Entire home

NEW PoolHouse/4Bdr/3Bath/9 Beds /Dog/OutdoorKitchen/HeatedPool/Fireplaces/Golf

Photo gallery for NEW PoolHouse/4Bdr/3Bath/9 Beds /Dog/OutdoorKitchen/HeatedPool/Fireplaces/Golf

All new basketball hoop and new chair surrounding pool
Property video
Watch the game, favorite movie or even the news while you float in the pool.
Our NEW pool house is ready for your outdoor shower and sunbathing action.
Putting Green

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Pickleball on-site
    A rare find — enjoy pickleball without leaving the property.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 12

Popular amenities

  • Patio
  • Private pool
  • Kitchenette
  • Dog-friendly
  • Toys
  • Barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Bradenton, FL
  • Place, Bowlero Bradenton
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Regal Oakmont
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, IMG Academy
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Airport, Sarasota, FL (SRQ-Sarasota-Bradenton Intl.)
    ‪29 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Double Bunk Beds

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 2

1 Single Bed

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

NEW PoolHouse/4Bdr/3Bath/9 Beds /Dog/OutdoorKitchen/HeatedPool/Fireplaces/Golf

The Grinning Gecko has it all for the mid-size group whether you want to relax in the sun, dip your toes in the ocean or keep active with a new activity daily.

Our home features a spacious, fully equipped kitchen with oodles of vacation amenities including both indoor and outdoor dishware and glassware! Start your morning at the Coffee Bar with Keurig as well as drip coffee pot and starter supply of coffee. Two indoor living rooms are perfect for family gatherings or quiet nights in. Our house features all Smart TVs with access to Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, HBO Max and Apple TV and we have both dining areas inside and outside within the Lanai.

Spend a day at any of the Anna Maria Island beaches located within 6 miles or Siesta Key Beach within 15 miles. In the garage we also have beach chairs, umbrella, a rolling cooler, sand toys, and a beach wagon to carry it all in. Then return and cool down in your private, heated, salt-water pool. If you are not familiar with salt-water pools they provide “softened” water, not salty ocean water. It is very gentle on the skin and eyes without chlorine smelling, dried out hair! Kids can play in the pool while the family cooks a meal in the full outdoor kitchen including BBQ, bonus refrigerator for cool beverages, sink and awesome pizza oven.

The expansive fenced in yard gives you lots of privacy and space to play badminton, cornhole, life sized jenga, pool basketball, tiki toss, a turf putting green as well as bocce court. Or if you want to stay inside the arcade room contains skeet ball, foosball, darts, board and card games and Ms. PacMan 1981 edition standing arcade game.

Need a break to answer some emails or run a zoom meeting you are 15 steps away from a private office in the she-shed which has high speed 2G wifi. Or use it for Yoga and meditation space for some time away from your group.

Our fabulous location has you within walking distance of G.T. Bray Park which includes a huge pickleball complex, dog park, indoor recreation center, and many ball fields. LECOM Park is the home of the Bradenton Marauders and hosts spring training for the Pittsburgh Pirates. IMG Academy which is within 3 miles from this location and Lakewood Ranch is approximately 17 miles away.

When you tire out and need some rest you can find 4 Bedrooms with 9 beds*:
• 1 Bedroom with King Bed, Ensuite Bathroom and Walk-in closet
• 1 Bedroom with Queen Bed
• 1 Bedroom with Two sets of Full Bed over Full Bed Bunks
• Queen Sleeper in Sectional in one of the Living Rooms
• Twin Sleeper in Sofa in second Living Room
NEW in October 2025 1 Bedroom with Queen Bed in Poolhouse

*Freshly laundered linens, towels including beach towels, and starter supply of toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion) are supplied.

Pack and Play sleeper and sheets includes Bassinet and changing table. high chair, Jeep Stroller, kids plates, cups, silverware and sippy cups are provided. We also have a full gate that surrounds the pool area while still allowing access to the expansive patio.

