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Water Slide, Swim Mat, Kayaks! PET FRIENDLY - Retro Weeki Wachee River!

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A house with a dock extending into a body of water, surrounded by trees and a sunset sky.
A kitchen with white cabinets, a granite countertop, a red telephone, and a coffee maker.
A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a central island.
A bedroom with a bed, two nightstands, a desk, a chair, and a ceiling fan.
A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a granite countertop, and black bar stools.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Family fun awaits
    Top-rated for families.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Weeki Wachee River
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Balcony
  • Waterpark access
  • Barbecue grill
  • Electric vehicle charging point
  • Air-conditioning
  • Pet-friendly

Explore the area

View in a map
Weeki Wachee, FL
  • Place, Weeki Wachee River
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Weeki Wachee Springs
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, Three Sisters Springs
    ‪44 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed and 2 Single Beds

Common Spaces

1 Double Sofa Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Water Slide, Swim Mat, Kayaks! PET FRIENDLY - Retro Weeki Wachee River!

Welcome to The Red Elephant Inn – where retro flair meets waterfront fun!
This 3-bedroom, 2-bath canal-front home brings together the bold, funky charm of the 80s and 90s with the comforts of modern living. With 1,300 sq. ft. of indoor space and a massive 336 sq. ft. covered deck, there’s room for the whole crew to unwind and play.

Inside, you’ll find colorful, throwback décor that sets the mood for old-school fun—perfect for family game nights, relaxing with a drink, or simply kicking back in a space that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Outside, the real fun begins:
• Let the kids splash, swim, and slide right off the dock
• Chill on the deck with water views and good company
• Soak up the laid-back Florida vibes canal-side

Whether you’re here for nostalgia, relaxation, or just a vacation that doesn’t feel like every other one—The Red Elephant Inn delivers. Life’s too short for boring stays. Book now for a truly memorable getaway!
Pets:
We welcome up to 2 dogs.
The pet fee of $250 per stay covers up to 2 dogs.
Guests wishing to bring more than 2 dogs must contact us for prior approval and additional fees may apply.

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Welcome to Watch Me Weeki Wachee!
Family & Pet-Friendly River Escape w/ Kayaks, Manatees & Outdoor Fun!
Weeki Wachee
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (109 reviews)
Family & Pet-Friendly River Escape w/ Kayaks, Manatees & Outdoor Fun!

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
We welcome up to 2 dogs.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Pets: We welcome up to 2 dogs. The pet fee of $250 per stay covers up to 2 dogs.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 3707725vb
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
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Spring Hill

Located in Weeki Wachee Gardens, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Colorama Music and Show Palace Dinner Theater are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Weeki Wachee Springs and Bowlero Spring Hill. Travelling with kids? Consider Nature Coast Botanical Gardens and Adventure Coast Fun Park. Jet skiing, kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours nearby.
View more Holiday homes in Spring HillOpens in a new window
Map
Weeki Wachee, FL

What's nearby

  • Weeki Wachee River - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Weeki Wachee Springs State Park - 5 min drive - 4.7 km
  • Weeki Wachee Springs - 10 min drive - 10.8 km
  • Hudson Beach - 26 min drive - 33.2 km
  • Three Sisters Springs - 44 min drive - 63.0 km

Getting around

  • Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) - 60 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪7-Eleven - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Applebee's Grill + Bar - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Steak 'n Shake - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪La Bella Napoli - ‬14 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Water Slide, Swim Mat, Kayaks! PET FRIENDLY - Retro Weeki Wachee River! pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Water Slide, Swim Mat, Kayaks! PET FRIENDLY - Retro Weeki Wachee River!?

As of 12 Oct, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Water Slide, Swim Mat, Kayaks! PET FRIENDLY - Retro Weeki Wachee River! on 17 Oct, 2026 start from S$1,480, 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 Water Slide, Swim Mat, Kayaks! PET FRIENDLY - Retro Weeki Wachee River!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Water Slide, Swim Mat, Kayaks! PET FRIENDLY - Retro Weeki Wachee River!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Water Slide, Swim Mat, Kayaks! PET FRIENDLY - Retro Weeki Wachee River!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Water Slide, Swim Mat, Kayaks! PET FRIENDLY - Retro Weeki Wachee River! located?

