5 Vacation rentals on Rainbow River with availability this summer

VRBO + other affiliate links are in this article, click here for more info

While summer's official start date isn't for another couple of weeks, the weather isn't waiting. It's been so hot and humid here in Central Florida the past couple of weeks, which admittedly the humidity was needed after a very long dry spell, but the fact is, it's hot and everyone is trying to get out there to enjoy the pools, beaches and most notably, the blue springs. Unfortunately, that means that most of the springs will be at max capacity by the time they even open in the morning. So how can you cool off at one of the state's most gorgeous watery oases? Well, vacation rentals on Rainbow River are a good start! 

I went through VRBO's listings and handpicked the five that I thought would appeal most to me (affordable, direct water access, cozy) and perhaps most importantly, with availability left this summer, be it late in the season or not!

The plus side of staying at a rental with direct water access is that totally omits the need for you to go to the local parks and not only pay to get in or launch from, but also the headache of just finding a spot to park, and let me tell you from personal experience, parking is exceptionally limited at peak times. 

Additionally, all of the rentals include use of their water vessels, so you can save money on renting or buying your own and instead use the money to invest in your GoPro + accessories so you can take super cool photos like this! I also recommend getting a snorkel mask with a GoPro mount so you can focus on swimming instead of holding a camera.

If you want to get the most out of your trip to Rainbow River, be sure to read my previous blog posts here and here. 

*Rental rates and availability are accurate at the time of posting but may change at any time. 

1. "Cabin on top of the Rainbow"

Price: $199avg/night
Sleeps: 4-6
Min Stay: 3 nights
Kayak/Canoe provided: Yes
Pets: No
Reviews: 57
Rating: 5-stars
First availability: June 27-29
Why I love it: Beyond the gorgeous photos, the amount of good reviews makes me pretty confident that this rental is one of the best in the area. Not only will you have the entire cabin to yourself (which includes a kitchenette, AC, bathrooms, etc) but the owner provides you with water vessels! Additionally, it says on the post that "long term renters" are welcome, so if you're looking for a new staycation... 
Photos & booking info

2. "Palm Waters Riverhouse Retreat"

​Price: $325avg/night
Sleeps: 10
Min Stay: 2 nights
Kayak/Canoe provided: Yes
Pets: No
Reviews: 70
Rating: 5-stars
First availability: August 22-25
Why I love it: While this might be a little on the pricer end at first glance, it's quite affordable when spilt between the max number of renters per night (which means it would be a great get together spot!) Who else thinks this would be a great family reunion spot? 
Photos & booking info

3. "Discover the End of the Rainbow"

Price: $250avg/night
Sleeps: 10
Min Stay: 2 nights
Kayak/Canoe provided: Yes
Pets: No
Reviews: 81
Rating: 4.7-stars
First availability: August 29-31
Why I love it: This rental has tons of open availability in September, which will undoubtedly not last long. Long term renters are welcome.
Photos & booking info

4. "Rainbow Riverfront"

Price: $249avg/night
Sleeps: 4
Min Stay: 3 nights
Kayak/Canoe provided: Yes
Pets: No
Reviews: 91
Rating: 4.9-stars
First availability: August 23-26
Why I love it: I think this house is the most cozy one on the list. It's a beautiful cedar-sided home situated on over two acres which gives it a "country cabin loft in the middle of nowhere" sort of aesthetic --of course, with the added bonus of overlooking the river!
Photos & booking info

5. "Rainbow River Home - Directly on main dive springs"

Price: $462avg/night
Sleeps: 20
Min Stay: 3 nights
Kayak/Canoe provided: Yes
Pets: No
Reviews: 63
Rating: 4.9-stars
First availability: August 31
Why I love it: With over 20 kayaks and about 10 tubes at your disposal right on the main dive area of the river, you will probably never want to get out of the water! Again, the price here seems a little steep, but if you can split it with a few friends it's definitely very affordable! 
Photos & booking info

Do you have a vacation rental or business you'd like to promote? Send us an email at [email protected]