50 of the Best Beach House Rentals
Updated: May 16, 2023
Whether you’re interested in stunning sunsets over the Pacific or the white sand of Florida, these beach house rentals will provide the perfect private escape.
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Ready to feel the sand between your toes?
You’re not the only one who dreamed about escaping to a gorgeous beach over the past year and a half. And now that more than 50 percent of adults in the United States are vaccinated, there’s been a huge uptick in Americans who are ready for warm-weather trips, whether they’re interested in a long family vacation or a weekend getaway. That said, many people aren’t quite ready for a far-flung trip to an exotic destination or a stay at a crowded hotel. That’s where the best beach rentals across the country come in. They’re private, perfectly socially distanced, and incredibly relaxing—and did we mention the views?
On this list, you’ll find 50 of the most popular beach house rentals in the United States according to data from Vrbo (formerly HomeAway.com). Whether it’s an upscale condo on the coast of California or a seaside cottage on Florida’s beautiful beaches, these are the places with the highest reviews and ratings that will help you get away from it all on an affordable mini vacation. Scroll through, book your favorite, pack your beach bag, and thank us later. Looking for a slightly different type of vacation vibe? Check out these cute cabin rentals for a cozy getaway.
Panama City Beach, Florida
It doesn’t get much better than a day that begins with coffee on your private balcony overlooking the ocean and ends with cocktails in the same spot. This spacious penthouse unit can sleep up to six people (perfect for the whole family) and has hot tubs and a pool that nestles right up against the white sands of the Emerald Coast. For a little help with your R&R, book a stay at one of these wellness retreats.
Emerald Isle, North Carolina
North Carolina’s Emerald Isle is known for having some of the best beach house rentals on the East Coast, and this dreamy duplex definitely fits the bill. Recently remodeled, it has a stunning king-sized master bedroom, a well-stocked kitchen, and an open-floor-plan living room that features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the ocean.
Oahu, Hawaii
If you want to stay in Hawaii’s famous North Shore neighborhood but don’t want to be in a chain hotel or overpriced resort, you’ll want to snag this rental home. Clean and well-equipped—with a stunning ocean view, to boot—it’s close to town, so you can end your endless beach days with a fresh seafood dinner at a local joint. Before you head to Hawaii or anywhere else, memorize these packing tips.
Kona Coast, Hawaii
Relax in your private and peaceful pool while you watch the vast Pacific Ocean lap the shore below. This piece of paradise is in a remote section of Kona away from the resort areas, so you’re guaranteed quiet. And you’ll have prime access to watch whales and spinner dolphins, not to mention technicolor sunsets, from the waterfront lanai. That said, you might also want to check out these all-inclusive Hawaiian resorts before you make your decision.
Anna Maria Island, Florida
One strawberry daiquiri coming right up! The only thing better than the fact that the kitchen comes equipped with a Margaritaville frozen concoction maker is the wonderful service you’ll receive. In the visitor reviews (the house received an average five-star rating), everyone raved about owner Stephanie’s attentiveness and welcoming personality.
Pass-a-Grille Beach, Florida
You’ll get the best of both worlds at this beach getaway, which puts you within walking distance of both secluded, crowd-free beaches and plenty of restaurants. Added bonus: There’s a full-sized washer and dryer on-site, so you can leave the sand where it belongs when your vacation is over. Always follow these etiquette rules at a vacation rental.
Anna Maria Island, Florida
What should you do when you arrive at this beachfront condo? Absolutely nothing—except relax, that is. Located on the quieter north end of the popular island, this rental is steps away from the stunning pure quartz beach, where the water is warm and shallow and perfect for everything from swimming to fishing. Find out more about why Anna Maria Island made our list of the most beautiful seaside spots in America.
Naples, Florida
One of the best beach house rentals in Florida, this tranquil escape has a heated pool with a bubbling hot tub attached—all shaded by an island-style lanai. And for days when you want to get out of the house, you’ll have a state park beach pass that gets you into nearby Delnor-Wiggens or Lover’s Key State Park for free. While you’re in the Sunshine State, visit the best Florida beaches locals want to keep secret.
Ormond Beach Plaza, Florida
Step out onto the back deck of this beach house in the morning and soak in the uninterrupted view of the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. It comes with everything you need for a day spent on the sand, including lounge chairs, toys, boogie boards, and even beach baby gear by request.
