If you haven’t been to Essex, Connecticut, you haven’t been anywhere! Not only does it feature in the New York Times Bestseller as one of the 1,000 Places To See Before You Die, but it is also considered one of the best small towns in the United States. Featuring an eclectic mix of history and art, this coastal town offers visitors much to explore and plenty of things to do. Visit the historic museums and art galleries during the day, or soak in awe of the Colonial and Federation-era architecture along the streets. Enjoy a riverboat ride along the Connecticut River during sunset and take in the spectacular view of this harbor town.
There are also plenty of cafes, shops, and restaurants to visit throughout the day. You can also go on a day trip and try some of the best things to do in New London less than 30 minutes away! Complete your vacation with high-quality rest. Keep reading to learn about the best Airbnb vacation rentals in Essex, Connecticut!
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 February 02, 2024.
1. Cozy home with a fireplace (from USD 285)
This pet-friendly Airbnb in Essex, Connecticut, offers a cosy abode for your Essex vacation! It is ideally located near Sunset Pond, Falls River, and is within walking distance of downtown where you can find many shops and food establishments. At night, stay warm and toasty by the living room fireplace while you watch a movie on the flat-screen TV or read a book on the plush sofa. In the mornings, you can enjoy your coffee in the sunroom to enjoy the view or, if it’s not too cold out, sit on the private patio to breathe fresh air.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nice ceiling fan in the master and good acgreat kitchen-backyard lights and water feature-indoor porch tooand the generous access to streaming services comfortable and elegant bedding and shower bath and amenitiesenclosed porch overlooking garden would be lovely extra room in warm weatherthe beds were comfortable with beautiful linens and the kitchen was updated and well equippedCleanliness:
everything you could need is there but the space still manages to feel wonderfully clean & unclutterednice cottage with comfortable beds very clean and close to historic areaHost:
wes and jody were great hoststhe owners were very responsive and easy to communicate withhad a few interactions with the hosts as well & they were lovely & responsivewesley is very responsive and helpfulwesley and jody were terrific hosts: incredibly responsive and caringRead more reviewsLocation:
great location walk to beautiful riverside streets downtown shops & restaurants also near public tennis courts / playgroundthe bonus was the location just a short walk to towngood access to the town and we enjoyed walkingthis was a lovely home very close to the heart of essexthe location is great and was very convenient for my husband dog and i
2. Charming guesthouse with a garden view (from USD 220)
Enjoy beautiful views of the garden while you sit on the private patio on this holiday rental in Essex, Connecticut. If you come during the right season, you might even see the charming wisteria vines climbing up the pergola to provide shade. On lazy afternoons, head down the river and sit on the riverside chairs or if you’re feeling adventurous, dip your toes in the water! You can also wait for the late afternoon and enjoy roasting marshmallows while huddled around the fire pit.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
tech/internet was super with fast internet speeds and great wifi coveragethe beds were the most comfortable i've experienced in an airbnbit is cozy and comfortable and had everything we neededCleanliness:
inside is clean comfortable and well stockedthe guest house is clean and very well appointedthe beds were clean and comfortable and the bathroom was well stockedthe beds and linens are very comfy and everything was super clean and comfortableit’s also super clean with lovely linens and comfortable bedsHost:
reninca is a great hostshe was very responsive and quick to help when neededhosts are marvelous and essex is full of charmreninca was so kind to meet my mom beforehand to tour the housethe hosts are helpful and responsive and very pleasant to deal withRead more reviewsLocation:
downtown was just a short walk away and the neighborhood is a joy to walk throughit is the perfect location if you are visiting the area for the first timewe especially enjoyed hiking at gillette castle state park on thanksgiving dayit's a great place to staywhat a treasure we found reninca's guesthouse a perfect place to stay whole visiting friends in essex
3. Open-concept studio apartment near Connecticut River (from USD 114)
Pamper yourselves with a stay at the Cozy Nook! This spacious, open-concept studio apartment rental in Essex, Connecticut, promises a home away from home. It is located in a peaceful country neighborhood and makes an ideal choice for a getaway. Nature lovers will love the endless hiking trails, beaches, and close proximity to the Connecticut River. Also, it is conveniently located near dining spots that will whet your appetite, theatres, and galleries that will keep you entertained and shopping.
