Top 9 Houseboats For Rent In And Near Destin, Florida - Updated 2024

Alex
Alex 
Updated
| 3 min read

Everyone loves a Florida vacation. Spending time in the hot sun, working on your tan, swimming in the ocean, and hanging out with friends are only a few of the many fun things to do that make for a fantastic vacation. Destin is located on Florida’s Emerald Coast and is known for its emerald waters, soft white-sand beaches, and year-round warm weather. The city is located on a peninsula stretching out into the Gulf of Mexico, and here you can find the Destin Harbor Walk with shops and restaurants. The Destin History and Fishing Museum let guests explore its history and maritime past. Boating and fishing are a major part of Destin’s life, so staying on a houseboat is a cool and unique option when you visit the city. Wonder no more about where to stay. Here’s the lowdown on the top houseboats for rent in and near Destin, Florida.

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 08, 2024.

1. Rustic houseboat docked in a resort complex (from USD 152)

For your most unique escapade yet, try this rustic 50-foot (15.2-meter) houseboat in Niceville that you can rent without breaking the budget. Even for its economical price, you’ll never miss out on the convenience of having a cable TV, Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning unit. It comes with a full-size kitchen complete with all the essentials needed for home cooking, but a nearby seafood place can be your option for local cuisine.

This property will also make you want to explore outdoors as it is docked in the Bluewater Bay Marina Complex. Enjoy the breathtaking views in the small beach area where the kids can play or head over to the resort pool that you can access for a daily fee. If you’re adventurous, you can drive for 15 minutes to reach the white sand beaches of Destin.

Stayed at this property?

18.11 km (11.3 mi) from Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
13 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Host:
the location is amazing and the staff at the marina and restaurant were great
Read more reviews
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2. Lovely rental anchored in Pensacola Bay (from USD 250)

Indulge yourself with a comfortable stay in this houseboat in Pensacola Bay, anchored on the scenic Seville Harbour Marina and an hour’s drive from Destin. The lovely rental is spacious and exudes a studio apartment vibe with its open layout living area with a large smart TV, and well-equipped kitchen with full-size appliances and a dining area. A bedroom and loft are your comfy spots for sleeping. But by no means stay indoors as the vibrant district awaits!

You’ll only be steps away from several restaurants, local bars, art galleries, and museums, as well as the famous Bartram Park and Seville Square. And if you’re in luck, you might even catch the local festival celebrations in the historic area. The sugar-white sands of Pensacola Beach are just a short drive away to enjoy some basking under the sun.

Stayed at this property?

59.08 km (36.8 mi) from Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
37 reviews   Wifi Available
house boat 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the property was extremely clean and well stocked
extremely clean and very well laid out
we were very impressed this little "house boat" was very clean and decorated nicely
we enjoyed out stay it was very clean and location was great
the house was clean and well appointed the manager (jennifer) was responsive and the location is awesome
Location:
the location was perfect - close to downtown and only a short drive to the naval station
it was perfect for us location is great and within walking distance of activities and restaurants
easy walking distance to restaurants night life museums and more
the location was perfect it was a locked gated pier that made you always feel safe
we found it a place we will definitely stay again
Read more reviews
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

3. Seas The Day Houseboat, Fort Walton Beach (from USD 166)

Nestled on a quiet bayou, this nautical-themed houseboat is perfect for those looking for a tranquil stay. Four people can sleep across its two bedrooms. The houseboat offers plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable. These include air conditioning, WiFi, two TVs, beach equipment, and an electric grill for outdoor cooking.

For those into fishing, you can cast your line directly from the side of the boat or simply lounge on the deck and watch the dolphins pass by. If you get bored with the on-board offerings, hop on a paddleboard or kayak and explore the nearby beaches.

Stayed at this property?

6.55 km (4.1 mi) from Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
33 reviews   Wifi Available
house boat 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Host:
the hosts were kind and friendly
great hosts attentive and responsive
the hosts are wonderful and have paddle boards and kayaks
Location:
seas the day was the perfect location for my wife and i
Read more reviews
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

4. SeaLeGs, Niceville

Although you can’t leave the dock in this houseboat, it is a great option if you’re looking to stay somewhere unique. It comes with two bedrooms and can sleep up to six people, making it ideal for families or groups of friends. There’s a galley-style kitchen for home cooking, air conditioning to keep you cool and refreshed on a hot summer day, and a TV and WiFi for your entertainment.

The houseboat also has a shaded back porch and a spacious deck, so there’s no shortage of spots for outdoor lounging and enjoying the spectacular views of the marina. Local hotspots like restaurants, shops, and the beach are nearby.

Stayed at this property?
Niceville, Florida, United States
15.67 km (9.8 mi) from Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
35 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 4 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
enjoyed being on this good sized clean boat in a beautiful marina with lovely sunsets
Host:
our host was wonderful william was quick to respond to any questions that we had
Read more reviews

Other boat accommodations near Destin

5. Charming private yacht with gorgeous views of the sunset (from USD 3575)

This private yacht comes equipped with modern amenities such as a TV, WiFi, and smoke detectors. Guests can relax and drift off to a peaceful slumber on the cozy bed while the yacht sets sail on a beautiful voyage.

