WeekiBlog

Should You Allow Pets?

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 21:08:09 GMT

Should You Allow Pets in Your Vacation Rental?

For many vacation rental owners, deciding whether to allow pets is one of the biggest decisions they'll make.

Some homeowners immediately embrace the idea of becoming pet-friendly, while others worry about damage, extra cleaning, or added maintenance. The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

The best decision depends on your property, your target guests, and your long-term goals.

The Benefits of Allowing Pets :

Reach More Travelers

More travelers than ever are bringing their pets along on vacation. Many families specifically search for pet-friendly accommodations and will often skip listings that don't allow pets.

By welcoming pets, your property may appeal to a larger audience and appear in more guest searches.

Increase Booking Opportunities

Because not every vacation rental accepts pets, pet-friendly homes often face less competition.

For many travelers, finding a home that welcomes their four-legged family members is a deciding factor.

Encourage Repeat Guests

Guests who discover a clean, well-managed pet-friendly rental are more likely to return for future vacations.

Providing a positive experience can help build long-term guest loyalty and encourage repeat bookings.

Things to Consider

While allowing pets offers advantages, it also comes with additional responsibilities.

Pet-friendly properties may require:
More thorough cleaning between stays
Faster replacement of worn furnishings
Additional maintenance over time
Clear house rules for pet owners
Well-defined expectations before arrival

These challenges can often be managed successfully with the right policies and preparation.

Creating a Pet-Friendly Experience

If you decide to welcome pets, setting clear expectations is essential.

Consider including policies for:
Pet fees
Maximum number of pets
Approved pet types or size limits
Furniture restrictions
Waste cleanup requirements
Supervision expectations while pets are on the property

The clearer your guidelines, the smoother the experience for both you and your guests.
Is It the Right Choice for Every Property?
Not necessarily.

Some homes naturally lend themselves to being pet-friendly, while others may be better suited for a pet-free policy.

For example, properties with fenced yards, durable flooring, and easy outdoor access often accommodate pets well. On the other hand, luxury homes with delicate furnishings, allergy-sensitive environments, or unique features may benefit from remaining pet-free.

There's no universal answer—only the decision that best aligns with your property's goals.

How Experience Weeki Approaches Pet-Friendly Rentals
At Experience Weeki , we don't believe every property should follow the same policy.

Instead, we evaluate each home individually, considering factors such as:

Property layout
Guest demographics
Maintenance requirements
Revenue potential
Long-term owner goals

Our objective is to help homeowners make informed decisions that balance guest satisfaction with protecting their investment.

The Bottom Line

Allowing pets can increase visibility, attract more travelers, and encourage repeat guests—but it's not the right fit for every vacation rental.

The key is understanding both the opportunities and the responsibilities before making your decision.

A thoughtful pet policy, combined with clear communication and proper property management, can create a better experience for guests while helping protect your home for years to come.

Thinking About Making Your Property Pet-Friendly?

Whether you're deciding if your vacation rental should welcome pets or looking to maximize your property's performance, Experience Weeki is here to help.

Our team works closely with homeowners to develop strategies that support both guest satisfaction and long-term success.

Contact Experience Weeki today to learn how we can help your vacation rental reach its full potential.

The $500 Mistake Owners Make Before Listing

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:44:49 GMT

Launching a vacation rental is exciting, and many homeowners are eager to get their property online as quickly as possible. But in the rush to start accepting bookings, one common mistake can quietly cost far more than it saves.

It's not about spending too much—it's about trying to save a few hundred dollars by skipping the finishing touches that make a property stand out.

First Impressions Matter More Than You Think

Potential guests compare dozens of vacation rentals before making a decision.
Within seconds, they're evaluating:

Listing photos
Cleanliness
Property condition
Overall presentation
Attention to detail

Those first impressions often determine whether they click "Book Now" or move on to another listing.

The "Savings" That Can Cost You More

Trying to reduce upfront costs may seem like a smart decision, but certain investments often pay for themselves many times over.

Common examples include:

Professional photography
Deep cleaning before launch
Minor repairs and maintenance
Fresh paint or simple touch-ups
Updated lighting
Quality guest essentials

Individually, these improvements may seem small. Together, they create a property that guests trust before they even arrive.

Why It Pays Off

A well-prepared property doesn't just look better—it performs better.

