Private River Escape! Waterfront Home. The Backyard Manatee Club.
4/2 Riverfront vacation rental located on the Homosassa River in Homosassa, Florida.
Perfect for large families or families vacationing together.
River and water lovers would be hard pressed to find a place that is as unique and fun as this property. When we started renting the property in July of 2019, we did so with hopes of connecting to families and sharing our passion for the river, the wildlife and the serenity the springs have to offer. The feedback from our guests has been amazing and knowing we’re building future nature lovers and fans of the Homosassa River gives us great pride.
-- Family perfect! -- 200 + feet of Riverfront -- Decks galore -- Fire pits with firewood included. -- Waterslide into private lagoon -- Clear shallow river, low boat traffic -- Neighbors the Homosassa Wildlife Park (you’ll feel like you’re staying in the park!) -- 600 square foot raised deck provides amazing views. -- 400 square foot river deck offers additional private area for gathering and meals. -- Boat dock available (if your plans including bringing your own boat - See BOAT CLEARANCE requirements below) -- 4 Kayaks and 2 Stand-up Paddle Boards to use -- No canals, only fresh spring fed river to enjoy!
Situated near the headwaters of the Homosassa River, the property features over 200 feet of riverfront on nearly an acre of land, a private lagoon and a water slide for young and old alike.
The house features two wings that share a large common area in between. This allows large families or multiple families to vacation together yet still have their own space. A substantial butcher block table counter provides seating for up to 10 and multiple tables and chairs are available on the screened porch, large deck and patio.
The home features a 600 square foot raised outdoor deck that provides breathtaking views of the riverfront and is the perfect platform for outdoor cooking and gathering. A gas grill and propane are provided for your convenience.
A water level patio provides shade and a great place to enjoy meals at the water’s edge.
The clear shallow spring-fed river (72 degrees year-round) allows for great snorkeling and viewing of schools of fish and of course, manatee! In season, manatee are routinely seen in the backyard and the rental includes 4 kayaks and 2 SUP (Standup Paddleboards) for exploring the river and exploring the springs.
Spend evenings around your choice of 2 available fire pits, one which can be enjoyed from the backyard patio and the other near the river's edge for a more rustic experience.
The property also features a private boatwell that can accommodate boats up to 25 feet in length comfortably.
**Master Bedroom#1: King Bed **Master Bedroom#2: King Bed **Bedroom 3: Queen Bed **Bedroom 4: Double Bed ***There is a single day bed that can accommodate the 9th guest is necessary.
-------------------MINIMUM STAY REQUIREMENTS----------------------- Minimum stay requirements vary throughout the year. Discounts for stays of longer than 7 days are also available.
***Bridge Clearance for Boats*** The property’s location on the springs is protected by a low bridge. If you have a boat that has a T-top or fixed top you will not be able to access the property from the waterway. Low clearance boats are the only means to accessing this property via water. Depending on tide, you will need an air draft (distance from the water line to the highest point on boat, including antennas) of less than 80”. On an average day, the bridge clearance ranges from 72” to 80”. Please inquire if you need additional information
*NOTE: Your safety matters. This property features exterior security cameras, all facing out away from the house. They do not look into interior spaces.
Policies: - No fireworks - No smoking indoors. - Pets. Please contact us for a copy of "Common Sense Pet Rules". - No events, parties or large gatherings - Please reach out to Owners for long term stays or if calendar does not show availability - Guests on the property are limited to 9 including adults(6) and children(3). - Rental Agreement must be signed and returned to complete reservation.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Please see Checkout Instructions posted on the refrigerator for complete checklist.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
The most important rule is respect for our neighbors. They are the arbitrators of noise levels, trespassing, disrespecting the property or river.
No Spring Break Types.
No dumping of scallop shells in river, pool or boat well.
Violation will result in forfeiture of security deposit.
A completed Rental Agreement is required.
Failure to return within 7 days of receipt will result in cancellation.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 1620115vb
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: No unlisted guests w/o prior approval.
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 and a deadlock
About the area
Homosassa
Located in Homosassa, this holiday 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 Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking, snorkelling and rafting nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours.
