Nestled in the charming small town of Crystal River, Ruba's River Retreat offers a serene retreat with a private pool and dock where you can launch your kayak or simply unwind. Enjoy swimming with manatees, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or having a picnic nearby at Hunter Springs Park and Three Sisters Springs.
Reviews
9.29.2 out of 10
Wonderful
Entire home
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6112 sq m
Popular amenities
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.
Ruba’s River Retreat has been fully renovated & is better than ever! This 2-bed, 2-bath vacation rental in Crystal River sleeps 6+ & is located at the end of a deep-water canal, with a fenced yard where the kids and adults alike can play along with the dogs, offering peaceful days and nights.
Enjoy all the local action, including swimming with manatees, snorkeling in crystal-clear water, walking local trails, or having a picnic. Book now & experience the beauty of FL’s Natural Coast!”
Nestled in the charming small town of Crystal River, Ruba's River Retreat house is closely located to the best of Central Florida: Hunter Springs Park and Three Sisters Springs are two local favorites. Bringing your boat – spend your time fishing, scalloping, or day out boating. Bringing your kayaking? Launch directly from the dock at the house. Make it a low-key visit and spend your time splashing in the private pool, tanning in the backyard, playing games such as Cornhole, or preparing a meal in the fully equipped kitchen. You can have it all at this getaway!
Here are a few words from our past guests: It's a great location for a long weekend of fishing and scalloping. The home was perfect for our friends and us, with a well-stocked kitchen with a great coffee bar, the pool was refreshing after being in saltwater all day, and the home was very clean. The canal to the main river takes about 1/2 hour to meander, but we enjoyed the time in nature. The host was very communicative and made sure we were comfortable and satisfied. – Phillip
This is an amazing place. On the water and has a pool. Sandra is super helpful and responsive. I will stay here again. - Kris
Experience Florida's Nature Coast in comfort when you stay at this comfortable family home, providing everything you need for a hassle-free retreat to nature!
~The space ~ INDOOR LIVING: Bedroom 1: King Bed | Bedroom 2: 1 Queen Bed | Living Room: Sleeper Sofa (Queen) | Sitting Room: Sleeper Sofa (Queen) 2 full bathrooms (1 walk-in and 1 tub/shower combo) Fully equipped kitchen, a 6-person dining table + 2-person coffee/reading nook Office area/ space with high-speed Wi-Fi 4 TVs (3 Smart TVs, plus Rokus) Neutral/coastal colors, ceiling fans Private Screened-In Pool | Lanai/ Screened Patio
OUTDOOR LIVING: Screened-in pool, Lanai/ Screened-in patio area with ceiling fans, outdoor dining area & patio furniture, private dock with Kayak ramp, canal views, spacious yard; combo gas & charcoal grill
KITCHEN: Fully equipped with stainless steel appliances, Nespresso coffee maker & other coffee + tea maker options, air fryer/toaster oven, water filter, ice, Crock-Pot, spices, dishware/flatware
GENERAL: Central heating & air conditioning, washer & dryer, linens, towels, pool towels, complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, extra refrigerator in the garage for storing your fresh fish, scallops/ extra groceries, etc.
PARKING: Garage (1 vehicle), driveway (2 vehicles), and space for your boat trailer
Ruba’s River Retreat is perfect for: Small friend groups/Families Family vacation Weekend getaway
Enjoy all the year-around activities that include: Hunter Springs Park and Three Sisters Springs Boating Fishing Scalloping (Seasonal, Summer) Kayaking
NEAREST BOAT RAMP: Crystal River City Boat Ramp (558 Northwest 3rd Avenue, Crystal River, FL 34428
Guest access When you stay at Ruba’s River Retreat, you have the whole space to yourself, so you feel at home. You will be given a key code to access the front door access to the garage, which can hold up to a mid-sized SUV.
Other things to note Please remember that you're staying in my home, not a hotel :) Please treat the space with respect. If any problems arise, we will do our best to take action from our team in the area as soon as possible, but no one lives on-site 24/7.
