Okay, so as far as house rentals go, in the temporary, vacation-seeking sense, there is no better option than Airbnb. Originally Air-Bed-and-Breakfast.com, Airbnb has come a long way since its initial launch in 2007. Today, it’s one of the most trusted sites for vacationers to seek out housing—the exact kind they are looking for, in the choicest locales that they might find themselves in. The best part of it all? It’s cost-effective, many times much cheaper than exclusive hotels and their commission-loaded amenities and overhead costs, and has the added benefit of being the real experience that every person looks for when exploring new places.
And if you are one of the homeowners who want to list their property as probable rental, you have great opportunities for yourself there too. The beautiful concept disappoints no one, and you have a lot to gain from it too.
Dividing from this, down here is a list I compiled of The Top 10 Airbnb Houseboats, (we’re talking California, people !) that could be your next stop in the sunny Western Coast state of California. The golden sand, the white surf, the soothing heaven of nature, and the fabulous landmarks, here we come!
But before we deviate to that part of this article, I’d like to get you up to speed on a subtle difference between two different kinds of housing that are listed here, and though they are partially used interchangeably in the West Coast, I’d like my readers to be prepared enough in the sort of housing they are looking to rent when they go to experience the best of California, the local style.
We’re talking today about Houseboats, and the difference in them from what are traditionally, and perhaps more accurately, called the Floating Homes. Be sure there are differences to be found that might just lead to you changing your type of house-rental, and although Airbnb boasts of a range of types of housing to be rented out to vacationers, Houseboats and Floating Homes are listed under the same category, so the need to make this distinction in here is doubly necessary.
As it is, Houseboats are essentially just large boats, with their engine, and can run on their power (theoretically, at least). Fully equipped with amenities that make them hospitable and comfortable to live on board, Houseboats can, though, still be a little boat-like in the manner of their equipment of certain facilities like bathrooms and plumbing.
On the other hand, Floating Homes are just what their name suggests, homes that float on the water. They come with connected plumbing and electric utilities and are built quite like the houses on land, just on pontoons that make it possible for them to float.
In this article, readers will get a list of the top 10 Houseboats and Floating Homes that can be rented through Airbnb for their Californian escape.
Table of Contents
1. Boat Bliss On The Delta
When I say this houseboat sitting on the beautiful waters of the Delta at Koket Resort in Ryde, California is a guest favorite, I mean it. Outfitted with the best of utilities, this remodeled houseboat boasts a five-star rating, and with good reason. Hosted by Angel, this houseboat will offer you the best of tranquility while floating along the peaceful river.
With a two-bedroom and one-bathroom setup, this spacious houseboat would be a welcome stay during your vacation, and you can enjoy paddle boarding and other outdoor activities out on the river, with the added bliss of sunsets and nature-watching, out on the spacious deck.
• Rent at $600/night
• 3 Guests
2. France On The Water
A usually rare find on Airbnb because of its high demand, Laura’s houseboat in Mill Valley, California is a true essence of floating paradise on the waters. A uniquely romantic and rejuvenating experience, For anyone who wants a touch of the magical France on their getaway, this is for you.
A French Daybed, an open patio, and an open-plan, studio-style finish with elegant furnishings, along with the fully equipped kitchen and bathroom facilities make this 1 Bedroom housing a cozy escape during your vacation.
• Rent at $240/night
• 2 Guests
3. Treehouse Loft Houseboat
Updated to “mermaid chic” as it is called, this 2 Bedroom houseboat is a vintage wooden charmer on the waterfront shores of the picturesque Sausalito, California. With the added enticement of a ‘treehouse loft’, along with the regular, but cozy, bedroom and living room combo, this houseboat is a high demand among couples and guests seeking old-world, historic charm along with some shorebird songs and nature-inspired moments of introspection.
Being close to shore, walking, biking, kayaking, or paddleboarding to the shores to access nearby restaurants is fun and an experience worth having.
• Rent at $200/night
• 2 – 3 Guests
4. Delightful Discovery On The Bay
The dream getaway vacation for anyone can be found in this delightful houseboat in the peaceful, calm waters of Discovery Bay, California. A memorable place guaranteeing an experience that is anything but ordinary, this houseboat gets anchored out onto the waters and there is a multitude of activities, such as fishing, water-jumping, kayaking, and paddle-boarding available.
