You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
River Rat's Rest
This is where you can experience wild Florida while enjoying all your favorite comforts. Our completely remodeled home is on a canal just 200 feet away from the Halls River. Located in a friendly residential neighborhood, this immaculate 3 bedroom 2 bath (plus loft upstairs) home is perfect for your year-round getaway. The open concept living, dining and kitchen areas overlook the canal, with ample opportunities to watch otters, manatees, and birds as you drink your coffee.
During your stay at this holiday home, you're just a quick walk from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. Enjoy features like laundry facilities. The holiday home includes amenities such as free WiFi and a kitchen.
Air-conditioned home with kitchen, washing machine and 2 bathrooms
Free WiFi
Amenities include laundry facilities
Just a 4-minute walk from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and a 3-minute drive from Citrus County Dog Park
As a guest of River Rat's Rest, you'll find barbecue grills, a garden, and laundry facilities. The front desk is open around the clock.
Property amenities
Beach
Beach towels
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Onsite parking options include a carport
Kitchen
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Hob
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Toaster
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
4 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
2 bathrooms
Bathtub
Bathtub or shower
Shower
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Living room
Separate dining area
Entertainment
Books
DVD player
Games
Smart TV
Outdoor areas
Barbecue grill
Dock
Garden
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
Pet friendly
Welcoming cats and dogs only
Up to 99 kg per pet
Suitability/Accessibility
20 steps to reach entrance
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Things to do
Kayak
Safety features
No carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Garden
Property does not allow children
Unit size: 1,960 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Rules
Booking this home indicates your consent to be bound by our Rental Agreement. Please read this document *in full.*
This is a waterfront home with no fencing. Various animals including alligators and snakes may be present. Boat and swim at your own risk.
There will be a $250 damage deposit hold placed on your credit card at the time of booking. After checkout, this money will be promptly returned.
Pets
Pets are welcome
Only dogs and cats are allowed
Maximum 1 (weight limit: 218 lb per pet)
Service animals are exempt from fees.
Children and extra beds
This property does not allow children.
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
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 indicated that there is no 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
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, which will enable you to manage your booking.
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with EU regulations about consumer rights, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
Property is also known as
778291
Reviews
River Rat's Rest Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.More informationOpens in a new window
9.8/10
Cleanliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 35 out of 36 reviews
10 - Excellent
35
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 36 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 36 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 36 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 36 reviews
2 - Terrible
1
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Bobby B., Lakeland
9 Aug 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Very clean and nice great atmosphere will be back
Bobby B.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
2/10 Terrible
Trey S.
7 Jul 2025
Disliked: Cleanliness
Don’t let this listing fool you …
Hi Jennifer & David Rogers,We checked out today, and I just wanted to offer some honest feedback. I’m not reaching out to ask for anything, and I don’t mean to sound arrogant or ungrateful—I just believe it’s fair to share what we experienced.You titled the property well—it definitely has charm. The inside of the house is nicely done and has a comfortable, welcoming feel. However, several issues left us disappointed and made the overall experience fall short of what we hoped for.⸻Cons:1.Boat Access MisrepresentedThe listing should clearly state that this is not a bay boat-friendly property. Our two 22–24 ft boats couldn’t make it through. This is really only suitable for a small jon boat. The low-clearance bridge that blocks boats with T-tops should absolutely be disclosed.2.Exterior ConditionThe outside is very dirty. A simple pressure wash would make a world of difference.3.Siding IssuesSome of the siding is melted or hanging off in places. This gives the impression that the home isn’t being maintained.4.Carport AreaThere was standing dirty water and mud under the carport, which made unloading messy and frustrating.5.Grill ConditionThe grill was completely rusted out and unusable. The baffles were gone, and we couldn’t get it to work at all.6.I work hard and value my time off, so I do come with high expectations. When my kids walked in and said, “Dad, this place is bad,” just 30 minutes after arriving. It’s was disheartening
Trey S.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Wendi S.
21 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Spring Break 2025
As advertised! We enjoyed everything about our stay. Manatee visited us daily on the floating dock. The house was on a quiet road with 4 houses. The nature that surrounded us was amazing!
