MAJOR UPDATES throughout 2023 & 2024. Yes, we have a small island directly offshore that's a protected rookery, teeming with exotic birds year-round. Our Cedar Lake location is a hidden jewel of the Nature Coast, designated by the National Wildlife Federation as a Certified Wildlife Habitat. This waterfront sanctuary is like stepping into a tropical Garden of Eden, and will provide a nature show you'll likely never forget.
You can enjoy the sunrise AND the sunsets over gorgeous Cedar Lake. The master bedroom opens out onto the Florida room, lanai, and waterfront - allowing you to wake with the life of the lake. The sounds alone are mesmerizing. You will return year after year for the birds alone. Among the endangered species you will see are Everglade Snail Kite, Audubon's Crested Caracara, Piping Plover, Florida Scrub-jay, Wood Stork, Red-cockaded Woodpecker, and if you get lucky, the occasional otter has been known to visit. Take the kayaks out to the island... but please try not to disturb any of the area's many species.
Friends, this is a modest, two bedroom home - but we feel the location is hard to beat. The master bedroom has a king and the guest bedroom has a full. Minutes from the gulf, you are at end of a cul de sac and on the point of Cedar Point Drive. Water views all around. Prime fishing off of our private dock (the "sweet spot" of Cedar Lake), or grab a rod and hop in one of our kayaks to explore one of the lake's many channels. Private, in-ground kidney shaped pool (with lanai) with a new solar heat system.
The HDTVs have 1000s of movies and channels via streaming, but the REAL show is out on the lanai. Basic kitchen. Linens and towels provided. We can be pet-friendly (please arrange clearance with host at time of booking) and at no additional charge. Secure, 1/4 acre fenced in lakefront yard - perfect for your well-behaved dog, with pet-doors installed to the lanai and Florida room. Pool and lawn service included. Premium high-speed internet included. Hop on one of the bikes or kayaks to explore, all included without additional charge, just return them clean & in repair.
While we are close to the famed gulf beaches and the major theme parks, if you opt for our calmer setting we feel the Nature Coast has much to offer.
Green Key Beach on the gulf is a bike ride away, whether you're alone or with your honey, this hidden gem offers a multitude of possibilities for relaxation, solitude and fun. The most obvious choice, of course, is soaking up some rays, taking a swim or walking hand-in-hand along the shore. But keep the stroll going and a 650 feet boardwalk that snakes through the mangroves will lead you to a two-story observation deck overlooking the water. This is perhaps the most serene spot of all because it's far enough away to escape what can be a busy beach.
Explore the Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park. The park's multi-purpose trail consists of 7.3 miles of paved surface for bike riding, jogging or walking and it connects to the Suncoast Trail (42 miles). There is a 10 mile equestrian trail and 13 miles of hiking trails.
Right down the road is New Port Richey's best kept secret: the James E. Grey Preserve. These 80 acres boast over 140 species of birds, and some of the best kayaking in Florida. The park is the end of a Florida Canoe Trail that runs from Frances Park 4.5 mile down the river. The river runs slow but has many hairpin turns that will be challenging for the beginner but navigable. This section is very scenic with practically no development along the shores of the river. Visitors can also kayak through the canals of the preserve, which has natural Florida ecosystems, hardwood hammock uplands and swamps.
Guests have full and exclusive use of the facility, with private solar heated pool & lanai, private dock, private 1/4 acre fenced-in yard, and unlimited use of the kayaks and bikes without charge. Please use them safely and return them clean & in repair.
Other things to note:
We have a foyer window opening from the master bedroom to the Florida room, lanai, pool, and lake beyond. Guests can enjoy the sunrise and experience the lake come alive each morning from this foyer. It's a unique feature folks tell us they really appreciate.
We are pet friendly by prearrangement for most well-mannered furry friends. We require guests to make arrangements at time of booking.
New in 2024: Completely redesigned landscaping with cactus gardens and artwork installations by famed local sculptor David Willis (1938-2020).
New in 2024: New Port Richey is now golf cart legal and golf cart crazy so we have added a new Evolution Ranger 4 seater golf cart. The Ranger is on site and available to lease: inquire within.
New in 2024: Refurbished fiberglass pool.
New in 2024: New bathrooms.
New in 2024: New living room furniture set.
New in 2023: New flooring throughout.
New in 2023: New kitchen installed.
New in 2023: We have upgraded our inflatable hot tub. This can be prepared for you if arranged at time of booking.
New in 2023: Xbox and Playstation consoles and game selection.
New in 2022: We have installed a new solar pool heating system.
New in 2022: BLAZING fast 400 mbs internet.
Oh, and did we mention the birds?