An adjacent golf course, a garden and a playground are just a few of the amenities provided at Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi, with a speed of 500+ Mbps (good for 6+ people or 10+ devices), and guests can find other amenities, such as an arcade/games room and laundry facilities.
Reviews
1010 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
3 bedrooms3 bathrooms174 sq m
Popular amenities
Pool
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free Wi-Fi
Add dates for prices
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Luxury waterfront home with direct Gulf access, private docks, heated pool, and included kayaks—perfect for families, boaters, and nature lovers in Crystal River.
WELCOME TO THE FLOATY POTATO!! An all-inclusive waterfront adventure experience!
The Floaty Potato is a luxury canal-front retreat where coastal comfort and unforgettable adventure come together. Tucked near the end of a quiet deep-water canal with direct Gulf access, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is thoughtfully designed for families, boaters, fishermen, scallopers, and nature lovers seeking an elevated getaway—far from the hustle of big cities, yet still incredibly convenient.
Located less than an hour from Tampa and just 1.5 hours from Orlando, Crystal River offers the perfect balance of peaceful waterfront living and easy access to Florida’s top destinations.
Spend your days enjoying the year-round solar-heated pool, with optional electric heat/cool (extra fees apply), relaxing under the covered lanai, or heading out from your private stationary and floating docks for fishing, scalloping, boating, or a peaceful paddle through scenic waterways. Autism-friendly accommodations are available upon request to ensure a comfortable stay for every guest.
The Floaty Potato is more than just a place to stay—it’s your launchpad for adventure, a home base for unforgettable wildlife encounters, and a space where families create lasting memories they’ll return to year after year.
We’ve partnered with top local companies to offer exclusive guest discounts on fishing charters, scalloping trips, kayaking, manatee tours, eco-adventures, and airboat rides. Every guest receives access to our curated Guest Guide with simple instructions to claim these discounts, along with the best local restaurants, hidden gems, and must-do activities.
A full video tour is available by searching “Wild Roots Rentals LLLP – Floaty Potato” on YouTube.
WHAT MAKES THE FLOATY POTATO UNIQUE
PREMIUM WATERFRONT FEATURES: Stationary dock Floating dock FREE boat lift available to approved guests (Boat Lift Agreement required) Sun lounge chairs for relaxing waterside
FISHING AND BOATING GEAR INCLUDED: Three adult fishing kayaks One youth kayak Paddleboard Crab trap Dedicated bait cooler Fish cleaning table Adult and youth fishing rods Light tackle box Three refrigerators for food, drinks, bait, and your catch
ADDITIONAL OUTDOOR LIVING AND ADVENTURE GEAR: Cornhole Chalk Sports balls Sun chairs
Bikes provided: --Two adult bikes --One youth bike --One tandem bike
Tandem Bike Safety: The tandem bike is more challenging than it looks and is best suited for athletic or experienced riders. Helmets are not provided, so guests should bring their own if they plan to ride.
POOL AND PATIO AMENITIES: Solar-heated pool year-round Optional electric pool heat/cool (for $40 per night, extra) Pool toys, goggles, and floats Covered lanai Screened outdoor living space
INDOOR RECREATION: Ping-pong table Basketball arcade game Family board games
FAMILY-FOCUSED COMFORT AND AMENITIES: Pack-n-play High chair Baby bath Baby monitor BPA-free, unbreakable children’s dishes
Autism-friendly accommodations available upon request, including: Sensory toys Silencing headphones Body sock Weighted blanket Tumble mat Peanut ball Salt lamp
All patio doors leading to the pool are equipped with child-safety locks for added peace of mind.
Exclusive Guest Guide: Includes restaurant recommendations, tour suggestions, wildlife viewing tips, free activities, and a complete four-day family itinerary designed to help you make the most of your stay.
POOL HEAT DETAILS: The pool includes solar heating year-round at no additional cost. Optional electric pool heat/cooling is available for $40 per night and is powered by a daytime pump. Because heat pumps rely on ambient air temperature, cooler winter nights may slow heating and reduce overnight heat retention, especially at the beginning of your stay. Likewise, extremely warm summer days may also slow cooling.
Our goal is to maintain a pool temperature of 80–85°F (winter) and 85-90°F (summer); however, temperatures below 45°F or over 100°F may impact this. The fee covers utility use as well as maintenance and wear and tear on the heating system. Water temperature cannot be guaranteed.
TRADEMARKED MERCHANDISE: The Floaty Potato is the only rental in Crystal River with its own trademarked brand. Guests can enjoy select merchandise during their stay and purchase additional items as souvenirs. Visit our Etsy shop: THE FLOATY POTATO.
NEVER FLOODED: This home is one of the rare canal-front properties in Crystal River that has never flooded, offering added peace of mind year-round.
DESIGNED WITH INTENTION: With over 30 live indoor plants and thoughtfully curated coastal décor, this home feels warm, elevated, and inviting—far from the sparse, basic feel of many short-term rentals.
KAYAKING NOTE: Three Sisters Springs, Kings Bay, and the National Wildlife Refuge can all be reached by a relaxed half-day paddle directly from the home.
