Experience the magic of "Old Florida" at this unique hidden gem on the wild Little Manatee River. The other side of the river is the state park, and wildlife abounds: alligators, manatees, turtles, deer, hogs, hawks and pileated woodpeckers are common sights. Kayaking right from the house is super easy and beautiful. The house itself is very comfortable with two queen bedrooms and a pull-out sofa with a memory foam mattress. The kitchen is fully equipped for cooking. The big screened porch is the best space to hang out. Outside there's a fire pit, hammock and swing. You feel far from everything, but it's only a ten minute drive to the commercial strip and the highway. This is a fantastic place for a romantic getaway or a fun family get-together. It's a natural wonder!
Property manager
Sidney Wilson
Premier Host
Languages
English
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Air conditioning
Water view
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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
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
About the area
Ruskin
Located in Ruskin, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. Ruskin Family Drive-In and Florida Railroad Museum Willow Yard are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Cypress Golf Club and Sandpiper Golf Club. Manatee Viewing Center and Andersen Race Park are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Ruskin, FL
What's nearby
Little Manatee River State Park - 1 min walk - 0.2 km
Gannon University Ruskin Campus - 14 min drive - 6.8 km
Tampa Bay - 21 min drive - 15.8 km
Manatee Viewing Center - 25 min drive - 23.0 km
MacDill Air Force Base - 47 min drive - 60.3 km
Getting around
St. Petersburg, FL (SPG-Albert Whitted) - 48 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 12 min drive
McDonald's - 17 min drive
Wendy's - 14 min drive
Beanie's Bar & Sports Grill - 15 min drive
Replays Family Sports Grill - 16 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Riverbend Retreat on the Little Manatee River pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property.
What time is check-in at Riverbend Retreat on the Little Manatee River?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Riverbend Retreat on the Little Manatee River?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Riverbend Retreat on the Little Manatee River located?
Situated on a river, this holiday home is steps from Little Manatee River State Park and 1.3 mi (2.1 km) from Camp Bayou Nature Preserve. Gannon University Ruskin Campus and South Bay Hospital are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The property location was beautiful. We had an awesome time.There was a lot of ants in the house as well as dirt/debris in the beds which was remedied by washing the sheets.
Very cute cottage. Very clean. Lots of little amenities - a cooler, beach chairs,sitting areas outside, fishing poles, laundry detergent, plenty of kitchen tools. Best part of course were the kayaks. Kayaking the river was really nice.
We had a nice stay at the River Bend Retreat. Did a little kayaking, got to watch 3 gators slide into the water. Continued paddling and enjoyed the scenery!! The Retreat was homey, and had pretty much everything we needed.
Sidney was a phone call away with any concerns. It is a unique location and was very relaxing.
Place was very well equipped and right on the river. This is “Old Florida” so it’s not new or fancy so if that is your speed this is not for you. We loved our stay and it was very peaceful. Communication with Sydney was great.
The Riverbend Retreat is what I'd called a cute, cozy, and comfortable cottage. It's secluded and private yet within a 15 minute drive to restaurants and shopping. The property is so peaceful, and my favorite parts were the wrap around screened in deck, and the firepit by the river. And the opportunity to kayak and fish was a plus (although we did not partake). We'll be returning!
Jan M.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023
About the host
Hosted by Sidney Wilson
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests