Top 11 Houseboats For Rent In North Carolina, USA - Updated 2025

Victor
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 7 min read

Imagine spending your nights and waking up to breathtaking water views with the lovely sunlight piercing through your windows. Allow yourself to experience this when you consider the convenience and the uniqueness of houseboats. With gorgeous views, soothing sounds of nature, and tranquility you won’t find in your normal hotel rooms or vacation rentals, staying in a boat can surely make your trip worthwhile. In North Carolina, there are plenty of staycations and pet-friendly cabin rentals. A houseboat, however, will not just treat you to some of the most amazing stays in the state, but will also give you the pleasure of exploring a completely new side of the state’s breathtaking beauty. If this sounds like something you would enjoy, then scroll down to see the top houseboats for rent in North Carolina, USA.

Good to know:

  • Environmentally conscious travelers can check out the Outdoor NC movement for tips on ethical travel. The state has suggested some best practices to protect the stunning outdoors. Some of the practices you can follow include picking up after yourself and sticking to marked trails to avoid altering the natural environment. You can also choose off-beat destinations to avoid over-crowding and reduce your impact.

  • The official tourism website of North Carolina offers detailed information on transportation, visitor centers, and other useful areas. Have a look and plan your trip carefully!

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 June 29, 2025.

Houseboat
Best Feature
Price
Floating home with modern comforts; Wilmington Covered deck with water and marina views from USD 515
Houseboat with breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain views; Nebo Location close to great beaches and fishing opportunities from USD 408
Bright and airy houseboat with gorgeous water views; Morehead City Luxurious interiors and large windows with water views from USD 299
Spacious boat with magnificent harbor views; Elizabeth City Within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and other facilities from USD 285
Well-appointed houseboat in a quaint waterfront community; Elizabeth City Spectacular river views from USD 155
Water retreat ideal for couples; Manteo Private pool and hot tub from USD 164
Floating paradise with kitchen; Manteo Kayaks for fishing or exploring the water from USD 163
Lovely off-grid houseboat in a serene location; Robbinsville Deck with mountain views from USD 119
Adorable waterfront condo with air conditioning; Beaufort Fishing opportunity from the porch from USD 840
Pet-friendly houseboat with a lovely porch; Beaufort Opportunity for watersports activities such as surfing, diving, and more from USD 178

1. Floating home with modern comforts; Wilmington (from USD 507)

Highlights Family Friendly

Best for: Families with kids, group stays

Discover the charm of floating homes in North Carolina. Experience the epitome of comfort and convenience at this centrally located houseboat in Port City Marina, featuring two bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The first floor boasts a fully equipped kitchen, an inviting dining room, a cozy living room, and a bedroom with an attached bathroom.

Ascend to the second floor, and you’ll find the master bedroom with an en-suite full bathroom and an additional inviting living room. I’d love to spend time on the delightful deck/patio and soak in the breathtaking views. Stay connected with internet access, stay cool with air conditioning, and enjoy entertainment with the provided TV.

What guests are saying about their stay:

“We wanted a place to stay and just relax. This Houseboat was more than what we expected. Spectacular Views of the marina, walking distance to some great restaurants, and also took in a concert which was walking distance. Super clean, very safe, and spent most of the time on the upstairs covered deck gazing at the water. Never turned a tv on the entire stay.” - by Kimberly B.

Stayed at this property?
Wilmington, North Carolina, United States

126.03 km (78.4 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
house boat 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Host:
thank you host for sharing your lovely "piece of heaven"
owners are super sweet and willing to go the extra mile if you have questions
check-in and communication with the owners was quick and easy
our family thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this one-of-a-kind property
Location:
the location was great and within walking distance to our concert venue
awesome location and the experience was fantastic
loved this boathouse and loved the location you are five minutes from everything in downtown and on the riverwalk
quiet and close to town with great food and breakfast places nearby
Cleanliness:
it was clean and spacious with everything you need
the decor was spot on and extremely clean
the houseboat was incredible very clean well stocked comfortable beds etc
house is immaculate and great communication
clean bright great location close to downtown
Read more reviews

2. Houseboat with breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain views; Nebo (from USD 446)

Highlights Family Friendly Beach Access

Best for: Group stays, families with kids, beach lovers

Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you explore the best places to rent a houseboat in North Carolina. Discover the enchanting waters of Lake James, where houseboats roam gracefully, granting you breathtaking vistas of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Imagine waking up to picturesque sunrises and drifting off to dreamy sunsets while floating on pristine waters.

