This waterfront fishing cottage offers a quaint, fully furnished "Old Florida" experience right on a canal in Ruskin, Florida, just four houses down from the Ruskin Inlet. Step back into a beautifully remodeled 1950s aesthetic—outfitted by a motion picture decorator—while enjoying upscale modern comforts like a brand-new metal roof, instant hot water, a 4-head mini-split HVAC system, and plush cotton towels and robes.
The Waterfront & Amenities
• Boating & Paddling: Located 2 blocks by water from the Little Manatee River (an Outstanding Florida Water) and less than 10 minutes from Tampa Bay. On-site use of a canoe, 4 kayaks, and a 14-foot electric jon boat is available at no extra charge.
• The "Cowboy Pool" & Dock: Relax in the on-site cowboy pool or dock your own boat right along the seawall.
• Outdoors- A propane as well as conventional firepit in the backyard with a large, covered deck with ample seating and "tiki torches" included.
• Wildlife Viewing: Manatees and dolphins frequent the canal regularly, and the famous Manatee Viewing Center is just a short drive away in Apollo Beach. There is an often active osprey nest within easy observation.
• Outdoor Cooking: Features a massive Weber Genesis 7-burner propane grill, an outdoor smoker, and access to a 250 lb ice machine.
Cottage Layout & Rules
• Space: 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms featuring warm pine ceilings and luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout.
• Capacity & Age Limits: Maximum of 6 people on the property. Because the waterfront is unprotected and the home is not child-proof, no children under the age of 6 are permitted.
• Stay Requirement: A 4-night minimum stay is required.
• Pet Policy: Dogs are welcome for an additional $50 fee per dog, provided they are professionally groomed immediately prior to arrival.
• Vibe & Culture: The property is 420-tolerant and uses active biting insect prevention. Draft beer availability is "dependent upon attitude," a CIA-trained personal chef can be arranged upon request, and a complimentary Key Lime pie might just be waiting for you in the highly well-equipped kitchen.
The street leading to the cottage features several working-class rental homes, which have never presented an issue. It provides an authentic, peaceful slice of historic Florida living while remaining less than 30–45 minutes from surrounding hubs like Apollo Beach, Bradenton, Brandon, and downtown Tampa.4 night minimum. Owners live next door.
This is old Florida, not to be recreated. Very nicely appointed and well loved by regular annual renters. This is NOT the Ritz Carlton.