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Historic Riverfront Estate | 11bed/10bath Dock • Sleeps 32 | The Ballard House

Photo gallery for Historic Riverfront Estate | 11bed/10bath Dock • Sleeps 32 | The Ballard House

A spacious living room with a wooden floor, two striped sofas, a small table, and a ceiling fan.
A room with a large sliding glass door leading to an outdoor deck with picnic tables and a view of the water.
A modern living room with a large window, a sofa, a glass coffee table, and a view of the outdoors.
A house with a porch, a door, and a garden.
A room with a bed, a small table with chairs, a painting, and a view of the outdoors.

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Firepit available
    One of the few properties with a dedicated outdoor firepit.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
11 bedrooms10 bathroomsSleeps 32

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Balcony

Explore the area

View map
Melbourne, FL
  • Place, Historic Rossetter House Museum and Gardens
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Florida Institute of Technology
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Place, USSSA Space Coast Complex
    ‪25 min drive‬
  • Airport, Melbourne, FL (MLB-Orlando Melbourne Intl.)
    ‪7 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

11 bedrooms (sleeps 32)

Blue Heron (Statesman)

1 King Bed

Blue Heron (Statesman) Living

2 Single Beds

Citrus (Sunny)

1 King Bed

Citrus (Sunny) Living

2 Single Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Coquina

1 King Bed

Cypress Hideaway (Lexington)

1 King Bed

Cypress Hideaway (Lexington) Living

2 Single Beds

Live Oak (Ballard)

1 King Bed

Live Oak Garden View

1 King Bed

Orchid

1 King Bed

Orchid Living

1 Double Sofa Bed

Osprey (Statesman)

1 King Bed

Osprey (Statesman) Living

1 Double Sofa Bed

Oyster (Statesman)

1 King Bed

Sunrise on Indian River (Carriage)

1 King Bed

Sunrise on Indian River (Carriage)

1 Queen Bed

10 bathrooms

Blue Heron (Statesman)

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Citrus (Sunny)

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Coquina

Toilet · Shower only

Cypress Hideaway (Lexington)

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Live Oak (Ballard)

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Live Oak Garden (Ballard)

Toilet · Shower only

Orchid

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Osprey (Statesman) En-Suite

Toilet · Shower only

Oyster (Statesman) En-Suite

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet

Sunrise on the Indian River (Carriage)

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Historic Riverfront Estate | 11bed/10bath Dock • Sleeps 32 | The Ballard House

Welcome to The Ballard House, a beautifully restored historic riverfront estate in the heart of Melbourne's charming Eau Gallie Arts District (EGAD).

Designed for family reunions, weddings, retreats, celebrations, and large groups, the estate comfortably accommodates up to 32 guests while offering the flexibility and privacy of seven individual suites that can be enjoyed separately or together.

Unlike a traditional vacation rental, The Ballard House gives your group room to gather without sacrificing personal space. Each suite has its own private entrance, bedroom, bathroom, and living area, allowing everyone to enjoy both togetherness and privacy throughout their stay.

Step outside to more than an acre of mature oak trees, waterfront gardens, and panoramic Indian River views. Spend your mornings watching the sunrise from the dock, paddle complimentary kayaks along the shoreline, relax beneath centuries-old oaks, or gather together for dinner in one of the many outdoor seating areas.

Located just a short walk from galleries, restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and local events in the Eau Gallie Arts District, you'll enjoy one of Florida's most unique historic neighborhoods while still being only minutes from beaches, downtown Melbourne, and the Space Coast's famous rocket launches.

Whether you're celebrating a wedding weekend, hosting extended family, or simply looking for a peaceful waterfront escape, The Ballard House offers an unforgettable blend of historic character, modern comfort, and authentic Old Florida charm.

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House Rules

Check in after 5:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
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

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking allowed outdoors only.
No smoking
No parties. Small gatherings with prior approval of owner.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2115809vb
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 indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Melbourne

Located in Sunny Point, a neighbourhood in Melbourne, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Cocoa Beach and Erna Nixon Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Brevard Zoo and Fun Town. Travelling with kids? Consider Joy and Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden, or check out an event or a game at USSSA Space Coast Complex. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking, scuba diving and power boating nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours.
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Map
Melbourne, FL

What's nearby

  • Historic Rossetter House Museum and Gardens - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Florida Institute of Technology - 11 min drive - 7.8 km
  • Brevard Zoo - 19 min drive - 21.7 km
  • The Avenue Viera - 23 min drive - 24.7 km
  • USSSA Space Coast Complex - 25 min drive - 29.4 km