The deck upstairs is equipped with wooden chairs and tables. You can share a glass of wine with your loved one here while soaking in the surreal sights of a spectacular sunset. While you can bring food and drink along with you, the yacht has a microwave in which snacks can be reheated and light meals prepared. Beach towels, paddle boards, ice, and water bottles are supplied.

Given that it is a demise charter, guests will have to employ a licensed captain along with a crew when they rent the vessel. The crew fee is 600 USD which has to be paid directly to the crew for the overnight cruise.

Stayed at this property?
Destin, Florida, United States
8.61 km (5.4 mi) from Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Wifi Available
Boat 2 Beds 3 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 3

6. Stately yacht on Destin Harbor for accommodation or cruising (from USD 3575)

Book this beautiful yacht and experience Destin like never before. Perfect for cruises along the scenic harbor or just staying docked at the Heron Harbor Marina, this yacht can be turned into a floating lover’s nest, great for a couple looking for a romantic getaway.

You can take full advantage of the relaxing scenery and enjoy al fresco dining on the sunny deck. The large bow area is great for sunbathing. Amenities provided here include standup paddleboards, snorkeling gears, beach towels, and more.

Keep in mind that if you choose to go on a cruise, you will need to hire a licensed captain to operate the vessel for a fee. Although it can sleep only 2 people, it’s big enough to carry up to 12 passengers. There’s also an ice chest if you wish to bring drinks during the cruise. If you’re planning to prepare some snacks, you can easily do so in the equipped galley.

Stayed at this property?
Destin, Florida, United States
8.57 km (5.4 mi) from Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
house boat 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

7. Delightful yacht with spectacular views (from USD 150)

While you can always enjoy your time in a boat rental on Miramar Beach, the beach at Destin has a different kind of allure. And while you are here, this small but pleasant yacht is the perfect accommodation if you are looking to relax and have a fun beach getaway. It’s anchored in a marina close to wine and dine options and can sleep up to three people but is perfect for a romantic couple looking for some privacy.

There’s a well-equipped galley/kitchenette so you can prepare light snacks and refreshing drinks with ease. Make sure that you’re on the deck with sparkling drinks on hand during sunsets to appreciate the relaxing dusk views with your significant other.

Stayed at this property?

18.04 km (11.3 mi) from Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Boat 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

8. Sherie Poppins, Fort Walton Beach

Sleeping up to 6 people, this historic yacht is a 48-foot (15-meter) long, seaworthy vessel. It is located at Adventure Marina, about 20 minutes’ from Destin. The yacht exudes a rustic vibe that adds to its charm. It comes with two bedrooms and five beds, and pets are welcome to join you. WiFi access and hot water are available onboard, as well as air conditioning and a full bathroom.

There’s also a fully equipped, galley kitchen, so you can make dinner and then dine on the spacious deck under the stars. If you don’t feel like cooking, you can check out the nearby restaurants and sample the local fare. The boat is docked in a central location, and guests arriving with a vehicle will have a secure place to park their car.

Stayed at this property?
Fort Walton Beach, Florida, United States
947 meters (0.6 ft) from Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
109 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 5 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the v berth sleeping was new to us and very comfortable
Cleanliness:
everything is clean and cozy
the ship is nicely cleaned and organized
clean bath and bed linens were supplied also
was very neat and clean would definitely book again
Host:
host were very helpful
sherie was a great host
sherie and shane were amazing hosts
we called the host to help me make a cancellation
everyone at the harbor was extremely nice and helpful
Location:
great location unique experience
the location was easy access and nice
the location was perfect as it is close to everything we wanted or needed to do
very nice place and great location to walk to good places
close to destin easy to get to
Read more reviews

9. Blessed, Shalimar

Sleeping up to 4 people and about 15 minutes’ from Destin, this boat is a lovingly restored 1988 Sea Ray Sundance. The boat has been renovated to its former glory and is complete with new amenities but still features an authentic 1980s charm.

Wake up in the morning to the sounds and sights of the water and the birds chirping, and enjoy the unobstructed views of the water from the deck. The boat is a short distance away from local spots such as Navarre Beach and Okaloosa Island. There’s air conditioning, heating facility, a TV, as well as a well-equipped kitchen if you want to cater for yourself.

Stayed at this property?
Shalimar, Florida, United States
4.67 km (2.9 mi) from Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
44 reviews   Superhost
Boat 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
very quiet area and clean
the boat is clean well maintained and spacious
the boat was clean and well maintained
the boat was great it was clean and comfortable
everything was super nice and clean the boat has everything you need
Host:
the hospitality extended by our hosts was welcoming
the host was welcoming polite and responsive
robin is a great host
wonderful host and beautiful unique space
robin was a great hosts that will be happy to help at all times
Location:
the boat located very beautiful place
this was such a cute and unique place
it was in a great location with beautiful scenery
its a nice boat in a great location
wonderful experience we loved the boat great location quiet and beautifully decorated
Read more reviews

Enjoy a waterside holiday near Destin

Florida is known for its beautiful beaches. While you can book a boat rental in Fort Walton Beach for an amazing Floridian holiday, you can also do the same when you are in Destin. Skip the hotel and spend some time on the water by staying in one of these unique and fun houseboat rentals in and near Destin, Florida.

Frequently asked questions about houseboats for rent in and near Destin, Florida


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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Alex is a Canadian university graduate with degrees in English literature and History. He was born in Montreal and when he's not traveling he enjoys movies, video games, playing the drums and...Read more

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