airbnb in orlando

Sometimes you just need to get away, but may not have the time or funds to travel far. While you may assume you need to travel hundreds or thousands of miles away to experience something exciting and unique, the truth is, you don’t! Through Airbnb, we’ve found several options that are a short distance from your front door. Check out these unique Airbnb in Orlando Florida rentals to spark some romance.

Updated by Zoë Joiner, May 2023

Airbnb Rentals in Orlando

Many of Orlando's vacation rentals are vacation homes near Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World. Instead, break out of the norm and try one of these unique Airbnb rentals in Orlando itself.

Orlando Lakefront Tiny Home – College Park

Located just outside of College Park, Orlando Lakefront Tiny Home Community features 15 adorable lakefront tiny homes available for rent in one neighborhood. Test drive the tiny home life while enjoying amenities like free kayak use, lakefront views, hammocks and communal outdoor spaces. This is a great choice if you're a solo traveler.

Each home is equipped with a full kitchen if you feel like staying in for meals. And being a tiny home, the air-conditioning is quite efficient. Read all about our weekend getaway in the Blue Heron here.

Where to eat: Continue to soak up the lakefront vibes with a short drive to Grills Lakeside Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar. There's ample outdoor seating facing the water, and live musicians perform during the evening. The College Park Main Street District is just a short drive away for a date night dinner. Downtown Orlando is just a 15 minute drive away too.

Things to do: Guests can use the kayaks free of charge on a first come, first served basis. We headed out onto Lake Fairview for a sunset paddle during our stay. You can also head into College Park for a romantic dinner and a stroll, or laze the day away in the hammocks. The 50-lot community is always adding new amenities for guests and permanent residents alike.

Rates vary depending on the property, but range from $99-$122/night plus taxes and a cleaning fee. There is one free parking space per property. Booking is available on Airbnb or directly at orlandolakefrontth.com.

Orlando Lakefront Tiny Home Rentals
Image credit: Stephanie Patterson

Tahiti Gil’s Mananui – Orlando / Kissimmee

Disney and Tiki fans alike are worshipping this unique Airbnb in Orlando. Tahiti Gil’s Mananui is a one-bedroom mobile home that is incredibly decorated as a tiki and Polynesian paradise. This tropical hideaway was designed by Typhoon Tommy, a well-known tiki designer,  and visited by Walt Disney Imagineering legend Tony Baxter.

Living Room and Bar of The Mananui Airbnb in Kissimmee
Living Room and Bar of The Mananui Airbnb in Kissimmee | Dani Meyering

The Mananui Airbnb is located in Kissimmee, Fla., in the Sherwood Forest RV and Mobile Home Resort, it is conveniently located about 15 minutes from Walt Disney World, and is one of the best Airbnbs for something unique. This one-bedroom mobile home is packed wall-to-wall — including the ceiling — with incredible tiki, Polynesian, and Adventureland-inspired decor. Anyone who is a tiki fan or a Disney theme park fan needs to have this place on their list.

Ideal for two guests (and not suited for children!), Mananui Airbnb is equipped with Alexa, and a touch screen offering streaming options like Netflix and Disney+. Be sure to read the manual to learn about special commands you can give for even more tiki fun.

Where to eat: Being located in the Kissimmee attractions area, there are plenty of restaurants perfect for date night nearby. But the allure of Walt Disney World is just 15 minutes away. Have brunch at Disney Springs or enjoy Happy Hour at Disney Springs. Explore the most underrated restaurants at Walt Disney World.

What to do: Mananui Airbnb in Orlando is part of the Sherwood Forest RV and Mobile Home Resort, which has a basic but sparkling pool area with a playground nearby. Continue the tiki theme of your stay and head on a Monorail Pub Crawl. Spark some romance at the Most Romantic Spots at Walt Disney World, both inside the Disney parks and beyond.

Living Room of The Mananui Airbnb in Kissimmee
Living Room of The Mananui Airbnb in Kissimmee | Dani Meyering

Rates begin at $160/night plus taxes and fees. Availability for this Airbnb in Orlando Florida is very tight so prepare for some frustration when looking.

