Top 9 Vacation Rentals In San Marcos, Texas

Sucheta
Sucheta 
Updated
| 5 min read

The seat of Texas’ Hays County, San Marcos is situated on the banks of the namesake river. This central Texan city offers a lot of things to do, especially if you are an adventure lover. Be it canoeing and kayaking at Rio Vista Park, going on a glass-bottom boat tour at Meadows Center for Water and the Environment; paddleboarding, tubing and snorkeling in the San Marcos River, hiking and biking at Purgatory Creek Natural Area, or having fun with kids at Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park, the excitement and thrill in San Marcos are simply limitless. Plan a trip to this city with your loved ones. For a comfortable stay, browse through this list of the top vacation rentals in San Marcos, Texas.

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 March 13, 2023.

1. Four-O Ranch (from USD 760)

This charming country house has three bedrooms and an equal number of bathrooms. Sitting on a 40-acre (16.1-hectare) farmland, this property is pet-friendly too. Up to two dogs are allowed to stay here; just make sure to inform the host in advance so that proper arrangements can be made.

It has a well-equipped kitchen for meals in, and a spacious living area for lounging. Outside, there’s a garden where you can let your pooch run to their heart’s content while you relax by the private pool. There’s also an outdoor pavilion with a fully functional kitchen and a grill, should you wish to have a family cookout. Parking for up to six vehicles is available on the premises.

Stayed at this property?
San Marcos, TX, US
26 reviews  
chateau / country house 15 Guests 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 15
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the fan was great up there to provide a bit of sound and extra airflow
there’s a ton of comfortable outdoor furniture and old trees throughout the property
guest bedroom had a comfortable queen bed
Host:
very great outdoor/pool/kitchen to host a large group
Location:
it has nice country-like views but is super close to stores like target for last minute needs
king bed was comfortable and walk-in shower was very nice
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2. Hilltop Sunset Cottage (from USD 175)

If you like historical houses and old stuff, then you will love your stay at this property. Filled with antiques, this cottage can house six guests in its two cozy bedrooms. The living area is nicely decorated and well-furnished, while the dining area with a wood-burning fireplace is welcoming too.

The cottage has a spacious kitchen equipped with all the appliances and utensils needed to rustle up a mouth-watering meal. There’s a back deck, where you can enjoy your morning cup of joe or evening cocktail while taking in the nature views. The backyard features a playground for the kids. Internet access and car parking are available on the premises too.

Stayed at this property?
136 reviews   Wifi Available
cottage 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
also the couch bed was very comfortable
Cleanliness:
the cottage was beautiful clean and had everything we needed
Host:
the owner was very nice and responsive
our host were very gracious and even had fruit and wine as a welcoming gift
pam was an excellent contact person both helpful and informed
Location:
location was great; very close to the venue where graduation was held
we enjoyed our stay at the cabin it was close to town but secluded as well
right down the street older house but that was the best part
a great place to relax with your family and friends
this was the best place for our family to celebrate my oldest sons graduation from college
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3. La Casita Verde (from USD 127)

This charming cabin has three beds and can sleep up to four people. There is a fully stocked kitchen for those who like to cook for their loved ones. The cabin also has high-tech amenities such as a smart TV, a DVD player, a stereo, and high-speed internet.

Spend days exploring downtown San Marcos before returning to the cabin for an afternoon relaxing by the communal pool, reading and sipping on coffee in the cabin’s patio area, or taking a snooze on the Murphy bed.

Stayed at this property?
185 reviews   Wifi Available
cabin 4 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the casita was clean and well stocked
very clean met all of our needs
the property was clean newly redecorated and fixed up and inviting
Host:
owner's home also on property and she was there to greet us when we checked in
pam was very hospitable and helpful
the kitchen is suitably equipped and again the owners are ready to supplement anything lacking
the host is helpful and came to assist me with the heater after a cold front came in
Location:
it's the perfect place for a relaxing weekend away from the stress of life
smaller towns with fun activities such as kyle and wimberly are close
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4. Self-contained studio overlooking the San Marcos River (from USD 200)

This 600-sq. ft (55.7-sq. m) studio apartment, overlooking the scenic San Marcos River, offers some breathtaking views. Ideal for a small family of four people, this studio features one full bath, a cozy living-cum-sleeping area, and a full kitchen where you can fix yourself a decent meal.

