House boat

Florida Keys Luxury Houseboat, Unique living on the Water WiFi

Waterfront houseboat in Tavernier with a water park

Photo gallery for Florida Keys Luxury Houseboat, Unique living on the Water WiFi

View from upstairs where Old Tavernier Restaurant
Terrace/patio
Property grounds
Property grounds
Property grounds

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4111.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Florida Keys Dive Center
  • Place, Founders Park
  • Place, Islamorada County Park

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Living room

1 King Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Florida Keys Luxury Houseboat, Unique living on the Water WiFi


Escape to the laid-back luxury of the Florida Keys aboard your own floating oasis. This fully equipped houseboat offers a unique blend of comfort, adventure, and waterfront living. Wake up to breathtaking sunrises, sip your morning coffee with all the marine life, and fall asleep to the gentle movement of the boat.
Whether your celebrating something special or simply want a one of a kind getaway-it's the perfect home base for Keys adventures or peaceful retreats.
An amazing experience Free parking

The magic of paradise starts right here aboard the houseboat "Baycation", where living on the water is luxury. Located in Tavernier, Mile Marker 90, in the upper Florida keys. Conveniently at the southern end of Key Largo and the northern end of Islamorada. Set back in a peaceful marina along Tavernier Creek with easy access to Oceanside AND Bayside.

Baycation is a place where you can enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkel and scuba diving adventures, eco tours, state parks and nature walks, or simply unwind on the upper deck of the houseboat and soak up the sun. A Florida Keys vacation could involve boating, swimming, snorkeling, diving, relaxing on a few beaches in our crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, or exploring our unique, laid-back island culture. With-in the marina, we have jet ski rentals, kayak rentals, fishing charter boat, snorkel boat adventures and the houseboat comes with its own bikes and paddle boards.

The upper Florida keys offers a diverse range of restaurants, bars, pubs, live-music venues, family-friendly options all while reflecting the laid-back and lively atmosphere of the islands. There are 6 restaurants with-in walking distance of our marina. Please explore the other tabs within my web page for options and must-do's. I look forward to hearing from you and can help you plan the best vacation, creating memories you will always cherish. Heidi

The Houseboat:
Welcome Aboard! Baycation is a completely renovated 44'x15' triple level Houseboat. Very spacious, comfortable and "super clean".
She has one master bedroom with queen size bed, very comfortable sleeper couch, and extendable single sleeper.
Full bathroom with very spacious shower. Complete with all toiletries and options of sunscreen if you forgot :)
The galley is equipped with all your needs from home;
Complete kitchen set up including a manual and electric wine opener, cocktail mixer kit, blender and charcuterie boards
Your cooking options are a BBQ Weber grill, convection oven, plug in griddle and induction stove top. Microwave, coffee maker (with coffee and filters) and a Keurig
Refrigerator/freezer, beer/wine/water cooler and Ice maker.
All plush towels and linens...more than you will need
And YES, everyone asks. There are 2 mirrors on board, one full length.
The Upper deck offers a unique blend of comfort, panoramic views, outdoor enjoyment right on the water- it's your own floating rooftop paradise. This semi-shaded, elevated area, where the sea breeze greets you is perfect for morning coffee with a sunrise, sunbathing on loungers, or sipping cocktails under the stars
There are additional, very clean, marina bathrooms available right next to the houseboat and a nearby laundry facility, if needed.

Thoughtful Amenities:
Every Detail is designed to help you slow down, savor life's simple pleasures, and create lasting memories surrounded by warmth, comfort, the serenity of the water and the people who matter most.

Thoughtful Culinary Spaces. Food has a special way of bringing people together, and the galley is designed to make those shared moments unforgettable. Whether its brewing coffee for a slow morning chat on the outside deck or gathering around a charcuterie board for a laughter filled evening under the lights on the upper deck, every detail invites connection.

