Place, Riverfront Therapy & Spirit of the River Spa
1 min walk
St. George Island Beach
Place, St. George Island Beach
17 min drive
Port St. Joe Beach
Place, Port St. Joe Beach
31 min drive
Rooms & beds
1 bedroom (sleeps 2)
Bedroom
1 Queen Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Office
Dining area
About this property
Rebel's Rest - A Romantic Getaway Houseboat w/ New Water Filtration System
This floating home offers sweeping waterfront views of the river with spectacular sunrises and sunsets. The moon reflecting off the water provides a backdrop for a romantic dinner on your waterfront porch. You will enjoy a peaceful stay in this cozy one bedroom chalet while being entertained by a variety of wildlife including bald eagles and pelicans looking for their next meal. You will see dolphins swim by as they follow the commercial fishing boats hoping that they will capture some of their catch . The boating traffic in this low wake area includes both large pleasure yachts as well as the famous Apalachicola commercial fishing boats out for their oyster, shrimp and grouper. There are fishing rods available onboard for your afternoon relaxation. Parking is only a few steps from your vacation houseboat. The interior of this gem offers a fully stocked kitchen with all full size appliances, televisions with all DISH channels in both living room and bedroom, free WiFi, a large bathroom, an office area and a separate bedroom featuring a queen size bed. Coffee (Keurig) is provided and all linens are included. Just bring your suitcase to start your vacation aboard the Rebel's Rest. Just a 5 minute walk to town as your floating home is moored just a couple of blocks from downtown Apalachicola. You may spend your time browsing the shops and art galleries in the area or dine at the many restaurants in town which specialize in the fresh seafood of the area. The famous Up the Creek Restaurant and Raw Bar is located right next door and serves the best oysters in town along with a variety of other fish, chicken or beef. For more upscale dining, there is the Owl Cafe and the Gibson Inn which serve a variety of dishes. The freshest fish and seafood in town is served at the Station. Downtown Apalachicola's shops, restaurants and bars are only a 2 or 3 block walk from your floating home. For the beach lovers, a twilight stroll along with beaches of St. George Island is a short 15 minute drive away. The panhandle beaches with their white sandy beaches are rated some of the best in the United States. You can get a panoramic view of the surrounding area by walking to the top of the St. George Island lighthouse. For sunbathing, the State Park is the best kept secret with a very secluded beach for your enjoyment. For romance, a fishing adventure or just a relaxing get away from your hectic life, you will find a wonderful and completely enjoyable vacation aboard the Rebel's Rest. Perfect for anniversaries, birthdays or marriage proposals! Please feel free to visit our other houseboats, all moored in downtown Apalachicola, FL General Lee - 764612 Southern Comfort - 586285 Reelaxation - 430065
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Amenities
Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill
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REELAXATION 'A comfortable Cabin on Apalachicola River.' New Water Filtration
Historic Downtown Apalachicola
REELAXATION 'A comfortable Cabin on Apalachicola River.' New Water Filtration
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Quiet hours from 9PM to 9AM
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Apalachicola
Located on the waterfront, this houseboat is in Historic Downtown Apalachicola, a neighbourhood in Apalachicola. Orman House Historic State Park and St. George Lighthouse are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include Apalachicola Chocalate Company and Downtown Books & Purl. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Riverfront Therapy & Spirit of the River Spa - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
Dixie Theatre - 1 min drive - 0.0 km
St. George Island Beach - 17 min drive - 24.2 km
Port St. Joe Beach - 31 min drive - 41.2 km
Mexico Beach - 45 min drive - 69.6 km
Getting around
Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) - 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 Rebel's Rest - A Romantic Getaway houseboat
New Water Filtration System pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Rebel's Rest - A Romantic Getaway Houseboat w/ New Water Filtration System?
As of 10 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Rebel's Rest - A Romantic Getaway Houseboat w/ New Water Filtration System on 15 Jun, 2026 start from S$317, 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 at Rebel's Rest - A Romantic Getaway houseboat
New Water Filtration System?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Rebel's Rest - A Romantic Getaway houseboat
New Water Filtration System?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Rebel's Rest - A Romantic Getaway houseboat
New Water Filtration System?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Rebel's Rest - A Romantic Getaway houseboat
New Water Filtration System 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 labelled.