Feel the allure of sandy beaches calling you ashore for moments of blissful relaxation and beachside fun. Indulge in great fishing opportunities, surrounded by the tranquil ambiance of the foothills. This houseboat in North Carolina offers you a bath, and a fully-equipped kitchen on board, ensuring a delightful culinary journey.

What guests are saying about their stay:

“The boat and overnight stay provided an amazing, unique experience to celebrate a friends birthday. The weather was perfect, and the accommodations on the boat covered everything we needed. Full moon on the water was magical. Communication, check in, and check out was thorough and on time.” - by Annie H.

Stayed at this property?
Nebo, North Carolina, United States

488.48 km (303.6 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
house boat 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

3. Bright and airy houseboat with gorgeous water views; Morehead City (from USD 490)

Highlights Beach Access Family Friendly

Best for: Beach lovers, families, group stays

This Airbnb houseboat in North Carolina is spacious, bright, and airy. I think its best feature is the large windows that treat guests to gorgeous views of the sun and water around. It features three bedrooms, a private bathroom, and two decks where you can sit and relax as you enjoy the refreshing sights of dolphins swimming by. The interior is nicely designed and fully furnished with all the amenities you may need such as a full kitchen complete with a microwave and a refrigerator.

What guests are saying about their stay:

“Great adventure staying on a houseboat!! Dock area felt very safe. We took a walk every evening after dark with our 8 y/o grandson. Lots of restaurants and shops within walking distance of the dock…” - by Suzan (Wilmington, North Carolina)

Stayed at this property?
Morehead City, North Carolina, United States

2.65 km (1.7 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
231 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 3 Beds 4 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
nola is a great host
our host was readily available and consistently helpful
nola was a responsive host
the boat was amazing and nola was a thoughtful and insightful host
she was very responsive and helpful
Location:
great location and beautiful scenery
location was perfect for our trip and nola was very accomodating
cool place can't beat the location and the vibe
the location was great near restaurants bars and live music
such a fun experience great location and really cozy living area
Cleanliness:
super clean and nola had some very nice host touches inside
Amenities & Room:
they were 2 of the hottest days of the year and the air conditioning worked amazingly well
the bed(s) were super comfy and really all the space was comfy
- the bathrooms had plenty of nice white fluffy towels and wash cloths along with soap shampoo conditioner
Read more reviews

4. Spacious boat with magnificent harbor views; Elizabeth City (from USD 484)

Highlights Couple Travel Convenient Location

Best for: Couples

The spacious Catamaran Cruiser is more of a cottage than a boat. It is well-designed and properly furnished, allowing you to have a comfortable stay. The location is near attractions such as art galleries, museums, coffee shops, and lots of great restaurants. If you are looking for the perfect base to launch day trips to places such as H2OBX Waterpark, then I feel you should absolutely consider this accommodation. It is also ideal for couples looking for a weekend getaway.

