We’re Dreaming of a Waterfront Getaway and We Found 12 Perfect Spots in the Northeast

No matter what part of the country you're in, if you ask us, any time of year is perfect for a waterfront getaway. Whether you're on an ocean, lake, pond, or river, the opportunities for recreation — and beautiful scenery — are practically endless. Some may enjoy casting a line and trying for a few fish, while others may love soaking by the shore. But no matter your coastal interests, these waterfront rentals in the northeast will surely bring you a sense of tranquility you just can't find anywhere else.

1. Cozy Cottage on the Penobscot: Hampden, Maine

This amazing cottage in Hampden, Maine is so quintessentially New England! It's delicately perched right on a granite ledge, and you'll enjoy panoramic views of the mighty Penobscot River. It's located only about 12 minutes from downtown Bangor, ME, one of the state's coolest spots for a vacation. This luxurious home is perfect for relaxing in waterfront tranquility.

The open floor plan provides plenty of natural light from the gorgeous picture windows. The gourmet kitchen is perfect for cooking up a meal, and there's a wood-fired outdoor grill to enjoy on warm days. If you prefer to stay indoors, the 55-inch television has a variety of streaming services, but the property is so gorgeous that you may never want to come inside! The one-bedroom home has two beds and can sleep up to four guests. Learn more or book a stay at the property's Airbnb listing, one of the best waterfront getaways in Maine.

2. Songbird Studio VT: Eden, Vermont

The lovely Songbird Studio VT is perfect for a romantic getaway in Vermont. The scenery doesn't come much more gorgeous than this: it can be tough to find places offering both water views and mountain landscapes! The 400-square-foot guesthouse is a stand-alone property that was once a recording studio on the outskirts of Eden, a quiet rural town in the Vermont mountains. This place is so peaceful and great for anyone looking to escape into nature.

You'll enjoy high-speed internet, air conditioning, board games, and a record player. Visit in the warm months, and you can enjoy fishing practically right outside the door from the stellar covered deck. The full kitchen is great for preparing meals, but you're not too far from Stowe and Jay Peak if you'd prefer to go into town to dine out. The one-bedroom studio can sleep one or two guests, and note that children and pets are not allowed. Learn more or book a stay at this charming Vermont cabin on the water on Airbnb.

3. White Mountains Cottage: Haverhill, New Hampshire

This serene cottage in the White Mountains is right on a 32-acre pond stocked with trout. Watching the sun set each night over the water is a romantic treat you're sure to never forget. Life can be chaotic at times, but escaping to this cozy cottage is a great way to disconnect and recharge while surrounded by nature.

Outdoors, you'll enjoy a fire pit, hammock, and infinite opportunities for relaxation by French Pond. It's such a peaceful spot that's great to visit whether you're looking for fun in the summertime sun or want to be surrounded by the reds and yellows of autumn. This waterfront cottage in New Hampshire has a full kitchen and Wi-Fi, and one bedroom can accommodate one or two guests. For additional photos and pricing, see Airbnb.

4. The Yellow: Becket, Massachusetts

How adorable is this little cottage in the Sherwood Forest Community of Becket? I love yellow, so the bright and cheery theme is right up my alley. This place is one of the top-rated Airbnbs in Massachusetts thanks to its bevy of amenities and recreational activities. Swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing are all allowed in the pond, and did we mention you've got your own private beach here? Enjoy a full view of the lake from the spacious living room, or head outside and nap in the hammock for peak relaxation.

High-speed Wi-Fi allows you to work remotely or enjoy streaming on the 50-inch television. There's a full kitchen, and you've got access to a kayak during your stay, plus beach items like towels and an umbrella. This two-bedroom lakeside cottage has three beds and can host up to five guests, making it perfect for a small family or group of friends. Book a stay at or learn more about this waterfront rental in Massachusetts on Airbnb.

5. Cedar Beach Retreat: Milford, Connecticut

You'll find no shortage of waterfront vacation rentals in Connecticut. Despite being a small state, there's loads of shoreline here, and this beautiful property lies just beside Cedar Beach, a semi-private beach that's only 250 feet away. This historic beach bungalow has been fully renovated to include top-of-the-line amenities and architectural features. The full kitchen includes a smart fridge, and you've got a private deck, plus a smart TV with streaming networks.

The three-bedroom home has four beds and can sleep up to six guests. It's not far from the Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center at Milford Point, one of the best spots for bird watching along the Long Island Sound. Over 300 different species of birds have been spotted at Milford Point, so keep your eyes peeled if you head over to walk the boardwalk trail. For more information about this highly-rated waterfront vacation rental in Connecticut, take a peek at the Airbnb listing.

6. Waterfront Studio: Cranston, Rhode Island

Rhode Island might be the smallest state, but it's an utterly perfect spot for a New England beach trip. This little guesthouse is great for a solo traveler or a couple looking for a vacation rental near Providence, RI. The boathouse is located just 10 minutes away from downtown Providence, and within easy walking distance of historic Pawtuxet Village. Both Newport and South County beaches are a 30-minute drive away.

