Step into The Pond House, where nature and tranquility blend. Enjoy expansive poolside views of the serene pond, complete with wildlife sightings and a spacious screened porch perfect for alfresco dining or cozying up by dual fire pits. This haven offers a versatile game room with Nintendo system and work desk as well as gourmet kitchen amenities.
Reviews
1010 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
5 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 10279 sq m
Popular amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free Wi-Fi
The current price is AU$930
AU$930
includes taxes & fees
10 Mar - 11 Mar
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.
5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10
Your Private Family Retreat Near the University of Florida
Welcome to The Pond House, a serene and spacious 5-bedroom retreat set on a full acre of peaceful natural surroundings just 2 miles from the University of Florida. Thoughtfully designed for comfort, connection, and memorable gatherings, this home offers the perfect setting for UF graduations, game day weekends, holidays, and extended family stays.
Here, you’ll enjoy the rare combination of privacy, nature, and proximity to everything Gainesville has to offer.
⸻
A Home Designed for Gathering
From the moment you arrive, The Pond House invites you to slow down and settle in. With expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces, everyone can be together while still having room to relax.
The open and welcoming layout makes it easy to: • share meals • celebrate milestones • enjoy game nights • unwind after a day on campus
The large dining areas and fully equipped gourmet kitchen are ideal for preparing everything from casual breakfasts to graduation celebrations.
⸻
Outdoor Living at Its Best
The outdoor spaces are where The Pond House truly shines.
Spend your days:
☀️ Swimming in the large private pool 🌿 Enjoying the wide open green space for kids to play 🍽 Dining together outdoors 🔥 Relaxing by the fire pits under the stars ☕ Sipping morning coffee with tranquil pond views
The one-acre setting creates a peaceful, private atmosphere that feels like a true escape — while still being minutes from UF.
⸻
Fun for All Ages
Inside, the game room brings everyone together for friendly competition and evening entertainment, featuring:
🎱 Pool table 🎮 Nintendo gaming system
Whether it’s kids, teens, or adults, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
⸻
Comfort for Up to 10 Guests
With five beautifully appointed bedrooms, the home comfortably accommodates up to 10 guests, making it ideal for: • multi-generation families • two families traveling together • graduation gatherings • group getaways
There is plenty of space to spread out, recharge, and feel at home.
⸻
Perfect for UF Events & Gainesville Visits
The Pond House is especially loved by guests visiting for:
🎓 UF Graduations 🏈 Football weekends 👨👩👧 Parent & family visits 🎉 Celebrations and reunions
Being just 2 miles from the University of Florida, you’re close to campus, restaurants, shopping, and local attractions — while still enjoying a peaceful retreat at the end of the day.
⸻
Thoughtful Amenities
✔ Large private pool ✔ Game room with pool table & Nintendo ✔ Fully equipped gourmet kitchen ✔ Spacious indoor & outdoor dining areas ✔ Fire pits for evening gatherings ✔ Fast Wi-Fi ✔ Parking for multiple vehicles ✔ 1-acre private setting with pond views
Every detail is designed to make your stay comfortable, easy, and memorable.
⸻
The Experience
More than just a place to stay, The Pond House is a place to: • reconnect • celebrate • relax • create lasting family memories
Whether you’re cheering on a Gator, celebrating a milestone, or simply escaping for a peaceful getaway, this home offers the space and setting to make it special. Wildlife Notice – Natural Pond Area
Our pond is part of Florida’s natural ecosystem and is occasionally visited by a small local alligator.
He is not aggressive and usually stays in or near the water, but for everyone’s safety: • Do not feed the alligator • Do not approach or attempt to touch • Do not throw objects into the pond • No swimming or fishing in the pond • Please supervise children and pets at all times near the water
During warmer months, he may rest on the edge of the pond to sunbathe.
This is very common in Florida and completely safe as long as these simple rules are respected.
We love our peaceful backyard and the wildlife that comes with it — thank you for helping us keep both guests and nature safe. This is a private, serene retreat intended for quiet enjoyment. Parties, events, and unregistered guests are not permitted
Property amenities
Beach
Beach loungers
Beach towels
Pool/Spa
Outdoor pool
Private pool
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Electric car charging station on site
Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available
Onsite parking options include a garage
Kitchen
Blender
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Hob
Ice maker
Kitchen island
Lobster/crab pot
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Water dispenser
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
5 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Sofa bed
Bathroom
3 bathrooms
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Jetted bathtub
Shampoo
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Separate dining area
Entertainment
Games
Music library
Smart TV
Video games
Outdoor areas
Barbecue grill
Firepit
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Patio
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Desk chair
Printer
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
Pet friendly
Welcoming dogs only
4 pets total
Suitability/Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Accessible parking space
In-room accessibility
No lift (single-level property)
Single level property
Smooth flooring in public areas
Stair-free path to entrance
Thin carpet in public areas
Tile flooring in public areas
Wheelchair-accessible parking
Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
Wheelchair-accessible pool
Wheelchair-accessible van parking
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Change of bedsheets (on request)
Change of towels on request
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
In the city centre
Near a hospital
Next to a golf course
On a lake
On the waterfront
Things to do
Arcade/game room
Billiards/pool table
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Kayaking nearby
Swimming nearby
Water tubing nearby
Wildlife walks 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)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Bed sheets changed on request
Double-glazed windows
Eco-friendly cleaning products used
Electric car charging station
Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
Garden
Humane treatment of captive wild animals
Living plant wall
Locally-owned and organised tours and activities
Recycling
Towels (changed on request)
Unit size: 3,000 square feet
Water dispenser
Water-efficient showers
Water-efficient toilets
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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:
Load the dishwasher
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rules
Quiet hours 10pm–8am. No parties or events. Driveway parking only. Thank you for helping us keep a peaceful, family-friendly retreat.