Additional rules - No smoking, including cigars or vaping - No pets allowed - Must be at least 25 years old to book, and a photo ID may be required to check in - No events, parties, or large gatherings - Additional fees apply to any additional guests over 6 (max occupancy is 8) - No eating in the bedrooms - Dispose of the garbage in the trash bin and recycling bins as appropriate; recycling is collected on Wednesdays and placed outside on Tuesday night. Trash is collected on Friday mornings. Please put it out near the mailbox on Thursday night - Additional fees and taxes may apply
Additional Notes: - Please observe quiet hours from 10:00 PM - 8:00 AM - There is an optional daily pool heat fee of $25/day (paid pre-trip, applied to the entire stay) - If using the BBQ grill, please adhere to instructions on proper use and clean-up post-use - The maximum occupancy and no smoking policies are strictly enforced
Property amenities
Beach
Beach loungers
Beach towels
Pool/Spa
Heated pool
Outdoor pool
Private pool
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Onsite parking options include a garage
Kitchen
Blender
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Hob
Ice maker
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
2 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
2 bathrooms
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Living room
Entertainment
Games
Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
Stereo
Outdoor areas
Charcoal grill
Fenced yard
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.
No lift (single-level property)
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Things to do
Heated pool
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)
Fire extinguisher
General
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Eco-friendly cleaning products used
Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
Garden
Recycling
Reusable coffee/tea filters
Unit size: 1,200 square feet
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
Rules
No smoking, incl. cigars or vaping inside the home; Ok outside- pls pick up + properly dispose
No firearms/weapons unless secured +location disclosed
No eating of food in bedrooms
Dispose of the garbage in trash + recycling bins as appropriate
Return kayaks, vests, outdoor games to original place
NO TOSSING OF PEBBLES INTO THE POOL.
Separate signed agreement for pets. Failure to do so will result in additional fees
Pets
Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total (up to 23 kg per pet)
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
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 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
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
About the area
Crystal River is home to this holiday home. Crystal River Watersports Marina and A Crystal River Kayak Company are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Crystal River Archaeological State Park and Crystal River Preserve State Park. Visit our Crystal River travel guide
Does Deep-Water Retreat: Dock/Kayaks/Pool & Dogs Welcomed
have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.
Is Deep-Water Retreat: Dock/Kayaks/Pool & Dogs Welcomed
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 Deep-Water Retreat: Dock/Kayaks/Pool & Dogs Welcomed
?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Deep-Water Retreat: Dock/Kayaks/Pool & Dogs Welcomed
?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Deep-Water Retreat: Dock/Kayaks/Pool & Dogs Welcomed
?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Deep-Water Retreat: Dock/Kayaks/Pool & Dogs Welcomed
located?
This family-friendly Crystal River holiday home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Crystal River Archaeological State Park, Crystal River Preserve State Park and Crystal River Watersports Marina. Hunter Spring 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.
This house is in a great location that is close to restaurants, shopping, and outdoor activities. There are 2 living room areas which is nice along with a very inviting pool. Beds were comfortable and nice large walk-in master shower. Would stay here again.
Amazing property! Spotless and comfortable. Not a thing was missed from the thoughtful touches around the home to the basic essentials. We will definitely stay here again.
Took a long weekend trip to take our kids to see manatees. We had a great experience, great space, close to many of our activities, and owner was very helpful with all requests! Very satisfied with our stay!
This was our second time staying at this property and once again it was a HUGE WIN! The house is so cute and the pool and back porch make it a stellar property. We love this home and hope to stay here for years to come for our June trip.
We had a great long weekend scalloping and fishing and this was the perfect house! We brought our 19 ft boat and kept it on the new dock on the canal which was awesome. Kitchen has new appliances, organized cookware, and a nesspresso maker which was definitely a nice touch! The pool was great to come back to after long hot days spent on the boat. Thank you!
Hailey K.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Lorie
6 Jul 2023
Crystal River
We stayed here. It was a very cute place.
Lorie
Verified
8/10 Good
Lorie K.
23 May 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
get away
It was a very nice place. We enjoyed the private pool.
Lorie K.