Properties that are professionally presented often benefit from:
More booking inquiries
Higher conversion rates
Better guest reviews
Increased repeat bookings
Stronger long-term revenue potential

Rather than viewing these improvements as expenses, consider them investments in your property's success.

The Experience Weeki Approach

At Experience Weeki, we believe successful vacation rental management starts long before the first guest checks in.

Our team helps homeowners identify the improvements that have the greatest impact on guest experience and booking performance. From preparing your listing for launch to creating a memorable stay, every detail matters.

The goal isn't simply to list your property.

It's to launch it with confidence.

Ready to Maximize Your Property's Potential?

Whether you're preparing your first vacation rental or looking to improve an existing one, Experience Weeki can help you create a property that attracts guests, earns outstanding reviews, and delivers long-term value.

Contact Experience Weeki today to learn how professional vacation rental management can help your property stand out from day one.

Five Things Guests Notice in the First 30 Seconds

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:59:37 GMT

Guests begin forming an opinion of your vacation rental within moments of arriving. Before they unpack or settle in, those first impressions can influence their entire stay and the review they leave behind.

Here are five things guests notice right away.

1. Cleanliness

A spotless home immediately builds confidence. Clean floors, fresh bathrooms, and tidy spaces tell guests the property has been well cared for.

2. Comfort & Temperature

In Florida, walking into a cool, comfortable home sets the tone. A properly cooled property helps guests relax from the moment they arrive.

3. First Impression

Guests notice the exterior, entryway, and overall presentation before they even step inside. A welcoming entrance creates a positive first impression.

4. Freshness

A fresh, clean scent reinforces that the home is well maintained. Unpleasant odors can quickly overshadow an otherwise beautiful property.

5. Thoughtful Details

Fresh towels, neatly made beds, welcome information, and small touches show guests you've prepared for their arrival and help them feel at home.

Why It Matters

Five-star reviews rarely come from one standout feature—they're built on consistent attention to detail.

At Experience Weeki, we focus on creating exceptional first impressions that lead to happier guests, stronger reviews, and more repeat bookings.

Ready to Make a Great First Impression?

Whether you're new to vacation rentals or looking to improve your property's performance, Experience Weeki helps homeowners create guest experiences that stand out from the moment guests walk through the door.

At Experience Weeki, we're helping owners optimize their listings, improve their online presence, and position their properties for the future of vacation rental search.

Contact us today to learn how professional vacation rental management can help maximize your property's potential.

Is Your Property Ready for AI Search?

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:54:09 GMT

The way travelers find vacation rentals is changing.

Instead of scrolling through hundreds of listings, more people are asking AI tools like ChatGPT, Google AI, Gemini, and Perplexity questions before they ever visit Airbnb or Vrbo.

They're asking things like:

Where should I stay near Weeki Wachee with kayak access?
What's the best waterfront vacation rental for families?
Which homes are closest to the springs?
AI recommends the properties it understands best.

Is Your Property Ready?

To improve your chances of being recommended, your property should have:

Detailed listing descriptions
Strong guest reviews
A direct booking website
Local content about your area
Good online visibility

The more information AI can find about your property, the more likely it is to recommend it to future travelers.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

AI is becoming part of how guests plan their vacations, and property owners who prepare now will have an advantage as travel search continues to evolve.

At Experience Weeki, we're helping owners optimize their listings, improve their online presence, and position their properties for the future of vacation rental search.

Want to know if your property is AI-ready? Contact us—we'd be happy to take a look.

The Most Expensive Booking Is the One You Don't Own

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 18:33:13 GMT

A full booking calendar is every vacation rental owner's goal—but where those bookings come from matters just as much as how many you have. While OTAs like Airbnb and VRBO are valuable tools, every reservation booked through them comes at a cost. The most expensive booking isn't the one with the highest commission—it's the direct booking you never received.

The Hidden Cost of OTA Dependence

OTAs are a valuable source of bookings, but relying on them too heavily can limit your long-term profits. A full calendar doesn't always mean you're maximizing your revenue—it matters where those bookings come from.

Many of our reservations come directly through Experience Weeki, proving that with the right strategy, direct bookings can become a consistent source of revenue.

Every direct booking means:

More revenue stays with the homeowner
Fewer commission fees
Stronger guest relationships
More repeat bookings

Why Direct Bookings Matter

When guests book directly, they become your customers. That means you can stay connected through email and SMS, create personalized experiences, and encourage future stays without paying OTA commissions again.