Cozy Bedroom Retreat. Restful sleep is the heart of a rejuvenating getaway. Sink into plush pillows, wrap yourself in soft bamboo sheets and silk pillowcases, on top of an amazing mattress, and feel the comfort of the boat so gently moving as you drift off to a restfully night of sleep, leaving you rejuvenated and ready for another great day!

Entertainment for Togetherness. Every moment is an opportunity to connect and create memories. Unplug for a cozy night on the dock with a BBQ and fire pit. Enjoy the picnic tables under the tree lights with board games, ring toss and your favorite music playing on the Bluetooth speaker. Gaze at all the fish around the under water lights.

Need to stay connected? Our Wi-Fi is here when you need it

Explore our other Amenities and enjoy the ease of planning a Baycation

Pets are Family,
Vacations are for the whole family-including your four-paw canine family member. Knowing how challenging it can be to find accommodations that truly embrace pets, Baycation does. The Florida Keys in general is very canine friendly. Your four-paw family member can accompany you to most places in the Keys.

As part of your booking procedure you will find a "bring you pet fee" This fee is to help implement our enhanced cleaning protocols. Ensuring white glove style for our next guest. Before you book, take a moment to review our pet rules to ensure Baycation and the Marina are a perfect fit for your family. After all, your pet deserves a Baycation too!



“Baycation” is newly renovated with all the comforts of home and available for your vacation.
The triple upper deck is nicely shaded for afternoon use and amazing to enjoy at night under the stars.
Everyone of all ages enjoy this vacation, take a peek yourself with the reviews.
She stays at the dock, she cannot be moved from the marina..
I have many guests that will bring a small boat or rent a small boat and you are more than welcome to tie up to the houseboat.
We also have trailer storage available with no extra charge.
On the houseboat, your vacation will be stationary, but have the experience of living right on the water. Try a unique boating experience for your next vacation!


****
Hello,
My name is Heidi and I look forward to meeting you when I welcome you aboard "Baycation"
That's what I do! It can be a quick 5 minutes or we can chit chat as long as you like.
After we confirm your reservation, I will send you my own welcome e-mail with directions and a map of the marina.
Also some information about discovering our area area and the must do's of the Florida Keys
A recommended restaurant list highlighting the best places for sunset dinners- to amazing places for breakfast and lunch.
I can also assist you in recommendations for dive/snorkel/fishing charters. I can help you plan the perfect Florida Keys vacation if you wish
I will make arrangements with you to call or text me when you get to Florida City, you will be about 45 minutes away.
I will meet you at the boat, show you where to park, get you a cart for your luggage and personally walk you through the boat and answer any questions you may have.
You have a welcome book on board for your entire stay to remind you of all the great ideas available.
I am available for you via cell/or text throughout your stay.
So exciting! Thanks
Heidi
Hope to see you soon!

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Water view

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 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 (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking areas available outside

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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Tavernier

Located in Tavernier, this houseboat is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Hurricane Monument and Indian Key Historic State Park are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Jacob's Aquatic Center. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Tavernier, FL

What's nearby

  • Florida Keys Dive Center - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Founders Park - 6 min drive - 5.7 km
  • Islamorada County Park - 6 min drive - 6.1 km
  • Harry Harris Park - 9 min drive - 6.3 km
  • Theater of the Sea - 12 min drive - 11.0 km

Getting around

  • Miami International Airport (MIA) - 96 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Dillon's Pub & Grill - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Craig's Restaurant - ‬9 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Florida Keys Luxury Houseboat, Unique living on the Water WiFi pet-friendly?

Yes, this houseboat allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

What time is check-in at Florida Keys Luxury Houseboat, Unique living on the Water WiFi?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Florida Keys Luxury Houseboat, Unique living on the Water WiFi?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Florida Keys Luxury Houseboat, Unique living on the Water WiFi located?

