Top 12 Airbnb Houseboat Rentals Near San Francisco, California - Updated 2024

Hannah
Hannah 
Updated
| 5 min read

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 April 08, 2024.

1. 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.

Stayed at this property?
Mill Valley, California, United States
4.29 km (2.7 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
36 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 1 Bed 2 Guests

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bed was comfy and we had all of the creature comforts one could ask for
Location:
we loved the decor location and all the thoughtful touches
Read more reviews

2. Pet-friendly loft with a Bohemian aesthetic (from USD 250)

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.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
3.72 km (2.4 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
9 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Houseboat 2 Beds 2 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

3. 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.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
13.57 km (8.5 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
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

4. Spacious floating rental for five (from USD 289)

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.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
3.88 km (2.5 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
7 reviews   Wifi Available
Houseboat 3 Beds 5 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 5

Top guest reviews
Host:
owner was quick to respond and very friendly
great place and great host - would definitely stay again - sheri
zach is a great host awesome location
Location:
zachary’s lovely houseboat was the perfect location for our san francisco trip
if you’re looking for some ware close to san francisco you can't go wrong with this lovely house boat
great location the space is unique and is exactly as described
Read more reviews

5. Luxurious houseboat with magnificent views (from USD 172)

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.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
4.03 km (2.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
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

6. 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.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
4.07 km (2.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
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

7. 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.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
3.94 km (2.5 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
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

8. 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.

Stayed at this property?
Alameda, California, United States
23.04 km (14.4 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
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
Read more reviews

More houseboat options in San Francisco from Vrbo

9. 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.

Stayed at this property?

23.43 km (14.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Wifi Available
yacht 9 Guests 5 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 9
Minimum Nights: 1
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

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10. Remodeled historic ferryboat accommodation (from USD 575)

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.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
4.07 km (2.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
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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11. 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.

Stayed at this property?

13.69 km (8.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Wifi Available
house boat 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3
Minimum Nights: 30
Refund Policy :

Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

12. Beautiful houseboat with San Francisco Bay views (from USD 300)

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.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States
4.07 km (2.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
house boat 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Host:
the owners were very attentive and thoughtful
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.

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


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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In addition to her love for writing and adventurous spirit, Hannah is a dedicated learner, always striving to acquire new knowledge with each passing day.

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