28 Best Houseboat Rentals In Northern California - Updated 2024

Gabby
Gabby 
Updated
| 9 min read

Northern California is one of the most popular travel destinations in the States. The Golden Gate in San Francisco, Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, and Monterey are few of the must-visit destinations. Experience Northern California with other world-class attractions nearby and have a well-spent vacation on a houseboat. Here, we list some of the best Airbnb houseboats in Northern California to choose from. In addition to hotels and vacation rentals with private pool, they’re also one of the best ways to spend a vacation where you can choose from luxurious rentals to inexpensive boats. Take your pick from this list of houseboat rentals in Northern California, and start planning your staycation today.

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 08, 2024.

1. Comfortably furnished boat with fireplace (from USD 199)

Planning a coastal vacation? Why not make it more special by staying on the water? Book this cozy houseboat equipped with all the necessary amenities to have a memorable getaway with your loved ones. The living space with plush couches and a wood-burning fireplace is the perfect spot for a fun family evening. The deck outside can serve as a lounging or a dining spot. There’s an indoor dining corner as well. A fully equipped kitchen, two bathrooms, and laundry facilities are among the many attractive features of this property.

Complimentary internet and a work desk make this houseboat suitable for remote workers.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
14.08 km (8.8 mi) from China Camp State Park
house boat 4 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
are better than many home kitchens) and lots of extra high quality towels sheets etc
the kitchen bedrooms and bathrooms are surprisingly well equipped with first-rate equipment (pans knives etc
Host:
it was a lot of fun and our host was incredibly responsive and accomodating for our entire stay
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2. Cozy boat on Sacramento River (from USD 83)

Treat your partner to a romantic getaway in this cozy boat on the Sacramento River. The wooden interior and the plush furnishings of the houseboat will make you feel at home right away. The living space with leather couches and a fireplace is perfect for hanging out. A king-size bed and air-conditioning are provided so that you two can enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Whip up a quick meal in the kitchen and savor it sitting on the shaded deck. You can while away your time here watching cute local birds and animals playing in the river.

Stayed at this property?
Walnut Grove, California, United States
90.25 km (56.1 mi) from China Camp State Park
91 reviews   Wifi Available
Houseboat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Location:
the location is absolutely stunning
a very short walk/drive to walnut creek which has a few cute shops and restaurants
this is such a beautiful location so many great places to eat and visit
plenty of space for a couple but a close family of 4 would also be happy here
Read more reviews

3. Luxurious houseboat with a rooftop garden (from USD 283)

This luxurious houseboat offers cozy accommodation with all comforts of the home. It features a rooftop garden where you can hang out, cook barbecues, and dine while enjoying majestic views of the bay. This living space is large enough to sleep a group of six and is equipped with a heating system to provide you with comfort during your stay. There is also a kitchen that is well-appointed with modern appliances, making it easier to cook tasty meals.

Plus, there is a laptop-friendly workstation and high-speed wireless internet, so you can still check on emails and social media while on vacation.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
14.47 km (9.0 mi) from China Camp State Park
house boat 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the roof balcony was awesome the beds were comfortable and sleeping arrangements were quite private and cozy
Cleanliness:
it was very spacious and comfortable for a grown family of five
Host:
the owner was helpful friendly and accommodating in every way
Location:
friendly neighbors and of course a wonderful location
but i parked near the boat for a week without problem
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4. Unique floating home with a hot tub (from USD 285)

This unique floating home offers stunning sunset views. It features an outdoor living room with a hot tub where you can soak in and relax all day. Inside this A-frame house is an open-plan living space with a kitchen, dining, and seating area.