Wendi S.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Billy K., Perry, Florida
14 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Manatee Spectacular
We had plenty of room for our family. We were celebrating my 16 year olds birthday. We also hosted two of my sisters and their husbands. The kayak and dock access was a great treat. My 16 year old caught 8 bass and several brim right off the dock. The water was so clear you could see turtles, crabs, sheep head, mullet and of course the star of the show manatee right off the dock. The manatee visited every morning and afternoon. With a short kayak trip to the end of the canal you could see many more. We also paddled to the Emu farm just past the canal. We visited the local state parks and rented a pontoon boat for a morning to go up into Hunter Springs and Three sisters spring. There were manatee and dolphins everywhere in the river all the way out to the Gulf of America….lol. Would definitely recommend as house is great for large family getaways and being able to bring our dogs was a plus.
Billy K.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Alexa W.
18 Nov 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
A riverside retreat to remember for the ages!
We had an all-girls nature retreat at this amazing home and I can’t imagine having spent such a magical weekend anywhere else.
The house comes with some kayaks and a canoe, which was so helpful. We had additional yaks dropped off by a local company called Sassa Style Rentals. We saw so many manatees on the water, enjoyed emu island, fishing, campfires, yoga by the river, and we experienced some incredible sunsets while exploring the marshes. The best surprise of all was the bioluminescence off the dock on our last night - it was truly a once in a lifetime experience watching glowing turtles and fish swimming through the dark waters.
As for the space itself, there was enough indoor space for everyone to be comfortable and the outdoor space was plentiful and private. I can say without a doubt everyone will always cherish this special slice of paradise and the memories we shared here.
Needless to say, I can’t recommend this place enough :)
Alexa W.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jay T.
22 Oct 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Incredible Place!
Our stay at this river house was absolutely amazing. The beds were comfy, and the air was nice and cold. The home had such a peaceful setting. We made many memories as a family kayaking and canoeing. We loved visiting the state parks and local springs. Grocery shopping and restaurants were all close by. The host was amazing. They were helpful and always available. We are blessed to travel often and experience many different properties, and this property is at the top of our list. We look forward to return!
Jay T.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Randolph H.
4 Aug 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great floor plan and location
We loved the openness of this property. It let us enjoy visiting and talking while giving privacy to those who needed it. The covered parking was very helpful especially during summer storms. We enjoyed our stay very much!
Randolph H.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Sarah P.
22 Jul 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Vacation Spot!
This was a great place to stay, central to a ton of things. We were a large group (12 people) with young kids and had plenty of space in the house. The dock was a hit for fishing and kayaking/canoeing. Restaurants are close by, up to 15 min drive for some of them which provided nice views of the salt marshes. There are springs for swimming just up the road in Crystal River and beach access about 10 min away in the gulf. The kitchen was well stocked, plenty of towels and blankets for when we needed them, and a nice firepit outside for s'mores nights with the kids. Definitely hit up the Ellie Schiller park just a few miles down the road to see manatees and other local wildlife! This was an ideal HQ for our vacation and we would definitely stay again!
Sarah P.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Patricia P., Palm Harbor
22 Jun 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Homosassa retreat
Beautiful house on the river. Very spacious and clean. Nice dock with a canoe and kayaks. Quiet neighborhood yet close to everything.
Patricia P.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Cheryl S.
19 Feb 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
This lively place had everything!
From age 5 to age 68, we all had fun!
Kayaking, manatees, fishing, and a large open homey place offered the perfect grt-together place. Convenient to stores and restaurants, it was a lovely place and area.
Cheryl S.
Stayed 12 nights in Feb 2024
10/10 Excellent
Tine N.
13 Jan 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect hideaway
It is the second time we stayed at this lovely home and it won’t be the last. It really feels more like a home than a rental with fluffy towels and soft comforters. We love being on the water and they provide good quality kayaks and paddles. The house is situated on a quiet canal and within a few minutes on the water you are surrounded by nature and, if you are lucky like we were, dozens of manatees. Our stay was perfect and we will come back next year!
Tine N.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Susan M.
13 Oct 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Nice hideaway
Had a real good time here. Place was really spacious. Everything here to cook great meals and kayaks and canoe were awesome. Only problem we had was couldnt figure how to get the light to come on until you were at bottom of stairs. Thank you for letting us stay. Wud highly recommend.
Susan M.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Janet W.
25 Sept 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing host~!
Host was so accommodating, answered fast and timely, really made our stay! It was a nice place, so thankful it had the amenities, it was close to everything as well! House was very nice and cozy!
Janet W.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Edward C.
