9 Best Houseboat Rentals In San Diego, California - Updated 2024

Hardik
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 5 min read

San Diego, a fantastic city located in Southern California, is famous for its 19-km (11.80-mi) long coastline and is widely known for its white-sand beaches, pleasant weather, and many exciting things to do. The city is home to several superb museums, art galleries, fancy restaurants, nightclubs, and bars. It is also known for its culturally diverse population and vibrant atmosphere. Amazing attractions such as Sea World, San Diego Zoo, Gaslamp Quarter, Belmont Park, Mission Bay, and more entice travelers from all walks of life. Beautiful harbors and protected marinas are also available to people who enjoy water sports and activities. With so many attractions, visitors are spoilt for choice regarding accommodation options in San Diego.

The city boasts many boat rentals, including cozy houseboats. Luxurious facilities can be availed on these houseboats located at different points around the bay area. Continue reading for the best houseboat rentals in San Diego, California.

Travel advisory

Though San Diego has a mild climate throughout the year, summer (June - August) and fall months (September - November) are best to venture out into the sea. However, you should always check the National Weather Service for any alerts. You can also check San Diego San Diego Lifeguard Service for any other updates!

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 October 28, 2024.

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1. Luna de Mar

Immerse yourself in luxury aboard this houseboat, a 40-foot (12.19-meter) jewel nestled in San Diego’s serene marina. This houseboat, ideal for romantic escapades, boasts a snug bedroom where ocean rhythms coax you into slumber. Greet the day with awe-inspiring sea vistas and morning brew in an elegantly appointed lounge adjacent to a kitchen primed for crafting cozy feasts.

Furthermore, venture to the deck, bask under the sun, or savor evening vintages, reveling in tranquil sunsets. You can also enjoy marina luxuries: a vast pool and a relaxing hot tub. Opt for a private cruise, delving into San Diego Bay’s allure and thrilling whale sightings.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
4.55 km (2.9 mi) from Balboa Park
house boat 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

2. A stunning houseboat with spacious accommodation

This houseboat for rent in San Diego is moored at Marina Cortez on Harbor Island can comfortably accommodate four people. It offers two bedrooms and two baths along with a pull-out. You can savor the exotic delicacies at breakfast and meals while on the top deck. Stay on the deck to watch the beautiful sunset view. The bedrooms are enormous, and the kitchen is adequately equipped. You can access other facilities like free parking in Marina lot, gated swimming pool, eight nearby restaurants, food delivery from local restaurants, paddleboard and jet ski on rentals, bicycle on rentals and avail the Starbucks coffee at Sheraton. You also get the chance to visit nearby places like the Gaslamp District, Seaport Village, Coronado Island, etc., as they are at a very short distance from the houseboat.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.67 km (3.6 mi) from Balboa Park
255 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
the host is a very helpful and accommodating one too
the home was well equipped and the manager molly was very kind and helpful
she was very helpful and made our trip much better
molly the property manager is so helpful kind and makes us feel right at home
patt was very responsive to any questions/e-mails i sent and was very thorough with check-in directions
Location:
great location and central to downtown
the location is perfect
the location was also great
we were very close to the airport which was definitely an advantage for transportation
the location was great for the zoo uss midway and beaches
Cleanliness:
everything was very clean and comfortable
the houseboat is very clean and functional
the house is clean and comfortable
the space was clean and very comfortable
houseboat was clean and we had everything we needed
Amenities & Room:
the kitchen has useful amenities and fully stocked with all the kitchen needs
warm weather great patio and comfortable beds
the rooftop deck was amazing and patt had lots of supplies for the beach or pool
wi-fi worked fine pleanty of hot water all the time all good
small kitchen had the basics needed we enjoyed the rooftop patio as well
Read more reviews

3. A gorgeous property at lovely San Diego Bay

This fascinating houseboat suffices all your wishes predominantly. The essence lies in the surrounding views captured by your eyes while you choose to either have a morning tea/coffee from the living room or while on the upper deck area. Nothing can beat its grandeur due to some of the unique benefits and amenities it gives you while on-board. Wide space of 1200 square feet (111.50 square meters) across the boat inside the living area, spacious, hygienic and well-ventilated rooms brings elation and relaxation all the time. A two-story home with two bedrooms downstairs and a spacious private bonus room upstairs. The kitchen is equipped with the best of modern amenities, and the bedrooms comprise of the most relaxing and cozy pillows, blankets and beds. Along with it, you get access to the gated swimming pool, neighborhood restaurants, bars, etc. The first day will surprise you with a kitchen stocked with food and drinks. Two kayaks are available for free, but children under 16 are not allowed to sit all alone.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.86 km (3.7 mi) from Balboa Park
129 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 4 Beds 8 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Host:
prior to check in the property owner was very responsive to my inquiries
great hosts and a very unique experience
the people who are members there were friendly & neighborly saying hello to us daily
the hostess was helpful & the boat was easy to get to
the hostess is awesome and responsive
Location:
awesome location and fun experience
super close to the airport restaurants museums shopping etc
it's a great location to get to all of san diego very centrally located
fantastic location to be close to everything and still feel secluded
so cosy and the location was great too
Cleanliness:
the furniture is nice clean and not the usual 'cast offs' found in many b&bs and rental properties
not only was the houseboat perfect for our group but it was very comfy and clean
the houseboat is roomy comfy attractively decorated and extremely clean
Amenities & Room:
the wifi connection is secure and really good
we loved the amenities the beds and all the home offered
also the beds were so comfortable
you have 2 full bedrooms and a 3rd room upstairs that could easily convert to a 3rd
Read more reviews