How Experience Weeki Helps

Driving direct bookings takes more than a website. We help property owners grow through:

Direct booking marketing
Automated guest follow-up
Email and SMS campaigns
Local partnerships
Search engine optimization (SEO)

Together, these strategies help increase occupancy, reduce OTA dependence, and keep more revenue in your pocket.

Ready to Earn More From Every Booking?

A full calendar is great—but a calendar filled with direct bookings is even better.

If you're ready to increase your direct bookings and keep more of every reservation, we'd love to show you how Experience Weeki can help.

Are You Paying Airbnb 15.5% More Than Necessary?

Fri, 29 May 2026 15:34:12 GMT

Most vacation rental owners are aware that Airbnb and VRBO charge host fees on every reservation. What fewer owners stop to calculate is the long-term revenue impact of relying entirely on third party booking platforms. Because the real cost goes well beyond the 15.5% fee itself.

THE HIDDEN COST OF PLATFORM DEPENDENCY:
Every reservation booked through Airbnb or VRBO comes with a built-in set of costs that compound over time:

Host fees on every single reservation
Lost direct booking opportunities
Reduced repeat guest retention
Less control over your customer relationships
Higher long-term guest acquisition costs

When you rely exclusively on third party platforms, you're essentially renting your customer relationships from Airbnb. Every guest who books through them belongs to their platform — not to you. That makes it harder to build the repeat bookings and loyal guest base that drive long-term revenue stability.

WHY DIRECT BOOKING SYSTEMS MATTER:
The strongest vacation rental brands don't rely on a single booking source. They combine marketplace visibility with repeat guest marketing, direct booking systems, and long-term guest retention strategies that increase profitability over time.

Here's a number that tells the story — 29% of Experience Weeki bookings in the last 60 days came through direct and repeat guest channels rather than Airbnb or VRBO.

That means:

Reduced platform dependency
More repeat guests
Lower acquisition costs
Stronger long-term revenue performance

Building a direct booking strategy doesn't mean replacing Airbnb. It means creating a stronger long-term control over your business so that every reservation isn't subject to platform fee structures, algorithm changes, or policy updates you have no say in.

THE TAKEAWAY:
If every reservation you receive comes through a third party platform, your revenue is entirely dependent on their rules, their fees, and their algorithms. That's a significant business risk most owners don't think about until something changes.

A boutique local management company focused on your property's long-term performance — not just filling nights — can help you build a booking strategy that works across all channels and reduces your dependency on any single one.

Are Your Holiday Weekends Properly Priced?

Fri, 22 May 2026 15:15:04 GMT

Holiday weekends are some of the highest demand booking periods of the year — Fourth of July, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving. Travelers plan ahead, competition for availability is high, and guests expect to pay a premium. Yet many vacation rentals on Florida's Nature Coast are still priced too close to a standard weekend, leaving significant revenue on the table without the owner ever realizing it.

THE REAL COST OF OUTDATED PRICING:
During a recent onboarding of a new property here on Florida's Nature Coast, we discovered the previous owner had already accepted a Fourth of July reservation through Airbnb for $1,120.

On the surface that might sound reasonable. But here's what that reservation actually nets after you back everything out:

Airbnb takes 15.5% off the top
Cleaning fee comes out
Taxes are deducted

By the time the dust settles, that owner will likely pocket somewhere between $400 and $500 from one of the highest demand nights of the entire year.

The same reservation with us would have listed at d $2,000. That's not a small gap. That's potentially $900 in missed revenue from a single holiday weekend, that can never be recovered.

The reservation is already booked. The money is already gone.

WHY IT HAPPENS:
The most common issue we uncover is outdated pricing. Rates get set at the beginning of the season and then left alone. But demand doesn't stay the same — booking trends shift, local events drive spikes, traveler behavior changes, and nearby competitors adjust their rates constantly.

If your pricing isn't being actively monitored and adjusted, you're almost certainly leaving money on the table during the moments that matter most.

WHAT ACTIVE REVENUE MANAGEMENT LOOKS LIKE:
Strong revenue management isn't just setting a competitive base rate. It requires:

Monitoring local market demand and competitor pricing regularly
Adjusting minimum stays during high-demand periods to maximize booking value
Identifying and pricing up holiday weekends, local events, and seasonal spikes ahead of time
Responding to booking trends in real time — not at the start of next season

At Experience Weeki, our team actively monitors pricing, occupancy trends, and local demand across Florida's Nature Coast. It's one of the reasons we've maintained a 4.95 average rating across more than 1,000 guest reviews while consistently outperforming standard market rates for our owners.