Starter supply of trash bags, dish soap, paper towels, sponges as well as full sized separate washer and dryer with starter detergent. In addition, we have added a mix for pizza dough in the welcome package to entice you to cook outside. Hint: Publix (within a mile) makes pizza dough and it can be found in the refrigerator next to the bakery.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 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

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 4194735vb
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

About the area

Bradenton

Located in Bradenton, this holiday home is near a water park. St. Armands Circle and Mall at University Town Center are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Bean Point Beach and Anna Maria Beach. Travelling with kids? Make time for Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, or head to an event or a match at LECOM Park. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and horse riding.
Map
Bradenton, FL

What's nearby

  • Bowlero Bradenton - 8 min drive - 2.5 km
  • Regal Oakmont - 8 min drive - 2.1 km
  • IMG Academy - 11 min drive - 4.6 km
  • LECOM Park - 14 min drive - 5.8 km
  • Siesta Key Beach - 55 min drive - 38.7 km

Getting around

  • Sarasota, FL (SRQ-Sarasota-Bradenton Intl.) - 24 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Beef 'O' Brady's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Culver's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Applebee's Grill + Bar - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does NEW PoolHouse/4Bdr/3Bath/9 Beds /Dog/OutdoorKitchen/HeatedPool/Fireplaces/Golf have a pool?

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

How much does it cost to stay at NEW PoolHouse/4Bdr/3Bath/9 Beds /Dog/OutdoorKitchen/HeatedPool/Fireplaces/Golf?

As of 18 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at NEW PoolHouse/4Bdr/3Bath/9 Beds /Dog/OutdoorKitchen/HeatedPool/Fireplaces/Golf on 17 August 2026 start from NZ$867, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is NEW PoolHouse/4Bdr/3Bath/9 Beds /Dog/OutdoorKitchen/HeatedPool/Fireplaces/Golf pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much is parking at NEW PoolHouse/4Bdr/3Bath/9 Beds /Dog/OutdoorKitchen/HeatedPool/Fireplaces/Golf?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at NEW PoolHouse/4Bdr/3Bath/9 Beds /Dog/OutdoorKitchen/HeatedPool/Fireplaces/Golf?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at NEW PoolHouse/4Bdr/3Bath/9 Beds /Dog/OutdoorKitchen/HeatedPool/Fireplaces/Golf?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is NEW PoolHouse/4Bdr/3Bath/9 Beds /Dog/OutdoorKitchen/HeatedPool/Fireplaces/Golf located?

This family-friendly Bradenton holiday home is within 3 mi (5 km) of Blake Medical Center and IMG Academy. LECOM Park and Palma Sola Bay are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.8

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. 33 out of 39 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 39 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 39 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 39 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 39 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

James V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Extremely clean, all of the amenities you could need, pet friendly and very responsive when needed! Will look to book again with a larger group as this was the perfect staycation.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed your stay and found the home clean, well-equipped, and comfortable for both your family and your pet. Creating a space where guests can relax and feel at home is our goal, so it's especially rewarding to hear that you appreciated the amenities and our responsive communication. We know those details can make all the difference in creating a stress-free getaway. We're thrilled that the property was the perfect setting for your staycation, and we'd love the opportunity to host you again. The home is especially well-suited for larger groups and family gatherings, so we hope you'll return and experience even more of what the property has to offer. Thank you again for choosing our home. We look forward to welcoming you back for another memorable stay!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Keith D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was perfect for a families needs with activities for younger children and close proximity to the IMG Academy and shopping. Would consider this property again for next year’s visit to Bradenton.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear that the property was a great fit for your family's needs and that the activities and amenities for younger children helped make your stay enjoyable. We're also pleased that you found the location convenient for your time at IMG Academy, as well as for shopping and exploring the Bradenton area. We know how important it is for families to have both comfort and convenience during their stay. Thank you for being such great guests. We truly appreciate your kind words and would be honored to host your family again during next year's visit. We look forward to welcoming you back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joby R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was the perfect rental for our family get-together. The property was clean & had all we needed, even beach items. It is a great rental for adults & especially children. The bedrooms accommodated children so that noises wouldn’t disturb them, especially the pool house bedroom. We’ve rented many properties thru VRBO in Bradenton (mostly condos). This owner was the best at responding to my emails. We would definitely rent again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 13 June 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that the Grinning Gecko was the perfect setting for your family get-together. It’s especially rewarding to know that the home worked well for guests of all ages and that the layout provided comfortable spaces for both adults and children. We designed the property with families in mind, so we're thrilled that features like the separate pool house and family-friendly accommodations helped make your stay more enjoyable. We're also glad you found everything you needed, including the beach equipment. We love providing those extras so guests can spend less time planning and more time making memories. Your compliment about our communication truly means a lot, especially coming from someone who has stayed at many VRBO properties in the Bradenton area. We always strive to be responsive and helpful, and we're grateful that it made a positive difference in your experience. Thank you again for choosing the Grinning Gecko. We would be honored to host your family again and look forward to welcoming you back for another memorable stay!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steven C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was great, the house was great. We enjoyed it very much and would stay here again!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re thrilled to hear that both the home and your experience with us met your expectations. It’s great to know you enjoyed your stay, and we truly appreciate your feedback. Providing a comfortable home and a smooth, welcoming experience for our guests is always our goal. We’d be happy to host you again anytime you’re back in the area. Thanks again for staying with us!
Verified