Enjoy the best of both worlds by staying between New York and Boston – who says you can’t have both? The Cozy Nook guarantees a stay of absolute comfort!
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we also had fresh blueberry muffins coffee and champagne in our little kitchen when we got theredoree's cozy nook is a lovely apartment with all the amenities plus that one could possibly needdoree's place was perfect for our needs -- cozy beds and definitely a cozy nook for our stayat night the temps went down and the basement level suite was still quite comfortable for sleepingour stay at the cozy nook was perfectCleanliness:
very clean and well keptthe apartment was spotless and it was cleanspotless with lovely decordoree’s place is clean and comfortablepretty clean and comfortableHost:
great host: helpful but unobtrusivedoree is a wonderful host and is easily accessibledoree is a very caring and helpful hostshe and her husband we very warm and kinddoree was a kind and gracious host who even provided some refreshments upon our arrivalRead more reviewsLocation:
gem beautiful location nestled in the woodsawesome location and a beautiful place to stay loved the decori spent a week here and found the location very peacefulthe place was also really cute and homeythe house is located in a calm neighborhood surrounded by a large garden and huge trees
4. Quaint retreat with views of Connecticut River (from USD 105)
Across the street from the Connecticut River, this quaint 1800s vacation house for rent in Essex, Connecticut makes for a relaxing, enjoyable vacation. It is an ideal location to explore New England towns and watch the iconic Essex Steam Train or the picturesque Becky Thatcher Riverboat. There are a plethora of activities down at the Connecticut River to participate in, or you can enjoy a cocktail while people-watching on the balcony, overlooking the river. Enjoy the absolute comfort of this home designed to make you feel at home.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beautiful post card view from the bedwifi was a bit spotty but best to unplug anywayquite charming and comfortable and the cottage was much larger than i anticipatedplenty of space and nice to have a kitchen tooadorable cottage perfect spot and comfortable for 2 peopleCleanliness:
the cottage is clean and adorablethe cottage is adorable and super clean and comfyconvenient and very cleanthis cottage was cozy clean and lovelyquaint and clean spacious cottage close to the waterHost:
andrea is a very good hostwonderful host adorable small townandrea is a very friendly and helpful hostandrea is a very helpful personandrea was also very kind and quick to communicateRead more reviewsLocation:
great location near the rivergreat location and charming charactercute cottage in a wonderful locationnice place in a great locationa good value excellent location
5. Cosy apartment with river views (from USD 115)
This is an ideal location for train aficionados, as you can watch and capture the famous Essex Steam Train in action. Enjoy a vacation in this comfortable and private apartment with a spectacular, close up view of the Connecticut River and one that overlooks the iconic Becky Thatcher Riverboat.
Interestingly, this vacation rental in Essex used to be part of a historic building, built in 1874. It is, however, nicely furnished with heat controls and a modern kitchen. This building welcomes wedding events, as well!
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
river views and comfortablewe enjoyed the quiet space and the views from the roomwonderful cozy place with great water views and access across the streetit was a very cosy apartment with a great view of the ct riverwhat an unexpectedly large and beautiful apartment the view is terrific and the grounds are lovely tooCleanliness:
very clean place with a comfortable bedcozy warm clean and super cutethe apartment was clean and we had nearly everything we needed (as per listing)(it doesn't run at night so don't worry about train noise ) the apartment was clean and comfortablethe view is wonderful the apartment was clean and well keptHost:
andrea was a lovely hostandrea and company are professional and gracious hostslovely home lovely setting and lovely hostandrea was very helpful accommodating and communicativeprivate nice apartment and friendly hostRead more reviewsLocation:
cute place in a great locationperfect location for our ct river excursion eagle/osprey tripgood location- short walk to riverthe location is spot on for a great little get away at any seasonlovely location private and quiet
6. The Nest (from USD 121)
Nestled in a peaceful country neighbourhood with endless hiking trails, beaches, and cosy villages nearby, the Nest is an absolute gem that guarantees comfort and convenience in a beautiful environment. This unique Airbnb in Connecticut sports bright and cheery decor and invites guests on a getaway vacation, any time of the year.