QUICK HOLIDAY PRICING CHECKLIST:
Before the next peak weekend, ask yourself:

Have your holiday rates been reviewed recently?
Are your minimum stays optimized for peak weekends?
Have nearby competitor rates increased?
Is your pricing actively monitored during high-demand periods?

If you're unsure about any of these, it may be worth a second opinion.

THE TAKEAWAY:
Holiday weekends should be your highest revenue days of the year. If your current management approach isn't actively optimizing for them, you're leaving your biggest earning opportunities unmanaged.

We offer a complimentary seasonal pricing review — no strings attached. Let's make sure you're not leaving money on the table this holiday season.

Is Your Vacation Rental Calendar Quietly Costing You Revenue?

Fri, 15 May 2026 13:46:35 GMT

Most vacation rental owners focus on the big picture — pricing, reviews, occupancy rates. But sometimes the biggest revenue leaks come from the smallest operational details. One of the most common culprits we see? Calendar blocking settings that quietly drain your booking potential without anyone noticing.

THE PROBLEM:
When we recently onboarded a new property here in Weeki Wachee, one of the first things we audited was the calendar setup. What we found was a surprisingly common issue — the previous management configuration was automatically blocking nights that didn't need to be blocked.

Specifically, the system was blocking:

The night before every check-in

The night after every checkout

On the surface that might seem harmless. But do the math. A single 2-night reservation was effectively removing 4 nights of availability from the calendar. Multiply that across a busy season and you're looking at a significant number of lost booking opportunities — and thousands of dollars in missed revenue — that the owner had no idea were disappearing.

WHY THIS HAPPENS:
This kind of setting is often a default that gets switched on during initial setup and never revisited. For a management company juggling dozens of properties, it can be a convenient way to create buffer time between stays. For the homeowner, it's an invisible tax on your calendar.

The guest never sees it. The owner rarely notices it. But it's there, quietly working against you.

WHAT GOOD CALENDAR MANAGEMENT LOOKS LIKE:
At Experience Weeki, our goal is simple — a 3-night reservation should stay a 3-night reservation. Not quietly become 5 blocked nights on your calendar.

That means we regularly audit:

Minimum stay requirements by season

Gap night settings to fill short windows between bookings

Check-in and checkout day restrictions that may be limiting your reach

Buffer settings to ensure they serve the guest experience, not just operational convenience

Small adjustments here can meaningfully move the needle on your annual revenue without changing your pricing, your marketing, or anything else.

THE TAKEAWAY:
If you own a vacation rental in Weeki Wachee, Hernando Beach, or anywhere along Florida's Nature Coast, it may be worth taking a closer look at how your calendar is actually being managed. The details matter more than most owners realize.

We're happy to do a complimentary review of your property's calendar setup and revenue potential — no strings attached.

Weeki Wachee River - Springs Protection Zone

Wed, 01 May 2024 17:15:52 GMT

Everything you need to know to help protect and enjoy the Weeki Wachee River

What is the "Springs Protection Zone"?

The springs protection zone is designed to protect the river’s ecology and does not alter the public access to the spring. It only regulates vessels, not the activities of people.

To summarize - Vessel (Boats, Kayaks, Paddle Boards, ETC) operators are prohibited from anchoring, mooring, beaching or grounding a vessel within the Weeki Wachee River Springs Protection Zone. (F.S. 327.45) It encompasses 5.61 miles from Rogers Park to the headsprings in the state park. Violators are subject to a $140 fine. With limited exceptions, most tubes and rafts are not considered vessels under Florida law.

Are you saying I can't swim in the river?

Activities like swimming, snorkeling and floating on a raft or tube are permitted .

Visitors are encouraged to use best practices to help protect the river such as not trampling vegetation, climbing on banks or trees, or discarding litter.

So what does this all mean?

If you plan to exit your vessel (Boats, Kayaks, Paddle Boards, ETC) while paddling down the main river, you will want to plan an appropriate place to exit your vessel. If you're planning on tying your vessel to a tree, or beaching it up on sand or land, you will be at risk of the $140 penalty If you are east of Rogers Park. These rules ONLY apply to the main river, not canals. Also be sure each vessel has a life jacket and whistle (we suggest tying the whistle to the jacked).

