The Sunshine State of Florida immediately conjures up images of long and lazy holidays by the water and soaking in the sun as much as possible. It also features beautiful small towns that are worth exploring. A unique way to spend a Floridian holiday is to skip the luxurious 5-star hotels and opt to rent a houseboat instead. Whether you’re a couple or a large group of friends or simply you and your dog, renting a houseboat not only makes for a memorable holiday but also a very Instagrammable one. Think of it as your very own ‘boatel’, a boat hotel, where you get a unique perspective of the mainland from your marine home. Check out our list of the best houseboats for rent in Florida, USA.
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 09, 2024.
1. Fisherman's Retreat, Apalachicola (from USD 249)
This charming floating home for rent in Florida rests serenely on Scipio Creek and offers a unique retreat. Step onto the deck with a picturesque panorama that unfolds before your eyes. Inside, you’ll find a cosy bedroom with a lavish king-size bed, ensuring restful nights, and a spacious living room featuring a queen-size sofa bed for additional comfort.
The full kitchen invites you to craft your favourite dishes, while the large-screen TV provides modern convenience. From this accommodation, you can easily explore nearby gems, such as Downtown Books & Purl and Dixie Theatre.
2. Seaclusion at Seville Harbour Marina, Pensacola (from USD 286)
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Pensacola Bay from Seville Harbour Marina when you stay at this houseboat adorned with luxurious queen-size beds for the ultimate comfort. Additionally, a fully equipped kitchen lets you prepare your favourite food. After meals, the deck and porch provide splendid spots to bask in the sun.
When you book this long-term houseboat rental in Florida, delight in the spectacle of water views and relish modern comforts, such as free WiFi and air conditioning. You’ll also find yourself mere steps from the lively Seville Square and the vibrant Bartram Park.
3. La Dolce Vita, Fort Lauderdale (from USD 210)
Enjoy the taste of a sweet lifestyle aboard La Dolce Vita. This aptly named houseboat offers guests two private staterooms, a well-equipped kitchen and a bright living room with a TV. Amenities such as WiFi and pantry items are provided. The place has central air conditioning and heating as well. Out on the roof deck are ample seating and a bar, perfect for dining al fresco or enjoying a glass of wine.
With a convenient location close to beaches, shops, bars and nightclubs, there is no shortage of fantastic things to do during your stay. Store rentals near the property are also available so you can acquire the equipment needed for water sports and activities. Explore the allure of this monthly houseboat rental in Florida and embark on a unique waterfront escape.
4. The Grey Lady, Tavernier (from USD 475)
Nicknamed The Grey Lady, this houseboat offers a bright, well-furnished living space suitable for up to six guests. It has a cable TV in the living room and WiFi access throughout the premises. Its back patio also provides guests a perfect spot for incredible views of the water.
Staying in this rental comes with access to full services of the marina, including the wet slips, boat ramp, fuel dock and trailer storage. There is also an outdoor pool where guests can cool off during the warm months. For some food and drink options, there is a bar and lounge area available at the resort.
5. Well-located home with complimentary kayaks, Bradenton (from USD 125)
Nestled in Bahia Mar West Marina, this houseboat is an ideal home base for couples on a romantic getaway or road warriors on a business trip. Its strategic location places guests close to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, downtown Sarasota, downtown Bradenton and Lido Beach. As for food options, guests will be spoiled for choice as there are plenty of restaurants and bars in the surrounding area.
The rental is fully furnished and comes with air conditioning and a space heater for comfort. Entertainment options such as WiFi and a smart TV are provided as well. While two complimentary kayaks already come with the rental, guests can also head to rental stores nearby so they can enjoy more sports and activities in the water.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
very clean and comfortable for 2Read more reviewsLocation:
very close to campus and a nice break from the usual hotel accommodations
6. Floating bungalow best for couples, Sanford (from USD 157)
This floating houseboat in historic downtown Sanford offers a romantic getaway for happy-in-love guests. Its cosy living space includes a bedroom with a double-size bed, a galley kitchen with cooking basics and a well-lit living area with a wall-mounted TV. In addition to a covered front porch, the rental also offers a unique rooftop deck which is perfect for end-of-day cocktails.
