Vacation rentals with a kayak in McDowell County

The house is positioned on a hillside with a spacious deck overlooking the lake. A dock with boats and lounge space is visible at the water's edge. Lush greenery surrounds the home, creating a serene lakeside atmosphere.

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

Lake James Private Dock Quiet Cove Starlink

Our house is the last on a quiet "no outlet" street on one of the best hidden coves on Lake James. It’s only a couple hundred yards to the main channel and big Mountain View’s and sunsets. Our home is comfortable and expansive. A place to relax, fish, swim, use our 4 kayaks, or tie up your own boat or pontoon rental for your stay. Black Bear, Hidden Cove, or Canal Bridge are the closest boat launches. We now have lightening fast Star-link internet for remote workers and your entertainment!

ValueLocationAccess

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 25 reviews

A two-story blue house with a gray roof is situated on a gently sloping lot surrounded by trees. A stone pathway leads up to the welcoming front porch, which is flanked by wooden steps. The paved driveway extends up to the garage door.

Home in Morganton

Lakefront Home on Beautiful Lake James!

Welcome to Loving Lake Life – Your Perfect Lake Retreat, Just 15 Minutes from Morganton! Nestled on the waterfront, our home offers easy access to the water with a short stone path leading to our private dock. It comfortably accommodates up to 6 guests and comes fully equipped with two kayaks, two paddleboards, a cozy fire pit, beautiful porches, a fun-filled game room, and more! Thoughtfully designed with all the amenities you need, this space is the ideal setting for your next getaway!

Outdoor spacesLocationWalkability

A private dock extends over calm water, with two wooden lounge chairs positioned for relaxation. Lush green trees line the opposite shore, creating a serene backdrop under a clear blue sky, reflecting peaceful natural surroundings.

5 out of 5 average rating, 21 reviews

Lake James Leisure

Enjoy spectacular views of Lake James while sipping your morning coffee. Bring your boat, sit on the private dock and relax with family and friends in a lake front oasis. Spacious living rooms provide ample gathering space or find seclusion and nature on one of the three expansive porches. Kayak, hike, mountain bike or boat all day and then relax and watch the sunset in the hottub. High speed fiber internet to stream your favorite shows or work if you must. Relax, Recharge and Reconnect.

LocationOutdoor spacesComfort

A newly constructed house is situated on a spacious lot, surrounded by lush trees and natural landscaping. A gravel path leads to the entrance, while glimpses of the tranquil lake are visible in the background, enhancing the serene outdoor setting.

5 out of 5 average rating, 67 reviews

Lake James Waterfront with Dock, Pool, and Kayaks!

Fisherman Cove at Lake James was just built and sleeps 10 in three bedrooms and two and a half baths, you can walk down and enjoy the 150 feet of lakefront! Play around on our kayaks, paddle boards, or just jump right in off our boat dock. It’s close to the Hawks Nest, Blue Ridge Parkway, Linville Gorge, Table Rock, Black Mountain, Asheville, and other day adventures. Come have fun, new adventures, and endless exploration. Located in a gated community with pool, pavilion, and fire pit!

LocationOutdoor spacesGetting around

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

A rectangular in-ground pool presents a refreshing blue surface, complemented by a slide and diving board. Two loungers are positioned beside the water, inviting relaxation. A shaded area is visible, along with wooden fencing that creates privacy, surrounded by lush greenery from nearby trees.

Home in Old Fort

Pool! Close to town, trails, and waterfalls

Escape to our charming 700 sq. ft. mountain retreat overlooking Jacks Mountain Preserve - an old golf course turned nature preserve. Perfect for small families, couples or friends, this cozy 2-bed/1-bath home features modern comforts and decor, 4 beds total, a fully equipped (and then some) kitchen, and reliable internet. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views by day and stargazing at night. Pet-friendly and situated in the heart of all things nature, it’s ideal for relaxation or adventure.

Outdoor spacesLocationIndoor spaces

A spacious lakefront home is surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flower beds. A large deck extends from the house, providing outdoor seating options. Steps lead down to a grassy area with lounge chairs, while the nearby landscape features trees and pathways that invite exploration.

