Spend a weekend paddling Florida’s St. Johns River with Holly Bluff Marina’s kayak and paddleboard rental options. Perfect for all skill levels, this water escape blends wildlife watching with serene river cruising.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
up to 56 hours (weekend rental)
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners to intermediate paddlers with general fitness
Wildlife
History
The St. Johns River corridor has been a travel and trade route for indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with early European explorers navigating its waters in the 1500s.
Conservation
Holly Bluff Marina emphasizes eco-friendly practices, encouraging use of reef-safe sunscreen and minimizing disturbance to river habitats.
Holly Bluff Marina
Spend a weekend paddling Florida’s St. Johns River with Holly Bluff Marina’s kayak and paddleboard rental options. Perfect for all skill levels, this water escape blends wildlife watching with serene river cruising.
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.
Location
DeLand, Florida
Convenient DeLand launch point
Watercraft Types
Pontoons, Houseboats, Kayaks, Fishing
Options for every trip
Tours Offered
15 Experiences
Day to multi-day rentals
Max Capacity
Up to 10 guests
Group and family friendly
Book pontoon, fishing boats, houseboats, or paddlecraft for a day trip or extended river getaway—availability varies by season.
Check Weather for Wind Conditions
River winds can make paddling more challenging; calm mornings often provide the smoothest water.
Wear Water-Resistant Footwear
Protect your feet from wet landings and rocky riverbanks for added safety and comfort.
Bring a Dry Bag
Keep your phone, keys, and snacks dry to enjoy the whole trip without worry.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the local aquatic ecosystem while spending hours on the water.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A safety requirement to ensure flotation on the water at all times.
Sun-Protective Clothing
Long sleeves and hats shield skin from intense sun during peak hours.
summer
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is vital under the sun’s heat on open water.
Waterproof Phone Case or Dry Bag
Protect your electronics and valuables from river splashes and unexpected rain.