Other in-unit features include air conditioning, WiFi, and laundry facilities. For guests with cars, free public parking spaces are available at the marina.
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsAmenities & Room:
i enjoyed the top deck balcony and the comfortable bed the most
7. Lovely floating home on St. John’s River, Sanford (from USD 150)
This charming yellow cottage offers you a unique accommodation in Sanford. It’s afloat on the St. John River, providing guests not just a relaxing view and direct access to kayaking, fishing, and other watersports, but also ensuring a rejuvenating sleep each night as you’ll be rocked to sleep by the gentle motion of the water.
A group of four people can fit into this amazing floating home, just enough for a small family or groups of friends. Sit on the porch and feel the gentle breeze as you take in dreamy views of the water and boats passing by. Kayaks are available so that guests can further explore the river.
Old-town Sanford with its iconic cobblestone streets, brick-lined storefronts, Victorian homes, and vibrant community is just a few minutes away. It’s also where guests can find lots of dining and shopping options. After a great meal, you might want to head out to the riverwalk on Lake Monroe, one of the most gorgeous lakes in the state, to enjoy a nice walk while watching the stunning sunset.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the decor is tasteful the furniture clean and comfortable and everything feels newer and updatedconnie's deli serves a great breakfast/lunch at very reasonable priceswe enjoyed breakfast and lunch during out stayCleanliness:
the house is as pictured and was very clean and comfortableit was super clean and the cutest tiny houseit was highly clean and well taken care ofthe floating cottage was so beautiful the coziness and cleanliness was fantasticthe cottage was very clean open and invitingHost:
kim was the best hostthe instructions she provided were very helpfulstaff all around courteous and helpfulthe local residents and marina employees were very friendlythe food was great and connie and her staff were a delightRead more reviewsLocation:
if you like to walk or bike it's a great areathis was just what we needed a quiet peaceful time away from the real worldit was clean quiet and i loved the location (i'm used to hanging out at marinas)
8. Fully remodeled houseboat, Tavernier (from USD 379)
This luxurious houseboat’s convenient location takes you right in the middle of the action as it’s close to many of the top attractions and activities in both Islamorada and Key West. Fishing charters, for instance, are virtually everywhere so you can head out to the open sea and enjoy some deep-sea fishing with the gang.
You can hit the beautiful beaches nearby if you just want to lounge under the sun and get that golden tan you’ve always wanted. Bars, restaurants, cafes, markets, and shops are also within easy reach.
This luxury houseboat rental in Florida is fully remodeled and furnished with comfort in mind. It has two air-conditioned bedrooms equipped with cozy beds to ensure a totally rejuvenating sleep for up to four people. The roof deck has lounge chairs and shades so you can just relax and take in the calming views without having to worry about the heat.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
fishing poles a restaurant in the marina and a cozy bed to end the dayJust enough amenities and a great amount of living spacebig enough for all the extra people that cameCleanliness:
comfy clean and had everything I needed for my stayBeautifully decorated and so convenientThe boat is exactly as pictured Heidi was very helpful making it special and assisted with several surprisesHost:
Heidi (the houseboat owner) was exceptionally great to work withShe went over to help us have a nice timeand she found us a house in the same marina where the boat isand she was just the best as well asthe boat house is more than nice way more than the pics showsRead more reviewsLocation:
Last minute get away running from HurricaneWe found it in BaycationPictures are 100% accurate and it is very well maintained Perfect location for exploring the keysThe House boat exceeded my expectation 100%and i was blown away
9. Adorable floating cabin, Apalachicola (from USD 323)
Fittingly named ‘The Reelaxation Houseboat’, this floating accommodation docked on Apalachicola River is just perfect for fishing enthusiasts. You can either cast your line directly from the water-facing porch and reel in some stripe bass, speckled trout, black drum, and redfish or paddle out on a kayak to the deeper parts of the river to catch some bigger fish.
After an afternoon of fishing, take a short walk to the historic downtown area to grab something to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink with your friends in a pub.
