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Private Tropical Sanctuary with heated pool, hot tub. Pet Friendly!

Photo gallery for Private Tropical Sanctuary with heated pool, hot tub. Pet Friendly!

Miscellaneous
Property grounds
Pool
Lake
Property grounds

Reviews

8.0 out of 10
Very good
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6130.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Hot tub
  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Pool

Explore the area

Map
New Port Richey, FL
  • SunCruz Port Richey Casino
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Green Key Beach
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Clearwater, FL (CLW-Clearwater Air Park)
    ‪37 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Sofa Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Private Tropical Sanctuary with heated pool, hot tub. Pet Friendly!

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 private 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 2025: Completely redesigned landscaping with cactus gardens and artwork installations by famed local sculptor David Willis (1938-2020).

New in 2025: 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 2025: Refurbished fiberglass pool.

New in 2024: Explore the charming downtown on our new E-bike, another amenity available without charge.

New in 2024: New bathrooms.

New in 2024: New living room furniture set.

New in 2023: New kitchen & flooring throughout.

New in 2023: We have upgraded our inflatable hot tub. This can be prepared for you without additional cost 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 600 mbs internet.

Oh, and did we mention the birds?

Property manager

Raynard Dean Packard

Languages

English, German

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
We offer free, unlimited use of our e-bike, bikes and kayaks. Use them safely: with provided helmets and/or PFDs. Return them clean and in repair.
We have an inflatable hot tub that can be set up and prepared for you. We require that you arrange set-up at time of booking.
Trash pick up is early Monday and Thursday. Please have cans out to curb the preceding evening.

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
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

New Port Richey

Located in New Port Richey East, a neighbourhood in New Port Richey, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at James E. Grey Preserve and Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, while West Pasco Historical Society Museum and Library and Jimmy Ferraro's Studio Theatre are cultural highlights. Consider Colorama Music for a night out or West Pasco Chamber of Commerce if you're travelling with kids. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
New Port Richey, FL

What's nearby

  • James E. Grey Preserve - 5 min drive - 3.8 km
  • SunCruz Port Richey Casino - 7 min drive - 5.1 km
  • Robert K Rees Memorial Park - 9 min drive - 8.1 km
  • Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park - 9 min drive - 6.7 km
  • Green Key Beach - 12 min drive - 7.8 km

Getting around

  • Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) - 42 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Infusion Brewing Co. - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪EL Cerrito Mexican Restaurant & Grill - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪The Social NPR - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Boulevard Family Restaurant - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Patriot Stogies, A Fine Cigar Lounge - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Private Tropical Sanctuary with heated pool, hot tub. Pet Friendly! have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is Private Tropical Sanctuary with heated pool, hot tub. Pet Friendly! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Private Tropical Sanctuary with heated pool, hot tub. Pet Friendly!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Private Tropical Sanctuary with heated pool, hot tub. Pet Friendly!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Private Tropical Sanctuary with heated pool, hot tub. Pet Friendly! located?

This family-friendly New Port Richey holiday home is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, West Pasco Chamber of Commerce and James E. Grey Preserve. Richey Suncoast Theater and West Pasco Historical Society Museum and Library are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

8.0

Very good

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 7 out of 11 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 11 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 11 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 11 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 11 reviews

8.0/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Check-in

9.0/10

Communication

8.0/10

Location

8.0/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

2/10 Terrible

Joe B.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

Stay at your own Risk

Unfortunatly, I am not able to post pictures of the property or the location (VRBO Does not allow. However, we did file them with VRBO case # below). I will keep this short and to the point. The pictures are misleading. The accommodation, pillows, seats, couches were filthy. The pillows were so stained we had to go out and purchase our own. The blinds on the front window were also broken and people could look in.The location/neighborhood had occupied (yes, occupied) places with boarded up windows with trash on the lawns. (no, It's not from the hurricane). When we ran into a neighbor while walking our dog the first day, he recommended that we carry a heavy stick since there are some dogs that run loose and will attack our dog. (No, I'm not making this up.) My wife and I looked at each other and we were like, "we're out of here". We were scheduled for two weeks but had to stay 4 days until we found another available place. Did we alert the host of the issues? "No". Told him I had to go back to work, We didn't want to waste our time. We'll let VRBO handle it. Case# 136926378.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

2/10 Terrible

Joe B.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

Stay at your own Risk

Unfortunatly, I am not able to post pictures of the property or the location (VRBO Does not allow. However, we did file them with VRBO case # below). I will keep this short and to the point. The pictures are misleading. The accommodation, pillows, seats, couches were filthy. The pillows were so stained we had to go out and purchase our own. The blinds on the front window were also broken and people could look in.The location/neighborhood had occupied (yes, occupied) places with boarded up windows with trash on the lawns. (no, It's not from the hurricane). When we ran into a neighbor while walking our dog the first day, he recommended that we carry a heavy stick since there are some dogs that run loose and will attack our dog. (No, I'm not making this up.) My wife and I looked at each other and we were like, "we're out of here". We were scheduled for two weeks but had to stay 4 days until we found another available place. Did we alert the host of the issues? "No". Told him I had to go back to work, We didn't want to waste our time. We'll let VRBO handle it. Case# 136926378.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved being on the water!