What guests are saying about their stay:

“The stay at Mechelle’s houseboat was wonderful! She met us at the boat and showed us around. Everything that you could possibly want or need was already there, including a bottle of wine, snacks and bottled water. The decor was inviting and well thought out. The outside areas were perfect for coffee in the morning, wine in the evening and general relaxing…” - by Susan Michelle (Matthews, North Carolina)

Stayed at this property?
Elizabeth City, North Carolina, United States

183.22 km (113.9 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
106 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Boat 2 Beds 2 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
mechelle was a great host
an amazing and trustworthy host
the host has thought of absolutely everything to make you feel comfortable and at home on her boat
mechelle was such a great host
she is a great host and was nearby if we needed help
Location:
if you’re looking for a very unique getaway this is a great place to stay
island time was the perfect place for a long-weekend getaway
we enjoyed walking around the area and the downtown hoppin johnz across the street has great food
and a science fun place for kiddos
Cleanliness:
everything is sparkling clean and the bed linens and towels are super high quality and just beautiful
the place is clean beautiful and in the perfect location
we had a great weekend and the boat was very clean and comfortable for the two of us
Amenities & Room:
the houseboat had everything we needed and was very comfortable
Read more reviews

5. Well-appointed houseboat in a quaint waterfront community; Elizabeth City (from USD 155)

Highlights Couple Travel Convenient Location

Best for: Couples

This well-appointed houseboat rental in North Carolina is in a quaint waterfront community and is less than an hour away from H2OBX Waterpark. At the main salon, you will love the comfort of the sectional sofa that also doubles up as a daybed, ideal for watching movies during bad weather days. The fully equipped kitchen, complete with a dinette area, can allow you to prepare and enjoy your meals. The place also features a bathroom with a shower. To create the perfect sleeping environment, the bedroom has blackout curtains as well as a queen bed with comfortable linens to make you enjoy every minute of your stay.

What guests are saying about their stay:

“…Mechelle walked us through everything we needed, even warned us to pack lightly, as this is a houseboat and the space is limited. However, the views of the river, the live music from the brewery (150 feet away), watching the drawbridge and boats, all were excellent. Oh, I almost forgot, the ability to walk to everything you need, was the best!…” - by Russell (Waynesboro, Virginia)

Stayed at this property?
Elizabeth City, North Carolina, United States

182.99 km (113.8 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
73 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 2 Beds 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
mechelle is an awesome host
mechelle is an amazing host
great place and excellent host
mechelle is outstanding as a host
she is an awesome host readily available without ever being intrusive
Location:
the boat is located in an excellent location close to everything you need
you can walk to restaurants tour the downtown area and relax
everything was within walking distance and mechelle had some wonderful recommendations
Cleanliness:
mechelles place was clean and comfortable
the houseboat is clean with little details that mechelle thought out perfectly
her boat was exceptionally clean and comfortable
the houseboat was very neat and clean
clean bright and cheery we couldnt have asked for more
Amenities & Room:
i cannot express just how wonderful mechelle’s houseboat is it is stylish and comfortable
Read more reviews

6. Water retreat ideal for couples; Manteo (from USD 273)

Highlights Beach Access Couple Travel

Best for: Beach lovers, couples

If you are looking for a houseboat that is perfect for couples, I’d suggest booking this Catamaran Cruiser. The location is in a comfortable and quiet marina, and it comes fitted with all the amenities of comfort you may need for a memorable stay including a private pool, a hot tub, and an outdoor charcoal grill. From its location, you can get access to lots of outdoor attractions such as natural beaches, beautiful land marsh, and barrier islands among others.

What guests are saying about their stay:

“The boat itself was very cozy. The marina is gorgeous and very peaceful. It was very quiet at night, and despite warnings, no bugs at all!” - by Cicily (St. Louis, Missouri)

Stayed at this property?
Manteo, North Carolina, United States

162.59 km (101.1 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
503 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
the host is nice
the host was awesome
gia is a wonderful host
gia was a great host
gia was an excellent and friendly host
Location:
super cute boat nice location
unique place and great location
the location was exactly where we wanted to be—close drive to beaches and nice walk to downtown manteo
such a comfy cute place if you want something different great location
quiet tucked in a cute town
Cleanliness:
very clean and well kept
it was extremely clean and had everything we needed
very clean and just the perfect cozy space for two
the houseboat is absolutely darling and very clean
it was clean there was a fast response when communication was needed and it was cozy
Amenities & Room:
the bed is very comfy and the deck is beautiful to watch the sunrise
Read more reviews

7. Floating paradise with kitchen; Manteo (from USD 428)

Highlights Couple Travel Work Travel Beach Access

Best for: Couples, beach lovers, worktationers

The Azul Project was made to bring awareness to the importance of conserving water. I think the best part is that a part of what you pay for a stay here will be donated for the conservation. If you love nature and would love to play a direct role in its conservation and preservation, then considering this place might be a great idea. The accommodation features a houseboat with a fully equipped kitchen, a master stateroom, a full bath, and a gorgeous deck for you to enjoy the breathtaking views.

