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 October 28, 2025.
1. Spacious floating rental for five (from USD 2952)
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, like the new Outpost Meadow 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.
Sausalito, California, United States
3.88 km (2.5 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation AreaAccommodates: 5
Top guest reviews
Host:
owner was quick to respond and very friendlygreat place and great host - would definitely stay again - sherizach is a great host awesome locationRead more reviewsLocation:
zachary’s lovely houseboat was the perfect location for our san francisco tripif you’re looking for some ware close to san francisco you can't go wrong with this lovely house boatgreat location the space is unique and is exactly as described
2. Luxurious houseboat with magnificent views (from USD 5581)
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.
Sausalito, California, United States
4.03 km (2.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation AreaAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Host:
warwick is the perfect hostwarwick's floating home is simply one of a kindwarwick is a perfect host - friendly and responsivelast but not least warwick himself is a fantastic host - so responsive and accommodatingwarwick was very helpful and easy to communicate withLocation:
great location close to 101 nice restaurants and grocery store close bya special location that we hope to visit againhis location is the best in the areaif you want a special place on the outskirts of san francisco you've found itCleanliness:
clean and modern with beautiful unobstructed viewsstylish decor clean and warwick was always communicative and accommodatingRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
centrally located in the quaint houseboat community and has all the amenities for a very comfortable stayhuge flat screen tv bbq kayaks bikes etc
3. 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.
Sausalito, California, United States
4.07 km (2.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation AreaAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Host:
all interaction was fast and helpfulpati is a very nice and helpful hosteveryone on the dock was very friendlypati was a fantastic host and communication was easy and quickhe was always responsive available and attentive without being intrusiveLocation:
absolutely beautiful home and locationwe had a wonderful stay the location is serene but yet so close to everythingvery nice place quiet and close to everythingwonderful houseboat extremely well located and nicely decoratedwe had such a nice time super fun location and wonderful little homeCleanliness:
the place was clean and comfortable and we immediately felt at homevery clean large complete kitchen and nice touches throughoutRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
loved the style the amount of space and the comfortable yet sophisticated decora wonderful comfortable space with wonderful viewsgreat well equipped comfortable home with fantastic viewskids happily spread out in the lower level bedsit’s a fabulous space with many thoughtful touches and plenty of room to spread out
4. DeltaJaz (from USD 324)
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!
Oakley, California, United States
79.57 km (49.5 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation AreaAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Host:
the host was pleasant and walked us through everything on the boat which was very easy to controlawesome people place and location aaron and angie are wonderful hostsLocation:
the location was great for us to go fishing and included a slip for our boatRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
upper deck with comfortable seating and a great view especially at sunsetkitchen had everything we needed to prepare some nice meals and there's a coffee and tea
5. Pet-friendly loft with a Bohemian aesthetic (from USD 5250)
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.
Sausalito, California, United States
3.72 km (2.4 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation AreaSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
6. Newly remodeled houseboat (from USD 349)
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.
San Rafael, California, United States
13.57 km (8.5 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation AreaAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Host:
host makes us fill happyso kind nice host and quick answer for uscommunication with the hosts was easy and quick as was check inLocation:
very cute and comfortable houseboat in central san rafael close to terrapin crossroads and sol foodsuper cute place to stay the marina is located just off the highway ample parkingloved that it was close to many parks and had a lot of places to go and explorethe price is good and is probably just the right place for the right personRead more reviewsCleanliness:
and super clean top3this place was very clean and comfortable would definitely recommendthe houseboat is quite cute and clean and quiet at nightvery clean and cute place neighbors were friendly
7. Romantic house on the waters in Mill Valley (from USD 270)
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 AreaAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Location:
we loved the decor location and all the thoughtful touchesRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the bed was comfy and we had all of the creature comforts one could ask for
8. Fully equipped houseboat with a charming rooftop deck (from USD 311)
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
Top guest reviews
Host:
alan is a very attentive host and his home is really comfortable and spaciousalan is a great host the boat house is a unique experiencealan is a wonderful host his place is a is simply spectacularif you want a peaceful stay this is the place very family friendly and quietLocation:
great place in a houseboat community close to downtown sausalito and the highwaythis is a great place to stay for a couple or familyCleanliness:
it was quiet well furnished and cleanhouse has all you need and it is really cleangreat place very well located but not exactly a modern or clean placeRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
lots of light easy parking well equipped and very comfortable
9. Cosy floating home with incredible views (from USD 141)
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 AreaTop guest reviews
Host:
susan is a great hosti couldn’t have asked for a better hosther instructions were very clear and susan was very helpful and hospitablesusan is a great host who responds to communication quicklyLocation:
the location was ideal and easy to get to from oakland airportvery attractive and comfortable home in a beautiful and quiet locationconnections to sf by ferry are close and funRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
loved having breakfast and great coffee right one the waternice surrounding and having breakfast outside with a view on the water was awesome
More houseboat options in San Francisco from Vrbo
10. Fully equipped luxury yacht
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.
Brisbane, California, United States
23.42 km (14.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
11. Remodeled historic ferryboat accommodation
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.
Sausalito, California, United States
4.07 km (2.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Top guest reviews
Host:
owners are responsive and helpfulLocation:
the setting with the marine wildlife so calming and peaceful but there's plenty to do nearbyCleanliness:
i would suggest to have the windows cleaned to have a nicer and clearer viewRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
equipped with a washer/dryer full kitchen multiple bathrooms made for a comfortable experiencestaying on a historical ferry that was turned into a charming apartment is a wonderful experience
12. Well-appointed houseboat with harbor views
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.
San Rafael, California, United States
13.67 km (8.5 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
13. Beautiful houseboat with San Francisco Bay views
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.
Sausalito, California, United States
4.07 km (2.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
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 184)
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.
Alameda, California, United States
25.5 km (15.9 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation AreaAccommodates: 3
Top guest reviews
Host:
thank you to the staff for your hospitality and generositythe hosts were very friendly and helpfulscott and michelle are wonderful hosts quick to respond and accommodatingscott was responsive and communicated the instructions really wellLocation:
close to everything and yet far enough away to be peaceful and privategorgeous location and cozy comfortable and convenient accommodationsa quiet relaxing get away in a convenient locationeasy to find and a great locationcool and unique place to stay also close to shore with convenient parkingRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
they even left heater on for us so was nice and warm when arrivedthe shower with being able to remove the window above was pretty cool
15. Luxurious yacht with WiFi (from USD 1053)
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!
California, United States
23.02 km (14.3 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation AreaAccommodates: 12
Top guest reviews
Host:
edgar was a great host patient and happy to helpedgar was a very gracious host as welledgar is a really friendly and helpful hostedgar was a cool host and communicating with him was easyvery friendly and accommodating host definitely will come backLocation:
so many great dining choices within walking distanceit's location is central to a lot of the popular sight seeing & restaurantsnice layout great location and viewCleanliness:
well appointed clean perfect get a wayRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
edgar does have direct tv which is nicewe had some problems with the bathroom nice opportunity to learn about boatlifethe master bedroom has an extremely comfortable mattress
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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