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Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included

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Fish Bowl House with carport
Front view
Dining
Dining area of Fish Bowl House
Living area

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4900 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning
  • Dryer
    Dryer

Explore the area

Map
Homosassa, FL
  • Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
    1 min walk
  • Old Mill House Gallery and Printing Museum
    3 min drive
  • Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park
    3 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed, 1 Double Futon and 1 Single Bunk Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included

One of a kind rental, because it is on a canal off the headsprings of the Homosassa River. Swim with the manatees very near the house in the winter months. They gather in the clear waters just 300 yards away, a short kayak paddle, and kayaks included. The water is always 72 degrees so don't let the cold air scare you off, it is quite pleasant. You are also allowed a 10% discount at Bird's Underwater Dive Center who manages the house. You can take a tour with them on the Crystal River with your discount or they will loan you masks and snorkels if you would rather go it alone from the house. This clean, popular house has been a rental unit for 11 years and many people return very good reviews. The Homosassa Springs State Park is across the street and over a short footbridge. There are two docks, you can fish, or sit and enjoy a fire on the LP gas burning fire pit. This is the Only vacation rental unit in Homosassa within 300 yards of the clear freshwater springs. Two-night minimum stay. Screened-in back porch overlooking the canal. Spacious backyard with banana, grapefruit, and fig trees. Canal has direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. Lots of unique waterfront restaurants that specialize in fresh seafood in this little old Florida town.

Paddle to the clear freshwaters of Homosassa River outside of the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, see their website. Manatees gather 300 yards from the house to winter in 72-degree water. You may swim with manatees. House owned by Bird's Underwater Dive Center, see the website, who will rent you necessary snorkel gear and explain rules of engagement with manatees.

Great swimming in summer. Great fishing. Walk to state park two blocks away to view manatees and other indigenous animals.

Keywords: Waterfront House

Property manager

Karl Oestreich

Languages

English
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Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Water view

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 12:00 PM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Please see the attached PDF for house rules, sign and return to ----@--------.---

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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 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 that there is a smoke detector on the property

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

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 Three Sisters Springs and Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Homosassa, FL

What's nearby

  • Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park - 1 min walk
  • Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park - 3 min drive
  • Homosassa Butterfly - 7 min drive
  • 7 Sisters Springs - 13 min drive
  • Three Sisters Springs - 14 min drive

Getting around

  • Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) - 66 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Sugarmill Restaurant - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Crumps Landing - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪The Freezer Tiki Bar - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Twistee Treat Homosassa - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Snorkel with the Manatees in Your Back Yard - Kayaks Included located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is within 2 miles (3 km) of Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Old Mill House Gallery and Printing Museum and Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park. Citrus County Dog Park is 2 mi (3.2 km) away.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 125 out of 140 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 140 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 140 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 140 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 140 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Brian G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Location
Lovely place, great location, spent hours just sat outside watching the birds, insects and jumping fish! Had a daily visit from a heron! The kayaks were great, went out for a paddle every day and saw manatees every time, including mothers and babies! It was very quiet on the Monday but by the time we got to Friday it was very busy with boats and paddlers but this did not spoil our enjoyment. The house was clean and had everything we needed. The only negatives were that the area where you entered the water to get in the kayaks was very rocky and slippery and the road could be a bit noisy at times, but these were very minor points. Met a very friendly neighbour who told us all about the area and how it had been affected by recent bad weather (The weather was gorgeous when we were there if a bit cool on a morning by Florida standards!). All in all we had a lovely stay and wouldn't hesitate to recommend this place.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Alexandra G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hidden Gem
We love staying at Fishbowl House. Comfy furnishings, all the kitchen equipment you might need, kayaks and of course that wonderful deck. Highly recommended!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

John D.

Lovely location
A great place for a villa. Right on the canal and just round the corner from the Homosassa Springs. The kayaks were good to have and we saw manatees near the springs It was fun as well fishing off the dock and we caught a lot of fish. The house is comfortable and functional with room for four people. It is in a peaceful location with very little traffic noise.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2018

10/10 Excellent

Karen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place
Nice view off the back. Kayaks worked out perfectly to go to friends house down the canal. My only word of advice, if you’re a light sleeper bring ear plus as people were flying down the road and it was loud.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dennis M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fishing
House was great. Fishing will captain Parker Springstead was awesome.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Oréo C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great
Perfect
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Angela

