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, 161 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 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, 347 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!

Guest favorite
The sleeping area is adorned with warm wood finishes, featuring a spacious bed with soft linens. Natural light filters in through circular porthole windows, enhancing the classic nautical ambiance. A wooden dresser is positioned nearby, and a doorway leads to the bathroom, which is tastefully designed.
Boat in Alameda
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 1,023 reviews

Step back in time on this beautiful classic yacht

Good Luck is a hundred-year-old classic yacht, lovingly restored and ready to transport you to another time while luxuriously spoiling you on your bay area adventure. This dockside charter gives you complete privacy and an amazing nautical experience. Alameda is a beautiful island community in the heart of the Bay, filled with beautiful homes, adorable shops, and many great restaurants. The San Francisco ferry is close by to whisk you to the big city, so why would you want to stay anywhere else?

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, 205 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.

Top guest favorite
Home in Lower Lake
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 105 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
Guesthouse in Whitethorn
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 163 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.

Top guest favorite
A spacious living area features large windows that provide views of the outside landscape. Comfortable leather seating is arranged on a patterned area rug, with a stone fireplace and rustic decor enhancing the cozy atmosphere. Natural light fills the room, contributing to a warm feel.
Home in Red Bluff
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 292 reviews

Nature’s & Pilgrims’ Rest at Red Bluff River Haven

A unique river retreat for relaxing and viewing wildlife. We are minutes from extensive trails and about an hour from Lassen Park. Our house has fragile and antique components and is not suited for pets, groups or children. If you are ok with quirky, imperfect, au natural and "wild" (possibility of snakes and spiders) we have your place! With windows along most of the east side, you will almost always have a view of the Sacramento River. This is not a cookie cutter house—please read listing.

Top guest favorite
A serene outdoor deck features two lounge chairs facing a tranquil river and mountain landscape. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting a warm glow over the space. The surrounding area is adorned with lush greenery and natural scenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Camper/RV in Kernville
5 out of 5 average rating, 144 reviews

The Kern River House: MoonShine Trailer Waterfront

MoonShine Trailer, an epic riverfront property by The Kern River House. Very cool 1955 Boles Aero Ensenada Trailer is lovingly restored & updated. Its forever home on a beautiful spot of Kern River, just south of Big Daddy Rapids. Private Waterfront with River Access, cedar hot tub, patios, gas BBQ, fire pit, outdoor shower, speedy WiFi & the coolest vintage vibe. Has queen bed, single sofa bed, indoor bathroom, a/c & heating, refrigerator, stovetop, all kitchen tools. Endless relaxing fun!

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, 427 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.

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, 554 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!

Top guest favorite
Cabin in Mariposa
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 145 reviews

Unique Riverside Cabin Yosemite

My architecturally designed home is not your usual Airbnb Listing near Yosemite. It is your own mini Yosemite! There's a seasonal river to swim in with rock pools to swim in thats visible from your deck which wraps around the entire home. Another custom deck features hot shower coming out the granite boulders and clawfoot tub overlooking the river. If you want a truly unique experience, my place makes you feel as though you are still in Yosemite after you have returned from your day.

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, 158 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.

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