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 August 18, 2024.
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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.
2. Cozy boat on Sacramento River (from USD 110)
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.
3. Luxurious houseboat with a rooftop garden (from USD 271)
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.
4. Unique floating home with a hot tub (from USD 294)
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.
California Tour Guide
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.
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.
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.
8. Floating home with two-bedrooms (from USD 285)
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.
9. Two-story houseboat in Ko-Ket Resort (from USD 783)
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.
10. Spectacular houseboat with three bedrooms (from USD 330)
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.
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.
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.
13. Boat near Redwood City
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.
Redwood City, California, United States
61.05 km (38.0 mi) from China Camp State ParkSuperhost
Accommodates: 3
14. Luxurious floating home (from USD 149)
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.
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.
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.
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.
18. Chic and stylish Sausalito houseboat (from USD 450)
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.
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.
Sausalito, California, United States
14.33 km (9.0 mi) from China Camp State ParkAccommodates: 3
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.
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.
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.
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.
24. Fabulous ferryboat on San Francisco Bay (from USD 643)
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.
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.
Antioch, California, United States
58.57 km (36.4 mi) from China Camp State Park
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!
Oakland, California, United States
30.46 km (19.0 mi) from China Camp State Park
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.
Bodega Bay, California, United States
63.15 km (39.3 mi) from China Camp State Park
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!
Alameda, California, United States
30.01 km (18.7 mi) from China Camp State Park
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.
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