Title: The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat Reviews, Deals & Photos 2026 - Expedia.co.uk [See all properties](http://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?regionId=&selected=71489315&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire home # The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat Riverside holiday home with fitness centre and outdoor pool ## Photo gallery for The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat ![Outdoor pool, a heated pool - The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat (Ellenton)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/72000000/71490000/71489400/71489315/ce9be9a0.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Interior - The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat (Ellenton)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/72000000/71490000/71489400/71489315/e3c85f25.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Exterior - The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat (Ellenton)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/72000000/71490000/71489400/71489315/1a88976a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior - The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat (Ellenton)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/72000000/71490000/71489400/71489315/d165a037.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop - The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat (Ellenton)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/72000000/71490000/71489400/71489315/ed187ba4.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Location - Amenities - Policies Escape to the Pink River House, nestled between Sarasota and Tampa. Experience a secluded family getaway with a heated pool, hot tub, and 350 feet of seawall along the Manatee River. Enjoy local restaurants nearby or unwind in your private paradise with an expansive living room area featuring a 77-inch flat-screen smart TV. ## Reviews 10 Exceptional ### Entire home 4 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 83500 sq ft ## Popular amenities - Hot tub - Kitchen - Washing machine - Dryer - Free Wi-Fi ## Add dates for prices Check-in Check-out Travellers ## About this property ### Entire place You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party. ### The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat 🟦 Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat Your Private Waterfront Paradise on the Manatee River Welcome to the Blue Heron Riverfront Resort, a stunning 3,500 sq ft retreat perched on the widest stretch of the Manatee River—just 20–30 minutes from Sarasota, 45 minutes from Tampa, and close to some of Florida’s most iconic beaches including Siesta Key, Lido Beach, and St. Pete Beach. Spend your days kayaking, fishing, or exploring the coastline, then return to your private waterfront oasis where every sunset feels magical. 🌴 The Space: Your Dream Waterfront Escape This spacious three-story riverfront home is designed for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Perfect for families, couples, snowbirds, and business travelers, the resort-like setting includes: Waterfront pool Oversized hot tub Private pier with incredible river views Kayaks, fishing gear, and loads of outdoor games Multiple indoor/outdoor lounging areas for work or play Whether you’re sipping morning coffee at sunrise or unwinding in the spa at dusk, this home delivers peace, luxury, and fun in equal measure. 🎮 Endless Fun & Amenities Enjoy an unbeatable lineup of entertainment: Gran Board electronic darts Outdoor foosball Ping pong Pool table and lots more Kayaks & fishing gear Fire pit for s’mores under the stars Every corner of the resort is designed to create experiences you’ll never forget. 👨‍🍳 Chef’s Kitchen Calling all food lovers! The gourmet kitchen features: KitchenAid appliances (microwave & oven) Sub-Zero refrigerator Bosch Induction Cooktop Stainless steel & cast-iron cookware Dozens of spices Nearly every small appliance you could dream of Whether you’re cooking breakfast for two or a celebratory meal for eight, you’ll have everything you need. 🛏️ Bedrooms With Personality — Sleeps 8 🦩 Flamingo Suite (Primary – King Bed) King Tempur-Pedic adjustable bed Spa-style bathroom with soaking tub Private balcony with sweeping river views In-room coffee & tea station 🐚 Manatee Room (Queen) & 🕊 Heron Hideaway (King) Located on the opposite side of the house Can be closed off for privacy Share a large, beautifully designed bathroom Ideal for families or friends traveling together 🦅 Osprey Loft (Queen) 3rd-floor loft with panoramic river views Watch the sunrise or enjoy evening cocktails with unmatched scenery Note: All bedrooms are on upper floors; no ground-floor bedrooms. 🏖️ Extras to Make Your Stay Effortless Beach chairs, towels, umbrellas, and coolers Golf clubs Smart TVs in common areas + Firesticks in all bedrooms Four central AC units for perfect climate control Pool safety alarms Fast Wi-Fi and multiple workspace options 🎣 Love the Water? We’ve Got You Covered. Fishing: Local guides can pick you up right from the dock! Boating: Bring your boat or jet skis — tie up to our floating dock Beach Days: Grab the gear + enjoy your free beach parking pass to Pass-a-Grille (St. Pete Beach – 30 mins) 💼 Perfect for Business or Extended Stays Washer/dryer + detergent Iron & ironing board Hairdryers in each bathroom Multiple indoor/outdoor work areas 📌 Important Details Max occupancy: 8 guests (including children) Parking: Up to 4 cars (driveway only — no street parking) Quiet hours: 10 PM – 8 AM (strictly enforced) No pets, no parties, no unregistered guests Surveillance: Exterior cameras on front, sides, and entry points Safety: Smoke detectors, CO monitor, fire extinguisher, first aid kit 📅 Cancellation Policy (Summary) 100% refund for cancellations 30+ days prior to arrival No refunds for weather, red tide, beach conditions, or other issues beyond owner control Cancellations must be made in writing via booking platform or email 🚫 Not a Party House Please respect the home, the neighbors, and the community. Violations of guest limits or noise policies may result in immediate termination of your stay without refund. ✨ Your Florida Escape Awaits From river adventures to beach days to peaceful sunsets by the pool, Blue Heron Riverfront Resort is where luxury, nature, and