Situated on the waterfront, this houseboat is within 1 mile (2 km) of Florida Keys Dive Center and Mariners Hospital. Old Road Gallery and Mangrove Marina are also within 2 miles (3 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. 188 out of 209 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 17 out of 209 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 209 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 209 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 209 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Christopher K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely wonderful property in every way!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Johnathan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Heidi was super friendly, met us upon arrival and offered us anything we needed. Best experience I’ve had with a VRBO. Boat was clean, had a customized message, and is in beautiful clear water. Hopefully I can make it back to stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alisha B.

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

Great vacation

It was an amazing stay ,the onwer was great hostand it was great location
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenny B.

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

Great unique stay!

Very clean boat! Heidi was an amazing host with all of the attention to the little details. Would definitely stay on her vessel again!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sheila D.

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

Great place. Heidi is one of the best host we’ve had. She went above to make the birthday perfect.

Great locations great host.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Charles C.

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

GREAT GET AWAY

This was an awesome little peace of heaven on earth
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kevin K.

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

Quick Stopover

wish we could have stayed longer and enjoyed the marina and water toys. Host was excellent in making our stay enjoyable.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anna W.

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

Great spot!

Great place for our family to stay for 4 nights. Centrally located and many fun things to do nearby. Sitting on the top deck of the boat each night with a cocktail was a perfect way to end our busy days snorkeling and fishing.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Doreen S.

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

Great owner communication

Enjoyed our stay, quiet location, kitchen well stocked. Outdoor furniture could use updating as sitting on the front deck was highlight but furniture worn and in need of replacement
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Adele S.

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

Amazing!

Everything exceeded expectations. Heidi thought of everything to make our stay relaxing and enjoyable. I highly recommend BayCation!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Heidi B.

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

Sister trip on the houseboat

The 3 of us had the best time on Heidi’s houseboat. We loved the boat and all the amenities. Heidi was a superb host who has thought of everything to make for the perfect stay. The upstairs deck was a great place to relax with cocktails. The restaurants within a short walk were amazing. We can’t wait to return!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

mario b.

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

Baycation

Amazing stay and Heidi went above and beyond for us.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Leslie H.

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

Fantastic!

We loved staying on Heidi’s houseboat, Baycation. It was clean, personalized with a cute sign for us, comfortable, and relaxing. She provided us with coffee, all kitchen appliances you would need, and food for the fish. :) Highly recommend this listing- Heidi did a great job. We will be back next year hopefully!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

PAT H.

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

Fun spot to stay

Lots to do on the key most walking or biking distance away. All the water sports are there also.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sherri S.

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

5 night getaway

Heidi is great, answers any questions, met us when we got there. Showed us everything. The bed was so comfy. We fished off the back in the marina. I went paddle boarding ( she has 3 for guests to use). We used 2 other businesses in the marina. One for a sunset cruise , and one for a wave runner ride.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Perry S., Venice, Florida

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

Great place

Nice people . Great food. Accommodations just as we were told. The property owner added many small decorative items that just made you feel welcome.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Steven R.

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

Great Alternative to a Hotel

We decided to try something different and Heidi’s houseboat was the perfect choice. The boat is parked right behind a restaurant and raw bar which we took advantage of. We also had a fantastic morning of fishing with Aaron who is a local fishing guide located right in the marina. I highly recommend the “Baycation” for those that are seeking something a little different.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carrie A., Indianapolis

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

Lovely

If you love boating this is perfect. Rock yourself to sleep, enjoy the quiet dock. Heidi remembered every detail. Thank you so much!!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Roth B.

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

Awesome!!!

Everything was great! The location was beautiful & convenient. The boat was clean & provided a fun relaxing experience. We loved that it was dog friendly too! My son fished from the boat daily while we relaxed on the top deck. Everyone was friendly & helpful in the Mariana. Hedi was awesome! She was kind & helpful. She suggested feeding the tarpon & that was a highlight of our trip. We used the paddle boards for a day of fishing leaving right out of the mariana. It was super easy! Overall a wonderful experience.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melissa M.

