Lying near the Muskoka Lakes in the municipality district of Muskoka, Central Ontario, Bala has around 370 residents all year-round, making it the smallest incorporated town in Canada. However, this tight-knit neighborhood is a very popular destination among tourists and locals during summer, swelling the population to 5,000 during this season. Bala’s Museum with Memories of Lucy Maud Montgomery, Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh & Muskoka Lakes Winery, The KEE to Bala, Windsor Park, and Bala Falls are just some of the many places you can go to as you explore the area. If you’re one of the many people who want to visit this place, check out our list of the best Airbnb vacation rentals in Bala, Canada.
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 February 27, 2025.
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1. Modern retreat near local amenities (from USD 2319)
Designed with the latest amenities in mind, this modern retreat is a year-round cottage situated on the peninsula of Lake Muskoka. As the property is approximately 2 acres (0.8 hectares) wide and surrounded by 700 feet (213 meters) of waterfront view, you can take pleasure in watching the dazzling lake encompassing the place. Inside, there’s a kitchen where you can whip up hearty meals and a TV for indoor entertainment. It features an open-concept design that comprises four bedrooms and three bathrooms in the main cottage and two additional bedrooms in the boathouse. The cottage is also very close to restaurants, convenience stores, and liquor shops. Also, it is just a few minutes away from downtown Bala shops and The KEE to Bala.
Top guest reviews
Host:
carole was very helpful in booking the stay providing instructions and responding to questionscarol is a wonderful host responds quickly to messagescarol was a gracious host and her property was well maintainedcarol was really sweet and accommodatingLocation:
the location is great as you can walk into the villagethe location is great - close to the grocery store and lcbogreat location beautiful interior and very spaciouswould definitely recommend and would love to see this place in the summergreat location easy walk into bala that has all the amenities and a quick drive off main roadsCleanliness:
the best cottage i’ve ever been to so clean and moderna spacious well-equipped clean place with a very responsive hostRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
everything about the cottage layout was great with lots of room for 4 coupleswe loved the kitchen as it had everything that you might need for cooking
2. Charming cottage in the heart of Muskoka
If you’re looking for a place where you can experience the fusion of classic and modern styles, this cottage is the place to go. This abode has vintage characteristics that are nicely accentuated with updated appliances. There’s a kitchen with ample counter space, in case you need to cook your daily meals. Outside, there’s a dock where you can watch the sunrise or sunset and an eight-person hot tub where you can soak in anytime you want. Located in the center of Lake Muskoka, the owners were able to preserve the authentic design of the place by keeping the cedar wood floors and the Muskoka stone fireplace. While staying here, you can enjoy numerous activities in the city’s most-visited places such as The KEE to Bala, Bala Falls, and Gravenhurst among others.
Bala, Ontario, Canada
11.2 km (7.0 mi) from Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky PreserveAccommodates: 8
Top guest reviews
Host:
the owner was friendlythank you for hostingthe host was constantly checking the security cameras and texting us and we felt zero privacyLocation:
great location as far as convenience walking distance to grocery store and lcboperfect for 2 families close to town which is very convenientCleanliness:
beautiful luxurious clean well furnished and really well maintainedbeautifully decorated stylish and impeccably clean while still feeling comfortable and cozythe cottage was exceptionally clean very well equipped and organizedthe cottage is well stocked and very cleanbeautifully decorated extremely clean and close to quaint shopsRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the beds were quite comfortable
3. Elegant cottage with a spacious deck
Built amongst the waters and forests of Bala, this cottage is indeed a cozy place to stay. You can easily explore the city downtown as it’s also just a few minutes away from the location. You can have fun during the Cranberry Festival which is one of the most popular events in the whole of Ontario. Snuggling inside the cozy cottage isn’t a bad idea either. The dwelling has a spacious room great for a family occasion or friendly gatherings. In addition, the place also has an outdoor pit and barbecue grill suitable for fun cookouts.
Bala, Ontario, Canada
11.7 km (7.3 mi) from Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky PreserveAccommodates: 8
Top guest reviews
Host:
great host great placedealing with the host was very easythe host was super helpful and responsive which helped make our trip even more enjoyablethanks again for hosting us and accommodating our needscathy and libby are great hosts and very responsive to any questions you may haveLocation:
also a close drive to hardy lake provincial park if you are into hikingreally nice place to stay at great location as well will come back for surewould definitely suggest this placebest place worth every cent must visitpretty great to stay at a cottage with everything you need within walking distanceCleanliness:
place was sparking cleanclean space thoughtful complimentary items and very quick responsesextremely clean the area is amazing i'd definitely recommend staying hereeverything was so cute and extremely cleanRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
great host nice welcome baskets on the beds for a homey touch
4. Attractive cottage with a verdant backyard (from USD 419)
This rental is a fantastic place for people seeking great waterfront accommodation. It comes complete with modern conveniences such as free WiFi, heating, and a TV. It also features two bedrooms and two bathrooms for six guests. The area is close to the local stores, restaurants, and tourist spots. The KEE to Bala is also within walking distance of the cottage. However, if you wish to stay within the vicinity, there are numerous activities that you can do as well. You can enjoy the magnificent sunset view or appreciate the beauty of the waterfront sights from the balcony. The backyard is also big enough for games and barbecue. One more thing about this place is they allow pets in the vicinity, so you don’t need to leave your non-human companions behind for the trip.