The houseboat features a spacious bedroom with a king-size bed and a living room with a sofa bed to comfortably sleep up to four people. The kitchen comes equipped with all cooking and dining essentials so that food preparation wouldn’t be a problem. Other amenities to enjoy include air-conditioning, WiFi, two cable TVs, DVD player, board games, and more.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
karen was a terrific hostess and made sure we were comfortable and had everything we neededHost:
also the owner was there to greet usreally need to call out karen the owner who was terrifickaren was so nice and accommodatingi so want one you will too karen you are a gracious host and we wish you wellRead more reviewsLocation:
very sweet calming relaxing location
10. Charming houseboat with a spectacular view, Apalachicola (from USD 485)
If a break from your busy city life is what you need, this houseboat can be your sweet escape. You can bring along your family, partner, or a couple of your friends as it can accommodate up to four people.
The fully stocked kitchen has everything you need to whip up delicious meals. There’s a cable TV in the master bedroom and another one in the living room so you can enjoy a movie or your favorite TV show anytime you want. Several board games are also available for extra indoor fun.
The best thing about this houseboat is its location. It’s docked on a serene part of the Apalachicola River where you can enjoy some of the most relaxing water views in the region. Its direct proximity to the water promises a wide array of recreational things to do including fishing, birdwatching, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and more.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we had everything we needed for a comfortable stayCleanliness:
the houseboat is clean and spaciousit was clean and comfortableit was clean and comfortablethe houseboat was neat clean and perfect for a relaxing timewe really enjoyed staying on the general lee the houseboat was clean and very well appointedHost:
karen was a great hostthe owner made sure we had everything we neededthe owner karen is great to work with and responsive to questions on any topicour host was courteous and respectful and on hand to help if neededkaren is very pleasant and accommodating (so much so that i'm staying in her houseboats two more times)Read more reviewsLocation:
the location is wonderful as you can walk to some of the best seafood you will ever eatperfect location for wandering great places to eat and nice bars
11. Luxurious floating condo at Lake Monroe, Sanford (from USD 195)
Docked at Lake Monroe marina’s dock F in Sanford, this 60-foot (18.3-metre) houseboat is nothing less than a luxury floating condo. Think plush beds for five people, a chic bathroom, a slew of entertainment options such as DVD and CD players, a TV, and even a full-size kitchen. Plus, you’ll find all cooking essentials, bespoke toiletries, and even an indoor fireplace. In fact, you’ll also find a cool and stylish deck where you can hang out. However, that’s not all.
The Airbnb houseboat even comes with two beach cruisers that you can use to head down to town.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the top deck with the couch and tv was our favorite spotextremely comfortable and lovely furnishings with attention to detailbeds were very comfortable and the top deck was amazingeverything was super comfortable (beds sofa seating up on the deck) and cleaneven offered to bring by another fan if we needed itCleanliness:
very clean and super great hostsit was convenient clean comfortable and a fun place to staythe boat itself was clean and cozythe bed was very comfortable and the shower was more spacious than i expected on a boatHost:
our hosts were wonderfulthe owners are greatrebecca was a great hostthe hosts were readily accessible and gracioushosts were very responsive and accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
easy walking to local restaurants and the cute downtown areaso it was a perfect location for mewell furnished houseboat great location to make day tripswe really enjoyed our stay here the location is fantasticsuperb location with half a dozen restaurants in easy walking distance and right by a fantastic running trail
12. State-of-the-art houseboat in Stock Island, Key West (from USD 374)
Tucked in a cosy marina on Stock Island, the location of this 56-foot (17-metre) houseboat is perfect for indulging in water activities as well as enjoying a night on the tiles.
On the houseboat, you’ll find everything primed for your comfort. Think cloud-like beds, a swish bathroom, a capacious living room, and a full kitchen with a bar. The standout feature is the large deck which offers panoramic views of the Lower Keys. It’s the perfect place to indulge in bird-watching while sipping on your morning cup of coffee. As a pet-friendly vacation rental, it allows your furry friends to stay as well.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
house was clean and the air conditioner worked super well which was a necessity in the florida summerCleanliness:
everything was clean and well put togetheraffable host clean and affordable houseboatthe houseboat was very clean stylist comfortable & everything one could want forHost:
the host is beyond helpfulbrad was a great hostotherwise host was very polite and helpfulbrad was a fantastic hosthad leaks in the ceiling which host is actively working onRead more reviewsLocation:
this is an excellent location for a visit to key westparking is a huge issue not close or convenienta terrific place to stayabsolutely fantastic place to stay we swam right out back & had a great timeif you want a truly unique and unforgettable place to stay this is it
13. Quaint houseboat with hotel access, Key Largo (from USD 272)
How’d you like to stay in a houseboat that looks and feels just like home? This Key Largo houseboat is just what you’re looking for. Located at Waterside Suites and Marina in town, this quaint water hideaway has a fully equipped kitchen, where you can whip up quick meals.
