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From120US$ /night
Check-in
13Dec2025Select date
Check-out
14Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

12189 South Williams Street, Dunnellon, Florida, United States, FL 34432
-
Next to Rainbow River Canoe & Kayak
Perfect
8.7
9.0
/10
4.8
/5

Location

The Gator Den Motel is situated on the banks of the Withlacoochee River, just 3/4 mile from the point where the Rainbow River converges. Known as the 'bass capital of the world,' Dunnellon offers access to premier fishing opportunities. Guests can enjoy boat rentals for fishing or leisurely excursions on the surrounding waters.

Accommodations

The Gator Den Motel underwent a complete reconstruction, offering guests newly built rooms with air conditioning. Room options include 1 King bed or 2 Queen beds, along with amenities like large screen cable TVs, mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffee makers. An ADA approved room is also available for guests needing accessible accommodations.

Dining

The Blue Gator Tiki Bar & Restaurant provides an inviting atmosphere for dining, featuring great food and a selection of cold beer. Live music enhances the experience, making it an attractive spot for relaxation. The restaurant is conveniently located right on the river, offering scenic views during meals.

Activities

Guests at The Gator Den Motel can partake in various activities such as fishing, swimming, and snorkeling in the rivers. Boat rentals include options like fiberglass fishing boats, aluminum fishing boats, and pontoon boats. Rainbow Springs State Park offers scheduled weekend activities and stunning head springs just a few miles away.

Outdoor Experiences

The motel is located near the historic district of Dunnellon, known for its unique shops, including antique and craft stores. Visitors can also enjoy local beaches such as Dunnellon's City Beach and Fort Island Gulf Beach in Crystal River, located nearby. For golf enthusiasts, numerous public golf courses are accessible within a short drive.

Highlights

Location: On the banks of the Withlacoochee River

Accommodations: Newly constructed rooms with air conditioning

Dining: Blue Gator Tiki Bar & Restaurant on-site

Activities: Boat rentals including pontoon boats

“In Dunnellon, this accommodation provides more than just a place to sleep; it's a gateway to the town's unpretentious charm, especially for those eager to explore the Rainbow River. I think its strongest asset is the adjacent restaurant, a local favorite that amplifies the overall experience. For a relaxed, no-frills stay with a distinct sense of place, it hits the mark.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Queen Room
2 persons
30 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Coffee machine
King Room
2 persons
30 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Deluxe King Room
2 persons
30 m² 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Coffee machine
King Room Disability Access
2 persons
30 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fishing

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Tours/Ticket assistance

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Sink

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
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Dining Onsite

The Gator Den offers a delightful culinary experience that embodies the charm of Dunnellon, known as the bass capital of the world. With a focus on American and seafood dishes, guests can enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere complemented by scenic views and a lively ambiance.

The Blue Gator Tiki Bar and Restaurant

American, Seafood
Ambiance
A vibrant, family-friendly setting with a casual tiki vibe that invites guests to relax and unwind.
Key Offerings
Highlights include a selection of fresh seafood and classic American fare, perfect for all ages. The atmosphere is lively, encouraging a sense of community and enjoyment.
Reservation
Reservations are not needed.
Open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, with extended hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Location

12189 South Williams Street, Dunnellon, Florida, United States, FL 34432
Map view
12189 South Williams Street, Dunnellon, Florida, United States, FL 34432
Nearby
Store
Grumbles House Antiques & Garden Shop
540 m
12121 River View
Rainbow River Canoe & Kayak
540 m
Restaurants
Citrus Grill
640 m
20430 E Pennsylvania Ave Dramatic Improvement. That Waitress No Longer Works At The Citrus Grill.
Explore Dunnellon
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Rainbow Springs Artist Cooperative
Rainbow Springs Artist Cooperative
11 minutes walking
Local artists' showcase featuring unique artwork and craft pieces. Perfect for art enthusiasts and gift shopping.
Blue Run of Dunnellon Park
Blue Run of Dunnellon Park
3 minutes drive
Scenic park known for its crystal-clear waters. Ideal for picnics, walking, and nature observing.
Grumbles House Antiques & Garden Shop
Grumbles House Antiques & Garden Shop
7 minutes walking
Charming antique shop filled with collectibles and a beautiful garden. Great for leisurely browsing.
Rainbow River Canoe & Kayak
Rainbow River Canoe & Kayak
7 minutes walking
Canoeing and kayaking facilities along the pristine Rainbow River. An excellent option for water sports lovers.
Canoeing on the Rainbow River
7 minutes walking
Thrilling canoeing experience on clear waters. Rentals available; perfect for both beginners and seasoned paddlers.
Nature Walks at Blue Run Park
3 minutes drive
Relaxing nature walks through lush scenery. Ideal for families and solo travelers looking for tranquility.
Citrus Grill
Citrus Grill
8 minutes walking
Casual dining spot featuring fresh, local ingredients. Known for seafood specials and stunning outdoor seating.
Live Music at Local Pubs
5 minutes drive
Charming pubs host live music events weekly. A fun night out for couples and friends looking to enjoy local talent.
Getting around town
City Centre
Dunnellon6 min  ·  500 m
Airports
Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV)123 min  ·  81.6 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
from 07:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
is available in for free.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
12
FAQs
About The Gator Den
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Gator Den?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
Is parking available at The Gator Den?
Free private parking is available on-site without a reservation.
What are the nearest attractions to The Gator Den?
The hotel is located 8 km from Rainbow Springs State Park, 36 km from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, and 49 km from Silver Springs.
What amenities are provided in the rooms at The Gator Den?
Rooms include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a mini-refrigerator, a coffee maker, and free toiletries.
What dining options are available at The Gator Den?
The property features an American restaurant with a seafood menu and a bar lounge area.
Are there any restaurants nearby The Gator Den?
Nearby restaurants include Simply Seafood (0.5 km), Gruff's Tap & Grille (0.5 km), and Southern Palate (0.5 km).
What recreational activities are offered at The Gator Den?
Guests can enjoy airboat tours, fishing opportunities, and live music performances at the bar next door.
How far is The Gator Den from Gainesville Regional Airport?
The hotel is located approximately 80 km from Gainesville Regional Airport.
What services are available for guests at The Gator Den?
The motel offers free Wi-Fi, free parking, and fishing facilities.
What attractions are available for guests at The Gator Den?
Guests will enjoy scenic views, wildlife, and fishing opportunities along the Withlacoochee River.

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