Getting around

  • Melbourne, FL (MLB-Orlando Melbourne Intl.) - 7 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪7-Eleven - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Squid Lips - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Frigate’s Waterfront Bar & Grill - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Intracoastal Brewing Company - ‬10 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic Riverfront Estate | 11bed/10bath Dock • Sleeps 32 | The Ballard House pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Historic Riverfront Estate | 11bed/10bath Dock • Sleeps 32 | The Ballard House?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Historic Riverfront Estate | 11bed/10bath Dock • Sleeps 32 | The Ballard House?

Check-in begins at 5:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic Riverfront Estate | 11bed/10bath Dock • Sleeps 32 | The Ballard House?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Historic Riverfront Estate | 11bed/10bath Dock • Sleeps 32 | The Ballard House located?

This family-friendly Melbourne holiday home is located on the waterfront, 0.3 mi (0.4 km) from Historic Rossetter House Museum and Gardens, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Fun Town and Joy and Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden. Andretti Thrill Park and Eau Gallie Beach are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 23 out of 31 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 31 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 31 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 31 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 31 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathi K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This property is an ideal location. The setting was beautiful and relaxing. It was an easy drive to the coast. The interior was exactly as pictured and described. Would recommend. The property has additional units available for larger groups.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cara C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The sunrise view was the best. We also enjoyed the kayaks. We saw dolphins playing from the dock.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gloria G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The view is fabulous
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Lisa A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Really liked the privacy, large deck, lawn to the water front with dolphins and seabirds, in an historic neighborhood, nightlight in the bathroom, dishes and utensils in kitchen, plush towels.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Raechyl D.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location
Beautiful location, didn't realize it was a shared residence. Bare bones dishes, spices, supplies etc. Couch was not nice, furniture in general was not nice. They did have paddle boards and we saw dolphins! They have fishing poles and broken boogie boards and sand toys. Not far from some great beaches.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leah C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The view was to die for. Very spacious grounds and beautiful landscaping. Having Kayaks and a picnic table at the end of the dock was a bonus. Enjoyed every minute there.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Devon C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The apartment was cozy and just the right size. The view onto the Intercoastal Waterway from the deck was great. One morning I saw a dolphin swimming just off shore. Amenities were adequate for basic cooking. Some shortcomings. The drapes didn’t quite cover the windows/sliding doors. The second bedroom is very small.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 18 February 2026
Thank you for staying with us and thank you for your honesty! I will replace the curtains so they cover the sliders. My apologies for the inconvenience. The second bedroom is small - with a great view of the river.
Verified

6/10 Okay

Marybeth D.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Not as we expected
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

MaryAllyn B.

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

Beautiful spot

Great location and spot on the water. Will stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debbie G.

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

Perfect location!

Cute property in a wonderful neighborhood with a great view.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tres H.

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

Beautiful location

Our stay wasn’t long enough to truly enjoy this amazing location. The yard was and directly into the river and is a perfect view. But plenty of privacy where you feel that you are in your own world. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tom B.

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

Great stay along the Waterway

Nicely renovated place, 2 beds, 1 bath, great living room with big smart TV. Close to so many things, including Port Canaveral where we cruised out of. We could walk to restaurants, coffee shops, etc.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy M.

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

Carriage house on the bay

All views extend to the spacious Florida bay views. Diections to local sites and the grocery store allowed for a drive to the peninsula. Quaint, comfortable and quiet space for us.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne M.

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

Beautiful view

The view was as lovely as pictured. The cottage was spotless, the kitchen & bath looked new. If you are looking for a place away from the beach, this is a good option.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dawn C.

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

We will stay again!

Excellent location. We were excited to see dolphins every day. Quiet, clean and comfortable place to stay. Would have liked more seating options around TV and more storage/hooks in bathroom. Beautiful outdoor areas to enjoy the view and sunrise!
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maureen D.

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

Quiet and relaxing

Peaceful tucked away location. Easy to get to activities. Watched dolphins every day. Manager was kind and responsive.
Stayed 19 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathy C.

