Waterfront vacation rentals in California

Find and book unique waterfront rentals on Airbnb

Top-rated waterfront rentals in California

Guests agree: these waterfront rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Guest favorite
An outdoor dining area features a wooden table set for four, surrounded by black chairs. The space overlooks the lake, revealing stunning water views and distant mountains. A patterned rug adds a touch of comfort beneath the table, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.
Home in Kelseyville
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews

Bee Haus | Lakefront •Private Dock •Kayaks •Dogs

Experience the tranquility of lakeside living at the Bee Haus, perfect for a couple or small group seeking a peaceful escape. This charming retreat boasts sweeping waterfront views, high ceilings, an open concept living space, wraparound deck, and PRIVATE DOCK! Truly the perfect blend of modern comfort and natural beauty. When you’re ready for adventure, explore the lake by kayak, rent a speed boat/ jet skis, hike Mt. Konocti, wine taste at the Mercantile, or fish straight from our private dock!

Guest favorite
An A-Frame cabin is surrounded by lush greenery, positioned on elevated ground. A stone pathway leads to the entrance, flanked by wooden railings. The cabin features large glass panels on its façade, allowing natural light to flood the interior. A deck with seating overlooks the nature surroundings.
Cabin in Felton
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 163 reviews

Santa Cruz A-Frame

This unique A-Frame cabin, in a quiet mountain neighborhood with private creek access, was handbuilt in 1965 and remodeled in the summer of 2024. Now a little slice of heaven on the creek in the redwoods. *5-10 min to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroad, Loch Lomond Recreation Area, the Trout Farm Inn, Quail Hollow Ranch + Felton stores. *20 min to Santa Cruz, beach + Boardwalk. *1 min to Zayante Creek Market (EV charger) Find us on social: Insta @SantaCruzAFrame

Top guest favorite
The entrance of the cottage features a wooden door framed by rustic wood siding. A spacious deck provides seating options, and a hat hangs on the wall. Lush greenery surrounds the entrance, while sunlight filters through the trees in the background.
Cabin in Nevada City
5 out of 5 average rating, 208 reviews

Romantic Creekside Cabin-Hot Tub-Privacy

Indulge in rustic-elegance, charm and comfort. Our luxurious fairytale cabin is built of warm toned cedar wood and floors: a gourmet kitchen, soaking tub for two, wood burning stove, hot tub, views. You will experience a full immersion in nature out every window and just one step out the door. Just a short ten minute drive from historic Nevada City, shopping, restaurants, theater, Deer Creek trail, Yuba River and hiking trails nearby. This studio cabin is perfect for couples or a solo retreat.

Guest favorite
A tiny house is nestled in a hillside, surrounded by lush greenery and cacti. The wooden structure features a spacious deck with seating, and large windows that invite natural light. Scenic mountain views are present in the background, enhancing the tranquil setting.
Tiny home in Escondido
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 195 reviews

Lakeview Tiny House w/hillside pool

Tucked into the hillside by Lake Hodges, the tiny house is a romantic retreat or a place to unwind surrounded by nature, w/plenty of amenities so you don't have to sacrifice comfort. Lake & mountain views from inside & out-- private, large covered deck, dining patio, outdoor shower (& indoor), beautiful saltwater pool, & fire bowl. Though it feels like you're in a secluded retreat, urban amenities are just a few miles away. SD Zoo Safari Park, wineries, breweries & beaches all w/in easy reach.

Top guest favorite
Home in Lower Lake
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

Cozy Lakefront Retreat - Private Trails & Beach

A bright historic farmhouse overlooking Clear Lake, with a private lakefront cove and access to a second shared beach & dock. Scenic views, private trails, and generous indoor and outdoor gathering areas are ideal for unwinding together. Enjoy meals on the covered veranda, cook in the well-stocked kitchen, bathe in the outdoor spa, play in the game room, or gather by the fire pit after sunset. Wineries, farm stands, shops, and hiking nearby make great outings for couples, families, and friends.

Top guest favorite
The cabin is nestled among tall trees, softly illuminated by string lights. A wooden staircase leads to the porch, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. Warm lights glow from the cabin's windows, blending harmoniously with the surrounding forest, while lanterns line the path, adding charm to the setting.
Cabin in Avery
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 148 reviews

Love Creek Cabin | Nature Escape | Arnold-Murphys

We are delighted to share a truly remarkable retreat: a meticulously restored cabin, originally built in 1934. This exceptional property offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in nature and profound tranquility. This cozy, secluded, and off-grid cabin is furnished with luxury amenities, modern conveniences, and a well-equipped kitchen. It's situated on 2.5 acres, with its private creek. Easily accessible via a paved road, 3 minutes to Avery, 8 minutes to Arnold, and 12 minutes to Murphys.

Top guest favorite
A sunlit wooden deck extends from the Victorian cottage, featuring a yoga mat and overlooking the tranquil ocean. Coastal scenery is framed by trees, with a small island visible in the distance against the serene blue water.
Home in Little River
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviews

Beach Trail Cottage

Come recharge in our 1887 Victorian cottage—as featured in the New York Times real estate section in November ‘23–with unobstructed views of the stunning Mendocino coastline. Descend from our beautiful home along a gently sloping, short trail leading directly onto the Van Damme State Park beach. Beach Trail Cottage offers a deep front porch, decorative shingles, and high-pitched roof angles that seamlessly blends the old with the new for an unpretentious yet elegant, inviting space.

Top guest favorite
A rustic wooden cabin is nestled among tall trees, with a spacious porch featuring a small table and two chairs. Natural light filters through the trees, casting a warm glow on the outdoor seating area. The entrance to the cabin is clearly visible.
Guesthouse in Mendocino
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 555 reviews

Coastal Forest Cabin, Walk to beach and waterfall

Keep it simple at this peaceful and centrally-located place that is minutes from downtown and the most beautiful hiking trails in Mendocino begin on property! This coastal forest cabin is the only property with access to the little known south headlands beach trail of Russian Gulch State Park. Bring your hiking shoes. Just steps from the beach and other connecting trails like the famous waterfall trail, Mendocino headlands trail, and the north headlands trail. Come experience the magic!

Guest favorite
A modern kitchen is presented with stainless steel appliances, including a refrigerator and a gas stove. Grey cabinets complement a marble countertop, while a single basin sink offers a view through large windows. A decorative flower vase adds a touch of color to the counter.
Boat in Oakley
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 413 reviews

HouseBoat+Sauna+Fireplace+AC+Best Fishing spot

Welcome Aboard DeltaJaz! Pet & 420 Friendly. Special occasion? let us know and enjoy the surprise! You will be thrilled to be apart of this rare opportunity to enjoy your own fully remodeled houseboat to yourself. You will enjoy all the comforts of being home including a in home 3 person Sauna, Fire place, air conditioning, Full sound system though out entire boat, LED's etc. Includes two kayaks and one Paddle board. lots of privacy! Please bring your own drinking water!

Top guest favorite
Tiny home in Three Rivers
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 257 reviews

Stellar Luxury Mirror House | Hot Tub | Sauna

Paradise Ranch Inn is a private nature retreat minutes from Sequoia National Park. Stay in design-forward mirror cabins with private hot tubs or luxury glamping tents set across a scenic riverfront landscape. Enjoy fire pits, sauna, outdoor cooking with pizza ovens and grills, forest trails, and pure mountain air. A mile of river runs through the property, offering natural cold plunges, swimming, and peaceful nights under clear Sierra stars. NO GUESTS UNDER 18 ALLOWED

Top guest favorite
A wooden outdoor deck surrounded by lush greenery features a propane grill and seating options. A solar panel is positioned on the cabin, while nearby colorful flowers enhance the natural setting. The area offers a peaceful retreat amidst the trees.
Guest suite in Wilseyville
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 326 reviews

Sierra Foothills River Retreat

Enjoy a private guest suite on the Mokelumne river with no cleaning fees and a hassle free stay. Fall asleep to the sound of the river. Sit on 1 of 3 decks to enjoy the scenic views and watch the wildlife. Walk in the river, go fishing, pan for gold. The lower deck on the river has a hammock & 2 person swing. There are 2 cooking stations on 2 separate decks. Visit Silver lake, Kirkwood, Big Trees Nat. Park or Lake Tahoe. Go wine tasting, antiquing or hiking.

Top guest favorite
A spacious hot tub is illuminated in soft blue light, set on a wooden deck that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. The coastline is partially obscured by mist, while a clear night sky filled with stars creates a serene atmosphere.
Cottage in Manchester
5 out of 5 average rating, 159 reviews

Oceanfront/ Stunning Views/ Hot Tub/ Contemporary

Oceanfront Bluff-Top Cottage | Dramatic Whitewater Views ➢Expansive Pacific Ocean views ➢Endless crashing wave rhythms ➢Enchanting coastal vista ➢Exclusive drive-up beach access Perched on a scenic bluff, Wonder Waves offers a coastal haven with refined modern comfort. Whether you are seeking a tranquil escape, an inspiring workcation, or a refreshing getaway with loved ones, let the ocean panorama and soothing sounds of the waves rejuvenate your mind and body.

Popular amenities for California waterfront rentals

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