Entire home

Clear Kayak / Waterfront / Fire Pit / Screen Lanai

Photo gallery for Clear Kayak / Waterfront / Fire Pit / Screen Lanai

Beach
Pool
Children's area
Beach
2 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, travel crib

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 579 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Pet friendly
    Pet friendly
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning
  • Dryer
    Dryer

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Clear Kayak / Waterfront / Fire Pit / Screen Lanai

Funky Flamingo River Cottage is THE hidden gem along the Weeki Wachee River. Adorably designed inside & out with fun and relaxation in mind, you may never want to leave. Relax the day away on our comfy screened lanai, cook a homemade meal in our fully stocked kitchen, hang out around the fire pit or playing games, and use our clear kayak to float along with the manatees!

The Funky Flamingo has been updated with an eclectic mix of its original fixtures, vintage furniture, and new modern conveniences. The perfect mix of Florida: funky and fun. Escape the heat - come spend a few days relaxing in the refreshingly cool spring water, float the river in our kayaks, and take a nap on the hammock. We operate on river time - it's the best place to leave busy life behind for a few days, and unwind! The cottage is perfectly situated on a peaceful canal just off the bustling Weeki Wachee River, centrally located between Weeki Wachee Springs and the Gulf. Swim & fish right off the dock, watch the Mullet jump and the Manatee swim by, and relax on our comfy bug free porch. When you're ready to head out on the river the kayak stabilizer makes for an easier kayak launch, and you'll be on the crystal clear river in just a few short paddles. All that's missing from The Funky Flamingo River Cottage is you!

/// THE HOUSE /// Inside, the comfy living room is ready for fun game nights and features a new 60 inch Smart TV for movies. The kitchen is well stocked with what you'll need to make yummy meals, including an instant pot, new oven with an air fryer function, and even an ice cream maker. A coffee bar is stocked with coffee, creamers, and sugar options so you can hit the ground running your first morning. Bedrooms are equipped with comfortable new beds, closets & dressers for storage, sound machines, & blackout curtains to help everyone get a good night's sleep. The whole house was just updated with new hurricane / sound reducing windows, so it is even more quiet and peaceful at night. A dedicated work space is tucked away in the main bedroom so you can sneak away to use the free WIFI for a little work if needed.

Everyone gravitates towards the huge screened in Lanai, it's the heart of the home - even if it is technically outside. Spend hours relaxing on the comfy furniture while enjoying the views, eat an outdoor but *fly free* lunch at the picnic table, then play some foosball, checkers, or chess when you're ready for some friendly competition. This side of the house gets morning light and afternoon shade, so it's the perfect place to hang out and enjoy the breeze all day long.

///THE FUN STUFF/// Use of our kayaks, paddles, life vests, and floating island is included, but use at your own risk. We currently have a clear bottom tandem kayak (both people face forward, rated for 450lbs.), tandem rated for 450lbs.), 2 sit-in single rider kayaks, an S.U.P, and 2 child kayaks. Our kayak stabilizing arm is adjustable for the tides and makes launching and getting out much easier. We also have a storage bin full of beach chairs, beach toys, etc. for use, but exact items vary.

/// THE RIVER /// You can have an amazing trip just by pulling into The Funky Flamingo with groceries & never getting in your car again until it's time to go home. The river provides so much to explore and so much wildlife to see! It's crystal clear waters and steady 72 degree temperature make it a little slice of paradise. Our centrally located deep water canal give you easy access to of all the river action. Pull your kayak over right where our canal meets the river to swim in the shallow sandbar area - be sure to keep a lookout for manatees here! Then head upriver towards the natural State Park, or downriver towards Hospital Hole, Roger's Park, and a riverside meal at The Upper Deck.

/// THE AREA /// Weeki Wachee is the perfect home base to experience the "Old Florida" vibes, the amazing natural parks & beaches nearby, and plenty of fun day trips along the Nature Coast. We are about 1 hour north of Tampa, and 1/5 hours west of Orlando.

Nearby you have the world famous Weeki Wachee mermaids to watch, and the State Park to explore. Our local beach, Pine Island, is the perfect spot to watch sunsets. Hernando Beach (No beach, don't let the name fool you!) has many famous restaurants to choose from. Boat rentals and tours are available for Weeki Wachee, and other local springs.