Top guest reviews
Location:
the location was awesome 10 minute walk into town close to restaurants/bars/groceries/lcbogreat location clean home and had all the extras we neededRead more reviewsCleanliness:
bala retreat was lovely clean and spaciousthe "bala-retreat" is beautiful well furnished and very clean
5. Lakefront cottage for six guests (from USD 126)
This lovely accommodation located on Moon River in the center of Bala is a great place for families, couples, and friends. Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, and Port Carling are all a 25-minute drive away. Aside from the views and modern conveniences, there are numerous activities that you can do such as roasting s'mores at the outdoor fire pit or paddle-boating during the warmer months. For the colder times of the year, you can either stay inside and cozy up by the fireplace or engage in hiking and ice skating. Though there is no public transit available around the area, a large on-site driveway is ready for your vehicles to park in.
Top guest reviews
Host:
great cozy lovely space with a host that was quick with responses to questionsjessica was an amazing hostjessica was a fantastic hostgreat place and host larger than we thoughtjessica was a great host and i very much enjoyed my stay highly recommendedLocation:
very cute cottage walking distance to bala and the grocery store - great locationjessica’s place is conveniently located near bala’s main street area and also close to beautiful trailsit is located very close to downtown bala and a has beautiful view of the lakebeautiful place perfect location and amazing amenitiesclean and located close to anything you can think of to enjoy a getaway on the lakeCleanliness:
the place was super clean when we arrivedthe place was also very clean and homeyvery clean and comfortable with everything you could possibly wantcozy cottage everything was super clean and well stockedjessica’s place was quaint clean and the kitchen was very well equippedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
i was very pleased with the cottage notably the incredible water views from the kitchen and deckthe cottage is cozy and comfortably fit myself and 4 friendsthe beds were very comfortable and there were plenty of pillowsfully stocked kitchen comfortable beds large living room/dining room lots of towels & extra bedding if neededthe decor is modern and comfortable
6. Tranquil cottage surrounded by lush trees
This cottage is the place to be for people who are looking for pure relaxation. This peculiar cottage is like a mystery box that has a surprise inside it. As you enter the cottage, you will be welcomed by an appealing wide-open space and pine-covered ceiling. Indoor entertainment is also guaranteed, all thanks to the free WiFi and TV with Amazon Prime Video and Netflix. The interior decoration gives you a calming sensation suitable for meditation and rejuvenation. It is also surrounded by lush trees that add to the abode’s zen feeling. If you want to explore the place, the city downtown is just a few minutes away. While here, you can visit some famous tourist spots such as The KEE to Bala, Ball Falls, and Lake Muskoka.
Bala, Ontario, Canada
10.93 km (6.8 mi) from Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky PreserveAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
carrie was really helpful and made us feel at homeLocation:
great location situated a few minutes from cute little balawonderful location in the heart of balathe cottage location is excellentthe town of bala /lcbo/groceries are walking distance which is fantastic and super convenientgreat location carrie was very responsive and helpful if we had any questionsCleanliness:
the cottage was so clean stylish and comfortablecozy clean stylish cottage in the woodsthe cottage is clean and well stocked with all of the things you would need and then someRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
great kitchen amenities made for easy meal preploved the living space centered around the wood burning fireplace and loved the expansive kitchenthe cottage was very clean and cozy you immediately feel at ease in this ‘homey’ space
7. Amazing abode with a full kitchen (from USD 63)
If you’re visiting Bala to experience different adventures, this rental is a great place to stay while you’re in the area. The cottage is adjacent to famous Bala tourist spots. Among these is The KEE to Bala, which is famous for hosting numerous concerts, and Jaspen Park that has a public beach where you can spend time enjoying the breeze. You can also have fun with water ski shows at Windsor Park on Tuesday nights and buy fresh ingredients from the farmer’s market at Jaspen Park every Monday. In terms of amenities, this rental has everything you might require for a pleasant stay—from the cozy bedroom and well-equipped kitchen to the warm living room with a TV. There’s also a balcony outside, where you can just relax after a long day.
