This vacation home is a short stroll from Crystal River Watersports Marina and Crystal River Preserve State Park. The vacation home includes a private pool, a kitchen, and a patio.
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 available for $40 per night (October–April), 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 available October through April for $40 per night 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 and a solar blanket year-round at no additional cost. Optional electric pool heat is available for $40 per night and operates via a daytime heat 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.
Our goal is to maintain a pool temperature of 80–85°F; however, temperatures below 45°F may impact this. The fee covers utility usage as well as maintenance and wear 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.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2.5 bathrooms, and a patio. There's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. The bathroom offers a jetted tub and hair dryers. Other standard amenities include a private pool, a washing machine, and a coffee maker. Housekeeping is available on request.
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
Smoking not allowed
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 mall
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
Snorkeling 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)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Bed sheets changed on request
Bicycle parking
Bicycle storage
Bicycles
Bulk dispensers for toiletries
Eco-friendly cleaning products used
Eco-friendly toiletries
Garden
Housekeeping (on request)
Humane treatment of captive wild animals
Local artist showcase
Local culture and ecosystem education
Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
Reusable coffee/tea filters
Solar energy
Towels (changed on request)
Unit size: 1,875 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
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 complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
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
This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
2 total (50 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
Service animals exempt from fees
Note from host: Dogs welcome! Additional pet agreement required.
Children and extra beds
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm 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
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 25
Property Registration Number DWE1901711
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
This property uses solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
Long-term renters welcome.
There are no elevators.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to see around this vacation home?
This vacation home is located in Crystal River, just steps from Crystal River Watersports Marina. You'll also find Crystal River Preserve State Park and Hunter Spring Park within a short drive.
Is there parking available at Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware?
No, there isn't parking available at the vacation home.
Is this vacation home next to a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, this vacation home doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool.
Is Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware good for couples?
This riverfront vacation home offers many amenities for couples such as a private pool, a private pool in some house, as well as an outdoor pool.
Are there hot tubs at Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware?
No, but all house at this vacation home have jetted bathtubs.
Does this vacation home provide breakfast?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this vacation home allow pets to stay free of charge?
Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.
Are there connecting rooms at Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware?
No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
Are there rooms with balconies at Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware?
Yes, every house at Waterfront Retreat! Heated Pool, Kayaks, Fishing, Boat Lift, Dogs, Autism Aware comes with a patio and some offer water views.
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers 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.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 4 out of 4 reviews
10 - Excellent
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Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 4 reviews
8 - Good
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Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 4 reviews
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Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 4 reviews
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Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 4 reviews
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9.6/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Leela D.
Apr 1, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
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!
Leela D.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2026
10/10 Excellent
Josh M.
Mar 14, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
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!
Josh M.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
10/10 Excellent
Joanne M.
Jan 25, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
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!
Joanne M.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
Bryce S.
Jan 5, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
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.