This unit was so great, well suited for 2 people. It was great to fish off the deck and watch the boats go by. Sunrises were gorgeous!The owner was very accommodating, unit was well stocked and we would go back again.
Diane T.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar, 2026
Thank you so much for your review. I am glad that you had a wonderful stay. Please visit again. Karen
This was the best vacation I’ve ever had! Right on the water of Cipio Creek, best sleep I’ve had in a long time, and everybody was so friendly. Fishing off the deck was divine and the town is amazing with lots to do. Already planning our next trip!
sarah f.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Mar, 2026
We am so glad that you had a wonderful time!
We hope to see you again
Everything was fresh and in good condition. I brought bottled water because others had complained about the water smelling and tasting like sulfur. But that is no longer the case. I was able to drink from the tap and it tasted just fine and no sulfur smell at all!!We had everything we needed for a lovely stay. Karen greeted us upon check in and Norma checked in later to see if everything was to our liking. We got up early each morning to watch the sun rise from our porch. We walked everywhere. The car stayed parked. The weather was a little chilly but we were super comfy sitting on the porch and watching the boats and the pelicans and reading. We ate at many of the local places, but found the best food right next door at Up the Creek!It was all so wonderful, we look foreword to the next time.Will recommend the houseboats to anyone who is going to Apalachicola for a quiet, restful time.
Robert W.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Mar, 2026
Thank you for the wonderful review. I hope that you will return many times and choose to stay aboard!
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay. 4th of July weekend is definitely the time be there. Only issue was the sulfur smell of water. It’s Florida, what can you say. Food and shops can all be found within a short walk. Fishing was great. Just an awesome time!!
Our stay on the houseboat was great - plenty of wildlife (birds - alligators- dolphins- fish)
Easy walking distance to everything
Great boat layout - tv in living room and bedroom - great AC - great sunsets from the porch in the water
Great appliances and utensils
Easy check in and check out
Second time staying with Karen and we would highly recommend it for a relaxing time on the river, in walking distance to all the fun restaurants and bars of Apalachicola!
Heather S.
Verified
6/10 Okay
Paula D.
16 Oct, 2025
Liked: Communication
Disliked: Listing accuracy
It was very clean and well appointed but we were not prepared for the terrible smelling water in the houseboat. I couldn’t bring myself to bathe in it. I thought it had a new water filtration system but the water had a disgusting smell.
Paula D.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Oct, 2025
Thank you very much for the feedback. We strive to offer the best amenities available. We've looked at our process for the new filtration system and engaged with our service provider. We have made adjustments to ensure your experience with the water does not happen again. Again, thank you for your honest feedback and we look forward to hosting you again.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Katharine S.
7 May, 2018
Relaxing
Great relaxing property. Property was clean and had everything we needed. Everything was in walking distance (shops, restaurants, bars, etc.). Karen was very welcoming and helpful with suggestions. Highly recommend this for a get-away!
Katharine S.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar, 2020
I am so glad that you had an enjoyable stay aboard the Rebel's Rest. Thank you for choosing to stay at Houseboats at River Watch. I hope to see you again. Karen
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Gregory M.
6 Jun, 2018
A wonderful place to relax
Spent our anniversary at Rebel's Rest. This was our second trip to Apalachicola. The houseboat is easy walking distance to downtown and a wonderful getaway. Enjoyed seeing dolphin, alligators, turtles and pelicans from the deck. Check-in is super easy and Karen provided a great overview of the town.
Gregory M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar, 2020
I am glad that you enjoyed your anniversary aboard the Rebel's Rest. Thank you for staying aboard. Karen
We truly enjoyed our stay. The house has everything you need and Karen was super friendly and available for any questions. Don’t worry about staying on the water because even the biggest boats passing by caused very little movement. We will definitely be back and plan to tell our friends and family about this little jewel.