The kitchen is complete with stainless steel appliances, allowing you to create delectable meals, while the seating area has flat-screen TV to keep you entertained indoors. There is also a workstation on the property, as well as wireless internet for guests on a business trip.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
14.28 km (8.9 mi) from China Camp State Park
house boat 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very comfortable beautiful views great location
all the amenities of a nice hotel with the added bonus of a well stocked kitchen
the beds are comfortable and the linens and bedding are superior quality
the rooms are large and well furnished and the living areas are perfect for socializing
Cleanliness:
the property is spotless and beautifully appointed
this home was so clean and cozy that we didn't want to leave
all appears new and sparkling clean
sea chalet is a cute compact clean and comfortable floating home with all needed amenities
the house is very comfortable clean and has gorgeous views
Host:
amy was wonderful very helpful on the front end making our arrival easy and stress-free
amy was so friendly and helpful
Location:
easy parking close to the ferry to sf close to downtown sausalito convenient to mill valley
home is as advertised great location for seeing the san francisco bay area
easy drive into the city or down to ferry dock and close to wine country reyes pte etc
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California Tour Guide

Stephanie Eley

Stephanie Eley

I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more

Tours by Stephanie

5. Elegant houseboat with kayaks (from USD 217)

This elegant houseboat is ideally located close to amazing dining options, shops, and beautiful beaches. As you enter the house, a cozy living area with sofas, a fireplace, and a flat-screen TV will welcome you. Curl up on the comfy sofas and get cozy by the fire while watching movies or enjoying views of the bay from the large windows.

A few steps away is the kitchen, which is complete with modern facilities for you to cook meals with ease. Additionally, you can make use of the kayaks on-site for extra fun under the sun.

Stayed at this property?

14.02 km (8.8 mi) from China Camp State Park
19 reviews   Wifi Available
house boat 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

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

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very relaxing and sitting on the deck having breakfast or a sundowner watching the birds was perfect
it was great fun to be on the water the unit is very comfortable and nicely furnished
very modern and comfortable would definitely stay here again
Cleanliness:
very clean and well equipped unit
Host:
anna the host incredibly easy to work with
anna the host was so easy to communicate with and gave us all the privacy we needed too
Location:
location too was awesome
the location was great as in 10 minutes you can be in the heart of san francisco
well equipped and comfortable houseboat in a convenient location
we loved this amazing houseboat and location we used the kayaks every day at sunset to explore the bay
we stayed during the sausalito art festival during labor day weekend and could walk to the festival area
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6. Romantic houseboat with a sauna (from USD 210)

For a romantic getaway, book a stay in this lovely houseboat. It is complete with air-conditioning and heating systems to provide you with comfort during your stay, as well as access to the internet and parking spaces for your convenience. This floating living space boasts a two-person sauna that guests can take advantage of to relieve some stress while on vacation.

While there is a fully equipped kitchen inside, you can also make use of the grill to cook some barbecues for lunch or dinner. Then, you can spend your afternoon kayaking, paddleboarding, or hanging out on the deck while watching beautiful sunsets.

Stayed at this property?

73.53 km (45.7 mi) from China Camp State Park
3 reviews   Wifi Available
house boat 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2
Minimum Nights: 1
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the place was nice clean and pretty well appointed
Location:
lovely location and super cozy
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7. Charming houseboat with a private deck. (from USD 165)

Soak in stunning ocean views when you stay in this one-bedroom houseboat. It comes with a well-equipped kitchen, a cozy living area with floor-to-ceiling windows, and a small dining area. Upstairs is the comfy bedroom and a balcony with chairs.

The boat features a large deck with a table for two and more spaces for seating. There is a kayak that you can use if you want to explore the waters, You can also enjoy swimming, fishing, or bird watching directly from the boat.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
16.21 km (10.1 mi) from China Camp State Park
house boat 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Top guest reviews
Location:
amazing place to stay and very enjoyable location
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8. Floating home with two-bedrooms (from USD 210)

Set on the docks of San Francisco Bay, this two-bedroom floating home offers accommodation good for four people., With a fully equipped kitchen, dining, and bathrooms, you can stay here comfortably and enjoy a relaxing getaway.

It has a large roof deck where you can enjoy 360 views of the bay and a front deck that gives you access to swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding. There is also outdoor furniture if you want to hang out under the sun or play by the water.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
14.36 km (9.0 mi) from China Camp State Park
house boat 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great views and comfortable deck furniture
Host:
owner extremely accommodating and super nice
the owner was terrific & got back to us right away with solutions / highly recommend
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9. Two-story houseboat in Ko-Ket Resort (from USD 610)

This is a two-story houseboat located in Ko-Ket Resort. It has a large living space with three beds and can sleep four guests comfortably. Its fully equipped kitchen will allow you to prepare delicious meals that you can munch indoors or outdoors. There is also a roof deck where you can hang out and grab some drinks while watching sunsets and enjoying bay views.