8/10 Good

Janna S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
They had everything you needed from Audrey baskets to extra beach towels. The pool was great. The only on complaint I have is, they must have sprayed for bugs while we were there cause the last two days of our trip we all saw quite a few bugs. I wouldn’t leave anything that’s not in a container in the kitchen.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you for your kind review! We're so glad you enjoyed the pool and appreciated the extra touches throughout the home, from the beach towels to the amenities we provide for our guests. We also appreciate you mentioning the bugs you noticed during your stay. As is common in Florida's tropical climate, occasional pest activity can occur despite regular preventative treatments. We had just spent two weeks at the property in May and did not observe anything out of the ordinary, and our regularly scheduled quarterly pest control service was completed while we were onsite. We take guest feedback seriously and want every stay to be a five-star experience. Had we been aware of the issue during your stay, we would have gladly arranged for our pest control team to respond immediately so that any concerns could be addressed right away. Following your stay, we scheduled an additional service visit out of an abundance of caution to ensure everything remained in excellent condition. Thank you again for staying with us and for taking the time to share your experience. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back for another relaxing Florida vacation in the future.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jude T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Comfortable house with a great outdoor area for cooking and hanging out. Hosts were excellent communicators.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re glad to hear you found the home comfortable and enjoyed the outdoor space for cooking and relaxing—that’s one of our favorite areas of the property as well. We also really appreciate your note about our communication. We always aim to be responsive and make sure our guests feel supported throughout their stay, so it’s great to hear that came through. Thank you again for staying with us. We’d love the opportunity to host you again in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ryan G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved the whole vibe and atmosphere of this place. Fantastic location. Great host and very responsive. 10/10 recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for the fantastic review! We're thrilled to hear that you loved the vibe and atmosphere of the property. We've worked hard to create a space that feels both relaxing and memorable, so it's wonderful to know it resonated with you. We're also glad you enjoyed the location and found us responsive throughout your stay. Providing a great guest experience is always our top priority. Thank you for being such wonderful guests and for the 10/10 recommendation! We'd love to welcome you back anytime you're in the area and hope to host you again soon.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The best family rental we've ever had! The pool, the beach supplies, the space, everything was fantastic! My son is already begging to go back.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you for such an amazing review! Being called the best family rental you've ever had is truly one of the highest compliments we could receive. We're thrilled that you enjoyed the pool, the beach supplies, and the space itself. We work hard to provide the little extras that help families relax, make memories, and spend more time enjoying their vacation together. The best part of your review might be hearing that your son is already asking to come back! That's exactly the kind of vacation experience we hope to create for our guests. Thank you for choosing our home for your family getaway. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we would be delighted to welcome you back whenever you're ready for your next visit!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joseph P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wow! We loved the place! We will stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear you loved the place. Short and sweet feedback like this truly means a lot to us, and we’re especially glad it was such a great experience that you’re planning to stay again. We’d be delighted to host you in the future and look forward to welcoming you back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

