charming, hand-built floating cabin, a unique rustic retreat sleeping up to 2, ideal for fishing lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone seeking pure tranquility on the water.


Crafted from native woods by a local fishing captain, Reelaxation is a stable, spacious floating cabin docked right on the scenic Apalachicola River in historic downtown Apalachicola, the heart of Florida's Forgotten Coast.


Remarkably steady (no rocking, even in storms), it offers an exotic, unforgettable experience of living on the water. Wake to stunning sunrises from your bedroom window, then step onto the expansive screened porch for morning coffee as the river comes alive: playful dolphins, gentle manatees gliding by, pelicans diving for breakfast, families of ducks, osprey nests, and shrimp boats unloading their fresh catch.


Evenings bring moonlit serenity, frog symphonies, and incredible wildlife viewing – all from your private deck, where guests reel in redfish and trout by the dozens with ease.


Prime Waterfront Location


Just steps from vibrant historic downtown Apalachicola, with its charming shops, art galleries, fresh seafood eateries (world-famous oysters!), breweries, and maritime heritage. A short drive reaches sugar-white beaches at St. George Island State Park or St. Vincent Island Wildlife Refuge for hiking and exploration.


Why It's Special


One of the most special aspects of staying on The Reelaxation is the connection to the water, from your dockside porch you can:

+ Watch dolphins, pelicans, and other river wildlife
+ Fish directly from the back deck
+ Take in peaceful sunsets and river activity
+ Enjoy leisurely mornings with the changes in the tides and wildlife all around.
+ Located just a short walk from historic downtown Apalachicola, your stay offers easy access to:
+ Unique boutiques, galleries, and local stores
+ Excellent restaurants featuring fresh Gulf seafood especially the world famous Apalachicola oysters!
+ Museums and cultural attractions
+ Outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, or scenic river tours.
+ Free Parking: Available just steps from your floating home
+ Internet: Free wireless internet included
+ Extras: Iron & board, hair dryer, heating, and more provided
+Policies: Cleaning fee and tax applied; military discount offered.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Miscellaneous
Rebel's Rest - A Romantic Getaway Houseboat w/ New Water Filtration System
Historic Downtown Apalachicola
  • Kitchen
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (56 reviews)
Rebel's Rest - A Romantic Getaway Houseboat w/ New Water Filtration System

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

Pets allowed: limit 2 total
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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 fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the neighborhood

Apalachicola

Located on the waterfront, this houseboat is in Historic Downtown Apalachicola, a neighborhood in Apalachicola. Dixie Theatre and John Gorrie State Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Apalachicola Chocalate Company and Downtown Books & Purl. With kayaking, scuba diving, and motor boating nearby, you'll find plenty of adventures in the water.
View more Houseboats in ApalachicolaOpens in a new window
Map
Apalachicola, FL

What's nearby

  • Riverfront Therapy & Spirit of the River Spa - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • St. George Island Beach - 17 min drive - 24.2 km
  • Port St. Joe Beach - 31 min drive - 41.2 km
  • Saint Joe Beach - 40 min drive - 62.3 km
  • Mexico Beach - 45 min drive - 69.6 km

Getting around

  • Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. Airport (ECP) - 109 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Red Pirate - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪El Jalisco Mexican Restaurant - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪The Gibson Inn - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Oyster City Brewing Company - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪The Station - ‬6 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is REELAXATION 'A comfortable Cabin on Apalachicola River.' New Water Filtration pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at REELAXATION 'A comfortable Cabin on Apalachicola River.' New Water Filtration?

As of Apr 16, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at REELAXATION 'A comfortable Cabin on Apalachicola River.' New Water Filtration on May 26, 2026 start from $282, 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.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at REELAXATION 'A comfortable Cabin on Apalachicola River.' New Water Filtration?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at REELAXATION 'A comfortable Cabin on Apalachicola River.' New Water Filtration?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is REELAXATION 'A comfortable Cabin on Apalachicola River.' New Water Filtration located?

Located in Historic Downtown Apalachicola, this houseboat is within a 5-minute walk of Riverfront Therapy & Spirit of the River Spa, Dixie Theatre, and Apalachicola Chocalate Company. Orman House Historic State Park and Downtown Books & Purl are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

9.8

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. 100 out of 116 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 116 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 116 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 116 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 116 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

James P.

Liked: Location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in, communication
Great rental. Loved our stay. Communication my have been better with the host. Noticed there was no smoke alarm also tv in bedroom didn't work.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rick P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The boat hpuse was exactly what we expected in the best way. We had walked by these for years and are so glad we finally stayed in one of them
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

deb d.

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

Great stay

Best review I can give is I would stay there again!😊
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marianne & Jim M.

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

Another lovely stay on Reelaxation Houseboat

Our second visit. And being pet friendly is a great perk!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan W.

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

Great View! Awesome Getaway!

Great little place for our Memorial Day/Honeymoon getaway! Everything was great!Brought our boat but were told that we weren't allowed to to tie up to the back once we had it in, we made the best of it and just took in and out each day, boat ramp is just down Water Street. Location is perfect, just a walk away from everything Apalachicola.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

DENISE G.

