7 Waterfront Virginia Rentals So Stunning They Don’t Feel Real

With its Atlantic coastline and dozens of lakes, reservoirs, rivers, creeks, and streams, Virginia is home to many memorable waterfront escapes. If sifting through dozens of hotels and Airbnbs sounds more taxing than thrilling, though, pause your search and start scrolling for seven unforgettable waterfront rentals in Virginia. Each of our hand-selected properties checks all the essential boxes: gorgeous views, stylish design, modern amenities, and plenty of space to unwind, all while upping the ante with at least one standout feature. 

The Magical Cabin on Back Creek — Roanoke, VA

• Rating: 4.96 — Guest Favorite
• Sleeps: 3
• Bedrooms: 1
• Bathrooms: 1
• Amenities: Soaking tub, the perfect writing desk, fire pit, hammock, gas grill
• Unforgettable Feature: It’s whimsical, one-of-a-kind fairytale cabin design 
• Best for: Couples

This Back Creek gem is one of the most beautiful cabins in all of Virginia. The teeny retreat looks plucked from a storybook, complete with the quaintest shabby-chic decor and hidden hillside location. A word to the wise? Cut the central A/C and unlatch the windows for a dreamy creekside sleepscape. 

The Cozy Beach Cottage — Virginia Beach, Virginia

• Rating: 4.97 — Guest Favorite
• Sleeps: 4
• Bedrooms: 1
• Bathrooms: 1
• Amenities: Board games, beach cruisers, paddleboard, kayaks
• Unforgettable Feature: Tiered deck with beautiful bay views
• Best for: A couples' getaway or small family vacation

Of all the beachfront rentals in Virginia, this pet-friendly find stands out with its laid-back Sandbridge location and all the beach essentials you’ll need for a fun day at the beach. Located in one of the state’s most beloved waterfront towns, this bright and airy Airbnb boasts direct water access, a path to Sandbridge Beach, a shared pool and playground, and panoramic bay views you won’t soon forget. 

The Grist Mill Cabin — Quicksburg, Virginia

• Rating: 4.99 — Guest Favorite
• Sleeps: 4
• Bedrooms: 2
• Bathrooms: 1
• Amenities: Hot tub, fire pit, smoker, books, board games
• Unforgettable Feature: The charming, eclectic interior design 
• Best for: A couples’ weekend, friends’ trip, or small family getaway

The Grist Mill Cabin on Holmans Creek is one of the absolute sweetest riverfront cabins in Virginia. Outside, guests can relax creekside on the twinkle-lit patio or deck; inside, the most charming interior design awaits, with a colorful, layered nature that feels undoubtedly nostalgic. From the sheepskin-slung tufted leather sofas and the china-lined walls to the stained glass accents and clawfoot tub, there’s so much to marvel over at this mill. 

The Cottage on the Dunes — Norfolk, Virginia

• Rating: 4.99 — Guest Favorite
• Sleeps: 8
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathrooms: 2 full; 1 half
• Amenities: Gas grill, laundry, kayaks, paddleboards
• Unforgettable Feature: The entire back of the house features unobstructed dune and waterfront views
• Best for: Families, friends, and group trips

Live out your Nicholas Sparks fantasy north of the North Carolina border at this minimalist, boho-mod cottage nestled into the Norfolk dunes. The Chesapeake Bay-view escape is flooded with natural light and offers panoramic waterfront views and direct beach access. 

The Tugboat Houseboat — Louisa, Virginia

• Rating: 4.98 — Guest Favorite
• Sleeps: 5
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathrooms: 1
• Amenities: Fire pit, kayaks
• Unforgettable Feature: 360-degree lake and forest views
• Best for: Families and friends' getaways

Of the many unique Airbnbs in Virginia, The Tugboat Houseboat is one of the most head-turning. The precious red boat has a main level and an upper level, each outfitted with sleeping and lounge spaces. Just keep in mind that this space requires a short hike through the woods to reach, as you can’t park directly on-site.

The Luxury A-Frame Escape — Luray, Virginia

• Rating: 4.84
• Sleeps: 4
• Bedrooms: 2
• Bathrooms: 1
• Amenities: Hot tub, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, rain shower
• Unforgettable Feature: An outdoor lounge space with a cedar hot tub and stone fireplace overlooking the private pond
• Best for: Couples and small families

The Old Dominion state is renowned for various large lake vacations, but this luxury A-frame, nestled on its own private pond near Shenandoah National Park, is one of the most stunning lakefront rentals in Virginia that we’ve seen. The impeccably designed space features floor-to-ceiling pond views, beautiful natural light, and European-inspired details, such as a heated towel rack, a freestanding fireplace, and a cedar hot tub. 

The Romantic Mountain Retreat — Basye, Virginia

• Rating: 5.0 — Guest Favorite
• Sleeps: 2
• Bedrooms: 1
• Bathrooms: 1
• Amenities: Soaking tub, electric fireplace, fire pit, dual-head rain shower, hot tub, as well as a shared sauna, sun deck, and dock 
• Unforgettable Feature: A large, private patio destined for a romantic date night 
• Best for: Couples

This Romantic Mountain Retreat is one of four EXHALE Chalets on Lake Laura. The small retreat feels surprisingly spacious and features a full modern kitchen, a sophisticated lounge area, and a king-size bedroom, all beautifully decorated. Couples (or whoever decides to book together) can enjoy secluded time on the deck (with high privacy walls) or meet up with fellow retreaters at the shared lake space below. 

It’s no secret that there are countless unique stays in Virginia, but let this be your guide to the best vacation rentals on the water—creek, lake, pond, or ocean—in the state.