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

Wonderful Vacation

Ballard House at Sunny Point was wonderful. The property looked great from the listing but it was even better when we arrived. Andy and friends were responsive to all our needs. We spent mornings on the deck drinking coffee and evenings drinking wine!! We never tired of looking at sailboats and dolphins in the river. The location was a surprise!! We loved walking in the neighborhood (nightly walks to Houston Park especially). The beach was so close (literally a 6 minute drive). Walking in the Eau Gallie area and visiting the various restaurants was also a treat. We are looking forward to returning next year.
Stayed 14 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

CHERRIE M.

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

Great views and property

we had a great time, the views were great. The property is shared and our first day there we saw a few people in the shared backyard space but didn't really bother us. we made use of the canoes that were offered and had coffee out back in the mornings, wine during sunset. Communication was great and answered any of our messages really quickly. We did see a few little bugs inside the house but its florida and totally normal for us floridians. There's no way around them especially surrounded by lush greenery and being waterfront. Still rate this place 5 stars in every aspect, from the scenery to the easiness of checking in, the wonderful and quiet neighborhood and the cleanliness of the place. Beds were comfy and blackout curtains were perfect. Would definitely stay again and already planning our next stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Alexis G.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Serene location, unit and property needs improvement

This property has great potential but needs work. Very tranquil setting with a beautiful, private river view. The unit was remodeled a few years ago and is the river facing side of a four car garage. We had to call Andy the night we arrived due to insect issues and he had the cleaner come promptly the next morning. He stated it’s a100 year old property in a tropical climate so there was very little they could do to prevent more insects from coming inside. We just dealt with it and had several centipedes and large cockroaches visit us inside during our stay. Overall we found the unit and furniture had wear and tear, which was surprising given how recently it has been remodeled. The towels were good quality but the bathroom needs a shelf and/or hooks for towels. The mattress was ok but bed frame does not seem attached to the bed, the closet is unfinished, and all of the canned light fixtures in the ceiling have piles of dead bugs inside. There was also a musty damp smell that we could not air out. Two of the three outdoor plastic lounge chairs are cracked down the middle and the landscape surrounding the property is overgrown and property itself needs maintenance with shutters falling off, cobwebs everywhere. There was a dumpster and work trucks there a few of the days as they were doing construction on a unit and having lights installed. We briefly met the owner who was very nice. Hopefully this was just an off week and they have plans to improve their future guest experience.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gina B.

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

Impressive Location

Incredible Views, lots of gorgeous outdoor space… water birds and fish abundant. The property was perfect for my son & I with the split bedrooms plus the full glass facing the water. Easy walk through the historic part of Melbourne, cute restaurants and shops. Definitely will stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

joyce C.

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

Pre wedding dtay

The unit was extremely lovely. The view very nice. Loved the atmosphere and the owner was easy to work with. Would definitely come back for a repeat stay
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

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

Fabulous Getaway!

We were very pleased with our stay. The suite was clean, location perfect and the privacy was the best. We loved the area and will definitely look into staying again in the future. Thank you Andy!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Zena C.

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

Wonderful time

We enjoyed our stay. The view was terrific. We walked every morning around the little downtown area. Good golfing and beaches are nearby. Restaurants and pubs within walking distance. Our place was very nice and comfortable.
Stayed 24 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marvin M.

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

Perfect Getaway

Close to shops and restaurants, right on the water (with dolphins!), easy access to bridge to Merritt Island... exactly as promised. Host was easily accessible and friendly, would stay here again.
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beth B.

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

A Perfect Spot to Unwind

The pictures shown are accurate but don’t quite do justice to this beautiful property. The accommodations were well outfitted for making meals and resting our heads at night. We were comfortable and had everything we needed. A minor inconvenience with the Wifi router was quickly and pleasantly dealt with by Andy. The location here steals the show. The views on the lagoon are stunning and with available kayaks it’s easy to explore. We were treated to dolphins swimming by several times a day and on one kayak trip a pod of several thought they’d have their fun and swim right under me. A special moment I’m sure not to forget. The beaches are an easy trip over the bridge. This property is also easy walking distance to the EGAD area so be sure to patronize the local artisans and restaurants. Two VERY minor suggestions - the house could do with some hooks to hang towels and the dock for the kayaks could use a new cleat. The Florid Tech campus is just minutes away making it convenient for visiting parents. We will be back for sure!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021

About the host

Hosted by Andrew, Brian or KC

Host profile image

Why they chose this property

Beautiful historic mansion on the water - great location, within walking distance to restaurants, bars, shopping, farmers market. museums and more. Perfect blend of historical architecture, modern amenities, gorgeous gardens and natural wildlife. VERY spacious with 7 full kitchens.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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