Four queen-size beds sleep up to eight people, and you even have two kayaks if you wish to explore the waters around. If that wasn’t enough, you even have access to an ice machine and a pool at the hotel.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it would be more comfortable for a single or two childrena/c on the boat worked flawlessly and kept us comfortable throughout our staybathrooms are small but niceCleanliness:
nice clean towels and linens were providedthe boat is very clean and spacious with a full size kitchenplenty of space to spread out and very cleangreat houseboat open concept comfortable well-outfitted cleanHost:
marie was a perfect hostthe property manager is very responsivethe host was easy to work with and met us at the boat to check infrom the beginning marie was an outstanding host and continued to be so throughout our visitmarie was very tentative and helpful and the boat was everything as advertisedRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was also very convenient as there are several great restaurants within close proximitythe houseboat is perfect location within walking distance to restaurantssublime quirky beautiful houseboat and location
14. Fabulous houseboat on a private land, Fort Walton Beach (from USD 166)
Seize the day with ‘Seas The Day’, a fabulous houseboat in tranquil and serene Fort Walton Beach. If you want to avoid crowds, then there’s no better place to stay than this boat, which features a fire pit, kayaks, and paddle boards for you to go exploring on your own.
Done up in rustic marine style, the houseboat sleeps four people and has a living room, bedrooms, a full kitchen, and bathrooms for comfort. It even has the entertainment factor with cable TV and Netflix on both TVs, as well as a DVD player and board games. The standout is the upper deck, where you can soak up some sun and catch gorgeous views.
Top guest reviews
Host:
the hosts were kind and friendlygreat hosts attentive and responsivethe hosts are wonderful and have paddle boards and kayaksRead more reviewsLocation:
seas the day was the perfect location for my wife and i
15. Plush stationary houseboat on St. John's River, Sanford (from USD 178)
Nestled on the world’s only second north-flowing river, St. John’s in Sanford, this stationary houseboat is the perfect way to enjoy nature and wildlife. The spacious floating oasis features a living room, a sleek kitchen for preparing your own meals, and an equally swish bathroom with toiletries.
The outdoor deck is the highlight of the boat, where you can enjoy morning coffee and evening drinks. Plush sleeping arrangements aside, you’ll love thoughtful touches such as the centre island, mod cons and the fire pit on the patio. Moreover, the resort where the boat is docked features a plethora of amenities, including a large swimming pool.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
spotlessly clean and well stockedthe houseboat is modern beautiful & super cleani went there with my two young daughters and found it absolutely safe clean and wonderfully locatedgreat location for peace and quiet property is very clean and well maintainedHost:
the owners were friendly and helpfulthe owner mark was friendly helpful and attentivemark was a very accommodating & responsive owneralso mark is an excellent host that was very helpful and accommodatingall the people at the marina were also so nice and friendly i loves itRead more reviewsLocation:
property is located in very serene location and gorgeousit is beautifully renovated has everything you need and more and for us was a perfect locationif you like being on a river this is a great place to stayplace is fully equipped with pretty much whatever you need in kitchen
16. Renovated houseboat, Key West
Stay at this cosy and wonderful houseboat docked at a marina in Key West. The recently renovated houseboat sleeps up to four people — two adults and two children. It has two bunk beds for the kids, while there’s a full bed for the adults.
On board, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable holiday — a full kitchen with cooking essentials, WiFi, a dining area and even a bathroom stocked with toiletries. Outside, you have access to lots of free parking, complete with a bar and restaurant right at the marina. The icing on the cake is that there are even kayaks for free use.
