12 Best Airbnb Houseboats In San Diego, California - Updated 2024

Sheela
Sheela 
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San Diego is a vibrant city that offers visitors plenty of things to do alone or with companions. Well known for its pristine beaches, parks, and warm climate, the city attracts many tourists every year. Since the city sits by the water, visitors can indulge in fun water sports and activities on their holidays. If you’re not sure where to stay in San Diego, there are several vacation rentals available. There is also a range of yachts and houseboat rentals in San Diego available at your disposal - sounds like a true adventure, right? Plan a trip soon and enjoy comfortable accommodation on the water. Continue reading to find out more about the best Airbnb houseboats in San Diego, California.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 07, 2024.

1. Villa San Juan

This houseboat for rent in San Diego is anchored to Marina Cortez on Harbor Island, which is minutes away from downtown. Best suited for a family of four, the two-bedroom houseboat comes equipped with comfy queen-sized beds that ensure a good night’s rest. The well-heated interior is also furnished with ceiling fans that promise a comfortable stay all year round. An internet connection is provided inside that can be used for both work and entertainment. The equipped kitchen lets you prepare meals when hunger strikes.

Guests can bask in the sun on the loungers with a drink in hand or grill yummy barbeques for lunch. A shared pool offers rejuvenation with a few laps after a long day of exploration.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.67 km (3.6 mi) from Balboa Park
255 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the kitchen has useful amenities and fully stocked with all the kitchen needs
warm weather great patio and comfortable beds
the rooftop deck was amazing and patt had lots of supplies for the beach or pool
wi-fi worked fine pleanty of hot water all the time all good
small kitchen had the basics needed we enjoyed the rooftop patio as well
Cleanliness:
everything was very clean and comfortable
the houseboat is very clean and functional
the house is clean and comfortable
the space was clean and very comfortable
houseboat was clean and we had everything we needed
Host:
the host is a very helpful and accommodating one too
the home was well equipped and the manager molly was very kind and helpful
she was very helpful and made our trip much better
molly the property manager is so helpful kind and makes us feel right at home
patt was very responsive to any questions/e-mails i sent and was very thorough with check-in directions
Location:
great location and central to downtown
the location is perfect
the location was also great
we were very close to the airport which was definitely an advantage for transportation
the location was great for the zoo uss midway and beaches
Read more reviews

2. Gorgeous houseboat in San Diego Bay

Stay at this gorgeous houseboat rental in San Diego and enjoy your morning drink from the comforts of your living room and take in the views of the water. This houseboat is spacious and spotless. The shuttered windows allow the sea breeze to enter, making the accommodation cool. There are fans and a space heater on board, should guests need to change the temperature.

There are two decks in this houseboat. The upper level has a spacious room with storage space, a pull-out sofa and some chairs. There is also a dining table, suited for four. The lower level has two bedrooms. The kitchen is fully equipped with all the appliances needed for a comfortable stay. There is Wi-Fi available.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.86 km (3.7 mi) from Balboa Park
129 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 4 Beds 8 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the wifi connection is secure and really good
we loved the amenities the beds and all the home offered
also the beds were so comfortable
you have 2 full bedrooms and a 3rd room upstairs that could easily convert to a 3rd
Cleanliness:
the furniture is nice clean and not the usual 'cast offs' found in many b&bs and rental properties
not only was the houseboat perfect for our group but it was very comfy and clean
the houseboat is roomy comfy attractively decorated and extremely clean
Host:
prior to check in the property owner was very responsive to my inquiries
great hosts and a very unique experience
the people who are members there were friendly & neighborly saying hello to us daily
the hostess was helpful & the boat was easy to get to
the hostess is awesome and responsive
Location:
awesome location and fun experience
super close to the airport restaurants museums shopping etc
it's a great location to get to all of san diego very centrally located
fantastic location to be close to everything and still feel secluded
so cosy and the location was great too
Read more reviews

Other boat accommodations in San Diego, California

3. Functional sailboat with gorgeous views of the waterscape (from USD 275)

You will find this sailboat rental in San Diego moored in a location that rests between places such as Little Italy, Point Loma, Liberty Station, Harbor Island, and Shelter Island.

