Homosassa, Florida, A Nature Lover’s Wishes, the Seminole Indians named it: “The River of Fishes.“
My latest travelogue takes me and two fishing friends, Keith K and Brad F, to a location that is not typically on anyone’s Florida vacation destination list. However, if you’re a nature lover, I highly recommend exploring Homosassa, Florida, less than 2 hours north by car from Tampa Airport and approximately 2 hours from Orlando International Airport.
We had the good fortune of being able to breeze over from Orlando to Homosassa in a vintage 1986 model 345 Airstream.
Homosassa lies on the west coast of Florida on the Gulf of Mexico, just on the south end of the big bend of Florida.
If you’re wondering how far is Homosassa Florida from the beach, you’ll be happy to know that the charming town is only about 10 miles from Fort Island Gulf Beach. This nearby beach offers pristine white sand, clear Gulf waters, and convenient amenities, making it a perfect day trip for visitors looking to complement their Homosassa adventure with some seaside relaxation. The short distance makes it easy to enjoy both the tranquil natural springs and the beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast during your visit.
Most tourists who come to Central Florida and go to the theme parks might decide to go to one of Florida‘s beaches. On the East Coast reside some of the more well-known beaches, including Cocoa Beach and New Smyrna Beach, a bit further North and a local favorite. Orlando and Disney World are closer to the East Coast, especially if you take the Beach Line, also known as Highway 528. The West Coast can be reached by departing from the north exit of Disney World. A word of advice: avoid I-4 traffic between downtown Orlando and U.S. Highway 27, either direction, if at all possible.
So, here is the deal and recommended places to stay.
Along the West Coast, you will be mesmerized by beautiful sunset views and some of the top 10 white sand beaches in the United States, such as Siesta key.
Sarasota offers stylish accommodations that connect with local art and culture, while nearby St. Pete Beach is home to the historic Don Cesar Hotel, which I would rank right up there with my experience at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Honolulu on Waikiki Beach.
Most do not look much further north than Clearwater Beach and touristy.
Homosassa on the other hand, is definitely off the beaten track and a throwback in time. Our primary objective was to encounter beautiful natural tranquility and to do some fishing.
Do not expect a Ritz Carlton here. Your best bet is probably an Airbnb.
We stayed at the Camp and Water RV Park. Very tidy and clean, and they also offer boat slips.
At the top of the list, of course, is the Homosassa Springs boat tour. Along the river are many bar/ restaurants with beautiful views, including Crumps. They also have live music.
If you want to experience an old-school throwback bar, then your choice would be the Manatee Pub. Most places closed down by 9 PM; however, the Old Mill Run Tavern stays open until 2 AM.
Another highlight is Monkey Island. There is a restaurant and bar and motel-style rooms for rent. Based on the below sign, even monkeys go on vacation. I don’t know,..maybe Disney World 🙂
At one of our stops, Brad F asked for a mojito and the reply was simply, “We don’t do those here. This is the old Homosassa.”
Fishing conditions were tough when we were there. Temperatures in the 50s and 15 mph knots. We only caught two redfish. Complements to Capt. Keith K. He did his darndest.
Here is some advice and insights. All the locations mentioned are reachable by vehicle.
Do NOT attempt to rent a motorized boat unless you have the latest LOWRANCE GPS with the mapping system for this river. You WILL get lost and you WILL run aground. The best bet if you want to go fishing is to hire a local guide.
There is always the option to rent a kayak and explore nature and tranquility on upriver waters on your own. You’re bound to see manatees and dolphins.
John Kaiser authored this post.
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