Excessive noise or disturbances reported by neighbors or authorities may result in immediate termination of the stay without refund.
The host reserves the right to address noise complaints promptly and take appropriate action, including contacting local authorities if necessary.
Pets
Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
4 total pets
Note from host: The pet fee is $50
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Events
No events allowed
Small and quiet gatherings upon request only.
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
Note from host: Small and quiet gatherings upon request only.
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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 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
About the area
Located in Sugarfoot, a neighbourhood in Gainesville, this holiday home is next to a golf course and on the waterfront. Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History and Florida Museum of Natural History are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention and Thomas Center. Travelling with kids? Consider Kanapaha Botanical Gardens and Haile Village Playground. Kayaking, water tubing and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding nearby. Visit our Gainesville travel guide
Does 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10 have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.
How much does it cost to stay at 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10?
As of 8 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10 on 10 Mar 2026 start from AU$930, 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.
Is 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10 pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 4 total).
How much is parking at 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is 5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10 located?
This family-friendly Gainesville holiday home is located on the waterfront, within 2 mi (3 km) of Regal Royal Park and University of Florida. Regal Royal Park and Spyglass Dog Park are also within 2 miles (3 km).
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5BR UF Family Retreat with Private Pool, Pond, Game Room – Sleeps 10 Reviews
Reviews
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.
We stayed in the Pond House Friday and Saturday night for the FL/FSU game. We had three adult couples and two college students. The house was the perfect size for us, plenty of room. We grilled out Friday and Saturday night, grille was great, kitchen is excellent, fully equipped. Check in and check out was easy and communication with the host was seamless. Weather was cold so we used both the gas and the real wood firepits. Brought our own wood. Great backyard and pond. I highly recommend this house and would definitely come back again with my family.
Had a wonderful stay here! The entire house was spotless, and you could tell the owners take great pride in keeping everything clean and comfortable. Each bathroom had thoughtful little touches like Q-tips, razor, toothbrush, ear plugs which made our stay more welcoming. Plenty of paper products were supplied throughout the house, too.The decor was beautiful. The layout was perfect for our family get-together, giving everyone space while feeling connected. We didn't get a chance to enjoy the pool this time, but we would absolutely love to come back and make use of it.The host was responsive and helpful from start to finish. Overall, an excellent stay. We would definitely stay here again.
Two weeks, lots of room and well-appointed, generous basic supplies, loverly views and settings, splendid back yard, nice quiet neighborhood, everything worked well, very much enjoyed our stay.
This vacation home is a winner! The home was spacious, comfortable and very clean. The kitchen and bathrooms were so thoughtfully stocked, as well as a game room and a pool table. The pool was a hit! It was in a good neighborhood. The host was great. I can't think of anything that was negative about it. All in all, the house was very inviting, and I would definitely book it again.
We were here for my daughter’s graduation. This house surpassed our expectations. The beds were comfortable, the neighborhood was very peaceful and the kitchen was well stocked. The pool was relaxing. We don’t have the opportunity to be together often and this place just made it perfect.
We enjoyed our stay here and had everything we needed! It was clean and perfect for our extended family for a long weekend. The beds were comfy and we loved the pool table area and the pool!! Thank you!
The pond house was very centrally located but tucked away on a side street. The house was very spacious and had several different areas to come together as a group or find a quiet place to relax. We also enjoyed the large back yard.
This house provided so much space for our family of teens and young adults to spread out or hang out together playing pool, swimming, eating, playing games.
We found this house to be AMAZING! Everything was just as described and all of the rooms are large. It is a very expansive home. Huge pool and game room area. Huge kitchen. Huge dining table (we played cards!).....huge driveway. All so tucked away in a cool, old Gainesville neighborhood. The pond was so pretty, and it even had a friendly small gator in it that would watch from a distance. We rode our bikes to the stadium for game day and thought it was an easy 2.5 mile ride. You won't be disappointed!
We had a delightful time together at the pond house! Plenty of space for our family. Great kitchen for cooking a Thanksgiving meal for all of us. Peaceful surroundings by the pond and fun in the pool!
This was a GREAT property. Everything was perfect. We loved the house itself. It was the cleanest of all VRBOs I have ever ver stayed in. The property was gorgeous and the hosts had it set up with everything we could possibly have needed. Our only issue was that we all wished we had planned on staying longer!