The studio is a boathouse with a private dock, and I love all the natural lighting you'll find inside. The deck is right off the bedroom and has an incredible view of the bay that will make you feel like you're in a luxury hotel. There's a full kitchen and Wi-Fi, and the king bed is plenty spacious. Learn more or book a stay at this Rhode Island waterfront property's Airbnb listing.

7. The Water House: Wurtsboro, New York

If you're craving a trip to the Empire State, the Water House is an all-season retreat that can't be beat. Not only is it tucked away in a forest, it's nestled right beside a babbling brook and has its own hot tub. The vintage decor is absolutely adorable, and you'll find fun amenities like a karaoke system, a bar, board games, books, and a 55-inch TV with cable. The fire pit and BBQ grill are perfect for outdoor fun.

The three-bedroom cabin has three beds and can sleep up to four guests, making it perfect for a small family or group of friends. The hot tub is open year-round and is a great, tranquil space for anyone looking to relax. For more information or to book a stay at this New York waterfront vacation rental, visit the Airbnb listing.

8. Waterfront Log Cabin: Airville, Pennsylvania

How dreamy is this rustic log cabin in Airville, PA? It's been recently renovated, has a hot tub, and is right on the edge of Muddy Creek. It doesn't get much better than that. The home is quite tiny, with 380 square feet, but it's got everything that a couple needs for a romantic getaway. There's a TV and electric fireplace, plus a large selection of DVDs, books, board games, and records.

The outdoor hot tub is available year-round, and while there's an indoor soaking tub/shower combination inside, you can also utilize the outdoor shower for the ultimate natural getaway! There's a fire pit with roasting sticks included, so make sure to come hungry for s'mores or hot dogs. There's a cozy hammock for two right by the water's edge, plus a set of Adirondack chairs. The one-bedroom cabin in Pennsylvania has one bed and is suitable for two guests. To book a stay, visit Airbnb.

9. Carriage House on Walnut Pond: Frenchtown, New Jersey

The Carriage House on Walnut Pond is an amazing pastoral escape, no matter the season. It's a bright and cozy space on eight private acres that's perfect for anyone looking to enjoy nature while not being too far from charming areas like Frenchtown and Bucks County. There's a full kitchen, washer and dryer, private patio, and adorable outdoor picnic table.

The two bedrooms have four beds and can accommodate up to four guests. This is a great rural getaway, perfect for unplugging and relaxing in New Jersey. Interested in learning more? Check out the Airbnb listing.

10. Private Bungalow on the Bay: Dover, Delaware

This cozy beachfront bungalow is the perfect place to stay in Dover. The historic bungalow has been recently renovated to have many modern amenities, and the screened-in, wrap-around porch is to die for. You'll love the outdoor dining table, outdoor sofa, and fire pit that make outdoor entertainment incredibly comfortable, and you can also enjoy an outdoor shower, kayaks, hammocks, and more. The home is located right on the Delaware Bay, and there's only one house beside it, so you've got tons of privacy.

The property isn't too far from many of Delaware's top destinations, including Kitts Hummock, Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, and Dewey Beach. The backyard is quite literally the beach: it doesn't get much better than that! The two-bedroom home has three beds and can sleep up to four guests. To book a stay at this waterfront rental in Delaware, visit Airbnb.

11. Cabana by the Bay: Solomons, Maryland

This one's undoubtedly one of the most unique places to stay in Maryland: it's a tiny home right on a pier! It's not very often that you'll get to fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing under you, but that's just what you can enjoy at this beautiful cabana. You'll get shared use of a private beach, and bikes are available from April through October. The property is within easy walking distance of a number of great activities, like events, restaurants, and shops.

With a television, indoor and outdoor showers, a double bed, and a mini kitchen, the space has everything you need for a great getaway despite its small size. The panoramic windows offer amazing views, and the sunsets and sunrises are magical. Learn more or book a stay at this waterfront tiny home in Maryland on Airbnb.

12. Kilimanjaro Safari Treehouse: Peterstown, West Virginia

Take one look at the Kilimanjaro Safari Treehouse and you might feel like you accidentally woke up in Africa. This unique treehouse is built above a creek, and you'll be surrounded by trees during your stay. It's nestled on the 84-acre private Four Fillies Lodge, a luxurious getaway with several other vacation rental properties. This romantic cabin has a king bed that can sleep one or two guests, a kitchenette, a television, and a charcoal grill.

This is the perfect place for outdoor adventure, with fishing, hiking, caving, and rafting all available nearby. There's no Wi-Fi, so you'll feel entirely disconnected (in a good way!) and far away from all your worries and stress. Additional romantic packages are available for purchase if you're looking to make this a special getaway for two. To book a stay at this unique West Virginia treehouse, visit Airbnb.

Wow! Which of these waterfront rentals in the northeast is your favorite? I can't decide, so I may book a night at each one. How about you?