SOUL Haven Ranch – Winter Garden

Mini horses, horse-drawn carriage rides and tree swings are just a few of the amenities couples will enjoy with a staycation at SOUL Haven Ranch. Located just one mile outside of Downtown Winter Garden, this Central Florida Airbnb with a farmhouse twist is ideal for couples looking to unwind. Your host, Susan, offers three private rooms for rent.

Where to eat: Wander into nearby Downtown Winter Garden for cocktails at Pilars Martini, or design your own progressive feast to enjoy on the patio of Plant Street Market. Market to Table is a favorite for farm-to-table fare in a date night-worthy setting.

What to do: Make time to interact with the horses big and small. Your host, Susan, offers a unique experience where you can walk a miniature horse around the property and along the West Orange Trail. You can also book a private horse drawn carriage ride around town or rent bikes for the day to explore the scenic paved trail. If you're visiting on the weekend, walk or bike into town for the Saturday morning Winter Garden Farmer's Market.

Rates begin at $119/night plus taxes and fees.

Unique Central Florida Airbnb Rentals - SOUL Haven Ranch
Image credit: SOUL Haven Ranch

Airbnb Rentals Near Orlando

These Orlando Airbnb rentals are just outside Orlando and are worth the trip. Read on and find the Airbnb rental property that is right for you.

Floating Cottage – St. Johns River, Sanford

Take a short stroll down Boat Tree Marina, located at the crossing of St. Johns River and Lake Monroe, and drift into paradise aboard a charming houseboat. The Floating Cottage is fully equipped with a cathedral ceiling in the living room, gourmet kitchen, and outdoor gas grill. When you rise in the morning, peer out of beautifully stained glass windows from the upstairs loft. Owner Kim describes this gem afloat on the St. Johns River as “a magical place, sure to delight and bring joy. Guests can recharge their energy banks and build resilience for everyday life.”

Where to eat: With the full kitchen and outdoor grill, you can stay in and prep your own meals. Or enjoy breakfast and lunch at Connie’s Deli just behind the cottage (they deliver!). The marina is opening its re-branded restaurant, Cabana Live, set for “early 2023”. Sanford is a short drive away allowing you to roam the cobblestone streets and enjoy any of the wonderful restaurants and pubs.

Things to do: Spot manatee or feed hungry turtles from the deck (kibble provided). Or, paddle along the river in the two kayaks available for guest use. You'll feel like you have your own lazy river. Boat rentals from the marina are discounted 15% for guests ensuring a memorable trip along the St. John’s and Wekiva Rivers. Photographers can relish a plethora of panoramic views crawling with wildlife. Wind down at the marina’s poolside bar as you sip a refreshing beverage; full use of the marina pool is included in your stay.

Rates are $164/night, plus an additional cleaning fee and taxes. Parking is free.

Unique Central Florida Airbnbs for a Staycation
Image credit: Floating Cottage

Additional Sanford Airbnb – The Famous Tiny Houseboat is another unique Airbnb in Orlando Florida, in Sanford.

Historic Sanford Fire Station – Sanford

Built in 1887, this historic accommodation (which we discovered through the Sanford365 blog) was Sanford’s first fire station. It also served as City Hall, the police station, and jail. The Fire Station is a 2 bedroom/2 bathroom loft with some original pieces that have been repurposed. The modern chic decor will provide an inviting atmosphere to take a reprieve from everyday life. The interest of thrill-seekers may be piqued upon learning that an owner had a few ghostly encounters while living in the residence, which you can read about here.

While it is a 30-minute drive away, this is one of the best Airbnb rentals in Orlando.

Where to eat: Since the Fire Station is situated in the heart of downtown Sanford, endless dining options are just a saunter away. Indulge on American cuisine at The District or farm to table fare. We also love The Tennessee Truffle!