Stayed 8 nights in May 2023
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Brad
19 Jan 2023
Excellent time
We were looking for a place in Crystal River to stay while we did the Manatee tour. The house was exactly what we wanted, great location and the kids loved the pool.
Brad
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Gina
6 Jul 2023
Great Weekend Spot
Lovely house at the end of a canal with a screened pool and a large enclosed porch. The floating dock was great for fishing and nature watching. Wonderful weekend with my kids & grandkids
This location was ideal for exploring the area. It was also great for chilling at the house. The covered pool was awesome for the kids and we all loved fishing from the dock. The kitchen was well stocked. All in all. A good stay!
Enjoyed the house on Crystal River for a short stay. The one complaint is that the master bedroom bed was extremely uncomfortable. My husband and I have different preferences of the firmness of the bed, but it was not comfortable for either one of us, making it very hard for both of us to sleep. Very worn out on both sides of the bed.
Malcolm M.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified
6/10 Okay
Colleen R.
4 Dec 2022
Liked: Check-in, location
Disliked: Cleanliness
Crystal River Stay
The location was great - the rest of the property is a bit run down and needs to be upgraded. One of the beds was full of sand so the sheets hadn't been changed. Needs more variety of cookware in the kitchen since the gas and charcoal grills were unusable because they were so dirty and rusted. The drain in the second bathroom was sluggish and threatened to overflow the tub. The fill valve on the second bathroom screamed as it was filling and would wake up the house in the middle of the night.
Colleen R.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022
Verified
6/10 Okay
Ken C.
20 Oct 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, location
Short of Essentials
The house was advertised as a three bedroom two bathroom but was a two bedroom and two bath and had one frying pan and no pots, it also lacked things like salt and pepper and other simple items which one would think would be included. The house was clean and neat and met our needs but could be improved with some simple additions.
Great place to stay in Crystal River! Nice quiet neighborhood. Good communication from the property owner. Very clean. The private pool was great to come back to after the exploring all there is to do in the area! Would definitely book again.
This house is located in a quiet canal 5 minutes from boat ramp, marine fuel and manatee charter. Easy access to the Gulf for scalloping and kings bay for great restaurants and springs. House is very clean and has two living areas inside and a large screened porch pool is a very nice amenity. The house is very livable and comfortable with a well stocked kitten and plenty of linens and towels. We will definately be back for another trip.
Wonderful home on a quiet canal. Canal was deep enough and dock was big enough for our 30’ boat. House was clean and cutely decorated. Loved the kitchen, pool, and back porch. Exactly what we’ve been looking for the last three summers. Only thing missing was larger pots and pans but definitely not a huge deal. We made it work. Hoping to book again next summer.
Great location on canal. We saw a couple of large manatees on the first day and a 3 foot alligator on the next to last day. The pool is small but was adequate. However there are a lot of bugs in the screened in pool area due to the large amount of foliage in there which made it unpleasant to sit out there. The amount of chlorine in the pool is intolerable.
Great house with a lot of potential but a lot of things are broken and need repair. The most needing repair is the squeaky bed in the master bedroom and the toilet with the leaky seal in the master bathroom that very loudly fills up every 15 minutes. We had to shut the toilet lid and close the bathroom door to keep it from waking us up.
There were a handful of roaches and that is a problem that they need to hire a professional pest control person to fix. It didn’t really bother us but that might be a dealbreaker for some people. It was a small house with a small pool but it was adequate for three people. The cleaning people don’t do a very good job. They definitely need to go through and clean out all of the junk and extra stuff and furniture and get a new set of pans. Part of why people rent a house is because they want to cook meals at home. The barbecue is also in terrible shape. We really enjoyed our stay there but definitely feel that the owners and property management could make it a really nice place that would be more in line with what they are charging for it.
Home is in a great location, close to the boat ramp, and has its own dock to park our boat. Not far from the main channel that leads to the Gulf or Kings Bay. Home had plenty of room for our party of 4, and the pool was a very nice feature to come home to after a long day out on the water. Contactung the owner was no problem and they are very nice. Will definitely book again.