This family-friendly Weeki Wachee Gardens holiday home is located on the waterfront, steps from Weeki Wachee River and within 6 mi (10 km) of Pine Island Beach Park and Weeki Wachee Springs. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park and Bayport Park Boat Ramp are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 16 out of 18 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 18 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 18 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved it there. It was a great location, not far from the main river we love the slide and all the amenities that they had available!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved this property!! Property as described. Clean and comfortable beds. Short paddle to the springs. Saw lots of manatees. Easy communication with the host. Pet friendly. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

The property was lovely, thank you Kelly for having us!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was so clean, comfortable, and fun. We loved the easy access to kayaking the river and really enjoyed the slide!!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clean, comfortable space to celebrate my son and daughter-in-law’s wedding. Very relaxing, lots of space to spread out. Will definitely be back!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Awesome Place

Great house on the river.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Trip was seamless from checkin to checkout. Kelly and Dave answered our questions promptly. We received a message from them daily to make sure our needs were being met. The customized Home Screen on the living room television was so helpful. We rented two water scooters and they were there and charged when we arrived. This was our second stay with this company and we are planning our third trip with them. You will NOT find a better stay in the area!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Best getaway

This place was amazing for our family. So many things to do to keep us all busy. The house had everything we needed and more. Great location
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

The best!

The dock outback was awesome, perfect location to the pretty water and the house itself was fully equipped with everything we needed! Hosts were super nice and responded to all of our needs quickly. Would definitely stay here again or maybe pick one of their other properties to try! We love weeki!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely loved our stay!! Very quiet area. Clean, inside and out. Loved the many choices of kayaks as well. We saw 5 manatees in front of the house. And several turtles. Definitely recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Spring break long weekend

The property was great. Had a few hiccups initially but they were very quickly corrected by the owners. Family had a great time at the property. Would recommend to others.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great rental with all kinds of fun things! We enjoyed the game stash and the screen in porch was amazing! We were a little disappointed in the availability and quality of the kayaks. We were a group of seven and there weren’t enough working kayaks for our group. And outdoor seating was missing. But the house served us well, hosts were very responsive to any questions or issues we had, and the location was convenient to the handful of nearby restaurants.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

The great Weeki Wachee

Wonderful house, especially if you have children. The dock was great with the slide and the Lily pad. Multiple life jackets for alol ages. The kayaks were great. We saw dolphins and manatees directly off the dock as well as every time we went out and kayaked upstream. It was nice to also have dishwasher detergent and laundry detergent supplied. They have plenty of beach towels as well. The host was extremely responsive. I would highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Manatees AND Dolphins!

House was very clean and well stocked. There were plenty of kayaks for our family to use. Short paddle to the main river. Kids had a great time on the slide and the water mat. We had a manatee swim by the rental house one day and saw 4 while kayaking on the main river. 3 dolphins swam by the rental house one day, which was a very unexpected surprise. Overall this was a great trip.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Weeki Wachee First-Timers

Family of 5 staying for the very 1st time on the Weeki Wachee. What a dream! For those of you reading these comments and have never been: the Weeki Wachee is a CRYSTAL CLEAR spring-fed river that pours out into the gulf. Water temps are 70's year round.If you're looking at pics of the property, you may notice the water appears murky. That's because the house is situated on a canal outlet of the river...but all you have to do is take a short kayak trip and you'll be in beautiful waters in no time. The canal itself is fine and very swimmable. Apparently alligators are very rare, or so we were told from multiple sources.The whole vacation I was annoyingly obsessed with seeing a manatee. We trekked up and down the river but never saw one...until a manatee swam RIGHT BY OUR DOCK - on 2 separate days! Oh my goodness...might not be a big deal to the average Floridian but for a guy who grew up north, that's just nuts. We also came across lots of cool fish, turtles, and water fowl. The fish like to jump out of the water here.The house itself was very well stocked, clean, comfy, with a bunch of kayaks and too many amenities to mention. My family really appreciated the retro theme, which the owners clearly put a lot of thought and effort into. Just an amazing stay. Complaints 0.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great time here. We wanted to stay away from the crowds with the kids on a holiday weekend, and this was the perfect spot. The home was clean and comfortable. The swim mat and slide made the trip for the kids and kept them entertained. When we needed something, the host responded very quickly. They really care about your experience. A couple of things to remember when booking. I almost did not bring chairs because they were pictured. I am so glad I did because there were no chairs for the dock. I also expected a paddleboard from the description and even called to confirm but didn't see one in the kayak storage area. We ended up not going to the springs with the kids, so it was not a big deal, but I feel the info should be updated. I also could have called to see if they would bring one but didn't so they might have had one on hand.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026

About the host

Hosted by Kelly Winterling

Host profile image

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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