Top 11 Houseboats For Rent In North Carolina, USA - Updated 2024

Victor
Victor 
Updated
| 4 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.

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. Floating home with modern comforts (from USD 400)

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. Step outside onto the delightful deck/patio to soak in the breathtaking views. Stay connected with internet access, stay cool with air conditioning, and enjoy entertainment with the provided TV.

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
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
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
Read more reviews
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2. Houseboat with breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain views (from USD 350)

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.

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 Bathroom

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3. Bright and airy houseboat with gorgeous water views (from USD 147)

This Airbnb houseboat in North Carolina is spacious, bright, and airy thanks to the large windows that also treat you to the 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.

Stayed at this property?
Morehead City, North Carolina, United States
2.65 km (1.7 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
190 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 3 Beds 4 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
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
Cleanliness:
super clean and nola had some very nice host touches inside
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
Read more reviews

4. Pet-friendly houseboat with a lovely porch (from USD 178)

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.

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
Amenities & Room:
plenty of room with all the comforts of home
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
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
Read more reviews
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5. Spacious boat with magnificent harbor views (from USD 182)

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 in close proximity to 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 you should definitely consider this accommodation. It is also ideal for couples looking for a weekend getaway.

Stayed at this property?
Elizabeth City, North Carolina, United States
183.22 km (113.9 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
89 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Boat 2 Beds 2 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the houseboat had everything we needed and was very comfortable
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
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
Read more reviews

6. Well-appointed houseboat in a quaint waterfront community (from USD 150)

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.

Stayed at this property?
Elizabeth City, North Carolina, United States
182.99 km (113.8 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
64 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 2 Beds 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
i cannot express just how wonderful mechelle’s houseboat is it is stylish and comfortable
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
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
Read more reviews

7. Water retreat ideal for couples (from USD 170)

If you are looking for a houseboat that is perfect for couples, then this Catamaran Cruiser might be for you. 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.

Stayed at this property?
Manteo, North Carolina, United States
162.59 km (101.1 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
444 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bed is very comfy and the deck is beautiful to watch the sunrise
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
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
Read more reviews

8. Adorable waterfront condo with air conditioning (from USD 223)

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.

Stayed at this property?
Beaufort, North Carolina, United States
14.19 km (8.9 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
11 reviews   Wifi Available
Houseboat 4 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

9. Lovely off-grid houseboat in a serene location (from USD 119)

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 you can 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.

Stayed at this property?

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

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
swimming reading cooking and enjoying the quiet was the agenda for the entire stay
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
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
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.

10. Floating paradise with kitchen (from USD 99)

The Azul Project was made to bring awareness to the importance of conserving water, and by spending your nights on this floating paradise, a part of what you pay 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.

Stayed at this property?
Manteo , North Carolina, United States
162.59 km (101.1 mi) from Fort Macon State Park
211 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 0 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
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
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
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
Read more reviews

11. Private houseboat with beautiful sunset views

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
Amenities & Room:
the houseboat is very comfortable for 4 people
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
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
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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Victor firmly believes that writing is a skill anyone can develop, and he is a living testament to that philosophy. With a genuine love for writing, he finds it to be a powerful means of sharing...Read more

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