THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Spend a full week paddling the serene waters near DeLand, Florida, with Holly Bluff Marina’s kayak and paddleboard rentals. Navigate winding river bends bordered by cypress groves and spot native wildlife on this uniquely immersive freshwater adventure.
Spend a full week paddling the serene waters near DeLand, Florida, with Holly Bluff Marina’s kayak and paddleboard rentals. Navigate winding river bends bordered by cypress groves and spot native wildlife on this uniquely immersive freshwater adventure.
Book with Holly Bluff Marina
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Holly Bluff Marina · DeLand, Florida
Located on the tranquil shores of the St. Johns River near DeLand, Florida, Holly Bluff Marina offers a distinctive weeklong paddle sports experience ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in Florida’s rich freshwater ecosystem. This week gives paddlers ample time to navigate the river’s gentle curves and hidden tributaries in single or double kayaks as well as on paddleboards, providing a versatile platform for both novices and seasoned paddlers.
The St. Johns River, known for its slow-moving freshwater and expansive floodplain forests, creates a dynamic setting where sprawling cypress trees draped with Spanish moss tower above the water. The quiet river channels provide a rare chance to witness alligator sunbaths and the graceful flights of herons and egrets without the crowds typical of more famous waterways. Holly Bluff Marina’s location gives you direct access to this lush, wildlife-rich corridor, making it a standout in the Florida paddling landscape.
What sets this weeklong trip apart is the freedom to engage deeply with the environment at a relaxed, unhurried pace. Participants can tailor their pacing, settling in for morning paddles or afternoon sessions to catch the shifting light and vibrant bird calls. The marina itself offers a well-established staging area with expert staff and quality gear, making the experience seamless whether you’re booking a single kayak, tandem kayak, or paddleboard.
This paddling week is a rare chance to unplug, recharge, and connect with Florida’s subtropical wilds in a way that few other outings provide. Whether you’re chasing quiet wildlife encounters or simply seeking steady progression in paddle technique, Holly Bluff Marina’s weeklong kayak and paddleboard offering is perfectly suited to deliver an authentic Florida river adventure.
easy.
varies, flexible over 7 days.
Suitable for beginners to intermediate paddlers with basic fitness; stamina helps for longer days
No prior experience is necessary; Holly Bluff Marina provides guidance and suitable options for all skill levels.
Bring sun protection, water shoes, and a dry bag; PFDs and boats are provided by the marina.
This package is primarily a rental experience, but staff can offer route advice and safety tips.
Yes, Holly Bluff Marina offers all three options, allowing you to choose your preferred vessel.
Look for alligators, herons, egrets, turtles, and occasionally otters along the riverbanks.
The marina is reachable by car; limited public transport services operate to DeLand area.
Holly Bluff Marina serves as a gateway to the St. Johns River, a historically vital waterway for indigenous peoples and early settlers.
The marina supports sustainable paddling by educating guests on minimizing disturbance to wildlife and protecting water quality.
Holly Bluff Marina in DeLand, Florida, operates as a local watercraft rental and houseboat provider serving visitors to nearby Blue Spring State Park and Hontoon Island State Park. The marina offers a diverse fleet that includes 22' and 24' pontoon boats, 14' aluminum fishing boats, multiple houseboats, and a range of kayaks and paddleboards for full-day, weekend, midweek, and week-long rentals. The marina's pontoon options feature spacious seating and safety gear provided for guests, enabling relaxed exploration of local rivers, riverside dining, and picnics in scenic spots. Several houseboats and larger vessels include private staterooms, salons, galley areas, and outdoor decks with grilling and sunbathing space, accommodating groups for multi-day stays. Smaller fishing boats and paddlecraft provide options for anglers and paddlers who prefer a simpler outing. Holly Bluff Marina lists specific vessels by name and size, from compact 14' fishing boats to larger 60' executive houseboats, giving renters clear choices based on group size and trip type. The marina’s location in DeLand positions it as a convenient launch point for visits to Blue Spring and Hontoon Island, both noted destinations for river and wildlife viewing. All descriptions and rental choices are presented to help visitors select the right boat for fishing, family outings, or extended river vacations.
Book with Holly Bluff Marina