You don’t have to travel too far to find a body of water in Florida. No one is more than two hours from either coast, but you don’t even have to go to the coast to enjoy the scenic beauty that being on the water brings. In DeLand, there is a beautiful scenic jewel that everyone can enjoy called the St. Johns River. What’s great is that everyone can enjoy this amazing resource, regardless of income.
Of course, actually living on the St. Johns River or one of its canals or tributaries may be the best way to experience the beauty and peace that the river provides. Waterfront property in these areas can be challenging to find, but they do exist and are available. Residents can enjoy the natural beauty as they wake up in the morning by seeing an osprey dive toward the water to catch its prey as the sun rises. Boaters can have access in their own backyard to go on an evening summer boat ride. By far this is the most convenient option.
If you don’t have your own waterfront access, no problem. There are lots of place for boaters to launch to enjoy all the river has to offer. One of the most popular places is to launch at Ed Stone Park at the Whitehair Bridge on W. SR 44. It is free, and there is plenty of parking. It does tend to fill up during the weekends. If full, you can always launch at private ramp such as Hontoon Landing. You’ll pay a modest fee, but the crowds will be much less. Once launched, the fishing and joy riding opportunities are endless. A popular place to go is south on the river to Sanford. Boaters can dock at several riverside restaurants to enjoy an authentic Florida meal for lunch.
If you don’t own a boat, you can easily rent one for the day. Hontoon Landing, Holly Bluff Marina and Highland Park Fish Camp all have various types of boats available. Pontoon boats are perfect to take your family out and explore all the river has.
Perhaps you’d like to admire and enjoy the water from land. Ed Stone Park on Highway 44 has covered picnic tables along the waters edge. In the winter, Blue Springs State Park in Orange City allows patrons to walk along the wooden boardwalk toward the spring head to spot the numerous West Indian Manatees that call the park home in the winter months. The path travels along the spring’s run all the way out to the river.
Living in DeLand definitely has its privileges and enjoying the St. Johns River is one that is often overlooked. Commit to yourself to get out and explore this beautiful resource.
If you are interested in waterfront property, reach out to us today! We’d be happy to give you some options.