If you have a day to spare, you can explore the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks and Greek culture, or the clear green water at Honeymoon Island Beach and State Park. If you're bringing water loving dogs, the Off Leash Dog Beach at Fort De Soto is worth the drive.

/// THE IMPORTANT INFO // There's parking for 2 cars in the lawn / grass, just off the street.

Security cameras are in use at all times for the safety and protection of our guests and property. They're used primarily to check on the house while it's empty. Notifications are turned off after guests arrive, and we really only watch footage if there is a concern or neighbor complaint. Cameras are all located OUTDOORS & only on the street side of the house: one is pointing back towards the front door, 2 towards the parking area / street, and another towards our shed & kayaks.

We're available via phone & text anytime. Although we live out of state, we have an amazing local crew that helps keep things in top top shape, and great neighbors who help watch over things.

Weeki Wachee prides itself on the laid back "Old Florida" atmosphere. Friendly people, amazing scenery, eclectic homes, and great restaurants. Our actual neighborhood is a mix of full time residents & vacation homes, so please be respectful of neighbors. Quiet hours start at 10PM.

/// PLEASE ALSO NOTE ///
A rental agreement & liability waiver must be signed within 48 hours of booking to secure dates. A $500 refundable security / damage deposit is required before check in. Thanks for understanding.

Property manager

Jan Elle

Languages

English

Property amenities

Ski

  • Close to skiing

Internet

  • Free WiFi, with speed of 250+ Mbps (good for 3–5 people or up to 10 devices)

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking
  • Car recommended

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Toaster
  • Spices
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Ice maker

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • Arcade/game room
  • Books
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer
  • Near laundromat

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 2 total pets
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • On the waterfront
  • Near a health or beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the bay

Things to do

  • Water park
  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Boat on site
  • Kayak on site
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Theme parks nearby
  • Cycling nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 850 sq ft (79 sq m)

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total pets
Note from host: Must get prior approval if bringing a pet

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

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
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 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

We should mention

A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

orp5b5554dx
Newly Updated • Kayaks • Waterfront on Weeki
New!! • Updated • Kayaks • Waterfront on Weeki Canal Spring Hill

About the neighborhood

Map
Weeki Wachee, FL

What's nearby

  • Weeki Wachee River - 1 min walk
  • Weeki Wachee Springs State Park - 5 min drive
  • Weeki Wachee Springs - 9 min drive
  • Bayport Park Boat Ramp - 9 min drive
  • Pine Island Beach Park - 10 min drive

Getting around

  • Tampa Intl. Airport (TPA) - 58 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Golden Corral - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Applebee's Grill + Bar - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Wendy's - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Steak 'n Shake - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Upper Deck - ‬2 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Clear Kayak / Waterfront / Fire Pit / Screen Lanai pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Clear Kayak / Waterfront / Fire Pit / Screen Lanai?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Clear Kayak / Waterfront / Fire Pit / Screen Lanai?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Clear Kayak / Waterfront / Fire Pit / Screen Lanai located?

This family-friendly Spring Hill cottage is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Weeki Wachee River and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Pine Island Beach Park and Weeki Wachee Springs are also within 6 mi (10 km).

Clear Kayak / Waterfront / Fire Pit / Screen Lanai Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 33 out of 34 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 34 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 34 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 34 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 34 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Katherine F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carla C., Northwest Arkansas

Liked: Cleanliness
Cute cottage
We enjoyed our stay at this cute little cottage. It definitely had the feel of a family cottage where you might spend your summer vacation. Nothing fancy but comfortable, cute and homelike. I loved the colors it was decorated in and especially the "wall paper" in the bathroom. We had a great time. The hostess was very communicative and we had zero issues.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Catherine S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great trip!
The house was just as described and clean. Plenty of bath towels and stocked kitchen. The kayaks were great and we enjoyed the fire pit. Beds were comfortable. Shower had good water pressure.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca G., Phillipston, MA

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice stay
This was a girls getaway with three adults. We had a nice stay but were there mainly to kayak. Getting the kayaks from the rack and in and out of the water was quite an ordeal. We only used the supplied kayaks once and rented kayaks the rest of the trip. Great neighborhood and restaurants, shopping were close by.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa A.