What guests are saying about their stay:

“The houseboat was a very cool experience for my Husband and I. The accommodations were homey and comfortable, and the boat was even more spacious than was pictured. We absolutely loved waking up on the water, and utilizing the overhead deck space/patio furniture. The kayaks were a lovely time, and having the Stripers restaurant a mere steps from the boat was incredibly convenient!…” - by Tasha (Morrisville, North Carolina)

Stayed at this property?
Manteo, North Carolina, United States

162.59 km (101.1 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
252 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 0 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
gia was a great host
gia is a great host
gia is an outstanding host
gia is the best host
great place and insane good host
Location:
a very unique experience and great location very close to the obx
great location easy check in and comfortable space
ideal location for local sprint triathlon in manteo
everything about the location was perfect and beautiful
amazing place location and very comfortable as well
Cleanliness:
everything was spotless beautiful and comfortable
very clean and plenty of room for my family
the place was very clean and was very peaceful
everything was clean and there was plenty of space
the house boat azul is beautiful inside and out the rooms were sparkling clean
Amenities & Room:
the whole place was air conditioned and comfortable
it is in a good location with a great view of the sunrise comfortable master bed
it’s very well equipped and the beds are quite comfortable
what a wonderful way to stay in manteo the accommodations were cozy and comfortable and the ambiance was spectacular
Read more reviews

8. Lovely off-grid houseboat in a serene location; Robbinsville (from USD 116)

Highlights Family Friendly Pet Friendly Couple Travel

Best for: Families with kids, couples, pet parents, group stays

This accommodation does not have a cable TV, internet, air conditioning, and hot shower, but it comes with a beautiful kitchen, a decently furnished living room, and a gorgeous deck where I’d love to sit and enjoy the beautiful views of nature all around. Located in a remote and serene location, you will need to kayak or paddle for about 45 minutes to access the place. You will also need to come with your boat or rent the owner’s at a fee. Note that you will also have to bring your own towels and sleeping bags to make your stay more comfortable.

What guests are saying about their stay:

“My wife and I stayed for three days with our pup and it couldnt have been a better getaway. Everything from check in to check out was so smooth; Gaylene is an awesome host and will help with whatever questions you have. Since this is a unique getaway, it does come with detailed rules and instructions to make your stay optimal so if you follow all details, your stay will be amazing. Prepare for hot days and nights in the Summer though as the houseboat does heat up quickly. All in all, the stay was awesome and we will definitely return in the future.” - by Aaron B.

Stayed at this property?
Robbinsville, North Carolina, United States

639.69 km (397.5 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
house boat 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Top guest reviews
Host:
the host was very kind and communicated well it was a wonderful adventure for us
gaylene is a fabulous host and we highly recommend the boathouse
Location:
this place is a treasure what a great find
Cleanliness:
cozy clean quiet and absolutely beautiful scenery
it was so quiet and quiet the lake is beautiful and clean
the house is amazingly small yet spacious and oh so comfortable
Amenities & Room:
swimming reading cooking and enjoying the quiet was the agenda for the entire stay
Read more reviews

9. Private houseboat with beautiful sunset views; Beaufort

Highlights Family Friendly Convenient Location

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, families, group stays

Beautiful sunsets await you in a private houseboat located just a short walk away from restaurants, bars, children’s museums, and novelty shops. The boat features a functional kitchen, a spacious living area with comfortable sofas, three double beds, and a full bathroom. This accommodation also comes with two bikes and two kayaks to expand the scope of outdoor adventures during your stay.

