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Welcome to the quiet side of Florida. View our homes
Two Vacation Homes · Welaka, Florida

The Quiet Side of Florida

Slow mornings on the St. Johns River. Sandhill cranes at first light. A sky full of stars when the day is done.

5.0 · 50+ guest reviews on Airbnb & VRBO

Welcome

The North Florida River Escape You'll Want to Return To

Nestled near the iconic St. Johns River in Welaka, our two homes — Low Tide Welaka and Stillwater Welaka — offer a peaceful retreat in Florida's untouched beauty, with easy access to boating, kayaking, world-class bass fishing, crystal springs, and quaint river towns.

Whether you're here for a weekend or the whole season, we're waiting to welcome you like a dear friend. Browse both vacation rentals or get in touch to plan your stay — we respond within 24 hours.

Low Tide Welaka — front exterior

Low Tide Welaka

3 BR · 2 Bath · Sleeps 8

A cozy three-bedroom retreat near the river. Relaxed getaways, easy Florida living, and just enough room to gather.

View Low Tide
Stillwater Welaka exterior

Stillwater Welaka

4 BR · 2 Bath · Sleeps 8

A spacious four-bedroom escape in Florida's Bass Capital. Room for groups, families, and longer stays where everyone wants to spread out.

View Stillwater
Guest Reviews

What guests are saying

  5.0 · 50+ verified reviews across both homes on Airbnb and VRBO

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Absolutely perfect. Having 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms was essential for our group of 6 adults.”

TrishStillwatervia Airbnb

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Like brand new, beautiful home. The bed was one of the most comfortable I've ever slept on.”

MichaelLow Tidevia Airbnb

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“There were 5 of us for a bass fishing tournament. Plenty of space. My crew loved the home.”

JenniferStillwatervia Airbnb

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Great stay! The fully stocked kitchen had everything ready. The host was nice and responsive at all times.”

YelynLow Tidevia Airbnb

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Jon was a fantastic host and this house is immaculate. I've never stayed in a nicer Airbnb.”

MelindaStillwatervia Airbnb

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Beautiful home. Very nice and helpful host. Big back yard. Perfect for a family get away.”

ChristinaLow Tidevia Airbnb

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Great small town atmosphere as well as the feel of a brand new home”

JeffreyLow Tidevia Airbnb

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Quiet, comfortable, clean, and had all the essentials needed for a home away from home.”

MarcStillwatervia Airbnb

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed at St. Johns River Rentals?

Yes — both Low Tide Welaka and Stillwater Welaka are dog-friendly. We welcome up to 3 dogs per stay. Tell us about your pup when you book so we can have everything ready.

How close is the nearest boat ramp?

The Welaka public boat ramp is about 1 mile from both homes — roughly a 3-minute drive. It's a free, drive-up ramp on the St. Johns River with parking for trucks and trailers.

Do I need a fishing license to fish the St. Johns River?

Yes. Florida requires a freshwater fishing license for anyone 16 or older. The fastest way to buy one is online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at myfwc.com/license. Daily, weekly, and annual options are available.

What springs are within driving distance of Welaka?

Several of Florida's most beloved springs are within an easy day-trip radius:

  • Beecher Springs — right in Welaka, accessible via Welaka State Forest hiking trails. Quiet and crowd-free.
  • Mud Spring — also in Welaka State Forest, reached via the Mud Spring Trail.
  • Silver Glen Springs (~35 miles, Ocala National Forest) — emerald-green water, popular for swimming, kayaking, and boating.
  • De Leon Springs State Park (~38 miles south) — famous for its swimming area and the on-site Old Sugar Mill Pancake House, where you cook your own pancakes at the table.
  • Salt Springs (~42 miles southwest) — large sandy-bottom swimming area, marina, and hiking trails.
  • Alexander Springs (~47 miles south) — gentle spring with snorkeling, scuba, and a popular canoe run.
How big are the rental homes?

We have two homes. Low Tide Welaka is 3 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms and sleeps 8. Stillwater Welaka is 4 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms and also sleeps 8.

Is Wi-Fi included?

Yes — both homes include free Wi-Fi at no extra charge.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is 4:00 PM, check-out is 11:00 AM. Self check-in with smart lock — no need to meet anyone.

Is there a pool?

Neither home has a pool. The St. Johns River is about a mile away for swimming and paddling. Two nearby spots — Welaka Lodge and Crescent Fish Camp — have pools and may offer daily passes to visitors. And for a full-day swim, crystal springs (Silver Glen, Salt Springs, De Leon) are 35–45 minutes away.

What's the nearest airport?

Three airports are within an easy drive. Jacksonville (JAX) is about 90 minutes north, Orlando (MCO) is about 90 minutes south, and Daytona Beach (DAB) is about an hour to the east.

Can I bring my boat or trailer?

Yes — you're welcome to park your boat or trailer on our grass. Low Tide has a fenced backyard, which many guests appreciate for extra security. The Welaka public boat ramp is about a mile away.

How do I book?

Three ways, all leading to the same two homes. Book directly on either property page — choose your dates in the booking section and the reservation is confirmed and paid on the spot, with no waiting for approval. You can also reserve on Airbnb or VRBO if you would rather stay on a platform you already use.

Can I book directly instead of through Airbnb or VRBO?

Yes. Both homes take direct bookings on this site, confirmed instantly — you pick your dates, pay, and the stay is booked. The Airbnb and VRBO listings stay available for anyone who prefers them.

Sunset over the dock on the St. Johns River, Welaka
About

Two homes on a river worth slowing down for.

For generations, the St. Johns River has drawn people who want to step out of the everyday and into Florida's quiet, untouched corners. We bought our homes here for the same reason — and we keep them ready, year-round, for guests looking to do the same.

Both vacation rentalsLow Tide Welaka and Stillwater Welaka — sit minutes from boat ramps and bass-fishing spots, with St. Augustine just up the road and Jacksonville or Orlando within a 90-minute drive. Come for a weekend. Come for the season. Come back every year — many of our guests do.

Plan your stay
Reserve Your Stay

Your river retreat is ready.

Two distinct homes. One unforgettable stretch of the St. Johns. We'd love to welcome you.