relaxation meet. We look forward to hosting you. With gratitude, Katie & Terry ## Property amenities ### Beach - Beach loungers - Beach towels ### Pool/Spa - Heated pool - Hot tub - Outdoor pool - Pool toys - Private hot tub ### Internet - Available in the house: Free WiFi ### Parking and transport - Limited on-site parking (max 4 spaces) - Onsite parking includes off-street options ### Kitchen - Coffee/tea maker - Cookware, dishware, and utensils - Dishwasher - Hob - Microwave - Mixer - Oven - Refrigerator - Rice cooker - Spices - Toaster - Toaster oven - Waffle maker ### Bedrooms - 4 bedrooms - Bedsheets provided ### Bathroom - 3.5 bathrooms - Bathtub - Bathtub or shower - Bidet - Hair dryer - Towels provided ### Living spaces - Fireplace - Living room - Separate dining area ### Entertainment - DVD player - Smart TV with cable/satellite channels - Stereo ### Outdoor areas - Balcony - Barbecue grill - Dock ### Laundry - Laundry facilities - Washer/dryer ### Comfort - Air conditioning - Heating ### Pets - No pets allowed ### Suitability/Accessibility - If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking. - Upper floors accessible by stairs only - Smoke-free property ### Services and conveniences - Change of bedsheets (on request) - Iron/ironing board ### Location highlights - Near the sea - On a river - On the waterfront ### Things to do - Billiards/pool table - Foosball table - Golf - Gym - Heated pool - Kayak - Personal motorised watercraft - Splash pad - Table tennis ### Safety features - Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property) - Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property) - First aid kit - Security system - Fire extinguisher ### General - Bed sheets changed on request - Double-glazed windows - Gated community - Unit size: 3,500 square feet ## Similar properties ![Outdoor pool, a heated pool](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/121000000/120070000/120064000/120063982/w1024h767x0y1-a10e2f87.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Luxurious Villa in Paradise! 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Sarasota - Washing machine - Dryer - Air-conditioning [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-07&endDate=2026-01-08&selected=123112499&PinnedHotelID=123112499&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ## Policies ### Check-in Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM Contactless check-in and check-out are available Minimum check-in age - 25 ### Check-out Check-out before 10:00 AM ### Special check-in instructions Guests will receive an email before arrival with check-in instructions and an access code You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools ### Check-out instructions The host requires you to complete the following before checking out: Gather used towels Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish Turn off the lights and lock the doors Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host. ### Access methods Access code ### Pets Pets not allowed ### Children and extra beds Children are welcome ### Events No events allowed ### Smoking Smoking is not permitted ## Important information ### You need to know This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking. 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 Long-term renters welcome 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 security system and a first aid kit 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 This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation ### Property is also known as Vrbo Property Ellenton 722802 Vrbo Property Private vacation home Vrbo Property Private vacation home Ellenton ## About the area ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6&zoom=13&markers=icon:https%3A%2F%2Fa.travel-assets.com%2Ftravel-assets-manager%2Feg-maps%2Fproperty.png%7C27.51616%2C-82.52962&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=oRb_n3FdhbWmbxjHecWls02vQwc=) Ellenton, FL #### What's nearby - Judah P. Benjamin Confederate Memorial at Gamble Plantation Historic State Park \- 9 min walk \- 0.5 miles - Riverwalk \- 7 min drive \- 3.8 miles - LECOM Park \- 10 min drive \- 4.9 miles - Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch \- 19 min drive \- 15.5 miles - IMG Academy \- 20 min drive \- 10.2 miles #### Getting around - Sarasota, FL (SRQ-Sarasota-Bradenton Intl.) - 32 min drive #### Restaurants - ‪Culver's - ‬4 min drive - ‪Shake Station - ‬18 min walk - ‪Circle K - ‬4 min drive - ‪Woody's River Roo - ‬5 min drive - ‪Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen - ‬10 min walk ## Frequently asked questions ### Does The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat have a pool? ### Is The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat pet-friendly? ### What time is check-in at The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat? ### What time is check-out at The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat? ### Where is The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat located? ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## The Blue Heron Riverfront Retreat Reviews ## Reviews ### Exceptional All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative. [More information](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/b/content-guidelines) 10 - Excellent 10 8 - Good 0 6 - Okay 0 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ### 9.6 Cleanliness ### 10 Location ## Reviews ### 10/10 Excellent #### Heather H. 16 Oct 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Friends staycation My friends and I live locally in St. Petersburg. We rented the River House to enjoy some time away from work, but still close to home. We rented a boat which worked out great because there is a brand new dock/pier that is not shown in the pictures. And the boat ramp is only a few blocks from the house. We had a great time, the house is exactly as pictured and had everything we needed (laundry supplies, towels, etc.) and the owners were very accommodating and easy to communicate with. ##### Heather H. Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Kirstin S. 8 Feb 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Perfect Getaway We had a fantastic stay here. The house was perfect. We had a dinner party and our guests loved the property. The view was so tranquil and relaxing, the pool and hot tub were great and my husband enjoyed fishing off the dock. The kitchen was extremely well outfitted and we were able to host 8 people for dinner easily there were plenty of serving dishes and tableware. The games and movies that were available are a nice touch. The bed in the master is very comfortable and the view is exceptional. Katie is a fantastic and responsive host. We we were even able to go fishing and get picked up on the dock. The labeling throughout the home was so helpful and there were so many nice and thoughtful touches throughout. We would definitely stay here again and highly recommended this home. ##### Kirstin S. Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### john m. 15 Jul 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Photos are on point Usually stay on anna maria island but decided to stay a few minutes away from it this time. Love the gulf best fishing and sunsets. This property is the most private you can get the owners are awesome. House is amazing plenty of room and stocked with all essentials and i do mean everything. Spices,cookware,every appliance imaginable,even a drawer stocked with zip lock bags really a simple item but details like this really? You will not find find another property like this. I cannot tell how many times ive been disappointed by photos and reviews.This house is within 5 mins of walmart and restaurants. Only regret is didn't get to bring the boat this time. The dock goes out 100ft water is atleast 4ft at low tide at end of dock. Caught a couple small snook and mangrove snapper in canal. As much as we like anna maria island this is close enough without the congestion as its gets more of vacation destination. The boat ramp is a mile away and is the best way to avoid the drive across the bridge and trying to find a parking spot on the island trust me not an easy task anymore. Backyard, pool ,dock,kayaks and a house that is stocked with everything you need everyday stop looking this is it. Thanks katie again hope to book again soon ##### john m. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### john g., Waukesha County WI 20 Feb 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Magnificent property. The owners/managers are superb. See above response. ##### john g. Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### James W. 15 Jul 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Amazing & Beautiful The property was better than described. The host was easy to communicate with & quick to respond. Great location with easy access to anything & everything. The views from the house, lanai, pool & new dock we're beyond beautiful & amazing! We were able to watch Dolphins & Manatees from poolside which was incredible. The house was well kept & appointed. This will definitely be our girst choice when we're in the Tampa area. ##### James W. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Angie J. 21 Jun 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Wonderful stay at a beautiful house! The house is wonderful! The house was extremely clean and the owners have the cabinets, etc. labeled so you know where everything can be found. They have thought of everything and have included a lot of extras that are available for guests to use. (kayaks, games, beach chairs and umbrella, golf clubs, shampoo/conditioner in the showers, even extra sunblock) The owners are wonderful... so nice and very responsive when we had questions. The house is beautiful and spacious and the backyard is amazing. Our favorite part of the trip was relaxing in the pool and looking out over the huge Manatee River. We even saw a school of sting rays while out on the kayaks one morning. It was very private and so enjoyable. We hope to be able to return to this home again in the future! :) ##### Angie J. Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Andrew M. 10 Nov 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Worth Every Penny! Stayed a week with the family and enjoyed every minute. Just a short drive from both Tampa and Sarasota. Very clean home and the view is breathtaking. ##### Andrew M. Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Verified traveller 24 Oct 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Great, very comfortable location for golf/water sport and relaxing/shopping We were a party of four adults and stayed for roughly 14 days in mid October 2022\. The location of the house is perfect for golfing. There are plenty of very good courses within 30 minutes drive. The infrastructure and the equipment of the house is outstanding (at the pool, in the kitchen, in the baths, in the sleeping rooms). We used the great pool a lot and took advantage of the easy access to the beach in St. Petersburg (parking spot). You can also easily spend the full day in and around the house. There is plenty of space. Katie (the host) gave very helpful information and was very responsive and friendly right from the beginning until we left. We can only recommend to stay there. ##### Verified traveller Stayed 15 nights in Oct 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Ruth C. 28 Jul 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Our yearly family vacation The home and backyard are beautiful. Any time we had questions, Katie responded immediately. Katie and Terry suggested several places to visit and restaurants and all were great. They suggested Whiskey Joes close to the house on the Manatee River. Amazing food and beautiful view. The grandkids had a great time spent most of it in the pool, plenty of floaties and pool toys. Fishing off the dock was awesome, and saw dolphins and a manta ray in the river. We will definitely be staying here again. Highly recommend this home. ##### Ruth C. Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Paul B. 5 Jul 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Relaxing Get away The house was great! We have rented houses on past trips and this house was far and above the rest. The owners were very responsive before and during our trip. The house had everything we needed (Beach chairs, Umbrella, Cooler, Games etc…). There was plenty of room for my family of eight. Everyone enjoyed the pool and the view of the river, this is where we spent most of our time at the house. We hope to be able to stay again in the future. Thank you very much Katie & Terry! ##### Paul B. Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022 ---