San Francisco is a beautiful city with a variety of amazing attractions for tourists and locals seeking a holiday experience like no other. Magnificent buildings and landmarks, picturesque natural landscapes, diverse culture, and delicious food to try are among the things San Francisco boasts of. For those seeking adventure and sightseeing, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, the famous Alcatraz Island, and many others are available to make your vacation special. History and art lovers also have a variety of museums, street fairs, and festivals to visit and attend. The nightlife here is also amazing. And if you still want more, there are also plenty of day trip ideas from San Francisco, including Yosemite National Park and Sonoma Wine Country. For a unique experience, we recommend staying in a houseboat on the waters since San Francisco is surrounded by the ocean. This will provide you with excellent opportunities for engaging in water-related activities like kayaking, skiing, boating, and swimming. Scroll down to find a list of the top Airbnb houseboat rentals near San Francisco, California.
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. Pet-friendly loft with a Bohemian aesthetic (from USD 7190)
Stay on an Airbnb boat near San Francisco and have the best vacation ever with your loved ones.
This 1940s landing craft, restored and curated over the years, is a unique accommodation on the waters of Sausalito. Best suited for creative minds who are seeking some peace and quiet for artistic inspiration, the two-bedroom houseboat is styled like a treehouse with low ceilings and a Bohemian aesthetic. You can bring your small pets along with you, but they need to be put on a leash outside.
2. Newly remodeled houseboat (from USD 110)
This air-conditioned, one-bedroom houseboat rental in San Francisco Bay Area features a double bed, TV, a modern kitchen with a dining area for two, and a modern bathroom with showerhead and enough essentials. Although there is no WiFi, you will be reconnected with nature, peace, and a quiet environment. This space is ideal for couples or solo adventurers looking for some quiet time away from the noise of busy towns. The interior is clean and is kept warm by a wood-burning stove which is easy to operate. Guests are free to use the hanging chair while reading or just relaxing. Note, the toilet available is compost so be sure you are okay with using it before booking this houseboat.
3. Spacious floating rental for five (from USD 260)
To truly enjoy your vacation, in San Francisco, staying on this houseboat is perhaps the best you can hope for. This stunning houseboat enjoys close proximity to the attractions of downtown San Francisco as well as Muir Woods. Spend your day sitting on the sundeck taking in the breathtaking views of Mt. Tam and Bay Bridge and your evenings barbecuing as you watch the sunset. The interior of the houseboat features three bedrooms with cosy beds, two modern bathrooms, and a fully equipped modern kitchen which is in an open layout with the living room. Take your family or group of friends out to this incredible houseboat as you spend your holiday with them.
4. Luxurious houseboat with magnificent views (from USD 149)
This charming houseboat is perfect for those who wish to indulge in a laid-back waterfront holiday that extends to a month. The one-bedroom houseboat is air-conditioned and features two double beds and a sofa bed as its sleeping arrangement. Other amenities include; dining area, well-furnished living room with a TV, Wi-Fi and laptop workspace, a modern bathroom and a full kitchen. Available to enjoy the views of Mt. Tam and the bay is a wooden deck with seats. Guests are free to use the kayaks and bikes for as long as they wish.
5. Charming Sausalito floating home (from USD 825)
Set right on the waters, this beautiful home can accommodate six guests. It is situated in a tranquil location and provides a myriad of amenities to its guests. It features large decks on each floor with panoramic views of San Francisco, East Bay, and wildlife. Modern design dominates the home with the interiors featuring a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, a well-appointed living room, and a dining area suited for 10 guests. Other amenities include continuous WiFi, parking area, kayaks, laptop workspace, laundry facilities, and enough bathroom essentials.
6. DeltaJaz (from USD 321)
This fully remodeled houseboat is a dream come true for those looking to enjoy all the creature comforts of a traditional stay while being situated on the water. You can relax in the three-person sauna or warm yourself up by the fireplace. For thrilling adventures, the accommodation provides two kayaks and a paddle board to its guests. The kitchen is equipped with appliances and utensils along with a dishwasher and barbecue, making it a home chef’s paradise.
Pet lovers will also be happy to know that they can bring up to two animals along at no additional cost!
7. Romantic house on the waters in Mill Valley
This floating house near San Francisco makes for a relaxing place to stay, especially for a pair of lovebirds on a romantic getaway. The interiors of this studio-style houseboat are furnished with aesthetic decor and classy furnishings that will cater to the refined tastes of even the most discerning guest.
A queen-sized bed and cotton linen ensure a good night’s rest. Extra pillows and blankets along with sufficient in-room heaters are provided for added comfort and warmth. An internet connection lets you stay connected with folks back home and video-call them while the houseboat sways about on the azure water. A well-appointed kitchen also awaits should you want to cook up a storm.