Top guest reviews
Host:
hosts were very helpful in getting us settled ingreat friendly hostsjune was a great host fast responses and easy to communicate withvery nice hosts and very accommodatingjune is an excellent hostLocation:
the location is perfect walking distance to everythingperfect walking distance to the keeconveniently located and great value place for a short trip in muskoka lakesgreat comfortable place awesome location within walking distance of everything in balanice apartment and everything in walking distanceCleanliness:
very nice and clean placethe place was clean and spaciousthe space was clean cozy and homeythe bathroom was sparkling clean which we really appreciatedjune’s place was clean and tidyRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the couch and bed are extremely comfortable and they had a good movie cable selectionthe kitchen was fully stocked and the coffee area was just perfectnice private suite with kitchen and great amenities for our short staycomplimentary coffee/tea is the morning was appreciated as well as a very comfortable livingroom lounging areacozy and tidy place with lots of nice touches like books cards games
8. Capacious rental for 16 guests
Located in the heart of Bala, this rental offers access to most of the popular local tourist spots in the area. It consists of 10 bedrooms and 4 baths, enough to accommodate 16 guests. It comes with a kitchen where everyone is allowed to cook meals as well as a backyard for some cookout. Another thing that you’d love about this abode is that it provides kid-friendly amenities for the little ones. It also accepts fur babies, so you don’t have to leave them behind. There are two public beaches you can go to loosen up. You can also enjoy water activities such as scuba diving, swimming, and canoeing among others.
Bala, Ontario, Canada
11.52 km (7.2 mi) from Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky PreserveAccommodates: 16
Top guest reviews
Host:
cathy was a great host and made sure that we were well looked aftercathy is an excellent host she makes you feel right at homecathy's bala house was fantastic she is a great host who communicates very effectivelyi recommend staying here cathy is a great hostLocation:
good location close to town shopsit’s location in town is very goodfantastic location within 5 minute walking distance of lots of downtown shops restaurants etccathy's place was great walking distance to town and the keeif you're looking for a place to house a large number of people this is a great locationCleanliness:
cathy’s place is great - very clean and good location in townRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
each of the room has it's individual charms and decor that has a cottage/camp feel
9. Beautiful home near outdoor activities
This home in the heart of Bala is a lovely addition to this list as it also gives you the convenience of accessing the city’s best spots. Although it is recommended that you explore the area by car, walking your way around the place is not also a bad idea. Since the famous tourist locations in Bala are just a walking distance from the rental, you can have a fun stroll with your family, friends, or pets. Some activities that you can do here include ice-fishing, trekking, camping, and snowmobiling. You can also do yoga and other recreational activities because this abode exudes a serene feeling perfect for meditation. Other amenities that you can make use of while staying here include a well-equipped kitchen, free WiFi, and complimentary on-site parking.
Bala, Ontario, Canada
12.12 km (7.6 mi) from Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky PreserveAccommodates: 8
Top guest reviews
Location:
did i say the location was fantastic?a lovely place in a beautiful areakarens’s place was just lovely great value for money and fantastic locationCleanliness:
great place to stay and very clean and accuratethe place was absolutely great clean and comfortableRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
we had an amazing experience at karen’s warm cozy and authentic house with so many small and touching thingsall in all the cottage met my hygge standards and would recommend it for a cozy fall/winter stay
10. Spectacular cottage with views of the Moon River (from USD 565)
Among all the places listed, this waterfront cottage is said to have the best view of the iconic Moon River. This place is surrounded by water on its three sides with its 600-foot (182-meter) deep waterfront. By afternoon, you can witness the magnificent sunset view from the dock or the hot tub. Inside, you will find a well-equipped kitchen with an island, four bedrooms, and three bathrooms. The famous Don’s Bakery, Beer Store, and The KEE to Bala are just some of the popular tourist spots you can visit nearby. If you’re with your family, Jaspen Park is also a great place to visit as it has a children’s playground and a beach. Aside from that, it also has a farmer’s market open every Monday.
Top guest reviews
Host:
heather and kerry are amazing host they are kind and always reply quicklythe hosts are super kind and easily reachablethe hosts were very responsive and left detailed and easy to follow instructionskerry & heather are truly super hostsgreat hosts beautiful cottageRead more reviewsLocation:
great location and beautiful views
Enjoy the magnificent views of Bala
Wherever you decide to stay for vacation in Bala, you should always keep the purpose of your visit in mind. In that case, you will be able to find the perfect vacation rental that suits your taste and needs. For recommendations, consider checking out our list above.
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