Liked: Cleanliness
We loved our stay
What a fantastic, relaxing place. We loved waking up early and kayaking down the river. So many great places to stop and swim along the way. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Yaite

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carolynn W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect get away home!
This Flamingo themed house is adorable. They did a fantastic job at decorating and supplying the house with everything you could possibly need for your stay. The location is great. Just a quick paddle to the crystal river. We had a dolphin swim by our deck one morning and even had a mama and baby manatee come down by us too. The outside porch was our favorite. No bugs could come in the screened area. They had lots of options for boats that we used everyday. The kitchen is well stocked and even had games and books for our use. We will definitely return to this house in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cute place with all the amenities!
Loved begging here so peaceful and close to the main river.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing!
Last minute trip that may be one of our best! They truly have thought of everything! Not one complaint! I can not wait to return! Thank you! Wonderful hosts!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Corin B., New York City

Liked: Cleanliness
Loved the Flamingo!
It's a very cute little place in the perfect Weeki neighborhood. Rural but still close to groceries, gas, etc. We loved using the kayaks and relaxing on the screened in porch. We look forward to coming back someday soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Elaine R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Funky Flamingo
Very cozy ! Cheerful colors ! Loved the creativity with the theme ! Can't wait to go back !
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jessica J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Sweet space for rest!
My mom who is in her 70s visited this areas when she was a child and has wanted to show me this area for years. She saw an add for this cute cottage home on the river and shared it with me. It was a perfect short getaway for us. The place is just darling! They have thought of thr smallest details. It’s a cute spot that is very vintage and eclectic, in the best way. We especially loved the porch and the clear canoe! Because we were there in September, we only saw two manatee but that was so special none the less. We loved having lunch at Hernando beach Tropical Grille— get the conch fritters and the grouper bites! We also loved spending some time at the Pine Island beach park. The water was crazy warm and we saw so many dolphins. We left fans of this flamingo paradise!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

John L., Callahan, FL

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect cottage
Very clear instructions for every step of the rental process. The cottage was well stocked, clean, and exactly as described in the listing. We would definitely recommend this cottage!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Anna H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing experience!
I can’t say enough great things about the Funky Flamingo and the owners! First of all, the cottage is adorable and just the right amount of vintage and whimsical. The kitchen is VERY well stocked and we cooked there every day. The rooms were comfy and just right. We especially enjoyed hanging out on the screened in porch and playing giant Jenga and foosball several times a day. There were plenty of watercraft options and life vests for all sizes. And best of all, we saw several manatees EVERYDAY! We are definitely planning a return trip here next year. Highly recommend this property!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Private, quiet oasis
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The house was so cute and came stocked with so many things to made our stay easier. Great access to the river and we saw 1-2 manatees pass by the house in morning and evening but you have to watch carefully as mostly they are swimming alone and underwater. Only downside was the location on the canal has alot of eel grass. This is a plus and minus. The crazy crowds are not disturbing your peace on the canal and there is plenty of food for the manatees. Still clear water and able to see fish and manatees off the dock. However, guests didn't want to spend alot of time in the water just off the dock because of the grass touching them. LOL. Super quick access to the sandy main river. We were grateful that there really weren't alot of biting bugs even when outside in the evening. I think the very first night there were a few no see-ums. But no mosquitos present and only 1 encounter with a yellow fly over a full day of kayaking the entire length of the river. Beds were comfy and air conditioner kept the space enjoyable. The lanai is a beautiful space to spend morning and evenings.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sarah P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect for small family
House was adorable and very clean, comfortable and well stocked. The owner was so nice and they’ve really thought of everything. The kayaks were in great shape and the location was perfect for spending time on the river.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ed K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Funky flamingo fun
Very cool place with everything you need.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Timmerie C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Orlando Conference Break!
I cannot say enough nice things about staying at this property. The cottage was perfect in every way! We paddled entire length of the river one day....we did it in 5+ hours but it was so worth it! If you do the long paddle you see fabulous wildlife. The next couple days we just played on the river, paddled around and just had a blast. It was such a wonderful break. Truly a neighborhood party on the river. Eat at the Italian Restaurant at the top of the neighborhood..it was wonderful. Everything you need is near by...Walmart etc. On the one rainy afternoon there were lots of games and the screened in porch was absolutely perfect. This is definitely a to do in Florida...it is something different and fun!! And yes we saw manatees everyday! Tons of fish and birds to watch as well.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Rhonda & Jim K.