Have fun swimming, sliding, fishing, and boating. You can also make use of the fire pit and beach chairs in the resort if you want to huddle around, chat, and make s'mores.

Stayed at this property?
Isleton, California, United States
86.16 km (53.6 mi) from China Camp State Park
house boat 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

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10. Spectacular houseboat with three bedrooms (from USD 300)

With its three bedrooms and two bathrooms, this spectacular houseboat comfortably accommodates up to six people. It comes with modern facilities that allow you to cook, be entertained, and relax during your stay. Inside the boat, there is a comfy living room with a sectional sofa and flat-screen TV, a dedicated workspace, and a family room with a coffee table.

On the deck, there are more seating areas and outdoor dining where you can have coffee breaks and evening drinks. Kayaks are also available for use if you want to explore the waters.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
14.29 km (8.9 mi) from China Camp State Park
house boat 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Host:
the owners were very attentive and thoughtful
Read more reviews
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11. Modern floating home by the San Francisco Bay (from USD 825)

This spacious floating home, surrounded by the majestic San Francisco Bay, provides an escape into a realm of tranquility. You need to bring your camera because everything, from the interior to the exterior of this houseboat is certainly Instagrammable! It has an area of approximately 278 square meters (2,992 square feet) with three floors in a deep water slip on Richardson Bay. The master bedroom is located on the upper level with a king-size bed and a balcony, whereas the lower level has two large bedrooms with queen-size beds. It also has a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, a beautifully appointed living room with a fireplace, and a large dining table where guests can enjoy sumptuous meals. This houseboat has a guest capacity of up to six.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
14.19 km (8.9 mi) from China Camp State Park
47 reviews   Wifi Available
Houseboat 3 Beds 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
loved the style the amount of space and the comfortable yet sophisticated decor
a wonderful comfortable space with wonderful views
great well equipped comfortable home with fantastic views
kids happily spread out in the lower level beds
it’s a fabulous space with many thoughtful touches and plenty of room to spread out
Cleanliness:
the place was clean and comfortable and we immediately felt at home
very clean large complete kitchen and nice touches throughout
Host:
all interaction was fast and helpful
pati is a very nice and helpful host
everyone on the dock was very friendly
pati was a fantastic host and communication was easy and quick
he was always responsive available and attentive without being intrusive
Location:
absolutely beautiful home and location
we had a wonderful stay the location is serene but yet so close to everything
very nice place quiet and close to everything
wonderful houseboat extremely well located and nicely decorated
we had such a nice time super fun location and wonderful little home
Read more reviews

12. Cozy houseboat in San Rafael (from USD 110)

This is an attractive houseboat along San Francisco Bay, which you can rent and enjoy with friends or family. It is a cute, newly remodeled houseboat rental in California that provides all the comforts and conveniences that a home can offer. This accommodation is recently rated very clean, with a complete set of kitchen wares, a delightful dining area, and a cozy living room where you can play plenty of fun games. There’s also an open window where you can enjoy the breeze as you sail along. Although WiFi is not available, you can make the most of your trip by enjoying the company of each other, taking photos and making memories.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
4.39 km (2.8 mi) from China Camp State Park
136 reviews   Wifi Available
Houseboat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
and super clean top3
this place was very clean and comfortable would definitely recommend
the houseboat is quite cute and clean and quiet at night
very clean and cute place neighbors were friendly
Host:
host makes us fill happy
so kind nice host and quick answer for us
communication with the hosts was easy and quick as was check in
Location:
very cute and comfortable houseboat in central san rafael close to terrapin crossroads and sol food
super cute place to stay the marina is located just off the highway ample parking
loved that it was close to many parks and had a lot of places to go and explore
the price is good and is probably just the right place for the right person
Read more reviews

13. Boat near Redwood City (from USD 111)

Redwood City is known for its high-tech industry and as the midpoint to the beautiful San Francisco. It has a great climate, perfect for exploring the city and to stay. Be entertained by lots of restaurants, movie theaters, parks, and kayak. The Whisper is a houseboat that is five minutes away from downtown Redwood City. It might be a small-scale boat but it has every essential that you need for a comfortable stay. The boat’s overall ambiance is romantic, clean, and relaxing. Beside the window is your bedroom, a perfect spot for watching the calm of the waters. Your sleeping abode also features a toilet, a tiny kitchen, and a laptop-friendly workspace.