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
Three Sisters Springs - 11 min drive - 14.0 km
Weeki Wachee Springs - 31 min drive - 44.3 km
Rainbow River - 35 min drive - 44.5 km
Rainbow Springs State Park - 38 min drive - 47.8 km
Getting around
Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) - 70 min drive
Restaurants
RaceTrac - 4 min drive
McDonald's - 4 min drive
Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters - 19 min walk
El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant - 17 min walk
Crumps Landing - 9 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Private River Escape! Waterfront Home. The Backyard Manatee Club. pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.
How much does it cost to stay at Private River Escape! Waterfront Home. The Backyard Manatee Club. ?
As of 10 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private River Escape! Waterfront Home. The Backyard Manatee Club. on 22 June 2026 start from AU$828, 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 Private River Escape! Waterfront Home. The Backyard Manatee Club. ?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Private River Escape! Waterfront Home. The Backyard Manatee Club. ?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Private River Escape! Waterfront Home. The Backyard Manatee Club. ?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Private River Escape! Waterfront Home. The Backyard Manatee Club. located?
Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is steps from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and within 3 mi (5 km) of Citrus County Dog Park and Old Mill House Gallery and Printing Museum. Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park is 1.9 mi (3.1 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
What an incredible place. Veso has done a great job with this property. The house has everything you need to be able to relax, enjoy nature and make great memories with your family. The location is set on a very quiet part of the river. We felt like we had our own private spring. We came across manatees 25 yards from the backyard. Highly recommend this stay.
This is a gem of a location, the best of all the waterfront backyards around. Checking in was a breeze and there were plenty of extra blankets and pillows. The house is nothing fancy but it was clean & organized.
We enjoyed our time at the house so much that our kids didn’t want to leave to do anything else. Vero responded quickly to any questions we had and everything we needed was there for us. The house looks exactly like the pictures but better. The location is perfect and we’re already booked for next year!
We came here for the first time with friends and family for our son’s birthday and it did not disappoint. The house was perfect and all of the local restaurants were great. We were definitely the envy of the river whenever someone was boating by and saw the kids playing on the slide into the pool. Cannot wait to come back next year. The owners seem like very nice and genuine people as well who wish for you to have the best experience possible.
We have stayed in many high-end rentals including on the Gulf, oceanfront, and with views of Mt. Rushmore. Our experience here has topped them all. To start, Veso is the most gracious host (extremely friendly, quick to respond, highly informative). The house itself is homey and comfortable, fully equipped with everything you need. The gem of this property is what lies outside the back door - the lagoon, slide, multiple patios, firepit, grill, tons of water toys, yard games, crystal clear river. With just a few minutes of paddling, you will be just outside the state park where there are manatees galore. We also saw many varieties of birds, fish, dolphins, otters, and other wildlife. This was a family vacation that we will never forget and look forward to repeating in the future!
This property exceeded our expectations. If you're looking for a tranquil paradise, this is it. Location is perfect. Secluded, but close to everything. We were a group of 6 adults and had plenty of room and some. Lagoon was wonderful, as was the beautiful crystal clear river. Enjoyed the kayaks! Saw manatee, stingrays, blue crab, wood ducks and lots of fish. This was, by far, one of the nicest vrbo's we've stayed in. Thank you to the owners for an amazing stay and for being pet friendly! Our dog loved it. We are a bit heartsick to leave. Would love to return.
Hey Nicole, a little surprised by your rating. Any additional details that you can provide that would help us understand your experience would be greatly appreciated.
Update: Thanks for providing the additional details via email. While the feedback wasn't directly related to the property or host, it was important for us to hear about your experience. Would be happy to have you return any time.
This was a great vacation home for our family. The owner was very easy to communicate with. The home is great and has lots of activities for the whole family. Will definitely rent again:)
Tara N.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct 2022
Tara, we're so happy you enjoyed your stay! Thanks for the review and we look forward to having you and your family back! Kirsten & Veso
we had a great experience with our time at the house.The house was very comfortable and equipped with everything you mite need during your stay .The location was even better !!!
Seneca A.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct 2022
Seneca, we're so glad you enjoyed your stay! Thanks for the lovely review! Kirsten & Veso
About the host
Hosted by Veso and Kirsten Dimitrijevich
Contact me directly to learn about other available discounts. veso.dimitrijevich@gmail.com 248-302.9098
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests