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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Top 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

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 184 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

ViewRiverWifi

Top guest favorite

The cabin is situated near a serene private fishing lake, surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees. The reflection of the mountains is seen in the still water, creating a peaceful setting. A small dock is visible at the water's edge, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

Home in Springville

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 364 reviews

Modern Cabin, Private Fishing Lake, Near Sequoias

The Bear Creek Retreat is a beautiful modern cabin above Springville, CA, surrounded by the stunning foothills. This two-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin is on a serene private fishing lake, where guests can unwind and enjoy nature's beauty. This idyllic cabin is conveniently located near Sequoia National Forest and Park, Lake Success, and River Island Golf Course. The cabin is designed to offer the perfect home-away-from-home experience, with all the modern comforts and amenities. Excellent fishing!

BeachRiverHiking

Top guest favorite

A sunlit view showcases the ocean and coastline from a bluff. A hot tub is positioned on a spacious deck, surrounded by lush greenery and trees. The home is designed with large windows, emphasizing its scenic location along the coast.

Home in Gualala

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 231 reviews

Abalone Cove - Oceanfront Getaway with Hot Tub

Our cozy, oceanfront gem has amazing views and is the perfect place to relax and reconnect with yourself, loved ones, and friends. When whales are migrating, you can spot them from our comfy couch. We are on the bluff with an oceanfront hot tub, within walking distance to Gualala restaurants, groceries & shops. Please respect our dream home, our neighbors, & bring only good vibes here. This is a beautiful and remote area, please plan accordingly to relax and enjoy the slow pace of life here.

BeachViewWifi

Top guest favorite

Home in Lower Lake

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 118 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.

ViewBeachLayout

Top guest favorite

Guesthouse in Whitethorn

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 196 reviews

Mermaids View Ocean Front! Beautiful Pets Welcome

Watch whales & stunning sunsets from your private cliffside deck above beautiful Black Sands Beach on the Lost Coast. Mermaids View sits right on the cliffs edge with a bird’s-eye view of all the whales and crashing waves below. The spacious deck features sleek glass railings for a completely unobstructed ocean panorama. With no neighbors directly beside you, it feels wonderfully quiet and private. Recently renovated cozy kitchen & living area. Just a short walk to the beach & restaurants.

BeachViewSleep quality

Top guest favorite

A spacious living area is filled with natural light, featuring large glass windows that provide views of the ocean waves and coastline. Comfortable seating options, including a lounge chair and a wooden dining table, are positioned to take advantage of the scenery.

Cottage in Muir Beach

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 446 reviews

Ocean Front Beach Cottage with Hot Tub & Fireplace

Small cottage right on the beach. Very close to San Francisco - 20 min from the Golden Gate Bridge. Romantic getaway. Perfect for couples or as a quiet retreat for an individual. Wood-burning fireplaces in the living room and bedroom. Large deck and personal hot tub overlooking the ocean. Feel free to ask me any specific questions you may have and I'll make sure to get back to you promptly. Please consider signing up for travel insurance in case you have a change of plans or get sick.

BeachViewLayout

Top guest favorite

Tiny home in Three Rivers

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 270 reviews

Riverfront luxury Mirror House | Hot Tub (Stellar)

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

BeachRiverSolo travel

Top guest favorite

The image captures a coastal view from a bluff, overlooking the expansive Pacific Ocean. Gentle waves lap against the rocky shoreline, framed by greenery and tall trees. The clear blue sky enhances the serene atmosphere of the environment, inviting tranquility and nature appreciation.

Guesthouse in Whitethorn

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 100 reviews

Little Black Sands Beach Casita

The Little Black Sands Beach Casita embodies the heart of the Pacific Coast, Shelter Cove experience. Your own private Bluff Top retreat Relax in your own private Sauna, Soaking Tub or Rain Shower or just relax while experiencing the pounding Pacific on the rocks below Stunning Sunrise to Sunset ocean views from your bed , bar top or buff Special dark sky stargazing from the Bluff Top You might see a whale Thank you for the opportunity to share this special spot

ViewBeachIndoor spaces

Top guest favorite

An open dining area is presented with a modern white table surrounded by turquoise upholstered chairs. Large windows offer unobstructed views of the ocean and sunset, while a contemporary light fixture is suspended above the table, enhancing the bright space.

Cottage in Manchester

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 174 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.

BeachViewHot tub

Top guest favorite

The exterior of a two-story home is illuminated at dusk, showcasing large windows that reveal warm interior lights. A spacious deck is featured above, with inviting outdoor seating. Surrounding greenery and a well-maintained yard add to the peaceful ambiance.

Home in Whitethorn

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 203 reviews

Casa Ballena of the Lost Coast

Casa Ballena of the Lost Coast sits above little black sands beach in a quiet and peaceful neighborhood. It is an ocean front property, which makes it a perfect place to kick back, relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. We are located in the unincorporated area of southern Humboldt county. A 45 minute drive to the Redwood State Park & visitor center. Explore and find your adventure!🐋 ***We welcome your fur friends, 2 maximum per stay***

BeachViewCondition

Guest favorite

A well-maintained garden features flowering plants and green foliage, leading to a striking glass dome structure. The dome's unique design complements the natural surroundings, while a nearby detached bathroom can be seen, enhancing functionality and convenience.

Dome in Angels Camp

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 212 reviews

Glashaus | Lakeview Glass Dome + The Perch

Escape to Glashaus, an architecturally designed glass dome perched above New Melones Lake. Surrounded by ancient granite outcroppings, this private retreat combines luxury with nature, featuring panoramic lake views, an outdoor spa bath, open-air shower, and our signature outdoor kitchen and lounge—The Perch. Watch the sunrise from bed, cook dinner above the lake, and end the evening beneath some of California's darkest star-filled skies.

ViewCheck-inHospitality

Top guest favorite

A wooden tray is seen on a table with a bottle of champagne in an ice bucket, accompanied by glasses and a selection of fresh strawberries and grapes. The scene is framed by two blue adirondack chairs, overlooking a dynamic ocean view with rocky formations in the distance.

Home in Albion

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 241 reviews

Ocean Heaven Escape

The Pacific is not simply a view-it is a presence. Perched on a private bluff where forest meets the Pacific, this secluded cottage offers a rare, restorative escape. Wake to ocean views from bed, watch whales from the deck, and end evenings by the wood-burning fire as waves echo below. Dramatic skies, coastal stillness, and intimate comforts create a place for romance, renewal, and the quiet luxury of feeling far removed from everything.

BeachViewHeating