Bring the kids & family dog to relax the day away on our screened lanai, see the live mermaids at Weeki Wachee State Park, and use our clear kayak to float along with the manatees! The Funky Flamingo has been recently updated with an eclectic mix of its original fixtures, vintage furniture, and new modern conveniences. The perfect mix of Florida: funky and fun. Escape the heat - come spend a few days relaxing in the refreshingly cool spring water, float the river in our kayaks, and take a nap on the hammock. We operate on river time - it's the best place to leave busy life behind for a few days, and unwind! The cottage is perfectly situated on a peaceful canal just off the bustling Weeki Wachee River, centrally located between Weeki Wachee Springs and the Gulf. Swim & fish right off the dock, watch the Mullet jump and the Manatee swim by, and relax bug free on the screened lanai. When you're ready to head out on the river the kayak stabilizer makes for an easier kayak launch, and you'll be on the crystal clear river in just a few short paddles. All that's missing from The Funky Flamingo River Cottage is you! /// THE HOUSE /// Inside, the comfy living room is ready for fun game nights and features a new 60 inch Smart TV for movies. The kitchen is well stocked with what you'll need to make yummy meals, including an instant pot, new oven with an air fryer function, and even an ice cream maker. A coffee bar is stocked with coffee, creamers, and sugar options so you can hit the ground running your first morning. Bedrooms are equipped with comfortable new beds, closets & dressers for storage, sound machines, & blackout curtains to help everyone get a good night's sleep. The whole house was just updated with new hurricane / sound reducing windows, so it is even more quiet and peaceful at night. A dedicated work space is tucked away in the main bedroom so you can sneak away to use the free WIFI for a little work if needed. Everyone gravitates towards the huge screened in Lanai, it's the heart of the home - even if it is technically outside. Spend hours relaxing on the comfy furniture while enjoying the views, eat an outdoor but *fly free* lunch at the picnic table, then play some foosball, checkers, or chess when you're ready for some friendly competition. This side of the house gets morning light and afternoon shade, so it's the perfect place to hang out and enjoy the breeze all day long. ///THE FUN STUFF/// Use of our kayaks, paddles, life vests, and floating island is included, but at your own risk. We currently have a clear bottom tandem kayak (both people face forward, rated for 450lbs.), 1.5 tandem (balanced for one rider, but includes a rear facing jump seat at the front for a child / pet, rated for 600lbs.), 2 sit-in single rider kayaks, and an S.U.P. Our kayak stabilizing arm is adjustable for the tides and makes launching and getting out much easier. We also have a storage bin full of beach chairs, beach toys, etc. for use, but exact items vary. /// THE RIVER /// You can have an amazing trip just by pulling into The Funky Flamingo with groceries & never getting in your car again until it's time to go home. The river provides so much to explore and so much wildlife to see! It's crystal clear waters and steady 72 degree temperature make it a little slice of paradise. Our centrally located deep water canal give you easy access to of all the river action. Pull your kayak over right where our canal meets the river to swim in the shallow sandbar area - be sure to keep a lookout for manatees here! Then head upriver towards the natural State Park, or downriver towards Hospital Hole, Roger's Park, and a riverside meal at The Upper Deck. /// THE AREA /// Weeki Wachee is the perfect home base to experience the "Old Florida" vibes, the amazing natural parks & beaches nearby, and plenty of fun day trips along the Nature Coast. We are about 1 hour north of Tampa, and 1/5 hours west of Orlando. Nearby you have the world famous Weeki Wachee mermaids to watch, and the State Park to explore. Our local beach, Pine Island, is the perfect spot to watch sunsets. Hernando Beach (No beach, don't let the name fool you!) has many famous restaurants to choose from. Boat rentals and tours are available for Weeki Wachee, and other local springs. If you have a day to spare, you can explore the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks and Greek culture, or the clear green water at Honeymoon Island Beach and State Park. If you're bringing water loving dogs, the Off Leash Dog Beach at Fort De Soto is worth the drive. /// THE IMPORTANT INFO // There's parking for 2 cars in the lawn / grass, just off the street. Security cameras are in use at all times for the safety and protection of our guests and property. They're used primarily to check on the house while it's empty. Notifications are turned off after guests arrive, and we really only watch footage if there is a concern or neighbor complaint. Cameras are all located OUTDOORS & only on the street side of the house: one is pointing back towards the front door, 2 towards the parking area / street, and another towards our shed & kayaks. We're available via phone & text anytime. Although we live out of state, we have an amazing local crew that helps keep things in top top shape, and great neighbors who help watch over things. Weeki Wachee prides itself on the laid back "Old Florida" atmosphere. Friendly people, amazing scenery, eclectic homes, and great restaurants. Our actual neighborhood is a mix of full time residents & vacation homes, so please be respectful of neighbors. Quiet hours start at 10PM. /// PLEASE ALSO NOTE /// A rental agreement & liability waiver must be signed within 48 hours of booking to secure dates. A $500 refundable security / damage deposit is required before check in. Thanks for understanding.