jason n.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Overall the stay was Great! The kids and my wife and I really enjoyed the pool and the outdoor setting. We were in there everyday. The location was perfect. Close to everything we wanted to do. Communication between the hosts and us were spot on. Anything we needed or had questions on they answered right away. Would definitely stay there again if coming back to the area. Thanks!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear that you and your family enjoyed your stay and were able to make the most of the pool and outdoor living space. It sounds like the pool was a hit with everyone, which is exactly what we love to hear! We're also glad the location worked well for your plans and that you found everything conveniently accessible. Providing responsive communication and making sure our guests have everything they need for a relaxing vacation are top priorities for us, so your kind comments mean a great deal. Thank you for being such great guests. It was a pleasure hosting your family, and we would be thrilled to welcome you back anytime you're visiting the area. We look forward to hosting you again for another memorable Florida getaway!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daniel H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our entire family enjoyed the 3 night stay in the Grinning Gecko. The host's efforts to accommodate us were the best! We would love to stay again sometime.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re thrilled to hear that your family enjoyed your 3-night stay at the Grinning Gecko. It means a lot to know our efforts to accommodate you helped make your visit a positive experience. We always aim to make our guests feel comfortable, supported, and at home, so your feedback is truly appreciated. We’d love to welcome you back anytime you’re in the area. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we look forward to your next stay!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was fantastic -- So well stocked with everything you need plus more. We especially loved hanging out in the pool area. Great communication with the hosts. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re thrilled to hear the property exceeded your expectations and that you found it so well stocked with everything you needed for your stay. It’s great to know you were able to relax and enjoy the pool area—that’s definitely one of our favorite spaces for guests to gather and unwind. We’re also glad our communication helped make your stay smooth and easy. Thank you again for staying with us and for the thoughtful feedback. We’d love to host you again anytime you’re back in the area!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rasanjaya H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an excellent stay! The property was very clean and exactly as described in the listing.Everything matched the features and amenities perfectly. The host was extremely responsive and professional, even replying quickly to our questions late at night, which we really appreciated.We and the kids had a great time, especially enjoying the heated pool,it made the stay even more memorable. Overall, a fantastic experience, and we would definitely recommend this place to others!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that your stay was excellent and that the property met your expectations exactly as described. It’s especially great to know that the cleanliness, amenities, and overall setup worked well for your family. We’re also glad the heated pool was a highlight for both you and the kids—that’s always one of our favorite features for making stays extra memorable. We truly appreciate your kind words about our responsiveness as well. We always do our best to be available whenever our guests need us, no matter the time, so it’s rewarding to know that made a difference in your experience. Thank you again for staying with us and for the thoughtful recommendation. We’d love the opportunity to host you and your family again in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place was perfect for our stay. Plenty of space, the pool and outdoor area were wonderful and the private pool house gives you a second master room. Very clean and updated. Host is very responsive and the house was amazing!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that the property was a perfect fit for your stay and that you had plenty of space to relax and enjoy your time. It’s great to know you enjoyed the pool and outdoor area—that’s truly one of the highlights of the home—and that the pool house worked well as a private additional suite. We’re also glad you found everything clean, updated, and comfortable throughout your visit. We really appreciate your kind words about our communication as well. Being responsive and making sure our guests feel supported is always a top priority for us. Thank you again for staying with us. We’d love the opportunity to host you again in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Charles N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Reasonably close to the beach; a lot of attention has been paid to the outside amenities at the place, as well
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you for your kind review! We’re glad you enjoyed your stay and found the location convenient for getting to the beach. We’re especially happy to hear you appreciated the outdoor amenities—we’ve put a lot of care into creating a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor space for our guests to relax and make the most of their time in Florida. Thank you again for staying with us. We’d love the opportunity to host you again in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sally H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a fantastic property! The place is amazing. Great for families and pets! Thank you for a clean and beautiful house!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the property and found it a great fit for both your family and your pets. It’s especially rewarding to hear that you appreciated the cleanliness and care that goes into maintaining the home—we truly want every guest to arrive to a space that feels welcoming and well cared for. Thank you again for staying with us and for your thoughtful feedback. We’d love to host you again anytime you’re back in the area!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