The 30 ft (9.14 m) boat can comfortably accommodate four guests. It also offers magical views of the city’s skyline and the pristine waterscape. Guests visiting in a car will find ample space for parking at an additional fee near Laurel Airport, which is 0.4 mi (0.64 km) away from the boat.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
3.23 km (2.1 mi) from Balboa Park
17 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Boat 3 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 0 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Location:
great location perfect view of the sd skyline and short walk to little italy
the location of the boat is amazing and the sleep was some of the best
Read more reviews

Go City

Make the most of your time in San Diego with a Go City that allows you to experience all the iconic attractions of this vibrant city, including the San Diego Zoo and whale watching cruises. Take your pick from three different pass choices - All-Inclusive, Explorer or Build Your Own and experience the sights and sounds of San Diego. Enjoy savings of up to 60% and pay nothing at the gate. Get your Go City now!

4. 55-foot (16.8-metre) houseboat by the water

If you’re looking for a two-story boat rental in San Diego via Airbnb, this one has recently been remodeled to make it more comfortable for guests. The houseboat is located on Harbor Island, close to the downtown area. The houseboat can comfortably accommodate four guests in two beds. There is a king-sized bed in the bedroom and a queen-sized sofa bed in the living room.

On the upper deck, there is a patio and some cookware. As a guest of this houseboat, you will be able to access the Sunroad Resort Marina & Yacht Center. The houseboat is only within walking distance to fine dining and casual restaurants. It is suited for people above 12 years of age, only.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
4.63 km (2.9 mi) from Balboa Park
29 reviews  
Boat 2 Beds 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it was perfect amazing views from the top deck comfortable sleeping arrangements plenty of space to move about
all of the facilities are fully functional and the furniture and bed are incredibly comfortable and cozy
the place was clean with lots of room and a perfect top deck for bbq and drinks
Cleanliness:
it’s clean comfortable and has a ton of character
Host:
ben was an amazing host
the host ben who also built the boat himself was incredibly friendly helpful and most importantly accommodating
he was friendly and very inviting
amazing hosts easy going flexible and explained everything with tons of tips and suggestions for the local scene
lisa was so helpful and thorough
Location:
beautiful boat in an outstanding location
it’s pretty much close to everything and the boathouse was a beauty
we had a wonderful time at lisa's place the boat was perfect and very close from everything
Read more reviews

5. Unique experience in a houseboat

If you need an overnight boat rental in San Diego, this option is great for couples or small families. There is one main bedroom, which has a bed that can comfortably accommodate two guests. There are other amenities, like a pool, spa, full bathroom facilities, and a firepit. A short walk will take guests to an array of delectable restaurants. Get away from your busy lives and enjoy the top-notch facilities offered in this houseboat.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
4.64 km (2.9 mi) from Balboa Park
173 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
hot showers a pool a jacuzzi and the best view of san diego imaginable
the deli had a great breakfast too
joel & mindy's space is wonderfully appointed and incredibly comfortable
Cleanliness:
clean and cozy
the facility is very clean and convenient
their place is nice and super clean
super clean and host is very nice and responsive
super clean and quietnice host thanks a lot
Host:
amazing hosts so helpful and informative
hosts are awesome and others in the marina were very friendly
joel and mindy are wonderful host
everyone at the marina was super friendly
super hosts for a reason
Location:
perfect location
fantastic value great location for downtown
it's close to everything the beaches amazing food downtown and the airport and train station
perfect getaway and stunning location
great experience very cool environment and awesome location
Read more reviews

6. Yacht by the marina

Come stay at this modern yacht for a couple of days and enjoy San Diego for what it has to offer. The yacht has a queen stateroom with an ensuite bathroom. There is also a forward stateroom. The dinette table converts into a double bed. The couch in the living area can be pulled out to form another double bed. The kitchen is fully equipped, so you can make meals on board.

Other amenities in the yacht include two smart TVs, a Bluetooth stereo with speakers, games and underwater nightlights, to watch the fish and spot sea turtles. The yacht is conveniently located, as it is close to major attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Sea World and several beaches.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.0 km (3.2 mi) from Balboa Park
15 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great marina facilities with pool jacuzzi and work out room
Cleanliness:
bathrooms in marina were very clean
clean relaxing wonderful great location and pool and hot tub in marina were fantastic
jomo and meredith’s yacht is clean stylish and beautiful
the marina is clean secure and friendly the accommodation was comfortable and hosts were gracious
Host:
thank to the hosts
the hosts were super helpful and responsive
there very helpful and kind i would recommend it to everybody
Location:
location of boat slip is awesome
great value for the price and fantastic location
Read more reviews

