Spotted by the Spanish as a strategic maritime trade location, San Francisco began as a shipping stop and still keeps to its watery ways. Whether it’s driving across the infamous Golden Gate Bridge, saying hello to the sunbathing sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf or lollygagging at the park by the infamous “Painted Ladies”; you’ll be sure to find all manners of pastimes here in this bustling city. Of course - you’ll need somewhere to stay too. Here is a selection of gorgeous HomeAway and Vrbo vacation rentals, from the buoyant houseboats sure to add life to any vacation, to the land-faring cottages of the islands. These locations will ensure your trip is as fantastic as the view of San Francisco Bay itself.
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 November 25, 2023.
1. Seafaring apartment for landlubbing people (from 158 USD)
Is your heart in the ocean but your feet prefer land? Get the best of both worlds in this sea-themed apartment. The green glass lining the cabinets and wall-mounted sea creatures will be sure to satisfy any seafaring folk. Enter through the playful submarine airlock door and step into the nautical comforts of your new home. Hungry? Prep a meal with use of the “ship’s galley” and the sight of land just outside your window. If you need some fresh air, just hit the deck! A set of chairs and a warm potbelly stove will warm up any sailor on chilly nights. Lastly, retire to your chambers. Your bed is on raised wooden platform with a cheeky bunkmate to keep vigil. A pair of oars are within easy access should you need to abandon ship! The spacious 1-bedroom apartment and private deck are complete with touches of handcrafted woodwork and ship memorabilia. Stay inside this Pacifica locale that promises the sounds of the ocean from the apartment.
CLEAN AND COMFORTABLE HOME 1 BEDROOM, 1 BATHROOM APARTMENT IN PACIFICA
Neighborhood: Pacifica
Price: from 158 USD
Number of Guests: 2
2. Lighted loft in Berkeley (from 120 USD)
If you’re looking to stick close to the various regional parks that surround the bay, stay in this funky loft. Reminiscent of Spanish colors, the loft is home to rich hues of orange, yellow, and tepid sienna. After a day of hiking and taking in the local scenes, sit under the skylight and relax. Ditch the car and go green; the property is within walking distance of a series of cafes and restaurants. The loft sleeps two in a singular bedroom. A set of two twin beds by the sunny window make for a relaxed getaway. The Berkeley neighborhood is home to many aspiring minds. This part of San Francisco offers cycling and wildlife in the Berkeley Marina, and a flowering esplanade at UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley.
Sunny loft in Berkeley quiet area near 4th street, restaurants, cafes and shops
Neighborhood: Berkeley
Price: from 120 USD
Number of Guests: 2
3. Historical SS City of Seattle (from USD 550)
All aboard! This home is the oldest surviving functioning ferry boat on the West Coast, and it is available just for you. Originally setting sail in 1888, the Yellow Ferry is home to two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and it offers a unique vacation experience you can’t find elsewhere. The ferryboat’s original paddle wheel marks a natural barrier between the indoors and out. Enjoy expansive views of the bay behind the shelter of this wooden instrument. If you’re a history buff, be sure to check out the legacy of the Yellow Ferry. It was the first of its kind to sail on the Puget Sound. Don’t worry, you won’t be lost to the limitations of the past. The boat offers several thousand square feet of room, and comfy corners for any visitor. Whether you’re looking to be a part of history or be available to the call of the sea, the SS City of Seattle is the ideal choice for you. Indulge in sports on the water as the boat is equipped with kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, sailboat, surfboards, boogie boards, and fins.
Sausalito, California, United States
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
equipped with a washer/dryer full kitchen multiple bathrooms made for a comfortable experiencestaying on a historical ferry that was turned into a charming apartment is a wonderful experienceCleanliness:
i would suggest to have the windows cleaned to have a nicer and clearer viewHost:
owners are responsive and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
the setting with the marine wildlife so calming and peaceful but there's plenty to do nearby
4. Whimsicle waterfront home at Waldo Point Harbor (from 133 USD)
If you’re looking for something a bit more cozy, head next door to the SS City of Seattle to this additional floating home! Facing the same bay, this boat provides views of the Marin Headlands and Belvedere. Enjoy the sun in the outdoors, or head inside through the French doors to watch the seals swim by from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Enjoy the great outdoors and the nearby attractions with the marina’s walkway and head to the Martin Luther King Jr. Park and Oakwood Valley. Picturesque views of the sea, a sunny sea-side deck, and a cozy fireplace to curl up by. This home is privy to all manners of stays from the fun family bunch, to a couple looking for a funky getaway.
Whimsical waterfront Houseboat
Neighborhood: Sausalito, Waldo Point Harbor
Price: from 133 USD
Number of Guests: 4
5. Skip the boat, but stay afloat! (from USD 217)
This gorgeous, house has the look and feel of a modern home, that just happens to be on water. Skip the boat look with the advantage of keeping the view here on the harbor. The home boasts clear views of Mt. Tamalpais with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a gas fireplace for chilly nights. Views of the great outdoors wait for you as you sip your morning coffee from the couch. If you’re looking to get a truly astonishing view, simply step outside onto the private deck and enjoy the open air. The home is host to two lovely bedrooms, with natural light and views of the harbor. Don’t forget to get comfy with other features of the home. Stay ashore while enjoying the outdoors. This home also experiences changing tides from high tide bringing all manners of aquatic life, to the low tide that invites many a bird. You’ll also have access to the garden dock by the infamous Yellow Ferry if you didn’t manage to grab a stay there. Staying by the sea never felt so pleasant!
Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 31
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
janet was very helpful and responsive and made our stay easy and comfortablethe house was immaculate and the beds were perfect for a good night's sleepcomfortable bedding great towels (including the black makeup washcloths ) arrival flowers and spirits and so much moreboth beds were first rate the kitchen was very well equipped and the entire unit was very brightCleanliness:
super clean and cozyit is spotless comfortable and furnished beautifullyvery clean and was ready before we got to san franciscothe home is tastefully decorated and well appointed impeccably clean very comfortable and carefully maintainedHost:
met the owner and everything was more & better than expectedowner thought of everything and has great instructions in a nice book if something comes upthe houseboat neighbors were very welcoming and friendly and were happy to talk about houseboat lifejanet is easily the most experienced organized and thoughtful host we've ever dealt withRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was absolutely perfecttam is calming and upliftingperfect home perfect locationwalking up and down the docks was an adventure in and off itself
Honor San Francisco's heritage with HomeAway by land or sea
Whether you’re visiting for pleasure or taking on the unicorns of nearby Silicon Valley, ensure the vitality of your stay to The City by the Bay with one of these unique locations. Whether you’re a land lover or sea sailor, there are plenty of options to take on the sights. Drift among the museums, take in the cultural melting pot of Chinatown or hike along the ridges. Whatever you do in San Francisco, make sure you wait for the fog to clear for that perfect shot of the bay near these awe-inspiring HomeAway and VRBO vacation rentals.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to bookmark our articles, like local expert tips, receive great stories in your inbox, and follow writers and topics that you love.
Log in with Google ×