Tanya C.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Sept, 2021
We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay. We hope to see you both again.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Kate H.
21 Dec, 2017
Perfect respite!
My husband and I recently stayed in this beautiful home. It was a perfect slice of paradise - even in December - to get away from the craziness of day-to-day. All of the shops and restaurants were within a short walking distance, the sunrises were breathtaking every morning, the house was the perfect size for just the two of us, and there were even dolphins right outside the back patio! We would recommend this place to anyone looking for a quiet, gorgeous getaway.
Kate H.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar, 2020
I am so glad that you both had a relaxing stay aboard the Rebel's Rest. Thank you for choosing to stay here. I hope to see you both again when you have time for a weekend away. Karen
Verified
10/10 Excellent
kathy h.
21 Mar, 2018
Comfy stay on this houseboat!
I enjoyed a March week vacationing on Rebel's Rest. Despite several days of cool and windy weather, the houseboat proved to be comfy and cozy. I felt comfortable there immediately as everything you might need is available and the layout is excellent. I will consider staying here again when visiting the area because I loved waking up to sunrises on the water and being so close to the shops and restaurants in Apalachicola.
kathy h.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar, 2020
I am so glad that you enjoyed your stay aboard the Rebel's Rest. It was nice to have you as a guest. I hope that you return. Karen
Sitting on the porch or just inside sliding doors really enjoyed just chillin and relaxing and watching all the boats going slowly by. Great spot to relax and recharge during this crazy time.
We loved staying on your houseboat. It was so magical sitting on the deck watching the fish jump, the lily pads float by and the shrimp boats coming in surrounded by birds. The location was great, was able to walk right out the door and listen to some good music right around the corner, browse through the local shops and eat some great restaurants. Also, a quick drive to Cape San Blas, spent the day at the beach swimming in the Gulf. I can't wait to come back and share this experience with other friends.
debbie w.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Aug, 2021
We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay. We hope to see you again.
Staying on a houseboat is unlike anywhere else I've stayed--in a good way. Sitting on the deck or looking out the windows, you feel like you are off on a river adventure. Boats and birds are your only companions. All the pleasure of boating, without any of the work! Sometimes a larger boat going by may make a wake big enough to gently rock your floating home; just enough to remind you that you are on a boat.
The houseboat was clean, thoughtfully equipped with all the necessities, and convenient to exploring Apalachicola. Karen is an exceptional host!
Erin B.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar, 2021
Thank you so much for returning and staying aboard the Rebel's Rest which has undergone a complete update recently. We appreciate your loyalty and look forward to seeing you again. Karen
The houseboat was everything the listing said and more. We absolutely loved sitting on the deck in the morning watching the fishing boats go by and the sun come up over the water while enjoying our tea and coffee. This houseboat is located within walking distance of old town Apalachicola with all its restaurants and shopping. Walk across the street in the morning for the most delicious biscuits from The Biscuit Factory or walk next door to Up The Creek Seafood Restaurant for an amazing dinner. No fishing poles? No problem! The owner has provided two! We intend to return!!
We were pleasantly surprised with this gem on the water. The pictures make the interior look a little dated and dowdy. That is FAR from the actual experience. We thoroughly enjoyed this place with high ceilings, a lot of natural light, and a fantastic A/C system. While the bedroom was small, the mattress was very good and extra pillows were provided. There is a LOT of storage so you can tuck your suitcases out of site and ample room to cook in the kitchen. The ONLY downfall is the weird sulfer smell of the water - many the hot water, from the faucets. The water is clean and it didn't provide a bad showering experience but we did get bottled water for our coffee. Plus, if you like to fish - this is the place. My husband actually got tired of catching fish off the houseboat - mainly sail cats and other smaller catfish. But it seemed that every cast resulted in a catch.