And most importantly, go have a blast!!

History of Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 17:20:09 GMT

History of Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest!

Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest is a beloved annual event that celebrates the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Weeki Wachee and the surrounding area. This lively festival has deep roots in the community and has become a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike.

The inaugural Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest took place in 1994, born out of a desire to showcase the unique character and charm of Weeki Wachee and raise funds to support local causes. From its humble beginnings as a small community gathering, the festival has grown into a vibrant celebration that attracts thousands of attendees each year.

One of the highlights of Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest is its eclectic mix of live music, arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Festival-goers can enjoy performances by local musicians and bands, browse a wide array of handmade crafts and artwork, and indulge in delicious food from local vendors serving up a variety of culinary delights.

In addition to its entertainment offerings, Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest also pays homage to the area's natural beauty and outdoor heritage. The festival often features educational exhibits, environmental demonstrations, and guided nature walks that highlight the importance of preserving the region's wetlands and waterways.

Throughout the years, Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest has evolved and grown, but its commitment to celebrating the unique spirit of Weeki Wachee remains unwavering. As the festival continues to thrive, it serves as a testament to the strong sense of community and camaraderie that defines this charming Florida town.

Join us as we celebrate the history, culture, and natural beauty of Weeki Wachee at the annual Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest. With live music, delicious food, and fun for the whole family, it's an event you won't want to miss!

Best Kept Secrets in Weeki Wachee!

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 19:41:59 GMT

Welcome to Weeki Wachee's best-kept secrets, where hidden gems and local treasures await those willing to venture off the beaten path. From secluded natural wonders to charming local haunts, these hidden gems offer a glimpse into the lesser-known side of Weeki Wachee.

1. Linda Pedersen Park: Tucked away on the shores of the Weeki Wachee River, Linda Pedersen Park is a tranquil oasis beloved by locals but often overlooked by visitors. This hidden gem boasts pristine white sand beaches, shady picnic areas, and scenic nature trails, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful day of relaxation and recreation.

2. Bayport Park: Just a short drive from Weeki Wachee, Bayport Park is a hidden paradise waiting to be discovered. This waterfront park offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, along with fishing piers, kayak rentals, and picnic areas. Explore the park's nature trails and keep an eye out for dolphins and manatees frolicking in the nearby waters.

3. Jenkin's Creek: For nature enthusiasts seeking solitude and serenity, Jenkin's Creek is a hidden gem worth seeking out. Tucked away off the beaten path, this tranquil waterway meanders through pristine marshlands and dense mangrove forests, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore this hidden oasis at your own pace, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of nature.

4. Alfred A. McKethan Pine Island Park (Currently Closed): Just a short drive from Weeki Wachee, Alfred A. McKethan Pine Island Park is a hidden paradise waiting to be explored. This pristine beach park offers miles of sugar-white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning Gulf Coast sunsets. Pack a picnic and spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and soaking up the natural beauty of this hidden gem.

5. Weeki Wachee Preserve: Escape the crowds and discover the untamed beauty of the Weeki Wachee Preserve. This sprawling nature reserve is home to lush wetlands, towering pine forests, and diverse wildlife, offering endless opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and photography. Explore the park's network of trails and boardwalks and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this hidden wilderness.

These hidden gems are just a taste of the many treasures waiting to be discovered in Weeki Wachee. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a break from the ordinary, these best-kept secrets promise unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.

Intro to Weeki Wachee: An overview of the town's history, landmarks, and what makes it unique

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 15:57:16 GMT

Welcome to Weeki Wachee, a quaint town nestled along Florida's Nature Coast, where history, enchantment, and natural beauty converge.

History: Long before the arrival of European explorers, the land surrounding Weeki Wachee was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Seminole and Timucua. These tribes revered the area's natural springs, which provided a source of fresh water and played a central role in their spiritual beliefs.

With the dawn of the 20th century, Weeki Wachee began to attract the attention of settlers drawn to its fertile land and abundant waterways. In 1947, Weeki Wachee Springs gained international fame when Newton Perry, a former Navy man turned entrepreneur, unveiled his vision of an underwater mermaid theater. Using innovative breathing techniques and underwater air hoses, Perry's "mermaids" captivated audiences with their graceful performances in the crystal-clear spring waters.