4. A marvelous stay with a contemporary touch

This marvelous piece of craft is an addition to one-of-its-kind Zolna Yacht’s fleet. Lit and ventilated with contemporary furniture, kitchen, living room, and a cozy queen-size bed in the bedroom. Beyond the enclosure is the deck located just above the water from where the guests can watch the lovely sunset, have their meals and watch other marinas passing by. The entire interior is designed to give a nautical feel with wide doors and abundant sunlight all through the day.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
5.91 km (3.7 mi) from Balboa Park
36 reviews  
Boat 3 Beds 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Host:
amos and shari were very accommodating and helpful
a gracious host and a great mini vacation stay
amos and shari were also really helpful before and during our stay
amos was so kind and really made sure we knew everything about the boat for our stay
amos recommended some great restaurants nearby and was very helpful
Location:
right on the water and walking distance to some excellent restaurants
the location is close to everything downtown and private and quiet enough to relax and get refreshed
such a beautiful and unique place
the location was perfection as we could just cross the street and see all the fireworks
great location and amenities
Cleanliness:
the houseboat was modern very clean well appointed and comfortable
i absolutely loved the houseboat it was clean cute and quaint
super spacious and clean
the boat was clean and spacious and very well set up
very clean close to parks and easy to find
Amenities & Room:
the master bedroom was very comfortable and my two sons shared the pull out couch without complaint
it was a convenient walk from the hotel and it was great to have showers and wifi on-board
Read more reviews

5. A plush two-storeyed floating home

A fabulous craft-piece that entertains and promises to offer fun and joy to your entire family along with your friends while aboard. It has a king-sized bed in the bedroom and a queen-sized sofa bed in the living room with flat-screen televisions placed at the downstairs living area room. The best part is that the rooms are brilliantly equipped to keep you engaged and make you feel cozy all the time. The counter-top in the living room can be utilized either for dining or working purpose along with the access to USB ports. The mini-kitchen has all the appliances such as microwaves, a small refrigerator, and a portable flat grill. You can avail of the facility of preparing barbeque and other meals on a burner and rotisserie located upstairs. Savor the dinner in the moonlit night on the top deck area that contains modern furniture for recreation, small refrigerator, cooler and a beautiful view of downtown San Diego. The important thing before planning your trip is that children aged 12 and below are not allowed to join in this boat rental in San Diego.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
4.63 km (2.9 mi) from Balboa Park
29 reviews  
Boat 2 Beds 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Host:
ben was an amazing host
the host ben who also built the boat himself was incredibly friendly helpful and most importantly accommodating
he was friendly and very inviting
amazing hosts easy going flexible and explained everything with tons of tips and suggestions for the local scene
lisa was so helpful and thorough
Location:
beautiful boat in an outstanding location
it’s pretty much close to everything and the boathouse was a beauty
we had a wonderful time at lisa's place the boat was perfect and very close from everything
Cleanliness:
it’s clean comfortable and has a ton of character
Amenities & Room:
it was perfect amazing views from the top deck comfortable sleeping arrangements plenty of space to move about
all of the facilities are fully functional and the furniture and bed are incredibly comfortable and cozy
the place was clean with lots of room and a perfect top deck for bbq and drinks
Read more reviews

Other boat accommodations in San Diego, California

Check out some other options for a unique boat stay, including luxury yachts that offer the best of both worlds!

6. The West Star (from USD 499)

For a unique stay, book an Airbnb boat in San Diego. Enjoy your time aboard The West Star – a luxurious 60-foot (18.29-meter) motor yacht nestled in a tranquil southern San Diego marina. No need to share the waves with others; this is a dock-only stay, ensuring absolute serenity. Inside, two bedrooms are adorned with cozy double beds, and through the windows, a stunning bay view awaits. For the avid beachgoer, direct beach access is only a short walk away.