5 out of 5 average rating, 28 reviews

Lakeside Home w Mtn Views & Dock

Relax--Zen inspired getaway just steps from Lake James. A peaceful courtyard welcomes you at the entrance. Glass doors surround the entire house, revealing lake and mountain views. The open floor plan is newly renovated with bamboo flooring, new kitchen and updated bathrooms. A large covered deck with dining table overlooks the lake with great views. The kitchen comes fully equipped , including a gas grill on the deck! Wood burning fireplace in great room for cozy fall evenings.

Outdoor spacesLocationAmenities

Superhost

Home in Marion

4.83 out of 5 average rating, 24 reviews

Lakefront | Game & Movie Room, Hot Tub, EV Charger

"Sitting on the deck in the morning, enjoying coffee and being amazed at how many bird species were around us." That's what a guest said about our Lake James retreat, on a quiet cove outside Marion. Your mornings on our deck, coffee in hand, kids already out on the lawn; your evenings downstairs, pool table busy, popcorn going in our movie room. Sleeps 16 in five bedrooms, hot tub, game room, fire pit. Kayaks and fishing poles in our yard, Marion shops and groceries 4 miles out.

LocationValueIndoor spaces

A scenic view of Lake James is captured from a deck, showcasing calm waters framed by lush green trees. Kayaks are positioned on the shore, and a two-level dock extends into the lake, providing stunning mountain vistas in the background.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 30 reviews

4BR 3.5 BA Lakefront Mountain Getaway

West-facing lakefront gem nestled in a beautiful cove on Lake James makes for the perfect family getaway! Stunning home that provides a serene setting for relaxing and recreation! Sip coffee on one of 2 wrap around decks, or head to lakeside gazebo or large 2 level aluminum dock with amazing views of Dobson Knob! Enjoy kayaks and paddle boards by day and stone fire pit at sunset! Close proximity to Marion, Morganton, and many hiking trails, this property has it all!

LocationOutdoor spacesWifi

The exterior of a custom-built home is featured, showcasing an angular roof design and large windows. A spacious deck wraps around the house, illuminated by strategically placed lights. Lush greenery surrounds the property, enhancing the natural setting.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 115 reviews

Stylish Retreat with Views, Gym & Prime Location!

Wake up to Blue Ridge Mountain views from a stunning A-Frame retreat. This is a custom-built 4-bedroom is the most well-equipped vacation rental near Lake James. Spend mornings on the water or golf course, then relax by the fire pit or in the game room with a 70" TV. Enjoy a full gym, bunk room, and spacious kitchen. 14 mins to Marion Lake Club Golf Course, 5 mins to Bear Creek Marina, 10 mins to Lake James State Park. Perfect for families and group getaways.

LocationOutdoor spacesHot tub

A two-story yellow house with gabled roofs stands amidst a forested area. Gravel paths lead to the entrance, which is flanked by a spacious deck. Stacks of firewood are neatly arranged around a central fire pit. The lake is visible in the background.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 37 reviews

Lakefront, private cove w/ creek

A perfect waterfront playground to forget your worries while immersed in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Pisgah National Forest. Direct water access to Lake James for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. Enjoy Dales Creek, which feeds mountain water into the lake. Whether swimming, paddling, fishing, or wading in the creek, there is no shortage of wildlife and flora to enjoy. Picnic and BBQ at the pavilion and relax by bonfires in the evenings.

LocationOutdoor spacesView

Two Adirondack chairs are positioned on a dock, facing a serene lake with a soft sunrise casting reflective colors on the water. The surrounding landscape features trees and gentle hills, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Mist rises off the lake, enhancing the tranquil scene.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 93 reviews

Lake James Deep Water Cove, Screen Porch & Kayaks!

Newman’s Nook on Lake James is a Farmhouse-style lake house on a calm cove, nestled in the Blue Ridge mountain foothills. Nearby, take advantage of hiking, mountain biking, waterfalls, golf, gem-mining, Lake James State Park, beach, wineries & breweries! Make memories with friends & family taking in stunning views, smelling fresh mountain air, listening to nature’s music and feeling cool, clean water of Lake James!

Outdoor spacesValueGrill