Englewood, Florida
Named “The Highview,” this Manasota Key must-visit has a lot more than just picturesque views of the Gulf. It also has a shell-cleaning station for rinsing off your beach bounty and all of the active accessories you could dream of included for free with your rental—from beach cruiser bikes to ocean kayaks to stand-up paddleboards. Just grab your beach towels and head to the beach to relax on the sand or swim in the ocean.
Captiva, Florida
Beachfront? Please. This unique getaway is surrounded by the beach on its own little peninsula of North Captiva Island. It’s so secluded, in fact, that it’s only accessible by private boat or charter, and there are no cars allowed on the island, which boasts white-shell beaches and Mango’s, a local grocery joint with a poolside bar. While we’re on the subject, here are more of the most gorgeous peninsulas in the United States.
Panama City, Florida
One of the top cheap beach vacations to book for your family, Panama City has a lot going for it—including this cozy cottage. Bask in the sea breeze in colorful Adirondack chairs on the deck, bike to St. Andrew’s State Park for an afternoon adventure, or make the short trip downtown for nightlife and shopping.
Weeki Wachee, Florida
You’ll definitely want to spend some time exploring the great outdoors during your stay at this beach house rental, nestled next to Weeki Wachee State Park. Kayak through the mangroves right off the back porch (boats are provided!), or roam the beach in search of sea turtles and manatees. Rumor has it the owner even leaves the makings for s’mores, which you can cook up over the fire pit. If you want to get even closer to nature, consider these amazing beach camping spots.
Fort Myers Beach, Florida
With a motto like “where every day is a holiday,” this is a place that knows how to vacation—so it’s no wonder that it gets so many repeat visitors. One of the big draws is the tiki hut in the backyard, which provides a shady spot to sip an ice-cold mojito on a hot day and watch dolphins frolic in the surf.
Flagler Beach, Florida
Experience “old Florida” in Flagler Beach, where you’ll find plenty of independent shops, a weekend farmers market, and a quaint historic district. In the evening, retire to this recently renovated three-bedroom beach house. It has a large oceanfront back deck with unbeatable views and a private boardwalk that takes you right down to the beach.
Fort Myers Beach, Florida
Just like these 20 amazing family beaches, there’s something for everyone at “Sandy Toes,” one of the best beach house rentals in the Fort Myers area. For those who want to soak up the sun and sand, the beach is right outside the back door. And for those who would rather wine and dine, downtown is a quick drive away with shops and restaurants galore.
Panama City Beach, Florida
Score all the amenities of a luxury resort without the hefty price tag at this penthouse condo. While the beach chair and umbrella set-up service are only available during the regular season, you’ll have access to the indoor/outdoor heated pool, sauna, oceanfront fitness room, and massive hot tub all year round.
Amelia Island, Florida
This upscale condo, located in the Amelia Surf and Racquet Club, is ideal for beachgoers who love staying active. The grounds offer numerous swimming pools and tennis courts, along with a shady trail that winds its way down the island and is perfect for biking, walking, or running.
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
The perfect couple’s getaway, this pied-à-terre for two is on aptly named Lovers Key. With views of both Estero Bay and Lovers Key, one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches with seven miles of sand for strolling and swimming, it’s the ultimate spot for some cozy R&R.
Fort Myers Beach, Florida
Dreaming of visiting one of the best beaches in the world—but don’t want to spend a bundle or travel too far right now? You’re in luck. For around $125 a night, you can escape to this Gulf Coast getaway, where the sparkling-clean interior is almost as impressive as the ocean views from the condo’s balcony.
Fort Myers Beach, Florida
Step onto the grounds of this condominium and you’ll feel as if you’ve been whisked away to Hawaii. Not only are there tiki huts nestled among pockets of lush tropical flowers, but you’ll be able to see beautiful panoramic views of the ocean from every window.
Amelia Island, Florida
Charming and romantic: two words we’d use to describe this condo located on scenic Amelia Island. The thick grove of trees surrounding your hideaway gives way to windswept sandy dunes that open onto a pristine and private stretch of beach.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
The owners of this condo at the family-friendly Gulf Shores Plantation Resort promise it’ll feel like a home away from home. And while the kids will love the six (!!) swimming pools and tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts, adults will love the chance to play a round (or two) of golf at Kiva Dunes Golf Course, one of the best courses in the country.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
If you’re a fan of warm winter getaways (like these budget-friendly options for families), add this condo on the Gulf Shore to your vacation list. Amenities such as an indoor heated pool and hot tubs, as well as a steam room, sauna, and game room, make it the ultimate off-season escape.