Mill Valley, California, United States
4.29 km (2.7 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation AreaSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
8. Fully equipped houseboat with a charming rooftop deck
Stay with your family or group of friends in this charming houseboat which comfortably accommodates six guests. It is conveniently located close to shops and restaurants and is a part of the Sausalito houseboat community. The houseboat boasts an expansive rooftop deck with cosy seating and majestic views of Mt. Tam and the bay. Enjoy cooking in the fully equipped kitchen as you chat with your family in the living room adjacent to the kitchen. Continuous WiFi, indoor fireplace, laptop workspace, TV, laundry facilities, and hot water in the shower are among the amenities you will enjoy while staying in this houseboat.
Sausalito, California, United States
3.94 km (2.5 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation AreaAccommodates: 3
9. Cosy floating home with incredible views
Located on the estuary separating Alameda from Oakland, this two-storey property is situated close to restaurants and grocery stores. It has one bedroom and a common area with two beds and a couch, making it ideal for a small family. It features a full kitchen which is in an open layout with the living room. This makes it easy for one to cook while bonding with the family. The property also features a lovely deck overlooking the waters and sailboats. After a day spent visiting the romantic places in San Francisco Bay, you can unwind in this stunning property with your loved ones and enjoy the views of the area.
Alameda, California, United States
23.04 km (14.4 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
More houseboat options in San Francisco from Vrbo
10. Fully equipped luxury yacht (from USD 1995)
A group of nine guests can comfortably sleep in this fully equipped luxury yacht rental in San Francisco docked at Brisbane Marina. The yacht is available for dockside living or for chartered cruises of the bay or Sacramento River. An open-plan salon, dining area, a well-equipped kitchen with a bar, five beautifully appointed bedrooms and bathrooms, and a top deck with a barbecue grill and seating are accessible to guests. The host can also dock the yacht at Pier 40 near Oracle Park (formerly AT&T Park) on request.
11. Remodeled historic ferryboat accommodation (from USD 643)
Stay in a historic ferryboat from 1888 during your vacation in San Francisco. Perfect for couples or a family, this carefully remodeled houseboat can sleep six guests. Enjoy views of San Francisco Bay from the gorgeous solarium that doubles up as a beautiful dining room. A modern living room, a large and fully equipped kitchen, an additional dining area, three plush bedrooms, and two full bathrooms are available on the boat. Guests also have access to the front and back decks, two stand-up paddle boards, and more. Golden Gate Bridge is just five minutes away from the boat.
12. Well-appointed houseboat with harbor views (from USD 132)
A couple on a romantic weekend getaway will enjoy staying at this well-appointed houseboat close to San Francisco. From the furnished living room, take in the serene harbor views or tuck into scrumptious meals at the snug dining space. A cozy kitchen, a full bathroom, and a loft bedroom complete the interior of this houseboat. Spend time on the outdoor deck with seating and watch the local birdlife. All the attractions in San Francisco are just 15 mi (24 km) away from this houseboat.
13. Beautiful houseboat with San Francisco Bay views (from USD 330)
For a relaxing vacation close to all the action, book a stay at this beautiful houseboat in Sausalito. Offering unhindered San Francisco Bay views, this houseboat is suitable for up to six guests. On the sun-soaked outdoor deck, lounge around or enjoy alfresco dining while admiring the surrounding views. Inside, there is a welcoming living area, a chic dining area, a full kitchen, three comfy bedrooms, an office space, a den, and two elegant bathrooms. Guests can also use the two-person kayak. Golden Gate Bridge is a short drive away from this houseboat.
Other boat accommodations near San Francisco
If you’re looking for something more luxurious than a houseboat, go for a yacht. These well-equipped floating rentals offer everything you need for a comfy stay, from entertainment amenities to kitchen essentials. Check them out below!
14. Classic yacht for remote workers (from USD 167)
This 100-year-old yacht has been restored to provide modern-day amenities along with a vintage ambiance. Its location in the heart of the San Francisco Bay will grant guests easy access to several local shops and restaurants along with the ferry. Guests will also get to enjoy a full bathroom and a kitchenette area with a refrigerator. For those working remotely, the dedicated workspace and WiFi connection will be a true blessing.
Furthermore, you need not worry about your safety, as the outside of the boat is covered by security cameras.
15. Luxurious yacht with WiFi (from USD 385)
Enjoy luxurious amenities along with an adventurous setting by booking this fabulous yacht that can be used to explore San Franciso Bay Area and its restaurants and nightlife. Its spacious interiors will ensure that a large group can fit comfortably in its three sleeping areas. You will also have access to four televisions, WiFi, and a fully equipped kitchen so that you won’t need to step out for anything!
Vacation in a houseboat near San Francisco
Home to rich natural resources and magnificent structures, there’s no better way to unravel the wonders of this town than by staying on the water. So if you’ve had your fill of glamping and other land accommodations, you can get a taste of living in a houseboat near San Francisco for a memorable and amazing experience. You can even enjoy your dinner and still be on the water by trying one of the city’s best dinner cruises!
Frequently asked questions about houseboat rentals near San Francisco, California
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