CRYSTAL RIVER WATERFRONT LIVING
Launch directly from your backyard to experience: Scenic canal kayaking Frequent manatee, dolphin, otter, and bird sightings Fishing and crabbing Direct boating access to the Gulf of Mexico
SAFETY AND HOUSE GUIDELINES
All guests are required to log into our Guest Portal prior to arrival to sign the Rental Agreement and upload a valid ID.
POOL AND CHILD SAFETY: Child-safety locks on all pool-access doors Adult supervision required around all water areas Surfaces such as indoor floors, pool edges, and docks may be slippery when wet
WATER SAFETY: Never swim alone Avoid alcohol near water Life jackets are required for kayaking and paddleboarding (multiple sizes provided)
BOAT LIFT RULES: Not for general use Must be requested in advance FREE for approved guests Boat Lift Agreement must be signed prior to use
HOME RULES: No smoking (inside or outside) No fireworks Professional pest control is maintained, but insects may still be present due to the waterfront setting Please use couch covers if you have children or pets to help keep furnishings in excellent condition The only checkout chore is taking garbage out on scheduled garbage days (Wednesdays)
SECURITY CAMERAS: Located at the front entry and facing the canal only. There are no cameras inside the home or in private areas.
PETS AND SERVICE ANIMALS
Guests with service animals are encouraged to review our ADA-compliant informational document (no fees required).
PET POLICY — DOGS WELCOME:
We welcome well-behaved dogs. A pet fee and signed pet agreement are required.
Rules & Requirements: • Dogs only (no cats due to owner allergies) • Maximum of 2 approved dogs per stay • Combined weight must not exceed 110 lbs • If over 110 lbs, an additional kennel must be brought or purchased • Dogs must be kenneled anytime they are left unattended
Kennels provided: 24”, 36”, and 48”
Also provided for your convenience: • Dog bowls • Leash • Kennel mat • Paw-cleaning tools • Mandatory couch covers (required if dogs are on furniture) • Fenced backyard with waste bags and scoopers
Please clean up after your dog to help us maintain a clean and enjoyable space for all guests.
We take pride in keeping The Floaty Potato clean, safe, and welcoming for both guests and their furry companions.
All guests must log into the Guest Portal, upload their ID, and sign the Rental Agreement prior to arrival.
Property amenities
Beach
Beach nearby
Beach loungers
Beach towels
Pool/Spa
Heated pool
Outdoor pool
Private pool
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Parking on site
Kitchen
Blender
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Hob
Ice maker
Kitchen island
Kitchenette
Lobster/crab pot
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
3 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
2.5 bathrooms
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Jetted bathtub
Shampoo
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Living room
Separate dining area
Entertainment
Books
Games
Smart TV
Outdoor areas
Barbecue grill
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Patio
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Desk chair
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
Pet friendly
Welcoming dogs only
Up to 23 kg per pet
Suitability/Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
6 steps to reach entrance
Area rugs in public areas
Single level property
Smooth flooring in public areas
Thin carpet in public areas
Tile flooring in public areas
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Well-lit path to entrance
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Change of bedsheets (on request)
Change of towels on request
Housekeeping on request
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near a lake
Near a zoo
Near an outlet shopping centre
Near the bay
Near the marina
Near the sea
Next to a golf course
On a river
On the waterfront
Things to do
Arcade/game room
Bicycle parking
Bicycle storage
Bicycles
Boat
Heated pool
Kayak
Table tennis
Tennis
Water sports equipment
Birdwatching nearby
Cycling nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Hunting nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Sailing nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Snorkelling nearby
Swimming nearby
Theme park nearby
Water skiing nearby
Water tubing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Winery tours nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rules
No Glass in or around the pool area.
Use the couch protective covers for the white living room couches and the daybed if you have children, pets, service animals, or even some adults.
Please treat this home like you would like a guest to treat your home.
Pets
Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total (up to 23 kg per pet)
Note from host: Dogs welcome! Additional pet agreement required.
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Note from host: Safety Pool door locks and life jackets available
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
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
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses some solar energy
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
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
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
Property Registration Number DWE1901711
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
About the area
Located in Crystal River, this holiday home is next to a golf course and on the waterfront. Crystal River Archaeological State Park and Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Three Sisters Springs and Crystal River Preserve State Park. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and cycling nearby. Visit our Crystal River travel guide
Does Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.
Is Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.
How much is parking at Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware located?
This family-friendly Crystal River holiday home is located on the waterfront, within a 15-minute walk of Crystal River Watersports Marina and Crystal River Preserve State Park. Crystal River Archaeological State Park and Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins are also within 3 miles (5 km).
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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.
Very clean and nice home to stay in for our family get away. I was very impressed with the accommodations and communication with the host. 5 stars and would highly recommend this rental.
This place is perfect! The owners have thought of everything. Great location for a manatee visit! My wife and 2 daughters loved the pool and even took the kayaks out on the water. I HIGHLY recommend this place if you are staying in Crystal River!
Such a beautiful home and very well appointed with everything you could possibly need! Very clean and super quick responses from the host! A very smooth check in and check out! We highly recommend and would come visit again!
The pool and the Florida room were amazing and everyone spent a lot of time out there! We had a fun time using the kayaks and exploring the canals. Macey was a great host, super informative about the house and things to do in the surrounding area. She was also so easy to get ahold of and responded very quickly!