Stayed at this property?
Redwood City, California, United States
61.05 km (38.0 mi) from China Camp State Park
223 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 1 Bed 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
what a beautiful view from the bed looking out to a shimmering silver lake
space heaters keep it nice and warm and the bed is very comfy
Cleanliness:
paid a $60 cleaning fee and (to be totally honest) it just wasn’t clean (bathroom & kitchen area)
bathroom is clean on the boat
the bed and linens were very clean and comfortable though
whisper is clean and has everything you would need
it was incredibly clean functional and homey with everything needed for a great stay
Host:
marcus was a great host
marcus is a wonderful host
marcus is a gracious host
marcus is a great host
great hospitality great place great host
Location:
caltrain station is only a few minutes away which made our visit even easier
very close to some cool local places and also to public transportation
very good value and close to the airport
marcus's whisper provides a unique and beautiful location to stay while on your trip to the silicon valley
luckily there is an adequate shower house and bathroom within walking distance up in the parking lot
Read more reviews

14. Luxurious floating home (from USD 172)

This luxurious floating home with a wooden balcony is a popular accommodation option for both locals and tourists looking to have an enjoyable moment in Northern California. It has all the modern amenities of a house such as a spacious living room, a compact galley kitchen, a wide toilet and bath, a great view of Mt. Tamalpias, WiFi connection with a laptop-friendly workspace, and free parking on the premises. As night falls and you start feeling the cold breeze, there is an available indoor fireplace to keep the place warm. The host also offers unlimited use of bikes and kayaks. Best of all, renting this houseboat does not limit you to a few days’ stay, but up to 28 days or more.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
13.92 km (8.7 mi) from China Camp State Park
24 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
centrally located in the quaint houseboat community and has all the amenities for a very comfortable stay
huge flat screen tv bbq kayaks bikes etc
Cleanliness:
clean and modern with beautiful unobstructed views
stylish decor clean and warwick was always communicative and accommodating
Host:
warwick is the perfect host
warwick's floating home is simply one of a kind
warwick is a perfect host - friendly and responsive
last but not least warwick himself is a fantastic host - so responsive and accommodating
warwick was very helpful and easy to communicate with
Location:
great location close to 101 nice restaurants and grocery store close by
a special location that we hope to visit again
his location is the best in the area
if you want a special place on the outskirts of san francisco you've found it
Read more reviews

15. Comfortable houseboat with fabulous views (from USD 140)

This houseboat feels like your home away from home! Inside this accommodation, you’ll find complete amenities and essentials. The living room is homey with a fireplace to warm up the area. There’s also a private room that can be locked up for safety and privacy and here, an adjustable Tempurpedic bed that moves up and down will make you sleep better. Waking up in the morning, enjoy a sip of coffee on the balcony facing the San Francisco bay while having a good conversation with your friends, or you can simply observe the seaplanes taking off and landing across the jetty. This charming houseboat can accommodate up to two guests.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
13.95 km (8.7 mi) from China Camp State Park
5 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in houseboat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
sausalito itself is calm clean and charming with upscale restaurants and everything in between
Host:
susan is just an amazing host
Read more reviews

16. Capacious houseboat for large groups (from USD 350)

For large groups, this amazing houseboat is situated in Shasta Marina at Packers Bay and will make for a great holiday rental. Well-appointed and spacious, the two-level houseboat has five comfy bedrooms, a full bathroom, and another half bath. There’s also a bright and well-laid-out living area, a galley, and more areas to relax and unwind in. Guests will also have access to a hot tub, a wet bar, and an area perfect for sunbathing. Enjoy lovely views of the lake and mountains from multiple windows and portholes.

Stayed at this property?

