About Florida Getaway
Our Story
Hi from Donna and Chris—two Jersey natives who tapped out of traffic jams and snow shovels to build this peaceful escape in sunny Florida. We decided to share our sanity-saving, St. Johns River retreat with fellow family and friends who need a break from New Jersey’s fast-paced, stress-filled, horn-honking lifestyle. Whether you're fleeing freezing winters, soggy springs, or just need a breather from the chaos, this Central Florida hideaway has you covered. Come kayak, fish, or float your worries away—no tolls required!
Explore our stunning vacation home in Astor, FL
DAY TRIPS
BEACHES
Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest
Pack your flip-flops and sunscreen-escape to the coast for some sun, sand, and salty air at beautiful Ormond Beach. Waves, laughs, and chill vibes guaranteed! (50 minute drive)
Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest
Welcome to the wild heart of Florida — the Ocala National Forest! With over 600 square miles of untamed beauty, it's a playground for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Crank up the adrenaline as you ride UTVs through rugged trails, splash through muddy paths, and weave beneath towering pines.
Orlando
Ocala National Forest
Orlando
Orlando offers top theme parks like Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld, plus springs, zip lines, museums, shopping, and nightlife—all in one fun-filled destination
MT DORA
ST AUGUSTINE
Orlando
Mount Dora is a charming lakeside town known for its historic downtown, colorful boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafés. With year-round festivals and relaxing vibes, it’s the perfect small-town escape.
ST AUGUSTINE
ST AUGUSTINE
ST AUGUSTINE
St. Augustine is the oldest city in the U.S., known for its historic streets, Spanish forts, and beautiful beaches. Explore the Castillo de San Marcos, visit the Fountain of Youth, and enjoy charming shops and coastal views.
FOR THE MANATEE LOVERS
Experience the Best of Florida's Nature
Manatee Watching at Blue Spring State Park
2100 West French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763.
Tel: 305-775-3663/
From mid-November to March, hundreds of manatees crowd into the spring run here to seek protection from the cold weather.
It is an unforgettable sight to witness as many as 500 of these creatures floating in the clear waters of this park.
The park has built a long boardwalk along the spring run so you can easily see the manatees.
This is a popular activity in Central Florida, so don't be surprised if the park is extremely crowded. Sometimes the park is closed when it reaches capacity.
The fee to enter the park is $6/vehicle.
AFPOA - Astor Forest Park & Boat Ramp
No restrooms on the premises.
A key is needed to open the gate in order to launch your vessel. You must also display the parking pass on your windshield.
THE BEST PART YET! No Marine Patrol, Sherriff’s,FWC or Security.
Please be respectful to the locals (humans & wildlife)
AFPOA Park - private boat ramp
RAMP EXIT - Making a right
Make a Right down 1st canal to the end is home.
Pass home canal and you are on St. Johns River.
Make a left, a few miles & enter Lake George.
Making a right on St. Johns River will bring you to the nearby Drifters Restaurant. Or go much further to St. John's River Grille in Deland.
RAMP EXIT
Making a left from ramp will bring you through Blue Creek (no wake and beautiful) then into Lk George.
Lake George
Once on the Lake, stay within the markers until you go thru pillars to avoid sand bars.
Shoot across to the left to the SANDBAR at the entrance to Juniper Springs (DO NOT GO UPTHIS SPRING - AIR BOATS ONLY)
OR
Pass the sandbar and head to the MUST-SEE Silver Glen Springs.
OR
Keep going, head to Salt Cove into Salt Springs Run, to Salt Springs.
OR
Pass the sandbar, stay more towards the center and across the lake is the popular RENEGADES ON THE RIVER, Crescent City.
Contact Us
Better yet, see us in person!
FYI: THE AVERAGE STAY FOR A HOME ON THE WATER IN THIS AREA IS $2000. A WEEK.
OUR DISCOUNTED PRICE FOR FRIENDS IS JUST $1000 A WEEK.