We loved the hot tub! And the kayaks were so fun!! We appreciated the washer and dryer so much! And that all the tvs were easily accessible with lots to watch! And the little things like the k cups, sugar, yummy honey, the abundance of towels, pillows, hand soap, dish soap, toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning supplies & appliances, yoga mats and the Google Nest too! Smart lock was super easy to use. Will stay again! Can't wait!!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Linda J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vaca in New Port Richey

We enjoyed the pool and the location was very close to downtown ,
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deborah L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A wonderful place to stay

The house was great; very clean, inviting and comfortable. The heated pool, hotub, and grill were used daily. The birds, beautiful sunsets, & quiet neighborhood all added to a very relaxing stay. There are many grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants within easy driving distance. The owner was very responsive and helpful when I contacted him (it was my 1st time using Vrbo). I highly recommend this property and hope to stay there again in the future.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tony W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome place very peaceful and well kept. Will stay again

Great, easy and friendly
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Richard N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Getaway!

The house / property was exactly as advertised. It is a modest home in a beautiful location. My wife and I enjoyed the sunrises and watching the birds on the island wake up with the sun while having our coffee by the pool. In the evening we serenaded the returning birds (and turtles that came to visit) while watching the sunset on the dock. I saw the guitar in the pics but didn't know it was included so I'd brought my own. I did tune the Fender though. We only enjoyed the pool the afternoon of our arrival due to the sharp drop in temps from Sun. to Mon., but it was very refreshing when we did use it. We enjoyed day trips to the wildlife preserve a few miles east where we got in some hiking. We also enjoyed the Tiki bars (especially Rum River / Catches and Whiskey River) on the Cotee River a short drive away. The Fish Guy hooked us up with excellent Key West shrimp and snapper we cooked in the well stocked house kitchen. The bed was comfortable, the house very clean, and the little communication I had with our host was quickly responded to. We met his neighbor Maurice and his wife who were very nice. We also had one interaction with the Maint / pool guy, Chris who was very professional. The only very minor things we would point out is that the garbage / recycling trucks come VERY early (like 5am early) and the bikes needed a little attention. Again, these are VERY MINOR! Overall we were extremely satisfied and look forward to staying with Raynard again. Almost forgot to mention, the family of ducks / geese that make their daily visit are very entertaining.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2020

6/10 Okay

Debra P., Arbor Vitae Wisconsin

Liked: Check-in, communication

cedar point

We loved the pool area and the lake, it faced south and we had great breezes and sun. We had two cocker spaniels who loved the yard. The birds were awesome and it was fun watching them . The inside of the house, however, does need TLC with dirty carpet in one bedroom as well as the mattress is shot. The kitchen needs more pots and pans and some lamps in the house only worked by twisting the light bulbs on. These are easy fixes though and we hope the house gets its TLC. WE spent most of our time outside by the pool. The outside furniture is beginning to wear by the seat areas and the pool has a definite leak going on. Everyday we put some water in it to prevent from getting below the filter line. The property owner was advised. All in all it was a great time even though we chose to leave early because of the COVID19, as most places were closed down.
Stayed 14 nights in Mar 2020

8/10 Good

april W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

My stay

If you're just looking for a down-to-earth place to stay this is the place for you. Waking up in the morning looking at the lake watching the birds take off from the island absolutely beautiful. The neighbors were nice. except for the neighbor who come and told me that she was going to have our car towed because we parked in the street. I honestly did not see the no parking sign on streets when I pulled into the neighborhood there is one sign That's it if you miss it and you park on the street your neighbors not very nice about that. So do not park on the street just an FYI.There are gators in the lake. The other thing I could suggest is make sure you bring some light with you. Not all of the lamps worked., we had to unscrew and rescrew the light bulbs because there was no on off switch for the lights. But you only needed them in the late evening there's a lot of natural sunlight coming into the house. I would definitely rent this place again. The owners were great they allowed my pets to come the, yard is fenced. I will say there's some outdated items in the house, but again if you're just looking for a leisurely stay where the pool is yours by yourself and you have peace and quiet this is definitely the place to be. I would get up in the morning at 6:00 have a cup of coffee out on the patio and watch the birds and listen to the noise and watch the sun come up over the trees.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Robin M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A tranquil get away

This was a very nice quiet getaway for us. At night time so many birds come in at sunset, and during the day this place is blissful. there are ducks that ruin around and a goat that lives next door. We're didn't want to leave.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Danielle G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to relax and unwind!

While this is an older house that could use some updating, the owners have really maximized the benefits of its location and amenities. The house was very clean and had just what we needed to enjoy our stay. The pool was clean and inviting. We made use of the kayaks and the dock for fishing. The house is also not far from Tarpon Springs so there is plenty to do if you feel like exploring, or if relaxation is what you want the house has plenty of things right there to allow for that. Overall it’s a great place to stay and the owner wasn’t kidding about the birds. It was awesome to just sit on the porch and listen to all the different birds. Would definitely recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

About the host

Hosted by Raynard Dean Packard

Host profile image
We fell in love with Cedar Lake long ago, and fully intend to retire there - the good Lord willing. As a counseling psychologist in practice for 30 years, I bought this home on first sight for my counseling agency, The Packard Institute, Inc., specifically for it's richly ambient, therapeutic, and healing qualities.

Why they chose this property

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.

Explore the Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park on out included bikes. The park's multi-purpose trail consists of 7.3 miles of paved surface for bike riding, roller blading, 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.


What makes this property unique

Oh, and did we mention the birds?

Languages:

English, German