308.14 km (191.5 mi) from China Camp State Park
2 reviews  
house boat 14 Guests 5 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 14
Minimum Nights: 0
Refund Policy :

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the houseboat was clean and in great shape actually fancy
Host:
shasta marina has the best employees they were all so nice and helpful
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17. Mt. Tamalpais view from Mediterranean-style houseboat (from USD 600)

To add a Mediterranean flair to your Northern California vacation, rent this beautiful houseboat. It has a Mediterranean-style interior and offers unparalleled views of Mt. Tamalpais. The well-appointed houseboat has an open-concept living, dining and kitchen area, elegant bathrooms, plush bedrooms, a gorgeous kitchen, and laundry facilities. A cozy outdoor deck with ample seating is also accessible to guests. Golden Gate Bridge is just 4.9 mi (7.8 km) away from this rental.

Stayed at this property?

14.01 km (8.8 mi) from China Camp State Park
Wifi Available
house boat 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 30
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

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18. Chic and stylish Sausalito houseboat (from USD 400)

For a cozy stay with your family and friends, book this chic houseboat in Sausalito. Enjoy soaking up the sun while sitting on the outdoor deck or go kayaking near the dock. Inside, there is a beautiful living area with large windows, an open-plan dining area and modern kitchen, a stylish office, two plush bedrooms and bathrooms, and more. Golden Gate Bridge is just 10 minutes away and the center of San Francisco is a ferry ride away.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
14.1 km (8.8 mi) from China Camp State Park
house boat 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

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19. Charming Sausalito houseboat with a view

This delightful houseboat in Sausalito has two cozy bedrooms perfect for your vacation. The roof deck gives you a relaxing view of the bay, and it has a really comfortable sofa where you can enjoy your favorite beer while taking in all the sights. If you feel like going out for delicious local food, take a leisurely walk to nearby restaurants. The homey and welcoming vibe of this accommodation will surely make your stay enjoyable.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
14.33 km (9.0 mi) from China Camp State Park
17 reviews   Wifi Available
Houseboat 2 Beds 3 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
lots of light easy parking well equipped and very comfortable
Cleanliness:
it was quiet well furnished and clean
house has all you need and it is really clean
great place very well located but not exactly a modern or clean place
Host:
alan is a very attentive host and his home is really comfortable and spacious
alan is a great host the boat house is a unique experience
alan is a wonderful host his place is a is simply spectacular
if you want a peaceful stay this is the place very family friendly and quiet
Location:
great place in a houseboat community close to downtown sausalito and the highway
this is a great place to stay for a couple or family
Read more reviews

20. Elegant floating home with breathtaking views (from USD 217)

Experience tranquil houseboat living in this chic two-bedroom floating home. With a fully equipped kitchen, cooking gourmet meals will be a breeze. Get a breathtaking view of Mount Tamalpais or the sunset skies from the comfort of the balcony, and enjoy a bottle of your favorite wine as you savor the scenic sights. Wake up every morning to a gorgeous view and the sunlight entering through the big windows. For convenience, this floating home features two modern bathrooms. There is also a television inside the bedroom so guests can watch a movie before going to bed.

Stayed at this property?

14.03 km (8.8 mi) from China Camp State Park
44 reviews   Wifi Available
house boat 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

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 comfortable
the house was immaculate and the beds were perfect for a good night's sleep
comfortable bedding great towels (including the black makeup washcloths ) arrival flowers and spirits and so much more
both beds were first rate the kitchen was very well equipped and the entire unit was very bright
Cleanliness:
super clean and cozy
it is spotless comfortable and furnished beautifully
very clean and was ready before we got to san francisco
the home is tastefully decorated and well appointed impeccably clean very comfortable and carefully maintained
Host:
met the owner and everything was more & better than expected
owner thought of everything and has great instructions in a nice book if something comes up
the houseboat neighbors were very welcoming and friendly and were happy to talk about houseboat life
janet is easily the most experienced organized and thoughtful host we've ever dealt with
Location:
the location was absolutely perfect
tam is calming and uplifting
perfect home perfect location
walking up and down the docks was an adventure in and off itself
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21. Big Dog: a 72-foot (21.9-meter) luxury custom houseboat (from USD 310)

This gorgeous houseboat can accommodate eight people seeking a luxurious vacation experience. Guests looking for entertainment can easily find it in the Big Dog. Enjoy the surround-sound feature of the home’s entertainment system and lounge on the couch while watching your favorite shows and movies. Enjoy a scrumptious barbeque with your friends or family. If you feel like going for engaging water activities, there are paddle boards and one kayak available for use. Your stay here will definitely make your vacation a lot more interesting.