What to do: Explore the area pedaling around town with Limo Cycle. Escape a challenge before the clock runs out at Escape Artists. With your bed stationed in the middle of the action, the activity possibilities are endless. Check out our budget-friendly Sanford date ideas.

Rates start at $300 /night depending on the season.

Sanford Fire Station Airbnb Rental
Image credit: Historic Sanford Fire Station

The Boho at Sonset Ranch – Eustis

Disappear to a private country estate and reconnect with your honey and nature. Boho’s host, Jeanne, invites guests to “take flight to the country, relax, experience the sights and sounds of Florida wildlife, and just breathe.” The bed and bath suite is nestled inside of a private residence along with two other private rooms to rent but, don't worry, they're separated enough to offer privacy for guests. You are sure to encounter a true bed and breakfast villa experience while staying at Sonset Ranch.

Where to eat: Continental breakfast items are included with each stay along with a stocked mini fridge to quench your thirst. For an extra $3 per plate, guests can enjoy a hot Southern breakfast of grits, eggs, bacon or sausage, and biscuits. For an extra $10 per plate, dine on a spaghetti and meatball meal with salad and bread. Delectable bites to nibble are provided to guests in the afternoon. Pack your own beer or wine to indulge while lodging.

What to do: Bring your horses to trot along the open countryside, rent the tandem kayak to paddle along tranquil waters, pedal bikes in wide open spaces as you breathe in fresh air, or take advantage of the complimentary art supplies to unleash your creativity. Unwind later in the day with massages in the tropical themed room ($65/person/hour).

Conclude the day watching the sunset as you rock on the front porch, play a game of ping-pong, then enjoy a hosted firepit gathering.

Rates start at $52/night year-round (plus tax).

The Boho at Sonset Ranch Airbnb rental
The massage room at The Boho at Sonset Ranch

Treehouse and Yurt at Danville – Geneva

Venture out of the ordinary and mellow out in a yurt; a tent-like, cylindrical domicile. Think glamping in style! Danville features two unique yurts perfect for couples in search of a secluded getaway. The Yurt boasts A/C, a swanky king-sized Murphy bed, mini kitchen, full bathroom, living room area, large patio deck, grill, and more than enough options for outdoor seating. At night, lie tangled with your beloved as you both gaze through the skylight adorned with icicle lights.

You'll also be sleeping next to the resident alpacas! Read about our experience here.

airbnb in orlando
The Yurt | Image credit: Stephanie Patterson

For an extra special stay, book the Treehouse (pictured in the feature image). While rooming in this romantic setting, you'll love the multi-level lodgings complete with an outdoor tiki hut, treetop deck, jet engine hot tub, indoor and outdoor showers, elevator, golf cart and fire pit. This place understandably books up months in advance, so jump on it if you see availability. Other overnight options include a man cave apartment and an airplane hangar.

Where to eat: A daily happy hour is offered in O’Shaw’s Pub in Danville but meals are not. You can bring your own food or travel the 30-minute drive to Sanford for dining. Owners Dan and Deborah would be more than happy to assist you in locating delectable eats.

What to do: Meander through the beautiful hiking trails to take in the scenic views at no additional cost. Make friends with the resident alpacas. You can also arrange to learn to milk a goat or embark on a horseback ride for an additional fee. Danville is also one of Our Dream Date Greater Orlando‘s preferred locations — treat your date to a romantic, gourmet picnic set up right on the property for a fee.

The yurt starts at $142/night plus taxes and fees. The treehouse begins at $230/night. Rates will be higher on weekends. Be sure to bring cash for any activities you would like to participate in.

airbnb in orlando
The Treehouse | Image credit: Danville B&B

 

Bonus idea! Another great Treehouse Airbnb in the Orlando area is in Kissimmee. It's not too far from the attractions area and is perfectly unique. It's basically a bungalow in the trees. Experience camping in a high-class way with all the amenities of a first-class hotel.

Want more Airbnb in Orlando Florida ideas?

All images courtesy of the respective property, unless otherwise noted

Feature image credit: Danville B & B (Treehouse Yurt)