Creekhaven Inn’s shaded location beside Cypress Creek was almost its undoing in October 2015, when the creek’s raging waters engulfed the main house’s first floor and tore away the main deck, carrying it 150 feet before it smashed into a tree. A concerted effort by owners Bill and Pat Appleman and scores of community volunteers resulted in Creekhaven’s reopening three months later. These days, 14 rooms (six in the main house and another eight in a second building alongside) offer peaceful views of Cypress Creek via hammock or shaded porch, along with complimentary kayaks, birdwatching opportunities, and the option to simply let the gurgle of the creek lull you into relaxation. “What I most often hear from visitors is that it’s so peaceful here, with the trees and the sounds of the creek,” says Pat. “There are so many places to sit and enjoy nature.” Mornings bring a full breakfast—an egg casserole, plus a meat and plenty of fruit—served buffet-style in the main house. “We are so glad to be innkeepers again rather than project managers,” says Pat with a laugh.