Stayed at this property?

75.3 km (46.8 mi) from China Camp State Park
63 reviews   Wifi Available
house boat 8 Guests 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the sleep accommodations were comfortable with the downstairs rooms being a perfect place for kiddos to sleep
Cleanliness:
very accommodating and very clean
big dog was more than we imagined a very spacious and comfortable home on the water
clean quiet and who doesn’t want to wake up on the water?
if you’ve been houseboating before then you’ll appreciate the “big dog” as it’s a custom and spacious boat
Host:
the owner was very nice and easy to talk to
vince's communications were consistent and helpful
the owner is extremely nice and is an experienced captain
being on the water was awesome and vince was a great host
vince was friendly generous with delta knowledge and demonstrated incredible expertise navigating the big boat in complex conditions
Location:
great location would be great for anglers fishing derby’s out of russos or the sugar barge
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22. Luxurious houseboat on Lakehead (from USD 485)

This 56-foot (17m) houseboat in Lakehead, California, has enough space in its 6 bedrooms to accommodate up to 16 persons. You can comfortably lounge in its spacious living area with its air-conditioning unit or heating system for you to use, depending on the weather. There are two bathrooms with a toilet and shower, and a kitchen that’s fully equipped with full-sized appliances and complete cooking and dining utensils. The houseboat also has a luxurious lounge with a TV, DVDs, and a gas fireplace to ensure your comfort while you and your family stay there. A stairway leads to the rooftop where you can watch the sunset while enjoying drinks from the wet bar, or while relaxing in the hot tub.

Stayed at this property?

308.11 km (191.5 mi) from China Camp State Park
1 review  
house boat 16 Guests 6 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 16
Minimum Nights: 0
Refund Policy :

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23. Spacious houseboat on Shasta Marina (from USD 869)

The Sumerset is a new and spacious houseboat on Shasta Lake, which offers a whole new boathouse experience. Its hulled design and full-width cabin create enough space for 20 persons with 6 private staterooms, 2 with queen-size beds, two with full-size beds, one with double bunk full-size beds, and one with a queen-size convertible sofa bed. Guests also have two full bathrooms with a glass-encased shower. Preparing meals is also a breeze, thanks to the houseboat’s fully equipped kitchen. Aside from the luxurious lounge packed with entertainment amenities, guests can party and have fun on the rooftop with a wet bar, hot tub good for eight persons, a TV, and helm stereo.

Stayed at this property?

308.11 km (191.5 mi) from China Camp State Park
house boat 20 Guests 7 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 20
Minimum Nights: 0
Refund Policy :

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24. Fabulous ferryboat on San Francisco Bay (from USD 575)

This spectacular vacation home brings you closer to nature, and the open water surrounding the house will definitely make you feel refreshed. Guests sleep well in the three bedrooms on this houseboat. In the morning, sip your morning coffee with greater pleasure as you take in the tranquil water, trees, and other boats around you. The spacious living room offers plenty of cozy seating options so you can lounge in comfort. Experience luxurious houseboat living with spectacular views in Sausalito.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
14.04 km (8.8 mi) from China Camp State Park
Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille
house boat 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
equipped with a washer/dryer full kitchen multiple bathrooms made for a comfortable experience
staying on a historical ferry that was turned into a charming apartment is a wonderful experience
Cleanliness:
i would suggest to have the windows cleaned to have a nicer and clearer view
Host:
owners are responsive and helpful
Location:
the setting with the marine wildlife so calming and peaceful but there's plenty to do nearby
Read more reviews
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25. Classic motor yacht with a bar

This unique accommodation is run by a classic motor that has stood the test of time but is still operational at its best. Renting this vintage houseboat creates an amazing experience with every stay, thanks to the hosts’ outstanding hospitality. Aboard this lovely yacht, you can spend a perfect getaway along the quaint, lovely marina while watching the river sunset. Make it a romantic weekend getaway or lose yourself to adventurous water activity. This yacht also has a lot to offer, amenities-wise: a fully equipped galley, refrigerator, two staterooms and can accommodate up to guests. There is also a barbecue on the deck where you can enjoy homemade breakfast or dinner.

