10 Unique Airbnbs For Your Next Ocala-Area Event

I’m a big fan of Airbnb and Vrbo. I’ve booked accommodations through these sites everywhere from Rebecca Farm in Montana to Red Hills in Florida, Luhmühlen in Germany to LRK3DE in Kentucky, Badminton in England to Boekelo in The Netherlands, and many many more. Not only can they be cheaper than a hotel (always a plus for EN, on our quest to cover every important event in the world with a budget of literally zero dollars), they often have character and help create memories in a way that cookie cutter chain hotels just can’t.

Do I have distinct memories of all of the Motel 6s I’ve stayed in at events since 1993? No. But do I remember that Airbnb tipi at a bison farm I slept in at Rebecca Farm one year? Yes, and I will forever.

Bison aren’t as nice as you think they are.

Anyway, in the spirit of horsey travel adventure, we’re launching a new series on Airbnbs to check out the next time you’re eventing in a well-trafficked horsey area. Since it’s winter, let’s start with Ocala, Florida (next up, Aiken, SC!). Some of these are located within comfy driving distance of eventing venues; others, you might want to tack on as a reward for winning and/or just-not-falling-off at your event. Whatever is your definition of success, there is no judgement here.

I’ve tried to list these in cheapest-to-fanciest order,  because that is who I am as a person. Rates vacillate according to date and demand so check the links. And, enjoy!

Photo via Airbnb.

Beautiful Farmhouse Tiny Home

I’m 5’2″ on a big hair day so maybe it’s just me, but I love Airbnb tiny homes! This one in Citra is in a quiet RV park that includes a community fire pit and free morning coffee. For all you Tiger King fans out there (?), there’s an exotic zoo down the road or you can head over to the springs and enjoy a relaxing, post-horse trial day in the water. More neat-looking tiny houses are available through Homestead Tiny Homes in Williston — here’s a sample Airbnb listing.

Photo via Airbnb.

New Retro style camper with loads of fun built in

How cute is this retro-style RV? The little kitchen and dining area looks like a ’50s diner, there’s a Queen Murphy bed, and the setting is in the owner’s beautiful food and flower laden yard with plenty of privacy and a tranquil view of farmland across the street. But don’t get the wrong idea — there are plenty of modern amenities.

Photo via Airbnb.

Equus Inn

OK, so even though it’s listed on Airbnb this is actually a vintage boutique hotel. The Equus Inn features 152 recently remodeled rooms, all featuring Ocala’s rich equestrian history. Amenities include a self-serve bar with wine and craft beers, a heated swimming pool, a gym, and fast wifi. And, of course, ALL the horsey decor!

Photo via Airbnb.

Blueberry Downs Farm Stay Glamping

This unique country getaway is surrounded by birds singing, farm animals (chickens! cows! and, while not novel, still fun, horses!) and a romantic train whistle in the distance. The roomy Bell Yurt-style team includes a plush king-size bed, AC/heat, lighting and a charming stone campfire pit.

Photo via Airbnb.

Enchanted Oaks Farm Experience (Main house)

This would be a great fit for a small group or family, as it can sleep up to six guests. Enchanted Oaks Farm has all the animals: horses, of course, plus cows, goats and even a zebra and adorable wallaby! Other accommodations are available on the property, including teepees.

Photo via Airbnb.

LakeHouse Villa, Golf 4Springs & Manatees Nearby

Canal-view villa with a jacuzzi tub? If intense training or a long weekend horse trial have you feeling … stiff, make this your mecca. This two-bedroom listing is near Crystal Springs, a shimmering blue winter watering hole for manatees.

Photo via Airbnb.

Entire residential home hosted by Ray

Down for a splurge/party? At $1,000 a night (before fees and taxes) you can nab this 10-bedroom, six-bath home with a waterfront backyard that includes use of a pontoon boat, kayaks and paddle boards.

Photo via Airbnb.

Spacious 4 bedroom house 4 miles from WEC

Location is everything for these prime real estate digs. Amenities include an entertainment-minded floor plan, Florida room off the living room with access to outside and grass backyard for dogs to stretch their legs, laundry, four smart televisions, three walk in closets, two Sonos, and a printer station.

Photo via Airbnb.

The Hawthorne – Close to WEC – Spacious Three Bedroom Home

Are we playing a game of go-big-or-go-home now? I think we are! This swank abode is in a swank gated community with lots of places to chill including a swank club, swank pool and swank spa. The hosts have other properties available as well.

Photo via Airbnb.

Summer Dates Open! Luxury Equestrian Ranch

This four-bedroom, four-bath estate may be booked up during snowbird season but maybe you can book it if you plan ahead. Located at the the Royal Gypsy Vanner Ranch (this is Florida, motherland of Gypsy Vanners, after all) This rustic luxury home is centered in the middle of the 80 acre horse farm and there are also 20 stalls available to rent.