About Hernando
Hideaway
More than a vacation rental—a place to slow down, reconnect, and make memories.
A waterfront home built for togetherness.
Hi, we’re Joe and Josie, founders of Barba Property Management and the owners of Hernando Hideaway.
Originally from Pennsylvania, we discovered Hernando Beach while searching for a place that felt different from Florida’s larger beach destinations. We fell in love with its small-town coastal charm, direct Gulf access, incredible boating, fresh local seafood, and the peaceful pace of Florida’s Nature Coast.
When we purchased the home in 2020, we saw more than a waterfront property—we saw an opportunity to create a place where families and friends could reconnect, unwind, and experience everything we love about this special community.
“To create the kind of vacation home we would want to stay in ourselves.”
From vision to waterfront retreat.
Over nearly a year, we transformed the home—from the exterior and living spaces to the kitchen and bedrooms—with comfort, quality, and the guest experience guiding every decision.
Exterior
Living Room
Kitchen
Primary Bedroom
Purchased
Fully renovated
Guests
Five-star reviews
Everything you need for a real vacation.
We believe the best vacations happen when you don’t have to think about the little things.
That’s why we’ve carefully stocked Hernando Hideaway with the comforts, conveniences, and thoughtful extras that help you settle in from the moment you arrive.
From the fully equipped kitchen and coffee bar to fishing gear, kayaks, bikes, pool toys, games, beach essentials, baby equipment, and travel toiletries, every detail means less time shopping and more time enjoying your vacation.
“The best-stocked vacation rental we’ve ever stayed in.”
Fully stocked
Kitchen & coffee bar
Ready to explore
Kayaks, bikes & fishing gear
Made for play
Pool toys, games & beach gear
Family friendly
Baby gear & thoughtful extras
Florida’s hidden gem.
Unlike many busier Gulf Coast destinations, life moves a little slower here. Launch a kayak from the dock, head to the Gulf, explore crystal-clear springs, enjoy fresh local seafood, or simply relax beside the heated saltwater pool.
Whether you come for boating, fishing, scalloping, wildlife, or time together, Hernando Beach offers an authentic Florida experience.
Come as guests. Leave as part of our story.
From your first inquiry to checkout, we provide responsive communication, local recommendations, and thoughtful hospitality that makes every stay feel effortless. Nothing means more than seeing families return year after year.
Thoughtfully Stocked
The comforts and extras that make arriving easy.
Exceptionally Clean
A beautifully cared-for home, ready for your stay.
Outstanding Hospitality
Responsive support and genuine local guidance.
A Stay Worth Repeating
A place guests return to year after year.
The places we love most.
One of our favorite parts of hosting is sharing the best of Hernando Beach and Florida’s Nature Coast.
Silver Dolphin Restaurant
Waterfront views, generous portions, and a relaxed local atmosphere. Don’t forget to feed the turtles while you wait!
Brian’s Place
Our favorite spot for fresh seafood, steaks, and a memorable evening after a day on the water.
The Upper Deck
Grab a drink, settle into a hammock or lounge chair, and watch the sky light up over the canal.
Hernando Beach Motel & Boat Rental
A convenient local option for cruising the Nature Coast, visiting The Flats, and exploring the Gulf.
The Flats & the Gulf
Dolphins, seabirds, and other wildlife are common sights as you head out by boat.
Hernando Beach Grass Flats
Clear, shallow summer waters make the nearby grass flats a favorite place to scallop.
Hernando Beach Java & Kava
Our favorite local stop—or stay in and enjoy the fully stocked coffee bar with sunrise views.
A day at Hernando Hideaway
01
Sunrise coffee
Upper deck
02
Boat to The Flats
Gulf adventure
03
Poolside afternoon
Saltwater pool
04
Dinner at Brian’s
Local favorite
05
Fire pit sunset
End the day
Still one of Florida’s best-kept secrets.
From boating and fishing on the Gulf to kayaking crystal-clear springs, fresh local seafood, and unforgettable sunsets, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
Whether you’re planning a scalloping trip, a family vacation, or a peaceful waterfront escape, we’d love for you to experience everything the Nature Coast has to offer.
We can’t wait to welcome you.
We hope Hernando Hideaway becomes a place your family returns to year after year.