Weeki Wachee Springs quickly became a popular roadside attraction along Florida's burgeoning tourism corridor, drawing visitors from far and wide to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of mermaids swimming in their natural habitat. Throughout the decades, Weeki Wachee continued to evolve, adding new attractions like Buccaneer Bay Water Park and expanding its offerings to include wildlife encounters, river cruises, and educational programs.

Today, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Newton Perry's vision and the timeless allure of this enchanting corner of Florida. From its humble beginnings as a roadside curiosity to its status as a beloved cultural icon, Weeki Wachee's history is a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation, imagination, and adventure.

Landmarks: One of the most renowned landmarks in Weeki Wachee is Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, known for its mesmerizing underwater mermaid shows and crystal-clear spring waters. Visitors can also explore Buccaneer Bay, Florida's only spring-fed water park, or take a leisurely boat tour along the Weeki Wachee River, admiring the lush scenery and abundant wildlife.

What Makes it Unique: What sets Weeki Wachee apart is its enchanting blend of natural wonders and nostalgic charm. From the legendary mermaids who have enchanted audiences for decades to the pristine beauty of the Weeki Wachee River, there's an undeniable magic that permeates this charming town. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, Weeki Wachee offers something for everyone.

All About Our Weeki Wachee Manatees!

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 14:38:08 GMT

Florida Manatees or “Sea Cows” , also known as the West Indian Manatees are gentle giants who roam the rivers of Weeki Wachee and make friends (distantly) with those they encounter. Here are some fun facts you probably didn’t know about manatees:

-The manatee’s closest relative is an Elephant!

-The average adult manatee weighs between 800 and 1200 pounds and is about 10ft in length.

-You will find manatees in shallower, more slow-moving waters like rivers, saltwater bays, canals and coastal areas. They especially love places where seagrass or freshwater vegetation grows abundantly. For Florida, we tend to see them more in the winter months.

-Most of a manatee’s time will be spent eating, resting and swimming. They are herbivores and therefor eat aquatic plants, or underwater vegetation.

-Since manatees are mammals, like us, they need to surface to get air every 3-5 minutes, unless it is a more active day, where they may surface as much as every 30 seconds. When sleeping, they can stay submerged for up to 20 minutes!

-Manatees can swim up to 20 miles per hour in short bursts, but that’s probably only if something scary is chasing them. Their typical speed is about 3-5mph.

-West Indian manatees have no enemies, so they can live 60 years or more. Most manatee deaths are from boaters who don’t see them, cold stress, gastrointestinal diseases, which come from consuming fish hooks, litter and other human related causes, pneumonia and other diseases.

-Manatees in the U.S.A are protected by law (Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, and the Endagered Species Act of 1973). These laws make it illegal to hunt, harass, capture or kill marine mammals.

-If you do encounter a manatee while swimming or boating, be sure not to poke or prod them with your hands, feet, or objects. If the manatee avoids you, no need to chase them. Just let them go where they are going. Avoid feeding them, and do not isolate them from their group if swimming with more manatees or calves.

Remember to respect the nature around you as this is their home. Make sure any trash is not left in the water.

Enjoy Experiencing Weeki!

How to pack for your trip

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 14:38:08 GMT

Packing for a trip to Florida is an art. So let us help.

Everyone knows Florida is “sunny and hot”. But what most do not prepare for is that evenings can get chilly depending on the season of your arrival. We live in layers here, especially in the Spring. We wake up in the 50’s or 60’s and come home in the 90’s. Our cars have spare sweaters, jackets as a rule during these months.

First determine which season you will be coming down to Florida.

Always have sunscreen when you are in Florida, no matter the season, as our sun is sneaky and will even burn you when it’s overcast.

Water-shoes may be helpful when walking in shallow waters that may have rock, or for walking on docks and other potentially slippery areas after being in the water.

Spring, (Jan-April-ish), may have chilly mornings and evenings but hot afternoons.

You will want both shorts and pants, bathing suits and sweaters. Layer in the mornings and remove as the day progresses. If you stay out all day into the evening, you will likely revisit that morning sweater.

Summer, (Mid-April really until September), it will be more humid than anything and may rain.

Summer is beautiful in Florida, but is also humid, which is basically a “Wet hot”. Pack plenty of shirts as you may sweat through some. Our humidity can make you break a sweat at 6am. Lots of sunscreen, preferably SPF 50 or higher. The 50 refers to minutes of protection. So, SPF 50 will provide 50 minutes of sun protection. It can last longer, but with the humidity and water, you will want to reapply. SPF 100 is even better. For kids, cream is more effective than the spray sunscreens.