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

Wish we could have stayed longer!

Fantastic host Heidi met us on the boat and went over all the essentials of house boat life. The boat was clean, well stocked and comfortable! Baycation sits at the end of a channel with other active and semi-permanent vessels. The location is splendid! This golden gem is located in an area with a Boardwalk and has a gift shop, food options and fish market. The building looks run down from the outside but don’t let this fool you, it’s actually the BEST OF THE BEST in the area as far as food goes. There is an option for the fancier type meal at the restaurant located upstairs or downstairs for a more casual meal with excellent food options, including fresh lobster you can choose from the tank! Literally a restaurant/ bar steps out your door! Everyone was so welcoming, we can’t say enough about how wonderful Heidi’s houseboat is! I have to mention the Cuban coffee shop with the best coffee, empanadas, and pasties. There’s also a cute little shaved ice trailer with the most authentic shaved Hawaiian Ice around the corner. The houseboat stay may not be for everyone. If you have stayed in a boat or RV, you know what to expect. If you haven’t, then give it a try and see what you think. My 17 year old son loves fishing off the boat and was able to catch multiple snapper and barracuda!’ Easy catch and release! Eddy’s bait shop was a an easy walk to get the essentials. Thanks Heidi for sharing your piece of paradise!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Isaac H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The place is as-advertised and a one-of-a-kind experience. I stayed here with my son for a fishing trip and it was perfect. Heidi could not be more friendly and accommodating. Great spot and great value.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer T.

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

Unique Stay in Great Location

Excellent and unique stay on Baycation. Clean and well stocked. Great communication with Heidi, the host. Reef Roamer Snorkeling which is right next door was awesome. And Harbour Cafe right in the marina had awesome cuban coffee and food, very sweet staff as well. We loved our Keys getaway!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Toni M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Heidi has a little bit of paradise on her houseboat! You must plan on staying!!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

bill v.

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

Baycation

The stay on the houseboat was very enjoyable. The boat interior was clean and well maintained. There was some deferred maintenance on the exterior (weak railings and the outdoor furniture could be upgraded. One chair was broken. Our host, Heidi, met us at check in and was very helpful informing us of the area restaurants. If you are looking to travel to Islamorada, I would recommend you give Heidi and Baycation a shot.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Seth G.

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

Amazing Stay!

We loved the boat! So comfortable and connecting. Great staying on the water! Restaurant and coffee shop right there are fantastic! Beautiful! Heidi was amazing!!!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

About the host

Hosted by Heidi Barnes

Host profile image
Hello,
My name is Heidi and I look forward to meeting you when I welcome you aboard my new Houseboat "Baycation"
That's what I do!
After we confirm your reservation, I will send you my own welcome e-mail with directions and a map of the marina.
Also some information about Discovering Key Largo and the Florida Keys
A recommended restaurant list highlighting the best places for sunset dinners- to amazing places for breakfast and lunch.
I can also assist you in recommendations for dive/snorkel/fishing charters. I can help you plan the perfect Florida Keys vacation if you wish
I will make arrangements with you to call or text me when you get to Florida City and I know you will be about 30 minutes away. I will meet you at the boat, show you where to park, get you a cart for your luggage and personally walk you through the boat and answer any questions you may have. You have a welcome book on board for your entire stay to remind you of all the great ideas available.
I will also be available via cell/or text throughout your stay.
So exciting! Thanks
Heidi

Why they chose this property

There is so much to do right in the marina, while staying aboard the Houseboat. We have 2 restaurants/bar on the property and 4 more within walking distance. We have a jet ski rental company, snorkel boat excursion, kayak rental, fishing/sightseeing charter boats and the houseboat comes with 2 paddleboards.
Our neighborhood is super safe with great walking areas. Shopping center with all your needs is 1 mile away.

What makes this property unique

Everyone says this is a million times better than a hotel, super comfortable bed, and very clean. everyone of all ages loves this experience and can't wait to come back.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests