Dreaming about your future beach trip is easy, but choosing the right beach house on Airbnb can feel daunting. It takes time to choose the perfect vacation spot. Thankfully, we know a few coastal getaways that stay mild and temperate all year round. If you’re willing to think long-term and plan your trip well in advance, you might just have a charming sea cottage to look forward to.
So, here’s your excuse to fantasise a little. We’ve combed through the dreamiest shores across the United States to find the best beachfront homes on Airbnb; from the golden coastlines of California and legendary surfing spots of Hawaii, to the palm tree-lined shores of Florida and old-money resort towns of the East Coast. Whether you’re a tourist on the lookout for a sunny getaway or a surfer who misses the sand and sea, there’s an oceanfront retreat for your bucket list.
Also read: 10 Unique Airbnbs for an Unforgettable Travel Experience
Best Airbnb beach houses in Hawaii
1. This tropical surf shack in Princeville, Kauai
Listing name: ~The Surfshack~ with breathtaking ocean views!!
Listing type: Entire condominium
Max. no. of guests: 5
No. of bedrooms: 2
Famously called the Surf Shack, this beachfront Airbnb in Kauai invites you to slow down and enjoy a cup of the local coffee as you watch the waves roll in from the lanai. Aloha spirit radiates from every corner of this Princeville condo, from the living room with its boho-chic decor to the private trail leading to Pali Ke Kua Beach or Hideaways Beach. Even better, this surf shack offers the perfect viewpoint for admiring the sunrise, the sunset, or even a double rainbow curving over the Pacific Ocean.
2. This stunning penthouse within walking distance to Waikiki Beach
Listing name: STUNNING PENTHOUSE – 100FT TO BEACH – LEGAL!!
Listing type: Entire condominium
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 1
Your search for the best Airbnb in Waikiki ends with this stunning penthouse in Honolulu. Not only does it place you a quick hop away from Waikiki Beach, but it also comes with views of Diamond Head, Kapiolani Park, and the Honolulu Zoo. All you have to do is open the sliding doors at the sundeck. But if watching the sunrise over the sea isn’t enough, you can also take full advantage of the nearby restaurants and shops around this lively neighbourhood.
3. This surf-ready home on wheels in Oahu
Listing name: Luxurious Mobile Beach Lounge
Listing type: Camper/RV
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 1
If you’re hoping to chase huge waves on your next trip to Oahu, it’s time to pay a visit to the ultimate surfer’s haven on the famous North Shore. This luxury van camper on Airbnb lets you cruise between some of the world’s biggest surf breaks, from Banzai Pipeline to Sunset Beach. Time your visit between November and February for the highest waves; alternatively, May to September are milder for casual swims.
Not up for surfing? Take an afternoon off to explore the laid-back town of Haleiwa, where you can eat garlic-butter shrimp with rice from food trucks and beat the heat with rainbow-flavoured shave ice.
4. This oceanfront penthouse with breathtaking views in Maui
Listing name: Oceanfront Penthouse with Breathtaking Ocean Views
Listing type: Entire condominium
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
You’re travelling a great distance to Hawaii for ocean views, aren’t you? Luckily, you won’t find a better place for that than this oceanfront penthouse in Maui. Beach-hopping is par for the course at this beach house Airbnb fringed with palm trees, where you can choose between Charley Young Beach or Cove Beach to soak up some sun. Plus, the views from the living room and the lanai are just as rewarding, overlooking the West Maui mountains and the sea.
5. This elegant three-bedroom beach house Airbnb on the Big Island
Listing name: Earthy Modern Beach House
Listing type: Entire house
Max. no. of guests: 6
No. of bedrooms: 3
Say aloha to air conditioning, tropical plants, and short walks to a secluded beach from this elegant beach house on the Big Island. Located in Kailua-Kona along Ali’i Drive, this well-appointed home offers the full package: a strategic location, magazine-ready interiors, and complete amenities. Large enough to fit up to six guests, it features creative touches such as a hanging wicker chair, a turntable, and a projector for watching movies in the living room.
6. This family-friendly retreat near Pipeline and Sunset Beach
Listing name: Hawaii Oceanfront Beach House Paradise on the
Listing type: Entire house
Max. no. of guests: 10
No. of bedrooms: 3
Rock yourself to sleep to the sound of the waves at this family-friendly beach house on Oahu’s North Shore. Found between Pipeline and Sunset Beach, this three-bedroom property boasts a variety of activities for all ages. Soaking in the hot tub on the waterfront deck, swimming in kid-friendly areas, and watching whales breach the ocean are just a few ideas that come to mind.
Does it sound like paradise? Welcome to Hawaii — and this beachfront Airbnb that offers the quintessential North Shore experience.
Also read: Top 17 Stunning Airbnbs for the Best Experience in Hawaii
Beach house Airbnb stays in Northern California
7. This relaxing apartment with ocean views in San Francisco
Listing name: Beachfront urban Oasis – 6 beds, hot tub
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 11
No. of bedrooms: 4
Planning a sun-soaked escape to Northern California? The views from this relaxing beach house Airbnb in San Francisco can give seaside hotels a run for their money. The four-bedroom home features an airy open floor plan and plenty of outdoor spaces — including a BBQ area and a beachfront deck!
Sitting just a few steps away from Ocean Beach, you can easily catch some waves first thing in the morning. After a fun day at sea, you’re all set to explore the nearby coffee shops, restaurants, and bars in the Outer Sunset neighbourhood.
Also read: 10 Luxurious Airbnbs in San Francisco That Are Worth the Splurge
8. This stunning art-filled home in Sausalito
Listing name: Modern waterfront home with incredible SF Bay view
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 8
No. of bedrooms: 4
Less than an hour-long drive north of San Francisco lies Sausalito: famed for its whimsically colourful coastal homes and small-town-esque atmosphere. This stylish waterfront stay lets you experience those and more. Think floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room that retract to reveal a panorama of the SF skyline, San Francisco Bay, and Angel Island. On the third floor, you’ll find a spacious balcony with ample seating and a fire pit for when it gets chilly.
Not to be outdone by the view, the interiors are equally stunning; nearly every corner of the house boasts an artwork, from paintings to sculptural furniture and artisanal rugs. Pet owners will also be pleased to know that it has a small yard for when your furry friend needs to go to the potty. Meanwhile, its convenient downtown location puts you close to many cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and even the Sausalito Ferry Terminal.
Southern California beachfront Airbnb vacation homes
9. This cosy beach cabana near Laguna Beach
Listing name: Cozy Beach Cabana
Listing type: Entire guesthouse
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
How about taking a day trip from Los Angeles? Make a beeline for this cosy beach cabana, where the sandy path to Laguna Beach is practically laid out for you. Fitting up to two guests, it enjoys close proximity to the ocean while having all the rustic comforts of a log cabin. You can sit on the outdoor deck with a glass of wine or read a book on the sofa next to the stone fireplace. Come rain or shine, this Airbnb in California is a flexible beach house for any season.
10. This blissful waterfront escape along the Malibu coast
Listing name: Idyllic, Romantic Beachfront Apartment in Malibu
Listing type: Entire rental unit
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
Of all the private beach house retreats we’ve seen on Airbnb, this blissful waterfront apartment in Malibu is by far the most impressive. It commands an impeccable view of the coast and brings the crashing waves right below your doorstep; you can practically taste the salty breeze without stepping outside. Sip your drinks on the porch or take a peaceful stroll on the sand — this bright and airy home is what vacations are all about.
11. This secluded bungalow in Malibu with mountain and sea views
Listing name: Bungalow/Studio with unique Ocean & Mountain views
Listing type: Entire guesthouse
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 1
Mountain views by day and stargazing by the sea at night? Sign us up. Sleeping in this secluded bungalow with ocean and mountain views means never having to choose between the naturally beautiful sights that make a visit to Southern California worthwhile. Outside this guesthouse, there’s an outdoor patio and a garden with two lounge chairs for sitting under the stars.
Just one more thing before you hit the road: Prepare a playlist in advance. To reach this beach house Airbnb, you’ll be driving up the Pacific Coast Highway for the ultimate California road trip.
12. This modern oceanfront flat that opens to Venice Beach
Listing name: Hear Ocean Waves from a Venice Beachfront Pad
Listing type: Entire guest suite
Max. no. of guests: 3
No. of bedrooms: 1
Modern and vintage elements create a charming hideaway on buzzy Venice Beach. Framed art pieces, a turntable and records, a 1970s pinball machine, and beach cruising bikes are just some of the standout features of this romantic sea bungalow. But best of all, you can open the doors and step straight onto the sandy beach.
Located in the bohemian neighbourhood of Venice, this well-decorated suite definitely offers the ideal home base for exploring this side of California. The beachfront pad on Airbnb is close to Venice Pier, Washington Boulevard, and Abbot Kinney Boulevard, while Santa Monica is a quick scooter ride away.
13. This seaside condo with balcony views in San Diego
Listing name: New Luxury Condo on Ocean Cliff, 2 Bedroom Suites
Listing type: Entire condominium
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 2
San Diego’s climate stays mild year-round, which is why we’re nominating this two-bedroom condo for your beach adventures in California. Situated in the heart of Ocean Beach, it beckons with balcony views and an outdoor dining area with the waves as your house backdrop. At this San Diego beachfront Airbnb, you’re just a stone’s throw away from nearby restaurants and cafes.
Top beach house Airbnbs in Florida
14. This dreamy beachfront condo for family trips to Panama City Beach
Listing name: Tidewater – Beach Front Master! Amazing gulf views
Listing type: Entire condominium
Max. no. of guests: 6
No. of bedrooms: 1
Could this be the most photogenic beach house in Florida? The longer you spend at this luxury condominium on the beachfront, the harder it is to part with the views of Panama City Beach from every window. Not to mention that pristine sands are just a short elevator ride down from the building.
Complete with a balcony and cosy beach house amenities that live up to the photographs, this beachfront Airbnb in Florida is a crowd-pleaser for families who are travelling with kids.
15. This peaceful beach oasis in Cape Canaveral
Listing name: SeaRenity Beach Oceanfront Condo With a Pool in Cape Canaveral
Listing type: Entire condominium
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 1
Anyone seeking a respite from stress or burn-out can embrace the slow life at this peaceful oceanfront condominium in Cape Canaveral. Just a short walk to the nearest beach, this Airbnb in Florida exudes the ambience of an idyllic summer house with nautical-inspired decor. Inside, the pastel blue accents create a soothing atmosphere for guests to unplug and relax as well.
But comfort isn’t all that this coastal escape has to offer. If you’re lucky, you just might get to witness the historic rocket launches from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral.
16. This studio with direct access to South Beach in Miami
Listing name: Studio Excellent Location and Value.!
Listing type: Entire apartment
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: Studio
Nothing says “Welcome to Miami” more than a chic home on South Beach, and thankfully, this coastal Airbnb has the necessary amenities to complete your vacation. This studio with direct beach access is well-stocked with beach chairs, towels, a cooler for drinks, and an umbrella. The beach is pretty much your backyard, so you’ll have no trouble beating the crowds in Miami and claiming your spot on the sand.
17. This beach-ready apartment with a heated pool near Siesta Beach
Listing name: Siesta Key Beach Front Condo
Listing type: Entire condominium
Max. no. of guests: 6
No. of bedrooms: 2
If a heated pool and a white-sand beach sound like a match made in heaven, then this beach-ready apartment right across Siesta Beach is for you. Boasting rave reviews, this private beachfront Airbnb in Florida is stacked with everything you’ll need to crush your vacation, including a screened lanai with Gulf Coast views. Guests are welcome to the building’s shared amenities, such as a heated outdoor pool and a fitness room. Tempted to pack your bags yet?