Summer months bring mosquitos, especially near water and after a rain. Bug spray with Deet/deep woods protection is recommended. Citronella candles outside are helpful but they do not keep them away completely.

Florida thunderstorms can be dangerous. If you see any lightning at all, make sure you are not in or near the water. It can lightning in clear skies as well. Just be mindful of nature and it will be mindful of you. Bring an umbrella to keep handy when you are out and about.

If you are staying at the beach or one of our properties, you will likely live in the water. If possible, bring multiple bathing suits.

A “beach bag” is helpful for day trips to carry the essentials- sunscreen, bottled water, water-shoes, towels.

Fall, (October/November), these are perfect days to us natives. A little less humid, a little crisper air.

You will pack similar to Spring packing. Both Shorts and pants, bathing suits and sweaters. You will want to prepare to layer. Florida is sometimes unpredictable. So, it may still be hot all day. But the next day could be wildly different.

Some extras you may want to consider:

Waterproof phone case. These will allow you to take pictures under water and also keep your phone safe if it gets wet and/or dropped in the water.

Hats- baseball hats, straw hats, bucket hats. All a good idea to help keep the sun off your face and neck.

Quick Dry towels- helpful when you sweat so you can wipe sweat off your face and out of your eyes. Especially if you sweat with sunscreen on your face.

We hope this is helpful! Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions that may arise with packing and preparing.

Enjoy experiencing Weeki!!

Planning Your Perfect Trip to Weeki

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 13:38:08 GMT

Whether you plan to hang out at the house relaxing or explore the river or neighborhood, we have some tips for planning your perfect experience in Weeki Wachee.

As you can probably already see, Weeki Wachee is all about the River Life. We love our river, and we care deeply about its inhabitants. Touring the river is also a great activity to learn about Weeki Wachee and experience the sights and sounds that bring life to this area every day.

Speaking of touring the river, we also recently started offering our customers the option of taking a Jon boat ride for a tour up river . Why a Jon Boat you ask? Because in order to appreciate this rivers beauty, you must go several miles up river and be able to navigate extremely tight and shallow waters. Our 6 person Jon boat is fully equipped to give you an amazing experience. Dave is a USCG licensed Captain so rest assured, you're in good hands.

We offer private boat tours Monday thru Friday with tours typically lasting a couple of hours. You can expect to go several miles up river on this tour for some unbelieve picture opportunities of this magical river. The cost is $295 and includes the boat, fuel, bottled water, and Captain Dave will personally pick you up and drop you off at your dock (or a river destination of your choice).

If you're looking for other tour options don't hesitate reaching out to us. We can customize a day on the river just for you.

With all the nearby attractions and so much to see, it may be a good idea to plan ahead. Some attractions may require tickets, reservations, or charge for parking. You will find links to many of them below, where you can check out each park or attraction and all there is to do there.

Roger’s Park (beaches, swimming, volleyball, canoes & kayaks launch, boat launch, and kids playground)

https://www.hernandocounty.us/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/34/103

Marina & Boat Rentals (kayaks, canoes, boats)

https://www.weekiwacheemarina.com/

Linda Pedersen Park (Nature, Wildlife, Bird Watching)

https://www.hernandocounty.us/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/26/103

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park (waterslides, snorkeling, tubing, floating, boat tours and more)

https://www.floridastateparks.org/weekiwachee

Pine Island Beach Park (beaches, swimming, volleyball, canoes & kayaks, concessions and more)
(Currently Closed due to Hurricane Damage)

https://www.hernandocounty.us/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/2/103

Sun West Park (fresh water aqua park, beach volleyball, and zip line wakeboarding)

https://sunwestpark.com/

Light Lines and Good Times - Airboat Tours

https://lightlinesgoodtimes.com/

Oak Hills Golf Club (18-hole course)

https://www.facebook.com/OakHillsGolfClub

Buccaneer Bay (waterslides, tubing, refreshments and world famous live mermaid shows)

https://www.floridastateparks.org/learn/splish-n-splash-buccaneer-bay

Don’t forget, there are local bait and tackle shops as well for when you want to fish off one of our docks or go out on the water. Dixie Lee Bait is nearby https://goo.gl/maps/bwuRFTwVS5JbGx43A .

Enjoy your stay with Experience Weeki!