Stayed at this property?
Antioch, California, United States
58.57 km (36.4 mi) from China Camp State Park
19 reviews  
Boat 3 Beds 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
marina facilities are clean and the other marina people we encountered were very friendly
Host:
he offered great recommendations and was extremely helpful overall
eric and susana are wonderful hosts
we would definitely recommend eric and susana to our friends to host them on their next airbnb adventures
eric was an awesome host onboard with us during our 4 day stay
eric and susana were very welcoming and friendly upon our arrival
Location:
we were docked in a beautiful and safe location
great location that offers plenty to do in the area
additionally antioch is a more secluded location and access is easier
really cool place to stay
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26. Modest houseboat with picturesque views

Staying in a tiny house that’s like living on the water makes you feel a different vibe. The marina where this houseboat is docked is situated only a few steps away from Jackson London Square where you can enjoy the nightlife, with lots of luxurious shopping options. You may also visit the Farmer’s Market every Sundays or opt to rent a scooter to explore the surrounding charming town. When it’s time to rest, unwind on your comfortable bed and stargaze all you want. This houseboat boasts picturesque views on all sides, so all you need to do is just sit back, relax, and enjoy the views!

Stayed at this property?
Oakland, California, United States
30.46 km (19.0 mi) from China Camp State Park
17 reviews  
Houseboat 2 Beds 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
relaxing clean and met all of our needs
Host:
sabine is a fabulous host
sabina is a wonderful host who went above and beyond to ensure my stay was 5-star experience
Location:
the ferry to san fran is a small walk away which helped a ton thank you sabine
i’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique relaxing place to stay
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27. Romantic floating private cabin

Couples who are looking for a private stay away from the hustle and bustle, this is the place to be; a floating cabin on a turtle pond. If you’re fond of staying in fishing lodges, then you’ll definitely like this property as it is located on the far-end part of the ranch where guests can enjoy fishing and canoeing. While parties and other events are not allowed, this makes the venue even more intimate and a perfect place to make occasions more special with solemn and simple celebrations. Because it’s located in a ranch, you can also enjoy the company of the friendly farm animals. Inside the cabin, you can only find one sofa bed with no other amenities, so make sure to bring your own essentials and basic needs such as water and meals. Overall, renting this houseboat will provide guests a rustic experience that would surely make you appreciate simple living in the company of nature.

Stayed at this property?
Bodega Bay, California, United States
63.15 km (39.3 mi) from China Camp State Park
73 reviews  
Houseboat 1 Bed 1 Bedroom 0 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Host:
the staff are very friendly so are the farm animals
Location:
excellent location and private setting
overall great location however
cool location unique experience would go back
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28. A safe haven in Alameda

Alameda is a vibrant and family-friendly destination with diverse restaurants, concept shops, first-class services and other fun things to do. This floating house has two levels and each provides a different kind of comfort and great views. There is one bedroom with a queen-size bed while the other bedroom has common spaces. You may opt to cook meals during your stay or walk around and find restaurants. But make sure to enjoy a perfect breakfast meal paired with hot coffee on the balcony facing the lovely bay. Enjoy this charming accommodation with friends or family!

Stayed at this property?
Alameda, California, United States
30.01 km (18.7 mi) from China Camp State Park
10 reviews  
Houseboat 2 Beds 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
loved having breakfast and great coffee right one the water
nice surrounding and having breakfast outside with a view on the water was awesome
Host:
susan is a great host
i couldn’t have asked for a better host
her instructions were very clear and susan was very helpful and hospitable
susan is a great host who responds to communication quickly
Location:
the location was ideal and easy to get to from oakland airport
very attractive and comfortable home in a beautiful and quiet location
connections to sf by ferry are close and fun
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Have a wonderful Californian holiday

While there are plenty of unique accommodations like airstream rentals and glamping spots in Northern California, you’ll have a more memorable stay when you spend a soulful night or two on a houseboat. Witness the calming feeling of morning delight while sipping coffee on the balcony or enjoy a little adventure on the waters. Whatever your cup of tea is, make the most of your holidays by renting one of these charming houseboat rentals in Northern California.

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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