15 Stunning Waterfront Airbnbs in the U.S. for a Dream Getaway

There's just something about being by the water, whether the ocean, a bay, a river, or a lake, that soothes the soul. If you're anything like me, you love hearing waves crashing or the sound of a rushing river while relaxing on the shore. While I live in the desert now, I am surprised to find out how many lakes and rivers exist within driving distance. But every time I see water where I live, I can't help but desire a waterfront getaway somewhere, anywhere in the U.S. Does that sound like you? Well, here are some of the most remarkable waterfront Airbnbs in the U.S., complete with views, amenities, and ways to relax, to consider for your next getaways:

Lakefront Airbnbs

Here's a fun fact — there are over three million lakes within the U.S. I find that hard to believe, don't you? So, it's quite possible to find incredible vacation rentals that sit on the shores of a lake. Here are a few worth booking for your next lakefront getaway:

1. Iconic Glass Mansion - Osage Beach, Missouri

With its luxury and spectacular views of the Lake of the Ozarks, this iconic home is one of a kind. With its location atop a rocky cliff with a waterfall, there are jaw-dropping views galore. This home has its very own swim dock for easy access to the water. Inside, you'll discover 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, a living room with comfortable furniture and a fireplace for ultimate relaxation, and a fully-stocked gourmet kitchen and dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows so you can eat with a view. The Iconic Glass Mansion is absolutely incredible and a place you must stay when at Lake of the Ozarks.

While you're at Osage Beach on the Lake of the Ozarks, rent a pontoon boat and admire views of the Glass Mansion from the water. There's nothing quite like a vacation like this in Missouri!

2. Sunset Hideaway - Mooresville, North Carolina

Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Norman, this luxurious cabin offers amenities that will enhance your "lake life" experience during your stay. This vacation home boasts three bedrooms and three baths, a beautiful kitchen, and plenty of outdoor spaces to enjoy your time at the lake. Not only is there an outdoor dining area with a kitchen, a fireplace, and a BBQ grill for dining al fresco, but there's also a boat dock with a boat slip if you happen to bring your own watercraft. Book your stay at the Sunset Hideaway vacation rental in North Carolina on Airbnb.

3. Lake Michigan Retreat - Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin

This newer, modern abode sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, so just imagine the views you'll have. With over 100 feet of frontage on the lake, you'll enjoy plenty of privacy — so peaceful! Inside the home are three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, perfect for up to eight guests. Outside, you'll find outdoor seating, a fire pit, and a hot tub. There's so much to love about the Lake Michigan Retreat, making it a wonderful lake getaway in Wisconsin.

4. Spectacular Lake Front Home - Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

With 200 feet of private lakefront plus a gazebo, a jacuzzi, and a private dock, this lake home must be the best place to stay in Coeur d'Alene. The 4,000-square-foot vacation rental features five bedrooms and 4.5 baths, and can accommodate over 16 guests. In fact, the large dining area can accommodate up to 20 guests for a spectacular dinner party. While you'll absolutely love the lake views, the home's interior is stunning as well. Featured in several architectural publications, the Spectacular Lake Front Home is indeed spectacular.

Oceanfront Airbnbs

In my humble opinion, nothing beats the sound of waves crashing on the shore and breathing in salt air. While the ocean is a powerful body of water, being beside it can really make one calm, and breathing in the salty air is also relaxing. If you can't get enough of the beach and ocean life, check out the following oceanfront Airbnbs on the American coasts:

5. Ocean Front Beach Home - San Diego, California

Dreaming of California? Well, this Ocean Front Beach Home in San Diego is California dreaming at its finest. You'll have panoramic ocean views whether you're inside or outdoors. While you can go down to the beach, this luxurious property has its own pool and hot tub overlooking the Pacific. The interior of the home is bright and airy, featuring large windows and plenty of natural light. If you've ever desired the ultimate SoCal getaway, this Airbnb near the Pacific Ocean is it.

6. Southern Diversion - Key Largo, Florida

Sitting on a full acre, this private gated 5,000-square-foot estate has its own beach, a tiki hut, a pool overlooking the water, and 105 feet of deepwater dockage. Inside the luxury home are six bedrooms (just imagine the water views you'll wake up to each morning!), five bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, a large dining room, and so much more. You will want for nothing when staying here. You can book your stay at the Southern Diversion home in the Florida Keys on Airbnb.

7. Redfish LOFT - Port Orford, Oregon

Located on the south coast of Oregon, the Redfish LOFT is quite a unique place to stay in the equally unique town of Port Orford. This loft rental is situated above the Redfish Restaurant and adjacent to a gallery, so there are on-site activities. Inside, you'll find one bedroom, a bathroom with a soaking tub, a gas fireplace, a kitchenette, plenty of seating, and a balcony. You'll also be treated to gorgeous views of the Pacific as well as Battle Rock. What could be better than staying at one of the most incredible Pacific Northwest waterfront getaways?

8. The Lucky Duck - Surfside Beach, South Carolina

I love the beaches of South Carolina, and you will too when you stay by the ocean at The Lucky Duck in Surfside Beach. This family-friendly oceanside retreat boasts ocean views, a walkway to the beach, and a covered saltwater pool. There are four bedrooms in this roomy house, so grab your family and come for a stay! Everyone will enjoy being just steps away from the sand while having access to their very own private pool.

Riverfront Airbnbs

While both the Mississippi and Colorado Rivers are among the best-known in the U.S., there are more than 250,000 additional rivers that wind their way through our grand landscapes. If you feel the need to have a riverside getaway, take a look at these spectacular Airbnbs:

9. Little House on the River - North Little Rock, Arkansas

If you've ever wanted to stay in a houseboat on the Arkansas River, here's your chance: welcome to the Little House on the River! While houseboats may evoke a feeling of rustic accommodations, this is anything but rustic. This well-appointed home offers modern furnishings, tasteful decor, and all the amenities you'll need for a comfortable stay — and it's perfect for a romantic getaway for two. There's no other place quite like this houseboat in Arkansas.

10. The Icicle River Lodge - Leavenworth, Washington

If you've never explored Leavenworth, WA, you should plan a getaway here immediately. And I've found the perfect vacation rental for you to stay in! The Icicle River Lodge sits at the edge of the Icicle River and provides a serene escape where you can watch wildlife, or go for a swim, fish, paddleboard, kayak, or tube. Inside the 2,200-square-foot home, you'll enjoy an open-concept design with modern yet comfortable furniture, a well-equipped kitchen, three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and, if needed, a dedicated workspace. Outside, you'll have access to a fire pit and a hot tub during your stay.

11. Beaver Creek Cabin - Lake Montezuma, Arizona

Get a taste of the West with a stay at the 1,250-square-foot Beaver Creek Cabin in Lake Montezuma. This rustic log cabin sits creekside along Wet Beaver Creek, known for its fishing, swimming, and wildlife. The cabin has two bedrooms and can accommodate up to four guests. In addition, there are two fireplaces for those cooler nights, a fully equipped kitchen, and board games and playing cards to keep you entertained. The fun (and relaxation) can continue outside, where you'll find corn hole, horseshoes, float tubes, and creekside seating. Sounds wonderful, doesn't it? Best of all, it's close to Sedona and one of the most fascinating waterfront rentals in the Southwest.

12. Custom Floating Suite - East Dubuque, Illinois

With its location on the Mississippi River backwaters, this Custom Floating Suite will become your favorite getaway spot in Illinois. Not only does this cabin float on the water, but its jaw-dropping interior features one bedroom, a soaking tub overlooking the river, two fireplaces, a kitchenette, and complimentary parking at the marina. Perfect for a couple's getaway, outside on the deck is a private hot tub. It's hard not to fall in love with a place like this!

Bayfront Airbnbs

While the ocean is forever an amazing body of water to spend time beside, so is a bay. With calmer waters, you'll still enjoy the views and the scent of salt lingering in the air. The following are a few bayside Airbnbs you should consider for your next vacation:

13. Mermaid Manor - Galveston, Texas

Welcome to Mermaid Manor! This Airbnb in Galveston, Texas, is your next home away from home on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. With three bedrooms plus a loft, 12 people can comfortably stay here. Additionally, it's dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your four-legged best friend along for this bayside getaway in Texas. With its beachside location, you'll be steps away from the water, where you can go for a swim and just enjoy the beach life. This is one of the best vacation rentals in Galveston, and was even featured on an HGTV show.

14. Sandy Beach Cottage - Wellfleet, Massachusetts

Stay "Light on the Mayo," a bayside beauty in Wellfleet, Massachusetts. Here you'll experience a taste of Cape Cod with access to Mayo Beach along the shores of Wellfleet Harbor. The home features two bedrooms, one bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy living room with water views, and direct beach access. I absolutely love Wellfleet and spend my summers here. If you haven't been there yet, consider spending time at this Airbnb near Cape Cod Bay, or take a look at this list of Northeast waterfront Airbnbs for additional options.

15. Waterfront Sunset Bayview - Chester, Maryland

If you've ever wanted to spend time in an Airbnb near the Eastern Bay, here's a gorgeous one on Kent Island on Maryland's Eastern Shore. This Kent Island home has its own private dock where you can sit and watch the sunset in the evening. This is waterfront living at its finest! The floor plan is open-concept, featuring large windows that let you view the Eastern Bay from many areas of the house. With three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, the property can accommodate up to six guests. The interior is roomy yet cozy, and offers modern amenities to make you feel right at home. In addition to the private dock, there's a patio and outdoor furniture to help you make the most of your time outdoors while enjoying the scenery. This is one of the best ways to enjoy life by the water in Maryland.

So, what do you think of this list of waterfront Airbnbs in the U.S.? What are some of your favorite waterfront locations in the country? Whether you're traveling with family, friends, a significant other, or solo, there is a waterfront option on this list for everyone. For more options, take a look at our epic list of reader-favorite Airbnbs across the U.S.