7. Waterside boat with access to pool and hot tub (from USD 130)

Looking to rent a boat in San Diego? Welcome to this centrally-located waterside boat that exudes charm. This is a beautifully-decorated and fully-equipped boat that has a deck area, from where guests can enjoy spectacular sunset views. There are two comfortable beds in the boat and up to three people can be accommodated here. The bedroom at the front of the boat is separated from the dining, kitchen and rear bed area by a sliding door. The kitchenette is stocked with all the necessities that are needed to make delicious meals. Everything to contribute to a comfortable night’s sleep is provided in this boat.

Guests also get access to the full range of services in the marina. This includes access to the pool, hot tub, gym, waterside firepits and much more. There are also many restaurants with a view in the vicinity. Although there is a bathroom in the boat, the shower amenities are a short walk away.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.31 km (3.3 mi) from Balboa Park
350 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 2 Beds 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the amenities at the marina were nice though shampoo and conditioner were not provided for the shower
the marina island grill for breakfast and lunch was fresh tasty cook to order food
the marina is very nice and the bathrooms are in good repair
the amenities of the marina pool hot tub community bathrooms and showers were clean and functional
Cleanliness:
marina was clean and tidy
the facilities in the clubhouse are sparkling clean from the bathrooms to the pool and jacuzzi
boat was clean and well stocked
this place is small but cozy and clean
the bathrooms were clean and they were never busy
Host:
very nice experience quick response from the host
dan was a great host in that his directions were spot on
people were generally friendly all round
dan is an outstanding host
dan was a very helpful and gracious host
Location:
location was wonderful
great location and atmosphere
great location and wonderful stay
close to the airport and nice nearby restaurants
the location was fantastic close to the airport downtown san diego and the bay
Read more reviews

8. Stay on the harbour

This is a sailboat which has a walk-in, queen-sized bedroom at the rear end of the boat and a V-shaped queen bed at the bow. There is a fully-equipped kitchen that comes with two working top burners, a refrigerator, a microwave and two sink faucets. The main salon area comes with a working stereo with speakers. Outside, near the helm of the boat, is an electric grill, which can be used to roast meats and vegetables. Free, secure, gated parking is available to guests.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.36 km (3.4 mi) from Balboa Park
95 reviews  
Boat 2 Beds 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great views across the street access to nice pools and hot tubs
it is a small space but is super cozy and quiet
there is a small brunch place next to the pool which had excellent breakfast and lunch options
the bed was so amazingly comfortable
pool hot tub bbq lounge gym lounge chairs and umbrellas for shade clean bathrooms with shower facilities
Cleanliness:
it was clean and comfortable
very clean boat in a quiet marina
the marina pool and spa are very nice and the area is clean and upscale
clean and easy a great and unique option
the marina is clean and easy to access and use
Host:
very attentive courteous host
the hosts were very responsive
awesome experience and great hosts
they were easy to communicate with and very thoughtful hosts
the boat was awesome the hosts were very upfront and honest with setting expectations
Location:
the location is great
the location is great only minutes away from e
super cute place to stay which is within walking distance of the airport and the bay
the location is perfect to get to downtown san diego or the airport
liberty station little italy and downtown island prime is only walking distance
Read more reviews

9. San Diego luxury yacht

Enjoy San Diego waterfront accommodation in the form of this luxury yacht. The yacht is located in a private setting and consists of all the necessary amenities, including an electric fireplace. It is within walking distance to Mission Beach and several restaurants and sports bars. There are two large couches and a large TV with a surround stereo, making the yacht very homey. Both staterooms have a private bathroom and shower.

The yacht is ideal for two to four people, though up to six guests can be accommodated. Free parking is available and bike and boat rentals are available within walking distance.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
9.65 km (6.0 mi) from Balboa Park
Wifi Available
Boat 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

10. Well-maintained sailboat

This boat is a spacious accommodation which has been meticulously equipped with everything necessary to provide guests with a relaxing stay. The sailboat consists of a cable TV, internet connection, a fully-equipped kitchen, kayaks, bicycles and so on. The boat has a walk-in, queen-size bedroom at the back and a V-shaped double bed in the front. The salon area has a wraparound couch, where there is also a dining table.