A dining table with four chairs is also provided. There is also a riverfront deck with outdoor furniture, where you can relax and spot several bird species, which makes it a haven for birdwatchers.

Stayed at this property?
93 reviews   Wifi Available
studio 4 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
as for the rental itself it is even nicer and cozier than the photos
this garage apartment is right on the river which is perfect for relaxing on the deck by the water
i enjoyed that we had plenty of everything_ towels soap coffee toilet paper chocolate and wine
Cleanliness:
everything was incredibly clean and the southwestern decor and warm colors added to the charm
the unit is very clean and quiet
very clean with easy check in and out
the apartment was very clean and had all the supplies we needed
place was clean beautiful and convenient access to the river
Host:
property owner was awesome
the owner was extremely helpful with out arrival
barbara was a wonderful host - we will definitely be back
barbara was more than welcoming and hospitable
Location:
the location was absolutely perfect
the location was excellent and right where we wanted to be
this was a great place super close to town but had the peaceful vibe of the river
perfect location to kayak and float in the river
we loved the kayaks and paddle board and the very short distance from rio vista park
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5. River House Retreat (from USD 456)

For those wanting to travel to San Marcos with a large group of friends, family, or colleagues, this house is worth considering. It can comfortably sleep up to 12 people at a time. It has two large bedrooms, six beds, and three full baths.

From entertainment options such as a cable TV, DVD player and Wi-Fi, to a full kitchen, to a deck and pavilion outside with a barbecue pit, this house has all the ingredients for a relaxing weekend away. The property’s driveway can accommodate up to six vehicles.

Stayed at this property?
44 reviews   Wifi Available
House 12 Guests 2 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 12
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the house is very nice and has all the necessary items needed for a comfortable stay
we enjoyed the large house dorm style sleeping separate tv rooms large kitchen rope swing and amazing yard
Cleanliness:
the beds were all clean and comfy and there are plenty of them
Host:
the hosts were super kind and helpful
the property owner is very attentive and friendly
the owners were amazing and so easy to talk to
owner is very nice and will walk you through the entire house to show you everything
the communication and support by the owners was terrific throughout our stay
Location:
great location on the river
this property and its location near on the river is amazing
the river house retreat is a fabulous house in a great location
i was actually thinking it would be a nice place for a girls trip
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6. Perch Or Flounder Manor (from USD 398)

This is a spacious farmhouse sitting on a 7-acre (2.8-hectare) of land. Originally built in 1945, it was recently renovated and opened for guests. It can house up to 15 guests and has 5 beds, 3 bathrooms, and spacious living and dining areas.

Within the farmhouse, there is a bright and large full-service kitchen. So, cooking a lavish meal for your companions and loved ones won’t be a problem here. The house has an indoor fireplace to keep you warm, especially during colder months. Outside, there’s a patio with a seating area and gas grill if you’re into outdoor cooking. Pets are allowed on this property too.

Stayed at this property?
41 reviews   Wifi Available
farmhouse 15 Guests 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 15
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
easy drive to all amenities and plenty of room for a large gathering
there was room for all of us to unwind and relax
Cleanliness:
the cleanliness of the sheets and pillows ranged from clean to questionable/old
clean & plenty of room and seating areas
Host:
the owner is fantastic: accommodating and communicative
deda was such a great host and was quick to answer all our questions
the owner was very nice and easy to work with
the owner was such a sweet lady and really made her home a welcoming place
she was so helpful by suggesting things to do in the area
Location:
myself and 10 close friends came here to escape the city and celebrate my birthday
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7. Palmer's Guest House (from USD 129)

If you are planning an exciting family getaway in San Marcos, this place will serve you well. This is a cozy cottage that can sleep four people quite comfortably. It has one bedroom with a queen-size bed and a convertible sofa bed, and one full bath. The living area is well-furnished and welcoming too.

In the house, there is a small kitchenette with a mini-fridge and a coffee maker. Free Wi-Fi access and on-site parking for up to three cars are available on the property. There is also a private patio, where you can enjoy your morning tea and evening (or daytime) cocktail.

Stayed at this property?
132 reviews   Wifi Available
cottage 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 1
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bedroom was spacious with a connected bathroom that was comfortable with a nice shower
no fridge or mini kitchen so it’s best for just a night or two
Cleanliness:
very clean and nicely appointed
everything was clean and in perfect working order
nice clean and quaint little guest house that is perfect for one or two adults
Host:
the owners were super friendly and responsive
super place and great hosts for a little getaway
you'll love the location and the thoughtful hospitality of the owners
kristin was super helpful and responsive when we were asking about a small cooler
Location:
great location for our trip
super cute little place and great location
perfect location for a texas state visit
loved the location will definitely be back
great place convenient location and great restaurant next door
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8. Simple yet cozy apartment in Downtown San Marcos (from USD 209)

Located in downtown San Marcos, this humble apartment has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It sits on the top floor of the building and faces the street. The unit has an open floor plan with a furnished seating area featuring two sofas, a circular dining table, and a flat-screen TV. The in-house kitchenette has a kettle, stovetop, small fridge, oven, and microwave. Wi-Fi and parking for one car are available on the premises.

Stayed at this property?
42 reviews   Wifi Available
Apartment 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
property was very clean and well maintained
accommodation was comfortable and clean
Host:
the property manager is attentive and helpful
the owner is very responsive and helpful too
owner very responsive and his recommendations regarding food was spot on
owner was easy to get a hold of and very responsive
owner was friendly and great to work with;) thanks brian
Location:
cool condo with a great location
great location in downtown san marcos
perfect location for a weekend away to the river and enjoying the square
great location next to all the fun stuff in the square
it's located in a great spot so many places within walking distance
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9. Gorgeous riverside house for six

This stunning house features two bedrooms, two full baths, and can accommodate up to six guests at a time. So, if you are traveling with your family and/or group of friends, this house is perfect for you. It also has an open-concept kitchen with granite countertops, basic pantry items and kitchen appliances, ideal for home cooking. The living room is cozy and well-furnished with a beautiful indoor fireplace.

The house is located by the river, so stunning views is a default feature here. In the backyard, there are upper and lower-level decks overlooking the river too. Plus, downtown San Marcos is within walking distance of the property.

Stayed at this property?
San Marcos, TX, US
26 reviews   Wifi Available
House 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the beds were plush and comfy and adorned with soft linens which made for peaceful sleeping
the house was roomy and comfortable with lots of extra touches that also made it convenient
Cleanliness:
fresh paint updated kitchen clean and cozy
the house was clean and comfortable for 5 of us
better than expected house was very very clean and extremely well provisioned
had so much fun the place was so cute and clean
Host:
gracious and accommodating host and everything you need for family and adult fun
everything about this house is amazing and the host is one of the best
Location:
convenient location—would definitely come again
the house property and location was amazing exceeded expectations
Read more reviews
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Have unlimited fun in San Marcos

There is absolutely no doubt that San Marcos, TX, has a lot in store for all kinds of visitors. Plus, the above listed vacation rentals will ensure that you have all the creature comforts at your disposal. So, don’t hold yourself back. Plan a visit to this happening city now and book a stay at one of these properties!

Stayed at this property?
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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Sucheta embarked on her career as a creative writer and editor before transitioning to SEO writing. In previous corporate roles, she not only crafted creative and technical content, but also...Read more

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