Further, the spacious living areas include luxurious futons, an airbed, a Bimini on the top deck, with umbrellas on the lower, and the added fully equipped amenities in the kitchen and bathroom areas. A three-bed and one-bathroom setup with a bonus of a kitchen and an electric barbeque? Dreams of paradise, indeed.
• Rent at $260/night
• 4 Guests
5. Sausalito Cozy
Ever wanted to have the real Sausalito houseboat experience? Well, you’re at the right place. When vacationing or even sometimes working (we all need a bit of inspiration sometimes, don’t we ?) there is nothing better than this cozy retreat on the Bridgeway Marina in Sausalito, California.
This one-bedroom houseboat comes with a breathtaking view of the water and hills from the good-sized kitchen, all together with a rooftop deck you can use to memorize the fabulous sunsets and sunrises on the water.
• Rent at $200/night
• 2 Guests
6. Sitting On The Dock
I’ve always wanted to say I have experienced living directly on the water of San Francisco Bay, so if this is what entices you, be sure that the RMS Atlas is what you’ve been looking for. Perfectly equipped kitchen and bathrooms with top-line appliances, an expansive two-bedroom setup, and a complete roof deck for the panoramic views, this charming houseboat just screams the perfect holiday.
With a nod to the classical style in decor, with small, colorful pieces that give the place its suave, old-school aura, this south-facing houseboat on the top-rated Issaquah Dock in Sausalito, California is the one home that has the capability of transforming your holiday experience.
• Rent at $210/night
• 4 Guests
7. Under The Stars in LA
Couples, anyone? Looking for a unique experience, even amongst the houseboat-living ones? Welcome to the perfect place for you. This gorgeous little houseboat with its one-bedroom, one-bathroom setup is all classic teak wood and leather veneer, with charming velvet interiors that entice your senses with their warm colors and cozy welcome.
Nestled in the heart of Marina Del Ray, one of the most beautiful locations in the city of Los Angeles, California, this houseboat is a one-of-a-kind experience, with its inclusion of 3/4 hours of sailing to be incorporated at any time in the duration of your stay. What’s more, this little home offers very quiet, safe, and private accommodation at a great price, so there will be no disruptions on your way to a perfect romantic getaway.
• Rent at $570/night
• 2 Guests
8. On The Waters Of The Sacramento
This custom-built houseboat on the calm waters of the Sacramento River in Walnut Grove, California houses a one-bedroom, one-bathroom set up with a fully equipped kitchen, comfy leather sofas, and a fireplace (!). Sounds about as charming and cozy as a private getaway on water could get.
Want to get close to nature and truly feel the magic of the sunsets? This is your place, for here you’ll get to see the best of the gifts Mother Nature has to offer in the presence of blue herons, sea lions, wild ducks, and beavers.
• Rent at $110/night
• 2 Guests
9. Whisper On The Water
A proper sailboat rocking on the waters of the Bay? Count me in! The Whisper is a charming little houseboat, in an adorable floating studio apartment style with one bedroom, that will give you the exact glamorous camping experience that you want when you think of vacationing on a sailboat.
With its beautiful open-plan layout decks front and back, and options for kayaking or paddle-boarding, The Whisper is a haven for vacationers who come in to get away from the hubbub of the city. Besides, you’re always close to civilization, with the Downtown Redwood City restaurants and nightlife being just a few minutes away, and The Whisper’s proximity to the 101 freeway.
• Rent at $160/night
• 2 Guests
10. Neighboring With Floating Homes
Thinking of vacationing with family? This memorable place on a special pier in the middle of a floating home neighborhood, on the waters of Richardson Bay in Marin County, California is the perfect place for family and friends. Adjacent to the bike path and the walking trail, this home is near San Francisco, Stinson Beach, Muir Woods, and the Wine Country.
With three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a family room, a gourmet kitchen, and a sundeck with a barbeque, this home is paradise for vacationers and a true nature enthusiast’s dream. Comfort, luxury, and space, this floating home has it all, and more, with the bonus of sunsets over Mt. Tam and the songs of the wildlife that abound here.
• Rent at $340/night
• 5 – 6 Guests
And with this, we are at the end of my list. These are some of the best houseboats I found that I thought could make an experience truly wonderful, as it is, there are several options listed on Airbnb throughout the year, but one thing to note is that the listings change, by availability, and you may not find one or two of these every time you look for them through the official Airbnb website, but rest assured, there are always options for it, and every person’s dream vacation has their moments of wonder and joy that they carry with them in their memories. This is just my attempt at contributing to the happy feeling.
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