18. This cosy pool villa close to Fort Lauderdale Beach
Listing name: Private and Tranquil 1 bdrm w/ pool 2 mi to beach!
Listing type: Entire villa
Max no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 1
This charming Fort Lauderdale villa has all the sun-drenched elements of a tropical holiday retreat: lush gardens, an outdoor BBQ grill, and a shared pool with lounge chairs. In fact, the beach house Airbnb is so warm and pleasant that you may find yourself tempted to stay longer. That said, you won’t have to travel far for some time on the sand — Fort Lauderdale Beach is only a quick drive away. As a bonus, the host provides pool floaties, beach chairs, and a cooler.
19. This lovely pink home on Ponte Vedra Beach
Listing name: The Pink Seahorse – Beachfront Modern A-Frame
Listing type: Entire home
Max no. of guests: 13
No. of bedrooms: 3
Sitting on the shores of Ponte Vedra, this stunning A-frame loft puts you right in the heart of unspoiled Floridian shores. The exquisitely designed 1970s beachfront house is a coastal gem, an Airbnb close enough to the sea that it almost feels like you can jump from the door straight into the waters. Interiors are cosy with luxurious touches, while the outdoor areas feature hammocks and a fire pit.
Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the nearby Guana River Preserve, a lush paradise perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and kayaking.
Best Airbnb beach houses on the East Coast
20. This dreamy summer home in Southampton
Listing name: Bayside Sensation in Southampton
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 9
No. of bedrooms: 4
This beach Airbnb in the Hamptons lets you experience what it’s like living in the famous ritzy enclave on Long Island. Best enjoyed during summertime, it features a heated outdoor pool and direct access to the beach, leaving you spoilt for choice. There’s also the ground-floor deck with a dining table and plenty of lounge chairs for when you want to bask in the sunshine and waterfront views from the comfort of your home.
Two of the upstairs bedrooms have a private balcony, perfect for those who want some quiet time. You can also borrow the kayak and paddleboard that comes with this rental. But if you want the full Hamptons experience, we recommend renting a boat at the nearby marina!
Also read: 10 Gorgeous Airbnbs in Upstate New York for the Perfect Weekend Escape
21. This superb houseboat in Rhode Island
Listing name: Casey’s Houseboat – “Capt. Carl”
Listing type: Houseboat
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 2
Another fancy East Coast summer retreat is Newport, where you’ll find historic mansions — most of which date all the way back to the Gilded Age. But for something more laid-back and unassuming, this floating two-level dockside home is the way to go. It even comes with two single kayaks right outside the door, inviting you to explore the surroundings.
Expect interiors that are equal parts cosy and kitschy. We’re talking meticulously varnished furniture, a fully equipped kitchen, and pops of bright hues and eclectic prints. But our favourite would have to be the bedrooms upstairs. To get there, you need to climb a short ladder — making you feel like you’re entering a top-secret hideout!
22. This A-frame beachfront Airbnb along Great South Bay
Listing name: Perfect Smith Point Private Beachfront Getaway!
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 6
No. of bedrooms: 3
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of New York City with this sleek modern house by the shore. It’s located in the hamlet of Shirley, which is only about a one-and-a-half-hour drive. While there’s a private beach just a few steps from the door, you can also head to Smith Point Beach that’s only five minutes away. There’s even a tiki bar nearby for those looking for the perfect coastal nightcap!
The floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room let you enjoy your morning cuppa as you watch the sun rising above Great South Bay. Meanwhile, those on a workcation can take advantage of the desk in the upstairs common area — which also happens to have a hammock chair and a telescope facing the waterfront! Definitely a beach Airbnb on the East Coast worth bookmarking.
Also read: 10 Stunning Airbnbs in Santorini That Are Worth the Splurge
Mentally, we’re already lathering our reef-safe sunscreen and imagining ourselves frolicking in the sand. Out of all the best Airbnb beach houses featured here, which one is your favourite?
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