Liked: Cleanliness
River Cottage
Plenty of room for two adults and two children (1 bathroom). Everything you need in the kitchen including updated appliances. Nice big TV with premium TV apps. Canal is crystal clear and extremely short distance to aqua blue waters of the river (enjoy sand bars and swimming). Very close to Weeki Watchee. Kayaks on premises and small boat rental with delivery right to dock. Upper deck restaurant with great food easy to paddle to or take car (5 minutes away). Owner Jan is real sweet and eager to please.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Krista W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Funtastic Funky Flamingo
I wish I could give the Funky Flamingo and Jan the host extra ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. Both the property and host exceeded our expectations. Jan has put so much time and effort into the property - there are visual and comfort details everywhere. My family of four did not lack for anything while at the house - it is as functional as it is cute. From the board games, kayaks, stocked kitchen and bath - all you will need are groceries and you won't need to leave the property. The location is exceptional. The house is just a short paddle to either the state park which offers calm crystal blue waters or Rogers Park with a little park, swim area and restaurant. My family was here for 4 full days and did not leave the Weeki Wachee area. There is plenty to do but the vibe is so laid back and chill - it was a true vacation to escape and slow down. We did see manatees everyday on the river and with two smaller kids we rented a little boat from the company Jan recommended. With the boat we were able to take the river all the way up the state park where the water was so blue and quiet. We went to see the Mermaid show at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park mid-week per Jan's recommendations and the crowds were totally manageable. Apparently the place gets packed in the weekends so try to go during the week if possible. We did also venture to Pine Island beach one afternoon and it was great. There aren't really many waves but there is a little park and we saw a pod of dolphins and crabs. I have never heard of this area of Florida but it is truly magical. The kids are already wanting to go back and we will be booking Jan's place again for next year!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Noah H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Birthday weeki wachee trip
Place was great. Great scenery, calm and relaxing atmosphere and just all out good vibes would highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Megan C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Quaint little cottage
The Funky Flamingo did not disappoint. It has super cute decor and is super cozy and home like. The hosts have thought of the little things you may have forgotten along your travel. We used the kayaks and paddle board that were at the cottage everyday and they had plenty of beach toys for our day trip to the beach. Janelle was very responsive with any questions or concerns we had throughout our stay. The neighborhood was quiet and neighbors were friendly. We would definitely stay at the Funky Flamingo River Cottage again.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Anne Fouche B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing 5 stars stay
Gorgeous little house with a soul, very well equipped, fab recos - our best accommodation in our 2 week road trip around Florida
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

claudine C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous time at the Funky Flamingo!
We had an amazing stay at the Funky Flamingo. Any questions we had from what to do with trash to how to navigate the river were answered in the virtual guest book and guest book and signage at the home. The design was funky and fun and it was stocked with anything we needed to enjoy the home and the river. The lanai was perfect for relaxing in the evening and playing the many board games at night. We loved the clear kayak and we got oohs and ahhs from everyone on the river! We swam and watched the sunsets at Pine Island Beach, saw the mermaid show at Weekie Wachee State Park and enjoyed a day at Tarpon Springs including a boat tour and shelling. We wouldn't hesitate to return and to recommend it to friends and family.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marsha K., Saint Paul

Liked: Cleanliness
Fun February Stay
We truly enjoyed our month long stay at your cheerful and fun river cottage. The lanai was so relaxing and we spent a lot of time out there. We did many day trips including: seeing the delightful "Mermaids", finding out where sponges come from in Tarpon Springs, Homosasa Springs State Park, and sunny days at Pine Island Beach! The house is equipped with everything you might need. Thanks so much for the wonderful vacation.
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2022