Tybee Island, Georgia
The name of this beach house rental, “Captain’s View,” says it all. From the porch, you’ll look out onto your own private beach, where you’ll often see ships sailing by or the sun setting in the evening. You’ll also be able to spot the property’s turtle pond, which is part of protected wetlands that are great for bird-watching. Avoid making any of these vacation rental home mistakes for a perfect trip.
Topsail Island, North Carolina
While the interior of this quaint vacation home is warm and inviting, you’ll likely want to spend all of your days outside either firing up the gas grill, playing a game of cornhole in the spacious yard, or venturing down to the beach that’s just steps away. Or just kick your feet up in one of the comfy rocking chairs on the porch for a perfectly relaxing afternoon.
Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire
This lakeside retreat is definitely worthy of our list of the most scenic nature getaways in every state. The gorgeous views of the crystal blue waters set against a backdrop of majestic mountains beat a tropical beach any day. It also has its own private dock for kayaks, jet skis, and small boats, and there’s a raft included in your rental.
Cutler, Maine
Consider this the New England vacation of your dreams. Tucked away under towering pine trees on a secluded beach, the log cabin may look rustic, but it feels luxurious thanks to touches like a claw-foot tub, stone fireplaces, cathedral ceilings, and private balconies for the bedrooms. And don’t forget to enjoy the “Bare Den” in the backyard, aka a free-standing sauna!
Mission Beach, California
There’s so much to do in San Diego, from going on rides on the Mission Beach Boardwalk to exploring historic Old Town to strolling through the San Diego Zoo (which made this list of the best zoo in every state). And this modern condo, just 50 steps off the beach, is right in the center of it all. Don’t miss this list of the best beach boardwalks in America—how many have you been to?
Fort Bragg, California
Southern California may have fish tacos and white beaches, but some of the best beach house rentals are actually found in the northern regions of the state, where the coastline offers breathtaking visions of rocky cliffs and lush pines. That’s where you’ll find “Ocean Mystique,” a pet-friendly, two-bedroom cottage set high on a bluff and made cozy with a hot tub, cast-iron stove, and plush furniture. In California, you’ll also find a number of beautiful beaches that naturally glow.
Irish Beach, California
“Grandma’s Beach Cottage” may be basic on the inside, but the setting cannot be beat, with waves crashing on the shore directly below the quaint cottage. There are unobstructed views of the beach and waves, so you can scope out the best spots for a long walk on the sand. Warm up afterward with a glass of wine by the crackling fire.
Lincoln City, Oregon
Just a dozen stairs bring you down to the sandy shores below, making this private home perfect for beachcombers who want direct access to the sand to search for treasures in the hundreds of tide pools or have a relaxing afternoon picnic while watching the surfers. You can also take in the views from the expansive deck and outdoor hot tub.
Tillamook, Oregon
There are beach house rentals with fabulous views, and there are unique house rentals that are sights themselves. This trendy yurt would be at the top of both, with its 180-degree views of the water and a skylight so you can literally sleep under the Oregon stars.
Rockaway Beach, Oregon
Nothing beats a summer barbecue on the beach. And this getaway has just what you need for an evening (and vacation) to remember, thanks to its outdoor fire pit and picnic table setup just steps off the sand. Bonus: It’s pet-friendly, so your pup can come along, too! If you hate leaving home without your furry friends, you’ll also want to bookmark this list of pet-friendly hotels.
Waldport, Oregon
If this charming A-frame cabin had an online dating profile, it would read, “Must love long walks on the beach, whale watching from the upper deck, and cozying up by the fireplace at night.” If those all sound like reasons to “connect,” this property is for you since you can choose to do any of those activities if you stay here.
Rockaway Beach, Oregon
This seaside cottage is close to all of your favorite vacation activities, from hiking scenic trails along the coast to indulging in regional cuisine at local watering holes. And since it sleeps up to six people, it’s ideal for families or groups of friends looking for an action-packed Oregon escape. Looking for a truly epic vacation? Take an Oregon Trail road trip before or after your stay here.
