Waterfront vacation rentals in Central California

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Top-rated waterfront rentals in Central California

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

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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, 140 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, 334 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!

Superhost
A deck with two chairs overlooks a flowing river, surrounded by lush greenery and large boulders. The water cascades over the rocks, creating a serene environment perfect for relaxation and nature appreciation.
Home in Three Rivers
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 253 reviews

River Retreat near SNP, Firepit-BBQ-2 Decks-7acres

We're excited to host you at our River Retreat Home. This home is tucked away on a quiet road where you can truly play, relax and recharge. You will find a beautiful trail that lead you to our picturesque river with endless boulders! There you will find two large decks. The home gives you amazing sunrises and sunsets. Our hope is that you love all part of your stay from the quiet stillness of the trees, to animals/bird watching, to enjoying and playing in the river and stargazing at the open sky

Top guest favorite
A large tree with twisted branches stands prominently, surrounded by well-maintained landscaping. The backdrop features a rustic building with wooden siding and a vibrant mix of autumn foliage, showcasing shades of orange and yellow. Smooth stones line the ground near the base of the tree.
Guesthouse in Three Rivers
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 537 reviews

Romantic River Craftsman w Terraces & Gazebo

Nothing more stunning than spring time rivers, a romantic, private & large guest studio w its own entrances, private terraces w towering ceilings, & King bed in historical craftsman on the South Fork of the Kaweah River in charming 3 Rivers,. Launch to Sequoia Natl. Park, Gen Sherman & Grant Grove, Kings Canyon Nat’l Park & Mineral King. Come enjoy the trees, trails, & beauty of a Natl’ treasure! Lake Kaweah, the foothill rivers and moments to town. Book your stay @ Crystal Cave far in advance!

Top guest favorite
A scenic view showcases a lush garden with various plants and sculptures, extending towards rolling hills and distant water. The sky is bright blue with scattered clouds, providing a vibrant backdrop to the tranquil landscape.
Guest suite in Moss Landing
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 215 reviews

An oasis on a private retreat

A beautifully secluded area (40+ acres) surrounded by natural beauty with lovely views of Elkhorn Slough and the Pacific Ocean, away from the maddening crowd. Yet, accessible to Carmel / Pebble Beach / Santa Cruz. A variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, bicycling, kayaking, golfing and whale watching. A full breakfast is served daily. It should also be noted it is a gated property and the home is accessed through a dirt / gravel private country lane which is 0.75 mile from the gate.

Guest favorite
Cabin in Three Rivers
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 443 reviews

Mountain Summit View

Enjoy a stay on our 380 acre private ranch that shares a property line with Sequoia National Park. The ranch is located just minutes away from the park entrance! The ranch has plenty of private outdoor space to explore including over a mile of the Kaweah River, one of the only deep water swimming areas around, ponds, and, a 60ft waterfall. Our property is great for the hiking, bird watching, swimming, or fishing enthusiast! A map of the land and its features will be provided upon arrival.

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, 137 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!

Guest favorite
Tiny home in Three Rivers
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 236 reviews

Infinite 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. Note: This is our only pet-friendly listing.

Top guest favorite
Earthen home in Sonora
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 295 reviews

Birds Nest, fresh, rustic, romantic, pond front

Come stay at this rustic, unique, hand sculpted cob earth house in the heart of the gold country surrounded by wilderness. The house is magical inside and out, with unique curved walls and ceilings, facing a seasonal pond and home to much wildlife. Sit outside at night under the Milky Way, watching shooting stars and listening to toads in the pond. Please note the bedroom is upstairs, the bathroom is down an external staircase. There is no oven.

Top guest favorite
An aerial view of a modern cabin is displayed, featuring a spacious deck with soft lighting. The deck curves around a custom cedar hot tub, providing a welcoming area for relaxation. Surrounded by trees, the cabin is set against a backdrop of the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Cabin in Mariposa
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 153 reviews

Couples Riverfront Cabin w Hot Tub

I designed & built this architectural cabin specifically for couples looking to experience a unique and beautiful location that feels like a mini Yosemite. It has a custom cedar hot tub that gives the PERFECT viewing place for the expansive night sky with shooting stars a plenty. Also has a swimmable River with jaw dropping granite features & rock pools. Double shower & sleek design features, you may just spend your whole trip, right here :)

Top guest favorite
Home in Three Rivers
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 112 reviews

Romantic MOMA Villa on river near national park

Enchanting cottage nestled on over 4 private acres with exclusive river access and all of the charm of beautiful Three Rivers! You'll love every inch of this rustic modern master piece adorned by stone and timeless wood accents making this the most romantic cottage you have ever seen! Relax by the river, surrounded by nature. You will have complete privacy in this special spot. Your private access to the river is steps away.

Top guest favorite
A view of the outdoor space showcases a fire pit with a gentle flame surrounded by smooth rocks. Comfortable seating is arranged beneath a wooden pergola, and large windows highlight the welcoming interior of the architectural retreat.
Cabin in Three Rivers
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 201 reviews

Conscious Nest Riverfront Retreat No.4

Embrace nature in this beautiful river front Architectural Getaway! Nestled amongst the foothills of the Sequoia National Park ( and is only a short 10 minute drive to the park entrance!) with breathtaking views of the Kaweah River, are the Conscious Nest Retreats. We combine the comforts of home with the wonders of the wild~ Our spaces are designed to feel authentic and rooted in the energy of the ancient Sequoias trees 🌲

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