27 Jul 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
great property
we had a magmificent time.The master suite and other bedrooms on the main floor worked great for the adults and the kids loved the loft.The place was very clean an well equiped.What a nice surprise seeing a mother and baby Manatee come right up to the dock.
Edward C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Doug E.
20 Jul 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Springs and Scalloping
Everything you need is already here , lg. house and family room.
GREAT AIR CONDITIONING !!! +++
6 adults 3 children 7 , 4 , and 6mos.old.
The water at the dock behind the house is perfectly crystal clear and the kids enjoyed swimming in it and being taken out in canoe and kayak into the Hall river , saw emu island and lots of different fish.
Beautiful drive out to Ozella , and great seafood restaurants are close by, we really enjoyed "THE CRAB PLANT".
I recommend it !!
Easy access to several springs and numerous parks all around
We rented a pontoon boat for 2 days and we had a blast , got a few scallop , left the rest for you ! Plenty of local guides for scallops and fishing . Homosassa springs river waterfront is a happening place on both sides of the river . A large time was had by all .
Doug E.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
April K.
12 Jun 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
At peace with nature
Our stay was wonderful. Perfect space for 9 adults and 2 children. The outside was so peaceful and our two grandchildren looked forward to a kayak ride every evening.
April K.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Diane J.
5 Jun 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Great place to relax
We all totally enjoyed our stay. We got to see manatees, bald eagles, hawks, we caught fish! Great place for relaxation!
Diane J.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023
10/10 Excellent
Chris M.
8 Apr 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Magical Wildlife Location
Saw lots of manatees…and one juvenile hung out by the house dock for a day. Lots of great bird watching as well.
Chris M.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jackie H., usa
7 Mar 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Homosassa hidden treasure
Everything about the house was perfect. It was in a very quiet area. It had everything we needed for an extended stay (30 days). We kayaked often and saw manatees every time except one time. The kayaks that were provided were nice too. The master bed was very comfortable and having the bathroom in the bedroom was very convenient. We loved our stay and are considering renting again in the future.
Jackie H.
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2023
10/10 Excellent
Tine N.
2 Jan 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect for a quiet retreat
We go to Homosassa every year and love the location on Halls River. We bring paddle boards but the kayaks were a big plus. We love that it has little boating traffic so nothing disturbs the wildlife and there were about 13 manatees right around the bend. It was the coldest weather we e er had up there which was great for watching manatees and there are always a couple hanging around the dock in case the weather is not inviting enough to venture outside.
The house itself is beautifully decorated, more like a home than a rental property. And has everything and more than you could wish for. Even the instructions are written in such a friendly and welcoming tone that you feel right at home. Had the weather been better I think we would have missed outdoor seating/eating option but as it was I was happily watching manatees from inside! We already booked for next year!
Tine N.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Kay C.
1 Jan 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful spot!
Great location and lovely rental! Had everything you would need - to cook in, or good places to eat out!! Home was really comfortable!
Kay C.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Jason H., Vine Grove, KY
9 Dec 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Great spot to see manatees
Our family enjoyed our time celebrating Thanksgiving together. We really enjoyed seeing all the cool fish and even manatees come up to the dock. The house was very close to stores and restaurants. Kitchen was big and had everything we needed to cook some great meals. Lots of fun. I really enjoyed the fire pit outside.
Jason H.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022
10/10 Excellent
Erika S.
26 Sept 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Labor day weekend
We stayed at the river rats nest for labor day weekend and couldn't have selected a better place. It is clean and such a comfy home. We loved all the decor in the home as well. The owners were easy to communicate with. We will definitely stay here again.
Erika S.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Hollie A.
28 Aug 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay!
Such a beautiful home and property! A great coastal vibe to the home. Clean and well laid out. My family and I come to this area every year and this has been one of our favorite houses. We also loved kayaking the beautiful river on property!
Hollie A.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Nancy N.
23 Aug 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Thank you!
We really enjoyed the property and its owners! Often when we stay at rental properties, we will bring along supplies. However, we did not need to bring any supplies with us - everything was provided for at the property. From towels to linens and cookware/dishes, we were very impressed. We have stayed at many properties over the years for scalloping and this was the first time we were able to stay at a place that provided everything. We really appreciated the sweet welcome basket and the thoughtfulness that went behind our welcome. Cannot recommend this property enough!