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Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina

4.6
·622 reviews·DeLand, United States

Riverside resort offering a peaceful escape with boat rentals, fishing, and abundant wildlife on the St. Johns River.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for outdoor activities

CrowdLow
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getlstd_property_photo

Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for outdoor activities

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Riverside resort offering a peaceful escape with boat rentals, fishing, and abundant wildlife on the St. Johns River.

4.6
(622 reviews)

"What a gem well hidden in FL?! Boat trailer parking, ramp on site and nice tall covered slip and fuel available and nice pool!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Rooms with Kitchens

Opt for rooms with kitchens for added convenience and to save on dining costs. :forkandknife:

Kayak Launch Fees

Be aware of kayak launch fees ($10 for kayaks, more for trailers). Research options beforehand. :moneybag:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St. Johns River Access

St. Johns River Access

Riverside

Explore the scenic St. Johns River by boat or kayak. Perfect for fishing, wildlife viewing, and a peaceful escape.

Pontoon Boat Rentals

Pontoon Boat Rentals

Marina

Rent a pontoon boat for a discounted rate when staying a couple of nights. Ideal for exploring the river and nearby springs.

On-Site Pool

On-Site Pool

Resort grounds

Relax and unwind by the pool, offering a refreshing break with beautiful riverside views.

Wildlife Encounters

Wildlife Encounters

St. Johns River

Spot manatees, diverse birdlife, and potentially even alligators on a night excursion.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the River Life

Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina is your gateway to the St. Johns River. Plan for a relaxing escape focused on nature, fishing, and boating. Consider booking a room with a kitchen for added convenience.

Kayak Launch Fees

If you're planning to launch kayaks or paddleboards, be aware of the launch fees. While the river is beautiful, research pricing beforehand to avoid surprises.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for outdoor activities
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Gator spotting potential
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Book Rooms with Kitchens

Opt for rooms with kitchens for added convenience and to save on dining costs. :forkandknife:

Kayak Launch Fees

Be aware of kayak launch fees ($10 for kayaks, more for trailers). Research options beforehand. :moneybag:

Explore the Dead River

For a more peaceful experience, explore the Dead River with less boat traffic. :kayak:

Enjoy the Staff

The staff is frequently praised for outstanding service. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance. :star:

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Rooms with Kitchens

Opt for rooms with kitchens for added convenience and to save on dining costs. :forkandknife:

Kayak Launch Fees

Be aware of kayak launch fees ($10 for kayaks, more for trailers). Research options beforehand. :moneybag:

Explore the Dead River

For a more peaceful experience, explore the Dead River with less boat traffic. :kayak:

Enjoy the Staff

The staff is frequently praised for outstanding service. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance. :star:

Boat Trailer Parking

Ample boat trailer parking is available on-site. :boat:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(622 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina is praised as a hidden gem for its peaceful riverside setting, excellent staff, and convenient amenities for boaters and anglers. While some rooms could benefit from stronger air conditioning, the overall experience is highly recommended for a relaxing nature getaway.

"Only, and I mean only change I would suggest is amp up the A/C in #4. Otherwise, we loved our restful and low key stay this past weekend! Large frig, microwave, full stove and coffee maker. The staff is outstanding!! Rare these days it seems. Service was on point! The room was very clean and comfortable! What a gem well hidden in FL?! Boat trailer parking, ramp on site and nice tall covered slip and fuel available and nice pool! In fact… ice, snacks, bait, etc… Well placed on the St. John’s River for fishing and exploring! Several manatees and lots of fowl observed . Would love to go gator spotting at night!

I would definitely recommend this for those looking for a weekend (Or longer) getaway on the River! Gotta go to know!!!"

Doug Scott

"If you want a great nature get away this is a perfect spot. Nice rooms nice pool right on the riverside. No noise, none. Service is great. Relax 100% or rent a boat and go enjoy the wildlife and area. Beautiful in every way"

Marc Boles

"We love this place. They still have a discounted pontoon boat rental if your staying a couple of nights. Its a short fishing trip to Blue Springs. It's free to tie up to the mangroves and like 6 or $8 dollars to get everyone on your boat into the park. If you rent a couple of rooms at Hontoon, you can get the ones with a kitchen between."

Carl Otto

What People Like

Outstanding staff service
Peaceful riverside location
Convenient for boaters

What People Dislike

Weak air conditioning in some rooms
Kayak launch fees

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina is located on the St. Johns River. It's described as 'off the beaten path' but well worth the journey for a quiet, scenic escape. While specific driving directions aren't detailed in reviews, it's generally accessible by car. Consider using GPS for precise navigation. Reddit

Public transportation options to Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina are not mentioned in traveler reviews. It's likely best accessed by private vehicle. Reddit

If you're bringing your own boat, Hontoon Landing offers a boat ramp and fuel services, making arrival and launching convenient. Boat trailer parking is also available. Reddit

The closest major airports would likely be in Orlando or Daytona Beach, requiring a drive to reach Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina. Reddit

While described as 'off the beaten path,' reviews suggest it's discoverable and 'well worth it' once you arrive. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the resort grounds and pool area is typically included with your accommodation. However, specific activities like kayak launching have associated fees. Reddit+1

Kayak launch fees can be around $10 for a kayak without a trailer, and more if you have a trailer. It's advisable to confirm current pricing upon arrival or by calling ahead. Reddit

Yes, guests staying a couple of nights can often get a discounted rate on pontoon boat rentals. Reddit

Operating hours for the marina, store, and other facilities are not explicitly detailed in reviews, but it's implied they are available during daylight hours for guests. Reddit

Yes, Hontoon Landing offers a boat ramp for public use, with associated fees for launching and parking. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Activities include fishing, boating, kayaking, wildlife viewing (manatees, birds, alligators), relaxing by the pool, and enjoying the riverside scenery. Boat rentals are available. Reddit+1

Rooms are described as clean and comfortable, with some featuring amenities like large refrigerators, microwaves, full stoves, and coffee makers. Air conditioning can be a bit weak in some units. Reddit

Visitors frequently report seeing manatees and a variety of fowl. There's also mention of potential for gator spotting at night. Reddit

Absolutely. It's praised for being quiet, scenic, and somewhat secluded, offering a truly relaxing experience away from noise. Reddit

Some rooms are equipped with a large refrigerator, microwave, full stove, and coffee maker, making them suitable for longer stays or those who prefer to cook. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there's a small store with minimal snacks, dedicated dining options on-site are not heavily emphasized in reviews. Many guests opt for rooms with kitchens to prepare their own meals. Reddit+1

Reviews mention 'lots of food options in the area,' suggesting that while the resort itself is secluded, nearby towns likely offer various dining establishments. Reddit

Yes, some rooms are equipped with full kitchens, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. This is a popular option for those looking to save money or have more control over their dining. Reddit

The resort store does carry bait and snacks, which is convenient for anglers heading out on the river. Reddit

Given the secluded nature and limited on-site dining, bringing some groceries, especially if you have a room with a kitchen, is a practical suggestion. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The riverside setting offers numerous photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. Wildlife sightings, like manatees and birds, are also prime subjects. Reddit

Yes, the abundance of birdlife and the proximity to the river make it easy to photograph wildlife directly from the resort grounds or your room. Reddit

No specific photography restrictions are mentioned in reviews. General etiquette for respecting wildlife and other guests should be followed. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for landscape and wildlife photography. Evenings offer a chance for unique shots of the river. Reddit

Absolutely. Renting a boat provides unique perspectives of the river, shoreline, and wildlife that are inaccessible from land. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina offers a relaxed, nature-focused getaway perfect for families. The riverside location provides ample opportunities for kids to observe wildlife like birds and manatees, and the on-site pool is always a hit. Renting a pontoon boat can be a fun family adventure, allowing you to explore the St. Johns River and potentially visit nearby springs. Reddit

Consider booking a room with a kitchen to easily prepare meals and snacks for the little ones, which can also help manage costs. While the resort is quiet, the natural surroundings offer plenty of engagement for curious minds. Be mindful of the kayak launch fees if you plan on bringing your own watercraft for a day of family paddling. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Boaters

For fishing enthusiasts and boaters, Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina is an ideal destination. The resort offers direct access to the St. Johns River, a renowned fishing spot, with a boat ramp, fuel, and covered slips available. Many guests come specifically for the fishing opportunities, enjoying the convenience of having their boat on-site. Reddit

Pontoon boat rentals are a popular option for exploring the river, and discounts are often available for multi-night stays. The resort's store also carries bait and snacks, catering to the needs of anglers. Whether you're launching your own vessel or renting one, Hontoon Landing provides a solid base for a successful fishing or boating trip. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Relaxation Seekers

If your goal is to unwind and escape the hustle, Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina delivers. The resort is celebrated for its quiet, scenic, and somewhat secluded atmosphere, offering a true sense of peace. Spend your days lounging by the riverside pool, reading a book, or simply enjoying the tranquil views of the St. Johns River. Reddit

Opting for a room with a kitchen can further enhance your relaxation by allowing for easy meal preparation. The gentle pace of life on the river, combined with the attentive staff, makes this a perfect spot to recharge and de-stress. It's a place where you can truly 'relax 100%' and reconnect with nature. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the St. Johns River

The St. Johns River is the heart of the Hontoon Landing experience. This expansive waterway offers a tranquil environment for a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, with many finding it a prime spot for a relaxing angling trip. The river is also a haven for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of manatees, numerous bird species, and even the possibility of spotting alligators, especially during night excursions. Reddit

For those looking to immerse themselves in the river's beauty, boat rentals, particularly pontoon boats, are available and often offered at a discount for multi-night stays. This allows for easy access to explore further upriver, including nearby attractions like Blue Springs. Alternatively, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular ways to navigate the calmer sections of the river, such as the Dead River, which offers a more peaceful experience with less boat traffic compared to the main channel of the St. Johns. Reddit

It's important to note that while the river is a major draw, there are launch fees for kayaks and boats. Travelers looking to maximize their river exploration should factor these costs into their budget. The resort's location on the river makes it an ideal base for anyone seeking a genuine Florida riverside adventure. Reddit

Accommodation and Amenities

Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina offers unassuming rooms and suites designed for a comfortable, low-key stay. Many units are equipped with essential amenities that enhance the guest experience, particularly for longer visits or those who prefer self-catering. Large refrigerators, microwaves, full stoves, and coffee makers are common features in select rooms, providing the convenience of preparing meals and storing snacks. Reddit

While the accommodations are generally clean and comfortable, some guests have noted that the air conditioning in certain units could be more robust. The resort also boasts a nice pool situated riverside, offering a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy the views. For boaters, the marina provides boat trailer parking, a ramp on-site, tall covered slips, and fuel services, making it a convenient hub for watercraft enthusiasts. Reddit

The staff at Hontoon Landing receives consistent praise for their outstanding service, which is highlighted as a rare and appreciated quality. This attentive service contributes significantly to the overall positive guest experience, making the resort a 'gem well hidden in FL' for many. Reddit

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