Rockaway Beach, Oregon
Take in the wild natural beauty that is the Oregon coast with a stay at this surfside villa. Not only are you just a short walk across the dunes from the beach, but you’re also less than half a mile to downtown Rockaway Beach so you can easily get to shops and, more importantly, ice cream shacks.
Lincoln City, Oregon
A night in this penthouse condo will rival a night at one of the world’s most luxurious hotels. Just think: a steaming hot tub on your private balcony that looks out at the waves, a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, and a river-rock fireplace perfect for staving off that cool ocean breeze in the evenings. It doesn’t get much better than that!
Moclips, Washington
For awesome beach house rentals, the Olympic Peninsula should definitely be added to your travel bucket list ASAP. This rental home, which is stocked with everything you need for a weekend getaway, is close to all of the area’s best sights, like the Hoh Rainforest and Ruby Beach.
Whidbey Island, Washington
It doesn’t get much more charming than the storybook setting you’ll find at this Washington retreat. Inside, there’s an old wood-burning stove and comfy furniture for lounging around. Outside, you can watch the boats drift by as you relax in wicker lawn chairs around the fire pit, or set sail yourself with one of the provided kayaks.
Herron Island, Washington
You’ve probably never heard of Herron Island—but that’s exactly why you should pay it a visit. The secluded spot in upstate Washington, where this beach house with absolutely breathtaking views is hidden, is only accessible by ferry, and there are no restaurants or shops on the island, making it one of the most peaceful places to vacation. Love the thought of island life? Here are more U.S. islands you can visit without a passport.
Lakebay, Washington
“Sunset Lagoon Retreat” is one of those places that’s so perfect, you may have to pinch yourself to remember you’re not dreaming. Tucked away on a private island in Puget Sound, the romantic getaway has a secluded beach and dock in the backyard, along with a marshy lagoon where you can grab fresh oysters, clams, and mussels for dinner. There could even be some great lake house rentals in the area!
Haines, Alaska
The trip to Alaska will be well worth it with a few nights at this rustic Paradise Cove cabin. Step out the back door and you’ll be surrounded by what some people consider the most beautiful views of Alaska’s snow-capped mountains and Rainbow Glacier. If you enjoy off-the-beaten-path travel, you’ll love these best-kept secrets in every state.
Oahu, Hawaii
There are many romantic hotels around the country, but everyone knows that there’s really nowhere more romantic than the beaches of Hawaii. And this Oahu escape lives up to that reputation. It’s as close to the beach as you could be (the water is literally right outside of your door), and it also has a gourmet kitchen and plenty of thoughtful touches, including all the gear you need—from snorkel gear to lounge chairs—to enjoy the beach.
Maui, Hawaii
This luxury getaway without the luxury-getaway price tag is without a doubt one of the best beach house rentals on Maui. Maybe it’s the fact that the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean are less than 25 feet from your window. Or maybe it’s that you’re bound to see whales or sea turtles swimming by. Or maybe it’s the spa-worthy rain shower and remodeled gourmet kitchen. They’re all good reasons to stay here, so book a few nights and decide for yourself! For more budget-friendly options, don’t miss the best cheap Airbnbs in all 50 states.
Oahu, Hawaii
At this island home, you’ll have stunning ocean views out one window and picturesque mountain views out the other. But what’s even better is how close it is to all of the most popular North Shore activities like Waimea Falls and the pineapple plantations. Ready to book your Hawaiian vacation? Read this step-by-step planning guide first.
Kauai, Hawaii
Named Hale Hokulani, which translates to “House of Starry Heavens,” this romantic rental’s crowning feature is its private lanai. Not only can you listen to the relaxing sounds of the waves rolling in on the beachfront open veranda, but you can also catch a glimpse of the gorgeous Hawaiian skies, from stunning sunsets to some of the brightest stars you’ve ever seen.
Maui, Hawaii
Perfect for a couple, this one-bedroom beach house sits right on the sandy beaches of the island’s west side, which is known for amazing snorkeling and swimming. Bonus: When you wake up in the morning, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the islands of Lanai and Molokai across the sparkling ocean waters.
Maui, Hawaii
A secluded beach + a private lanai with unimpeded ocean views + a California king bed = one of the most romantic hideaways on the best island in Hawaii. If you do decide to leave your little slice of heaven, you’ll find plenty to do nearby, from attending a traditional luau to getting a couples massage at the spa. Sign us up!
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