Stayed at this property?
Beaufort, North Carolina, United States

3.43 km (2.2 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
143 reviews   Wifi Available
Houseboat 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
she is a great host
she was very friendly knowledgeable and hospitable
she is cordial accommodating and responsive
the owner messaged us daily and was a great host
super fun and really helpful host
Location:
cute spacious and the location is beyond words
very nice experience perfect location for watching sunsets
there was so much to do in the area the location was perfect
this stay was excellent the marina and docks are in a great location
the location has the most beautiful sunsets you could ever see
Cleanliness:
great place to get away and relax very clean and cozy
such a neat experience easy walk to downtown super clean fast responses and even decorated for my birthday
the boat was clean and the deck was a great place to relax and catch the incredible sunsets
Amenities & Room:
the houseboat is very comfortable for 4 people
Read more reviews

10. Adorable waterfront condo with air conditioning; Beaufort

Highlights Pet Friendly Family Friendly Work Travel Beach Access

Best for: Pet parents, families with kids, workationers, beach lovers

This floating waterfront condo promises you a unique experience with its great location and amenities. The location is just a few minutes away from the historical town of Beaufort, allowing you to enjoy some dining and other entertainment options nearby. The condo is fully furnished with a spacious living room fitted with a flat-screen TV and cozy sofas. The kitchen is also fully equipped with a stove and a microwave to help you prepare your meals with ease. Enjoy a quiet afternoon on the front porch while you admire the magnificent views of the Intracoastal.

What guests are saying about their stay:

“We had a wonderful time! Great location and the houseboat was so much fun and unique! Our sons were able to fish right off the porch! I wish we would own a boat since they also have a very nice boat ramp on location…” - by Tanja (Rocky Mount, Virginia)

Stayed at this property?
Beaufort, North Carolina, United States

14.19 km (8.9 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
12 reviews   Wifi Available
Houseboat 4 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

11. Pet-friendly houseboat with a lovely porch; Beaufort

Highlights Pet Friendly Family Friendly Convenient Location

Best for: Pet parents, families, group stays, outdoor enthusiasts

Your stay in this gorgeous houseboat on the Intracoastal Waterway will be characterized by regular sightings of commercial fishing boats and yachts as they make their way up and down the waterway. The house features a spacious living room with a cozy sofa and a flat-screen TV. The fully equipped kitchen is adjacent to the living room, and it also features a dining area with chairs and tables for two. The bedrooms are also decently furnished, with one having a queen bed and the other having two singles. The property’s location allows you to explore outdoor activities such as surfing, snorkeling, swimming, sailing, and beach volleyball.

What guests are saying about their stay:

“We enjoyed staying there so much. Quiet, private, perfect place to rest and take in the view. We docked our own boat right behind the houseboat, and drove it to the islands and historic waterfront…” - by Carrie H.

Stayed at this property?

14.14 km (8.8 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
79 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 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Host:
the owner and staff were very responsive and accommodating
the manager and owner were pleasant to work with
the hosts were very friendly and helpful
the boat is very nicely decorated and kept up by the owner
the owners are very friendly and welcoming
Location:
close to the beach and other attractions
we love beaufort and it was very close and beautiful as always
the location on the icw was great
if you have a boat and fishing gear it is the perfect place to bring it
Cleanliness:
it was spotlessly clean
my husband and i were both delighted on how clean the houseboat was
we had an amazing stay very clean and cozy property managers are very helpful and nice individuals
it was clean and the owner was helpful
Amenities & Room:
plenty of room with all the comforts of home
Read more reviews

Enjoy a unique experience in North Carolina

Take a break from the conventional accommodation options for a chance to enjoy the peace, comfort, and serenity of houseboats. Consider any of the top houseboats for rent in North Carolina, USA, for a change. To make the most of your stay, check out the available yacht charters and the best places for kayaking as well!

Frequently asked questions about houseboats for rent in North Carolina, USA

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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