raybel a.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was very attentive and welcome, the house is spectacular and in excellent condition, I will definitely recommend to anyone, and the amenities were as described.Definitely a fantastic stay.Thanks
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic stay and that the home met your expectations. It’s especially great to know you found everything in excellent condition and that the amenities were exactly as described. We also truly appreciate your kind words about our attentiveness—it means a lot to us to know our communication helped make your stay even more enjoyable. Thank you again for recommending the property. We’d be delighted to host you anytime you’re back in the area!
Verified

8/10 Good

Toni S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a wonderful time with my sister's and best friends. We enjoyed the pizza oven, the pool, the outside area as a whole, lots to do. The host was very quick to answer any questions that came up. The weather wasn't as cooperative but we played games and watched movies...I know my kids and grandkids would love the place....would stay here again
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful time with your sisters and friends. It’s great to know you enjoyed the pool, outdoor spaces, and especially the pizza oven—those shared moments outside are exactly what we hope guests can create here. We also appreciate your kind words about our responsiveness; we always aim to be available and helpful whenever needed. While we wish the weather had cooperated a bit more, we’re glad you were still able to make the most of your stay with games, movies, and quality time together. It sounds like a truly memorable getaway. We especially love hearing that you can already picture returning with your kids and grandkids—that means the world to us. We’d be honored to host you again anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adam S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was great. Entire kitchen is labeled so no trouble finding anything. We made meals exclusively. Tons of area to sit outside and hang out. Pool was awesome and perfect temperature. The main house deserves 5/5 but when you see the pool house, it’s an entirely other level! It’s an entire place to itself. This would be an awesome place to bring a few families. Families with kids stay in main house and those without (or grand parents) stay in pool house. Location is great. Aldi and Walmart are minutes away. Beaches are maybe 15-20 depending on traffic. 7 minutes to Lecom, 30 to Ed Smith. Coming back next year!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your incredible review! We’re thrilled to hear that everything met your expectations and that you enjoyed both the main house and the outdoor spaces. It’s especially great to know the labeled kitchen made it easy to settle in and cook your meals during your stay, and that the pool and outdoor areas were such a highlight. We’re also glad the pool house stood out to you—it really is one of the unique features of the property and works wonderfully for giving groups extra space and privacy when traveling together. We love hearing how well the layout worked for multiple families and different generations, and we couldn’t agree more about the convenience of the location. Being close to shopping, beaches, and local destinations like LECOM Park and Ed Smith Stadium makes it easy for guests to enjoy everything the area has to offer. Thank you again for staying with us and for the thoughtful review. We’re so happy to hear you’re planning to come back next year, and we look forward to hosting you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We really enjoyed our stay. The owner was great with excellent communication throughout and the house was clean and well stocked. We appreciated the thoughtfulness of setting up the pool gate ahead of time as we had our 18 month grandson with us and blowing up all the pool rafts. The outdoor space is awesome and many entertainment amenities- games, tvs in the right spots, and great seating to enjoy the fire at night. The saltwater pool was a huge hit with everyone. Kitchen is well stocked and the beds were comfortable. All around we had a great stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review! We’re delighted to hear that your family had such a great stay. It’s especially rewarding to know that the home worked well for your group and that the little touches—like setting up the pool gate and getting the floaties ready—helped make things easier with your 18-month-old grandson. We always try to anticipate those details so families can relax and enjoy their time together. We’re also so glad you enjoyed the outdoor space, fire area, entertainment setup, and saltwater pool. It sounds like you really made the most of everything the home has to offer, which is exactly what we hope for our guests. Thank you again for staying with us and for your kind words about the cleanliness, comfort, and communication. We would be absolutely thrilled to host you and your family again in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer F.