While here, prepare delicious meals in the well-equipped kitchen and stay connected with WiFi. As the sun sets, unwind in the shared outdoor saltwater pool, available year-round, or soak your cares away in the community hot tub. And when you’re ready for some downtime, the 55-inch HDTV with Netflix and Roku provides entertainment galore.

Stayed at this property?
National City, California, United States
9.62 km (6.0 mi) from Balboa Park
110 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 4 Beds 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Host:
tim was such a gracious host
tim and elizabeth are great hosts
the marina personnel were very friendly and welcoming
very friendly hosts and friendly neighbors
tim and elizabeth were awesome hosts
Location:
terrific and fun location in a great location
the marina's pretty close to all the hotspots
this boat is really a small ship spacious great location quiet but near restaurants
the west star is a great place to stay relax and enjoy a nice time
Cleanliness:
spacious very clean beautiful and so peaceful
it was much more comfortable and clean than any hotel
west star was sparkling clean and had everything you'd want for an unforgettable vacation
the boat is immaculately clean and very spacious
very nice clean and an absolute chick magnet
Amenities & Room:
the marina has amazing amenities- pool gym restaurant coffee shop
it was much larger than photos and the beds were so comfortable
wifi worked great and the kitchen had everything we needed to cook basic meals
what a lovely place to stay comfortable beds wonderful amenities thoughtful touches etc
you have everything you need for a great time including toiletries fridge dryer and a comfortable bed
Read more reviews

7. Rustic houseboat retreat with city and sea vistas (from USD 245)

Embark on an urban maritime adventure in San Diego aboard a quaint 30-foot (9.14-meter) boat for rent in San Diego. Nestled in an enviable spot, it boasts sweeping views of the harbor and skyline. Perfect for couples, it houses a snug V-Berth and extra cabin beds. Though lacking a full bathroom, public showers are conveniently nearby.

Equipped for safety with life vests and extinguishers, it promises security. Paddleboarding to nearby Portside Pier adds to the charm. With accessible metered and airport parking, this houseboat offers an extraordinary, memorable stay, diverging from typical lodgings.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
3.23 km (2.1 mi) from Balboa Park
21 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 3 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 0 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Location:
great location perfect view of the sd skyline and short walk to little italy
the location of the boat is amazing and the sleep was some of the best
Read more reviews

8. Tastefully furnished yacht minutes from downtown (from USD 249)

Located in the beautiful Sun Road Marina, this boat rental near downtown San Diego is a luxurious 45-foot (13.7-meter) yacht that has elegant furnishings and fittings. The yacht has a tastefully furnished main salon, a beautiful galley with custom teakwood flooring, very spacious master bedroom with ensuite, a full shower, a wheelhouse lounging area and an aft deck bar area for entertaining. The yacht also provides full access to marina amenities like gas grills, a swimming pool, a hot tub, and more. San Diego Zoo is at a 10-minute drive from the yacht and the Gaslamp District, Sea World, Midway Museum, and downtown are closeby.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
4.59 km (2.9 mi) from Balboa Park
26 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 3 Beds 5 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 5

Top guest reviews
Host:
this boat could easily host 2 couples
they were both super friendly and very helpful
lisa is a fantastic host the boat was a joy to stay on
i would recommend them as hosts to anyone staying in san diego
lisa was over and beyond helpful i recommend this to anyone who wants a really special experience
Location:
great restaurants nearby quiet relaxing marina location
i would highly recommend booking ben and lisa's place while in town
there is a nice little coffee shop in the marina and two really nice restaurants within walking distance
Cleanliness:
clean and spacious we loved it
the boat was very clean and made for a great experience
the boat was truly sparkling clean and well maintained
Amenities & Room:
wonderful stay with beautiful views very clean and comfortable
Read more reviews

9. Elegant yacht for family vacations

Treat your loved ones to an excellent vacation on the ocean by booking this boat charter in San Diego. This elegant beauty boasts luxurious spaces with a full kitchenette and two spacious bedrooms for your comfort. Plus, there’s a salon area where you can gather with your loved ones for family game nights.

And to add to the modern comforts, the yacht also boasts a perfect location at a luxurious marina near downtown San Diego. You can stay at the marina for a day and enjoy water activities and explore the local waterside restaurants, or you can go on a ride with a private captain. However, do note that a charter booking is essential for overnight stays from March to October.

Stayed at this property?
San Diego, California, United States
4.55 km (2.9 mi) from Balboa Park
house boat 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Have a blissful stay in San Diego

A weekend on a floating home in San Diego is the perfect gift for your loved ones. To enjoy tranquility, dreamy views, and a one-of-a-kind experience, choose any one of the rentals listed above!

Frequently asked questions about houseboat rentals in San Diego


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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