Fast wireless internet is available throughout the boat. There is also a fully-equipped kitchen, which comes with burners, a microwave, a fridge and so on. Free parking is available for those who have a car.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.84 km (3.7 mi) from Balboa Park
425 reviews  
Boat 2 Beds 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nice couch /table area
mattresses were comfortable; we slept great
he even left the heater on so it’ll be nice and cozy when we arrived
beautiful sailboat with comfortable interior offers plenty of provisions onboard (sunscreen foods water)
Cleanliness:
it was very clean
it was clean and had everything we needed
super clean and easily accessible to everything
the marina facilities are updated and clean
what a fantastic experience dave's boat is clean and attractive located in a quiet safe marina
Host:
david was an excellent host
david was a great hosts
david was a great host
david is a super nice host
david is a great host and took care of everything
Location:
central location with easy access to airport and great restaurants
perfect location to take in san diego
location is in the nicest marina in san diego steps away from great dining
great location for all sightseeing / trips to the beach and seaworld
very safe location also and everything is only accessible thru the keys provided
Read more reviews

11. Contemporary houseboat on the bay

This is a delightful houseboat which is part of Zolna Yacht’s fleet. Completely renovated, the houseboat is spacious and luminous. It is furnished with contemporary features and the master suite comes with a lovely queen-sized bed. The living room comes with a queen bed, as well, and there are two gorgeous bathrooms with shower facilities.

There is a fully-equipped kitchen with a private deck for a BBQ. This deck is situated just above the water line, allowing guests to relax and watch the gorgeous sunset. Up to four guests can be accommodated in this houseboat.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.91 km (3.7 mi) from Balboa Park
36 reviews  
Boat 3 Beds 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the master bedroom was very comfortable and my two sons shared the pull out couch without complaint
it was a convenient walk from the hotel and it was great to have showers and wifi on-board
Cleanliness:
the houseboat was modern very clean well appointed and comfortable
i absolutely loved the houseboat it was clean cute and quaint
super spacious and clean
the boat was clean and spacious and very well set up
very clean close to parks and easy to find
Host:
amos and shari were very accommodating and helpful
a gracious host and a great mini vacation stay
amos and shari were also really helpful before and during our stay
amos was so kind and really made sure we knew everything about the boat for our stay
amos recommended some great restaurants nearby and was very helpful
Location:
right on the water and walking distance to some excellent restaurants
the location is close to everything downtown and private and quiet enough to relax and get refreshed
such a beautiful and unique place
the location was perfection as we could just cross the street and see all the fireworks
great location and amenities
Read more reviews

12. Well-furnished yacht with access to pool and hot tub (from USD 257)

Enjoy this yacht all to yourself and enjoy the facilities on board. Guests can use the master stateroom that comes with a queen-sized bed and an ensuite bathroom. The entire boat is clean and spacious, making it a relaxing stay for all guests. All areas of the yacht are accessible by guests. There are also several recreational amenities, like a pool, hot tub, fitness centre, BBQ and so on. Wi-Fi is available on board the houseboat and up to two guests can be accommodated.

Stayed at this property?
Key West, Florida, United States
3548.89 km (2205.2 mi) from Balboa Park
77 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in boat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the amenities were very nice also with showers pool jacuzzi etc
the bathroom is pretty small with a sink toilet and shower
Cleanliness:
space was clean and described perfectly
very well kept and very clean
the yacht was sparkling clean so comfortable and so special
there is a nice pool & hot tub as well as a clean bathroom/shower and a deli/restaurant
very clean wonderful location
Host:
james was a great host
james was super helpful the boat was awesome
james is a good host and the boat is amazing
is a great host
jd is a great host
Location:
great location near everything
it was a great location
the location:the location was perfect for us because we love island prime and love being near water
perfect location close to everything and all around amazing stay on james boat
this was a fun place to stay - beautiful surroundings and close to everything
Read more reviews

Best houseboats and yachts in San Diego

San Diego is charming and has so much to offer visitors of all ages, from barbecue joints to harbor cruises. Upgrade your vacation with a unique stay in one of these Airbnb boats in San Diego Memories of this stay will remain with you forever. What are you waiting for? Go ahead and make a booking now.

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb houseboats in San Diego, California


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Sheela, a devoted mother to two remarkable young children, takes immense pleasure in family travel experiences. With a well-traveled history spanning numerous countries, her passion lies in the...Read more

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