Fabulous house right around the corner from 34th St and University Ave., though you would think you're out in the country. The large backyard opens to large pond (hence the name). You can't even see the house next door, and you can barely see the one across the pond, so it very much feels like you have the entire pond to yourself. We saw numerous animals during our stay--a five foot alligator, deer, raccoons, armadillos, frogs, cranes, etc. The house is large, comfortable, and well-stocked. The pool has a lovely, enclosed, converted carport with plenty of sitting space, shade, and a pool table. Overall it was everything we could've hoped for and would love to stay again.
The pond house is beautiful and clean inside and out! You can tell the host takes pride in her rental. We stayed to celebrate my daughters graduation and this home was perfect! It has a very large kitchen with plenty of seating and the outdoor area is amazing We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves!
House full of amenities: firepit, wood and starter logs included, smores sticks; coffee - keurig/pot/ expresso machines; tvs in all bedrooms (unfortunately not by pool, pool table); pool toys; pool table- loads of fun; even football to play by pool. Do be aware, gators are in the pond. Just do not feed them and understand they are active when its mating season. It was entertaining though. Highly recommend staying here.
Our annual family gathering was complete at the pond house! The space was perfect for the nine of us. The kitchen is stocked extremely well!! The bedrooms were cozy and quiet. The only recommendation I have for the home is to have a fan for the outside pool table area; as air movement would make this space more enjoyable with the Florida heat.
It was wonderful. I’d highly recommend this property for any large family group The common spaces are large open and conducive to conversation. The bedrooms were far enough away that even those who wanted and early night were not disturbed. The backyard was perfect for wiffle ball, fishing and good fun!
WOW! Each of us LOVED everything about this gorgeous home! Overall, it was quite spacious, beautifully decorated, full of amenities & anything we could have needed! The 8 of us enjoyed ourselves immensely! This lovely, ample and peacefully situated home made our weekend extra special and enjoyable!! We’re already talking about planning a return trip! The hosts responsiveness to a couple questions we had was immediate, kind and super hospitable! The house was generously stocked with fabulous coffee and pantry supplies, ample bathroom/bedroom supplies including towels, pillows, toiletries, blankets, etc. So much room for everyone, with lots of comfortable gathering areas! The outdoor game/lounge area was a hit w/all of us. It was a great place to chill & talk. Although we didn’t use the pool since it was too chilly that weekend, it’s such a welcoming space. The backyard is beyond gorgeous! There is a lovely pond & we even met the resident mellow little gator we named Gary the gator. There’s a great outdoor fire pit area all surrounded by lush greenery and huge, majestic trees - just gorgeous! The back patio also has a large & useful gas grill that we enjoyed using. Check-in and check-out was seamless. I’d like to make special note of the kindness of our host/owners in accommodating a special request we had on our last day there. So, so grateful!!! THANK YOU for making our trip so special! We look forward to coming back soon.
We found this home to be perfect for our family group. We had a reunion of ten adults and ten children (not all stayed overnight) and the accommodations worked great. There was plenty of room, and the kids could hang out and adults easily keep an eye on them while spending time together. They loved the pool even though the weather was a little cool. The older kids hung out in the "game room" and we all enjoyed the pool table. The kitchen and open concept living and dining areas were spacious and convenient. There is a large outdoor area with a firepit. The big plus for us is that the location is near our home in the center of Gainesville, close to UF and the stadium, shopping, etc. We will definitely consider this property again for hosting a large group.
We recently stayed at The Pond House, and it exceeded all our expectations, earning a well-deserved 5-star rating! The outdoor space is a nature lover's dream! The screened porch offers breathtaking pond views and the chance to witness wildlife. The lush greenery provides both privacy and beauty. Also, it is in a great neighborhood with close proximity to the University of Florida. An ideal spot for both tranquility and accessibility.
The master bedroom, with its pond views, is a luxurious retreat featuring a king bed, en-suite with a large shower, and a generous 65” TV. All bedrooms have queen beds, premium linens, and large TVs. The kitchen had all new appliances and was well stocked with everything you need. The coffee bar which included a Nespresso machine was a great bonus. The Pond House is designed for large groups, offering two living areas and two dining areas. The quality of the furniture in both areas was excellent. We can't wait to return!
The Pond House is the diamond of my vacation season!
For Bridgerton fans, you know what I mean. The house is incomparable, sitting on its own pond. I was greeted my first evening by two deer out for a drink. Over my 4 day stay, I saw deer, turkeys, an egret, a blue heron, and two alligators sharing the same water source. The house was spacious and the perfect place to entertain my family in town for a wedding. The kitchen is the most fully equipped I have ever had the pleasure of cooking in. My sister was so enchanted, she went out and bought all the cooks in the family matching aprons so we had a souvenir of our time there. The indoor and the outdoor spaces were so well laid out and equipped. So much seating and dining areas for alfresco dining, informal dining off the pool and formal dining for those so inclined. There was dinner service for 16, plus children’s dinnerware for four. There are 3 different coffee makers to give you a choice between regular brewed, pod style one cup option and expresso with a milk foamed. I could go on and on. This house deserves every 10 it has received from its guests. My niece was so taken with the property, she is organizing a cousins reunion and plans to rent the Pond House for it.