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

Absolutely great

Great kocation
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Teresa M.

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

Houseboat Stay

This was our 3rd stay in this houseboat. There is nothing like staying on the water! Had a wonderful time!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Kathy M.

Lovely houseboat on the tranquil and beautiful Apalachiacola river.

Another wonderful week on the Reelaxation. Fishing off the back deck was excellent! We highly recommend this place!!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2017
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cindy M.

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

Relaxing Getaway

Awesome!!! We will definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Teresa S.

Relaxing

Very relaxing did not want to leave.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Caroline D.

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

Couple's Vacation

We were looking for a quiet, peaceful vacation somewhere pretty on or near the beach with minimal tourist traffic and we found exactly what we needed here. The boat was comfortable and clean, and the view was unbeatable. Would happily return.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Denise C.

Very relaxing...

...we loved our time aboard the Reelaxation. It was a beautiful spot to just hang out and enjoy the scenery. Already wishing we could go back.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark A.

Everything was perfect. Will be back!

Everything was great! Will be back
Stayed 3 nights in May 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robbie R.

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

Fantastic vacation!

Great accommodations with fantastic views overlooking the Apalachicola River having gorgeous sunrises and fishing from the front porch! Enjoyable walks to restaurants and shopping. The host is very accommodating. We will be back again for sure!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Beth M.

Perfect!

We loved our houseboat stay in Apalachicola, the accommodations were quaint, comfortable, well-equipped and well-maintained! Karen was a wonderful host and we could walk to all of our favorite destinations in Apalachicola! Couldn't ask for a more pleasant stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2017
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adelle W.

Houseboat is my kind of place this

This houseboat is within walking distance of all the restaurants and places of interest in Apalachicola, and sitting on the deck watching the pelicans and other wildlife was a favorite pastime.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2019
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Heather N.

Perfect Getaway

The houseboat is perfect, the town is great, the food is divine, and the views are amazing. What else can you ask for? We will certainly be back! Thanks for making this great property available on VRBO!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

William O.

Brief Visitors

Place was clean and fun once we were aboard. Stairs could be challenging depending on the tide.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Roger H.

Great

Houseboat was great. Karen was so nice and accommodating.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Rick E.

Fantastic place to stay. The experience is unique and the accommodations are comfortable

Appalachicola is a historical and incredible piece of Florida history. The houseboat experience was more than we thought it would be. Watching the boats come and go is so relaxing. Karen is a great host. This a must for anyone who wants to experience old Florida.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2017
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl C.

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

CSC

Great location you can walk all over town. We enjoy staying here the only drawback is the cost staying 3 nights is more than staying in a condo on the beach for a week.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Mary Ellen H.

Awesome!

We have stayed in this houseboat three times now. Karen keeps her houseboats in excellent condition. Apalachicola is a beautiful fishing village with great restaurants and lots of other surrounding attractions. We went to Apalachicola on our Anniversary and will be back next year. Love this area!
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2017
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Lori R.

A unique vacation rental!

Staying on a houseboat to experience Apalachicola is a truly unique experience. The boat has everything you need and the location on the water can't be beat. We caught at least thirty fish off the back deck - so fun! The restaurants and shops are all within walking distance - we loved the Owl City Taproom & The Oyster City Brewery is great! We would definitely come back again - thanks!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Conner B.

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

Terrific location and service

Staying on the houseboat was a unique and beautiful experience. Really need to call out Karen, the owner, who was terrific. Everything was smooth, she took care to make sure the unit was cleaned thoroughly, and was kind even when as guests we made mistakes. Cannot say enough and hope to see her again soon.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Paul & Nancy Y.

Perfect Waterfront Setting

Just spent 5 days/4 nights at this little gem of a place on the water. The houseboat was very well stocked, sparkling clean and an overall lovely experience. The views in all directions were great. We could walk to town to a number of great restaurants. Our favorite oyster place turned out to be right next door. Don't miss it. Would definitely return to this location again.

About the host

Hosted by Karen Hoff

Host profile image
Karen and Joe Hoff purchased this Houseboat in late 2012. After spending 20 years restoring an 1850s Italianate home, they full in love with Apalachicola and its unique historic architecture. These history buffs spent a weekend aboard the Reelaxation and are now committed to providing a relaxing and comfortable experience for you.

Why they chose this property

While Florida plays host to Disney World, Miami, and the Florida Keys, Apalachicola boast its own style and is laid back and unpretentious. Enjoy Oysters ten feet away at a local Raw Bar, or walk ten minutes to enjoy the local culture and restaurants. The real attraction to Apalachicola is a town that embodies Florida in the 50's.

What makes this property unique

Located on the Apalachicola River within close proximity to Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, the views from every window are breathtaking. The front screened porch offers close up constantly changing scenery including dolphins, turtles, birds and an occasional alligator! Let us know if we can arrange to have a fishing guide pick you up from your houseboat!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback

More Vacation Ideas