THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
Book with Holly Bluff Marina
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Holly Bluff Marina · DeLand, Florida
Situated on the tranquil shores of the St. Johns River near DeLand, Florida, Holly Bluff Marina offers a refreshing water-based adventure through its Weekend Kayaks and Paddleboards experience. This getaway combines accessible paddling with the lush, subtropical landscapes of one of Florida’s lesser-known natural gems. The St. Johns River is the longest in Florida, winding through marshes, hardwood forests, and communities—a ribbon of freshwater rich with local wildlife and scenic variety.
Holly Bluff Marina stands out for providing both single and tandem kayak options alongside stable paddleboards, catering to beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. Over a full weekend, paddlers can immerse themselves in the slow rhythms of the river, gliding past cypress knees and palmetto clusters, with frequent sightings of herons, ospreys, and the occasional manatee nearby. The calm river sections make it an ideal family-friendly experience, but it also offers enough diversity in waterways to satisfy adventure seekers looking to cover springs, bays, and quiet coves.
What truly sets Holly Bluff apart in this area is its seamless blend of laid-back river access with professional gear rentals, comprehensive safety briefings, and attentive on-site staff ready to help tailor trips for individual skill levels. The marina's strategic location close to DeLand means paddlers can combine outdoor time with the charm of a thriving small city known for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene.
Visitors should plan to arrive at 2280 Hontoon Road, where the marina serves as a gateway to exploring miles of diverse aquatic terrain. Whether seeking a relaxed nature outing or a moderately paced paddleboard and kayak weekend, Holly Bluff Marina offers a balanced, approachable adventure deeply connected to Florida’s unique river landscape.
easy.
up to 56 hours (weekend rental).
Suitable for beginners to intermediate paddlers with general fitness
No prior experience is necessary; Holly Bluff Marina offers beginner-friendly equipment and basic instruction.
There is no minimum age listed, but minors should be supervised by an adult during the activity.
Single and double kayaks are offered, catering to solo paddlers and pairs.
Yes, rentals cover a full weekend, allowing time for extended and flexible river trips.
Yes, personal flotation devices are required at all times while on the water for safety.
Policies vary; contact the marina directly at (386) 822-9992 for details on pet accommodations.
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.
Holly Bluff Marina emphasizes eco-friendly practices, encouraging use of reef-safe sunscreen and minimizing disturbance to river habitats.
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