Key West, Florida, United States
237.61 km (147.7 mi) from Jungle Queen RiverboatTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
weather was outstanding- sunny and 72- so no need for air conditioningthe ac worked great and we had a small heater since it was cooler than expectedthe bed was very comfortable and the views were incrediblethough small the two beds in the lower deck were very comfortableevery room has powerful a/c systemCleanliness:
the houseboat was very cleanvery clean and the beds were very comfortablewe found the houseboat to be clean comfortable and well equippedeverything was clean and in working orderthe boat was clean and had all amenities needed including clean bedding and towelsHost:
paul was a super accommodating hostthe owner was easy to communicate withhosts were very accommodating and the boat was greatpaul is very friendly to help ushost was very accommodating and friendlyRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was greatthe location was good for usthe location was perfect for usthe location is awesome being just off key west but easily within short driving or biking distancebut the location is great right outside key west
17. Exquisite yacht houseboat, St. Augustine
If you’re looking for a houseboat rental in St. Augustine, then look no further than this lovely open and light motor yacht. Everything is perfect in this floating accommodation, which features two cabins, two bathrooms and a well-equipped kitchen.
Most of all, you’ll love the outside deck where you can settle with a cold one and spy gorgeous views of the boats in the marina. Moreover, the sequestered marina location is perfect as you have privacy, but are close to beaches as well as downtown.
St. Augustine, Florida, United States
439.19 km (272.9 mi) from Jungle Queen RiverboatSuperhost
Accommodates: 5
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the beds were extremely comfortable and the bathroom was much larger than we expectedjennifer made it super easy to check in and we felt comfortable the whole timethe beds were so comfortableclean quiet just like the pictures relaxing comfortable great views hospitality great all greatgreat place the yacht is in a quiet marina with many amenities clean bathrooms and showersCleanliness:
everything was very cleanit is very clean and has many personal toucheseverything was super clean and well organizedit felt spacious and was very clean and very quietgreat hosts communications responsiveness exceptionally clean well appointed accomodationsHost:
thank you to our hosthosts are amazing and quick to answer questionsjennifer and jack were the best hosts with quick responses for our questionsyou won't regret this amazing experience hosts were extremely kind and accommodatingjennifer was an outstanding host she answered any and all questions and made us feel at homeRead more reviewsLocation:
nice restaurant within walking distanceit's a short drive to town and a quick walk to a great breakfast placeit was great to be able to walk to a nearby restaurant for seafood and drinksexpect a great stay very close to beach our stay was more than we expectedit's an amazing place to stay super close to everything you want to do
18. Fully equipped houseboat with Gulf of Mexico access, Osprey
Nothing compares to staying right in the Gulf of Mexico, which is exactly what this lovely houseboat with its own private dock promises. With sleeping arrangements for as many as five people, this houseboat, just south of Sarasota Springs, not only has a full kitchen but also two bathrooms.
Since you’re right on the Gulf of Mexico, grab the paddle boards or kayaks and go exploring on your own. For land expeditions, you even have a golf cart and bikes. What’s more, you have access to your very own sandy beach, too.
Osprey, Florida, United States
265.44 km (165.0 mi) from Jungle Queen RiverboatAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
i agree with another review that the 2nd bedroom with two beds is best suited for kidsCleanliness:
it was cleanHost:
deb was super accommodating and kinddeb and blake are great hoststhank you for the friendly hospitality and the invite to use the hot tubthe boat is well equipped and the hosts are super attentive and responsivedeb and blake were amazing hosts extremely accommodating and friendlyRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is super close and convenient to just about everythingso much fun and in the perfect locationalso like having the restaurant in walking distancegreat location for relaxation and just taking in the beautiful areaa great place to stay for a little unique getaway on the water
Enjoy a houseboat vacation in Florida
In many ways, staying on a houseboat is one luxurious way to experience the decadence of Florida. With so many affordable options available, it’s a great way to lend uniqueness to your vacation and make it memorable. So, choose from the best houseboats for rent in Florida, the USA, and make the most of your ‘Sunshine State’ holiday.
Frequently asked questions about the best houseboats for rent in Florida, USA
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