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The kayaks, the manatees the area was so wonder!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Desiree F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Manatees were out our back door!
This vacation home is perfect. We had a great time using the kayaks. Manatees were literally right off the dock! We paddled out to the springs and to monkey island. I definitely recommend both. The house itself its very clean and has everything you can think of. We would rent this unit again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amelia R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Manatees galore!
We had the best time here kayaking down the springs, going to the state park and watching the manatees, and seeing all the animals they have to offer! The house is literally at the wildlife state park. The waterway we took out of from the house is the same one you see from the overlooks at the park. It was the best quick getaway we’ve had in a long time and we’ll definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Edward S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy house
Definitely a beautiful location. Right on the water. Manatees in the back yard. Easy drive to many local restaurants and attractions
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mary B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Visiting the Manatee
My daughter and I had a fabulous stay. The property was very well located for kayaking and touring.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deb L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Feels like home
This is an older home but very clean...everything works great....Cook a meal or grill out...Wash your clothes....but most of all.......enjoy the manatees right in front of your eyes....We did not canoe but they are there for you to use..a great rental.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

John T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Place
Clean, Neat and Manatees!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jay B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place
The house is great, has all the amenities, very clean. The owner is responsive and very nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marion W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Stay
Great Location, enjoyed it very much. Will come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Another great trip
Everythung at the house was fine, the manatees were friendly, and the food, service, and entertainment at MARGUERITA GRILL was GREAT !!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Renee A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Manatee
The opportunity to be so close to the reserve was idyllic. We were able to take the kayaks for a paddle and within 1000 yds we were watching the Manatee stay warm at the entrance to the State park’s water side!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Another great weekend !
We got there later than normal, because, due to the inclement weather, we decided we wouldn't try to swim with the manatees. I love the keybox entry. The house was clean and orderly, it had everything we needed. We always enjoy our stay here, whether we swim with the manatees or not!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Another excellent stay
We stay there every Thanksgiving and have not been disappointed! See you next year!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Angela M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Truly OUTSTANDING location!
The location of this house is suburb, especially if you like to kayak and particularly if you like to kayak to hang out with manatees. Diana made the whole process easy and clear and was prompt in answering any questions we had. We visited for a couple of nights in late November and felt so lucky to have just a 4 or 5 minute paddle to the Homosassa Head Spring where manatees congregate in the colder months. And the Ellie Schiller Wildlife State Park is just a 5 minute walk from the house as well. The backyard with 2 docks, kayak ramp, chairs and a gas fire-pit is a lovely place to relax. Other nearby adventures (all within 30 miles away )we recommend are: swimming with manatees in Kings Bay with Bird's Underwater Dive Center, stand up paddle boarding on the Rainbow River (turtles and otters)and kayaking the Weeki Wachee River(manatees and raccoons). One recommendation would be to plan on cooking or grilling out at the house if you're visiting on a Monday night since most local restaurants seem to be closed on Mondays!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Haley H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great property
Perfect for my small group of friends. We loved using the kayaks. No manatee sightings in early November but we did see a dolphin and swam in the head springs. The town is real cute too! We loved the freezer for shrimp and the ice cream Barr — they had really unique flavors.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robin B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place!
The house was perfect for a short stay. Clean, great location, perfect size, great outdoor space.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deanna P.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property
Wonderful location for boating and kayaking
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michele B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect location
This cute place is right on the water and just a few paddles to the springs. It is perfectly cozy and we will definitely be returning! Communication with the host was very simple. Location Location !!!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Antoinette H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved this place
Loved this place. It was so cute and the water was in the back yard. We will stay here again
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

About the host

Hosted by Karl Oestreich

Host profile image
Bill and Diane Oestreich own Bird's Underwater Dive Center in Crystal River. Originally from Elkhart and LaPorte Indiana, met in high school. After 11 years on the road as musicians, we settled into the Crystal River, had one son, adopted 4 more boys over the years, who are now moving on. Still active in scuba diving, Bill "Bird" teaches cave, re-breather, and other technical diving. We also have two other rental houses listed on VRBO as 12055 and 1019739

Why they chose this property

When you rent one of our houses you also get 10% off a Manatee Tour with Bird's Underwater and 10% off a Scalloping Tour (July - Sept) as well as use of the kayaks at Bird's Underwater which is located on King's Bay.
For groups larger than 5 persons see our VRBO listing #12055 located on the Hall's River in Homosassa, FL.
Our newest addition is a small blockhouse on 5 acres of land in Branford Florida, not far from Gainesville, Ginnie Springs, Poe Springs, and Ichnetucknee Springs parks. Great places to dive, snorkel, fish, kayak and other water-related sports. Listing number 1019739

What makes this property unique

Short walk to the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Wildlife State Park.
Kayaks included.
Waterfront has access to the Gulf of Mexico, very popular during scallop season July 1 - Sept. 24th. Disadvantage: If you have a fly bridge or hardtop on your boat you cannot get under the Fishbowl Drive bridge.
See manatees near the house in the wild in the cold winter months.
Fishing
bike rentals in Crystal River
Great waterfront restaurants in Homosassa, easy to Google.

Languages:

English
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