We found the houseboat just as described in the listing. The photos were very accurate. We met Karen one day while walking the dock & had a very nice conversation with her. She gave us a little history of the town & her boat rentals. If you are looking for a small town to go & relax, then this is the place for you. We spent alot of our time just relaxing on the back deck enjoying the water. This town is a no-frills, laid back, friendly , quite place. The stores / restaurants close pretty early & some places are closed on Sunday / Monday. It is worth the drive to take the bridge over to St. George. The beach at the State Park there was absolutely perfect. No crowds & the softest sand ever. We went into this vacation looking for relaxation in a non-tourist trap atmosphere and that is exactly what we got. Everything was GREAT!
Thank you Karen for offering such an awesome rental.
Sharon B.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Apr, 2023
I am so glad that you enjoyed your week's vacation. I hope to see you again when you decide to escape the Michigan winters!
Verified
8/10 Good
Janet H.
4 May, 2018
Kickin' Back
What a truly relaxing, fun, walking, eating time. Did I mention eating? Wow. This most comfortable houseboat is in a perfect location (right next door to a great seafood restaurant) to do anything you would like. Apalachicola is a great little village to knock around in and the Rebel Rest is a great place to stay while you do that. Plenty of room, very comfortable and everything works. If it doesn't, Karen will fix it for you. What a wonderful host! (The wi-fi, which we need due to work is quite sufficient). The Rebel Rest is right on Scipio Creek which runs off of the Apalachicola River and you have a beautiful view of the bay on your back porch. It's so much fun to watch all the boats as they go by and to enjoy the pelicans as they dive for their food right in front of you. There's also a flock of white herons that come to roost every evening in the marsh reeds right across from the houseboat. If you have binoculars, bring them. There is much to see. Karen will make great recommendations depending on what you are hoping to experience. If you are looking for a great place to stay with out the noisy attractions and traffic, then the Rebel Rest is for you. We will be back.
Janet H.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar, 2020
I am so glad that you both enjoyed yourself while staying aboard the Rebel's Rest. I hope to see you again. Thank you. Karen
Verified
8/10 Good
Sheila W.
26 Jun, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in, communication
Perfect Location
Rebel rest is a cute little house boat. It was very clean & comfortable! It’s location is perfect! You can walk anywhere around the town from its location. The view is beautiful and even on a hot summer day the breeze off the water makes it pleasant for sitting on the front patio & watching all the boats go by. Although we cooked nothing while there the kitchen is adequate for preparing a meal. We throughly enjoyed our stay and we give the place 5 stars all the way but, we were a little amused that we had to wait 30 minutes to get into the houseboat and communication was very slow. When you travel upon arrival you just want to get out of the car & relax. I notified Karan shortly after 4 that the houseboat was not open but did not hear back until the next day. Luckily someone showed up about 4:30 to open it because we were concerned that there had been a mix up. We would still highly recommend the Rebels Rest with its full view into a small fishing villages life style, off the beaten path of the touristy town but don’t by any means miss the cute shops & wonderful restaurants. Our favorite restaurant was The Station. It’s a short drive to Carrabelle, MX Beach, Pt St Joe and even Tyndall if you happen to be military which we are & we enjoyed visiting several friends along the Panhandle stretch. Book with confidence that you will enjoy your stay.
We loved our stay at the houseboat and had so much fun. The water view is beautiful and the boat barely moved at all. I will say it was not very private and was odd to have some harmless patrons from the restaurant next door and the host board and come around to the back porch while we were still inside.
Helen M.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
About the host
Hosted by Karen Hoff
I purchased the houseboat marina in 2013 and moved to Apalachicola to manage Florida Houseboat Vacation Rentals in 2014 after retiring from my career as a Commercial Lending Officer. Since then, I have added 3 houseboats along with the 2 additional houseboats which were moored in the marina already. I decided to move to Apalachicola for the "Old Florida" charm of the city with it's historic homes and easy lifestyle.
Why they chose this property
The location makes it easy to walk to all of the restaurants, bars, shops and historic homes in downtown Apalachicola.
What makes this property unique
These 4 houseboat rentals are moored in downtown Apalachicola and offer an unique waterfront stay while located in a quiet and comfortable locale. The Rebel's Rest (one of 4 houseboats) offers a covered waterfront porch with space to enjoy a meal or just watch the boat traffic and a very upscale interior.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests