Local Information
Things to Do...
As a true local to the Nature Coast I have been fortunate enough to see and do almost everything our area has to offer. Believe it or not there is more to do here than just fish, golf, or shop. Here are a few activities that I recommend thinking about during your next vacation.
The Crystal River area has had the distinguished honor of being named the “Manatee Capital of the World.” Rated one of the top 20 things to see and do in the United States I urge everyone to try swimming with the Manatees, this will definitely be an activity you will never forget.
Private Trips w/ Capt. Traci Woods
www.nativevacations.com
Group Trips w/ the Crystal Lodge Dive Center
www.manatee-central.com
The Homosassa's Wildlife Park is a great place to checkout local wildlife and get an up close look at some huge fish and manatees. This has been rated one of the Best State Parks in America for years.
www.homosassasprings.org/Homosassa.cfm
If you like a Lazy River ride than floating down the Crystal Clear Rainbow River is for you. This is very inexpensive activity and has some of the most beautiful sights found any where in Florida.
www.kphole.com
If you’re into a little history and a lot of Archeology check out the Indian Burial Grounds located at the Crystal River state preserve. Here is your chance to look back in time and see what the real Crystal River once looked like.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crystal_River_Archaeological_State_Park
Looking for a Beach? Fort Island Beach is Crystal River's only saltwater beach, this 1,000-foot beach features picnic facilities and concessions. There is boat ramp and dock accessibility. You can sunbathe, swim, build a sandcastle or try out your fishing skills on the nearby pier.
www.visitflorida.com/articles/crystal-river-area-beaches
Good food and some history is what the Sponge Docks of Tarpon Springs has to offer. This is a little bit of a drive but is a fantastic place to check out everything Greek.
www.spongedocks.net
Crystal River Accommodations
There are a number of beautiful places to stay here in the Crystal River and Homosassa area. What makes a great place to stay are the accommodations, hospitality, location and atmosphere. I highly recommend staying some where on the water where you’ll have the opportunity to view the true beauty of the area twenty four hours a day. Here is a list of accommodations that I highly recommend.
The Best Western Resort is located right on the water in the heart of downtown Crystal River. This beautiful facility has some of the best restaurants and shops Crystal River has to offer all on its facility. Not to mention it features a gorgeous pool over looking Kings Bay, a boat ramp and a “World Class Fly Shop.” All Red Hot Fishing Charters clients can be picked up right on the water and receive a special discounted room rate ($79).
Crystal River Hunter Springs Pool Home - This vacation rental has been a favorite of my clients for years. Located right on a crystal clear spring fed canal, swimming with the manatees off of your own private dock is not only a possibility but a probability. This 3 bedroom 2 bath home is great for a family interested in enjoying everything the Crystal River area has to offer. Free use of kayaks, a swimming pool, and a beautiful sun room make this one of the more busy rentals in the area.
The King’s Bay Lodge is located on a gorgeous portion of the Crystal River. One of the most appealing aspects of this facility is a large spring flowing through their natural outdoor swimming pool. They offer fully equipped ground level efficiency suites with parking just outside the door. The units have various sleeping accommodations to suit one person or a family.
The Plantation Inn & Golf Resort is a vacation experience with in itself. A beautiful golf course, great restaurant, and a full time dive shop all on the premises allows for limitless activities during your vacation. Although the docking facilities are less than par, a dockside pickup can still be arranged for a fishing charter.
Homosassa Accommodations
MacRae’s of Homosassa is one of the oldest and most famous resorts found anywhere in Florida. Besides their beautiful views and great accommodations, there have been more angler “World Records” set out of this resort than any other in the area. This is a true historical icon for any fishermen/women.
The Riverside Resort over looking the famous Monkey Island has long been a favorite hangout for many of the more famous “World Record” hunters. Billy Pate, Stu Apte, Lefty Kreh, and Ted Williams are just a few of the guests who called this place home when searching for their records. This a true piece of history with a great view.
Golfing Options
So you’re interested in getting in some Awesome fishing and a Great round of golf during your next vacation, well you have picked the best area in Florida for both. Citrus County is home to some of the best Golf Courses found anywhere in Florida. With a number of highly rated public courses, semiprivate courses and many respected private courses and clubs to choose from you’re only a short drive away from a wide variety of golf courses that are ideal for every taste, skill level and budget.
While getting a round in on one of our pristine golf courses the first thing you’ll notice is the quality of the grounds and the wealth of natural scenery and wildlife that can be observed while playing. What better vacation can you ask for by adding a little golfing into your fishing plans?
Citrus County, Florida, Golf Courses:
Black Diamond Golf Course
2600 W. Black Diamond Circle
Lecanto, FL 34461
(352) 746-3446
World Woods Golf Course
17590 Ponce de Leon Blvd
Brooksville, FL 34614
(352) 796-5500 ext 4
El Diablo Golf & Country Club
10405 N Sherman Ave
Citrus Springs, FL 34434
(352) 465-0986
Plantation Inn & Golf Resort
903 W Fort Island Trail
Crystal River, Fl 34423
(352) 795-7211
Skyview at Tierra Vista
2100 N Tierra Vista Dr
Hernando, FL 34442
(352) 746-3664
Seven River Golf & Country Club
7395 W Pinebrook St
Crystal River, FL 34429
(352) 795-2100
Southern Woods Golf & Country Club
1501 Corkwood Blvd
Homosassa, FL 34447
(352) 382-1200
SugarMill Woods Golf & Country Club
1 Douglas St
Homosassa, FL 34447
(352) 382-2663
Citrus Hills Golf & Country Club
509 E Hartford St
Hernando, FL 34442
(352) 746-4425
Citrus Springs Golf & Country Club
8690 N Golfview Dr
Citrus Springs, FL 34434
(352) 489-5045
The Dunes at Seville
18200 Seville Clubhouse Dr
Weeki Wachee, FL 34614
(352) 596-PUTT