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

Absolutely loved the property

Absolutely loved the property will definitely stay there again
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brianna B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed here as a group of 2 couples and 5 kids under 5 years old. This property was so well stocked with several baby/child/family items that it made our trip a breeze. The pool fence and tall locks on the doors gave us all peace of mind with little ones around. The beach umbrella with stakes, stroller, beach wagon, beach bag, and sand toys made for the best time at the beach. The beds were very comfortable and the property in general was very well-maintained and clean. The neighborhood is quiet and felt safe. The pool and yard were so fun for everyone, and we even saw a few geckos in the afternoon sun. We loved eating on the patio/lanai each night. The pizza oven has a bit of a learning curve but the pizza was so good! I would highly recommend this property for groups with children. I can’t say enough about the thoughtfulness of the hosts throughout our stay! We loved the Grinning Gecko!!
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for this incredibly thoughtful review! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that your group had such a wonderful stay at the Grinning Gecko. It means a lot to know that all the little details—from the baby and child-friendly items to the beach gear and pool safety features—helped make your trip easier and more enjoyable. We put a lot of care into anticipating what families might need, so it’s very rewarding to hear that it made a real difference for your stay. We’re also glad you enjoyed the pool, yard, and peaceful neighborhood, as well as those relaxing evenings on the lanai. And we love that you embraced the pizza oven—there is definitely a bit of a learning curve, but it sounds like you mastered it quickly! Thank you again for your kind words and for being such wonderful guests. We would be absolutely thrilled to welcome you and your family back to the Grinning Gecko anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael & Sandra D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was perfect. We've been going to Bradenton for the last eight years this home OVERALL has been the best,saying that my grade is Outstanding!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your incredible review! Coming from someone who has visited Bradenton for the past eight years, it truly means a lot to hear that our home stands out as your best overall experience. We’re absolutely thrilled that everything was perfect and that your stay earned an “Outstanding” in your book—that’s the highest compliment we could receive. Creating a comfortable, memorable, and well-cared-for space for our guests is always our goal, so your feedback is very rewarding for us. Thank you again for choosing our home. We would be honored to host you anytime you’re back in Bradenton!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elston L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Bret and Kim were excellent hosts, they were quick to respond with answers and solutions. We had a ceiling fan that we could not make work, the remote needed new batteries, they had batteries delivered to the house within an hour. The house was wonderful for our 3 families of 11. The pool and Lina I were so relaxing. We had Christmas dinner on the lina. The house is located in a great location for many family activities. If we go to Bradenton again we will use this house again. Thank you Bret and Kim
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re truly grateful for your kind words and are so happy to hear that your stay worked out so well for your three families. We’re especially glad we were able to quickly help with the ceiling fan issue—making sure things are comfortable for our guests is always a top priority, and we’re happy we could get that resolved right away. It’s great to know the home, pool, and lanai provided a relaxing space for your group, and how special that you were able to enjoy Christmas dinner together outside—that sounds like a really memorable moment. We also appreciate your comments about the location and how well it suited your family activities in Bradenton. Hosting larger family gatherings like yours is exactly what the home was designed for. Thank you again for staying with us and for the thoughtful review. We would be honored to welcome you back anytime your travels bring you to the area!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Fay S.

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

Love the Grinning Gecko

We loved staying at the Grinning Gecko. The house was just as described. Great location, close to beaches and shopping. The house had everything we needed and then some! Would absolutely stay there again.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

About the host

Hosted by Bret and Kim Caywood

Host profile image
We are midwestern sports parents who are enjoying more flexibility in our schedules as our children have grown up and enjoy a little more travel.

Why they chose this property

We loved this neighborhood due the central location to IMG, AMI and Bradenton, Sarasota and the smaller towns along the coast. A few miles in any direction takes you to an all new adventure.

What makes this property unique

We live in our property and visit at least quarterly to ensure all the maintenance is being done by the owners. This is our home and it is treated as such by us and hopefully by our guests.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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