Located between Boston and New York, guests may experience the best of the two cities at this vacation rental. Also, this clean and spacious apartment offers modern living with brand new amenities, a fully-furnished kitchen with island seating, a huge bathroom, as well as a large, stone firepit. It is an absolute must-visit in your lifetime!
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nicely appointed place with extra touches such as coffee and breakfast each morningthe bed was extremely comfortablewe had wonderful cozy nights and a good nights sleepCleanliness:
great place clean and well stockedsuper clean nicely decorated and furnishedthe space was immaculately clean impeccably well stocked and beautifully decoratedthe nest is sparkling clean and so comfortablethe nest was clean cozy and comfortableHost:
doree was a wonderful hostdoree is a great hostdoree is a great hostthank you doree for being a super hostdoree was a fantastic hostRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was quiet and peacefulit was close to great restaurants and beautiful walksperfect location relaxing and many places to exploreeverything was so close as wellconvenient location and wonderful amenities
7. Historic mansion in Old Lyme (from USD 171)
Travel back in time - yes, you can! This picturesque vacation rental offers an apartment on the third storey of the historic Old Lyme Mansion, in the charming village of Old Lyme. It overlooks beautiful grounds and a historic church, just next door! Not only does the exterior look stunning, the interior sports modern, yet stylish décor.
It is also within close proximity to restaurants, beaches, art galleries and museums. This is a perfect choice for families or travellers in search of a private, relaxing vacation.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
window air conditioners kept us comfortable despite "excessive heat warning" days outsidewe enjoyed the beautiful rooms the country views and the quietnessthe beds and linens were super comfythis apartment was so cute very clean with all of the amenities you could needholly's place was so comfortable and had everything we needed at handCleanliness:
sparkling clean accommodations were greatly appreciatedclean safe and absolutely adorableplenty of room & was very cleanthe rooms were roomy and very clean3rd floor was very nice and cleanHost:
the hosts were friendly and eager to make our stay comfortableholly and berry were delightful hoststhe hosts were great and easy to communicate withholly was very accommodating and a great hostthe home made ginger cake was a very kind welcoming touchRead more reviewsLocation:
location was great and close to nice restaurantswonderful spot in a wonderful locationthe location is central to the other charming coastal villages in this area of connecticutthis is a beautiful home in a location convenient to many points of interest and activitiesarea is scenic and close to many attractions and restaurants
8. Pet-friendly apartment best for families (from USD 158)
Have a unique vacation in Essex, by staying at the home of the former Erickson-Davis Gallery. This charming yet modern apartment is located in a quiet residential neighbourhood, just off Main Street. Not only is this Airbnb in Essex, CT, good for entertaining guests, it also has a large office area available, for guests to do their work. This spacious loft is an ideal choice for a getaway close to nature, as well as conveniently located to restaurants and amenities.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beds were super comfortable and the "extras" such as coffee cream etcthe beds were super comfywell appointed kitchen complete with yummy cupcakesi loved the openness of floor plan and the uniqueness each space of the apt/loftbeds were very comfy lovely linens hot water and a divine soaking tubCleanliness:
it was clean and artistic placevery eclectic very clean and comfortablethe atmosphere was comfortable while still being very clean and uniquewas very clean and had so many interesting and amazing featureswe cooked dinner and breakfasts and found the kitchen to be clean and just rightHost:
pam was a wonderful hostpam was a great hosthost is responsive and thoughtfulpam is a gracious host and i look forward to visiting againpam was extremely kind and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
quite location with easy access to downtown essexgood value and great locationbeautiful place great locationwhat a lovely place to stay in a beautiful locationgreat location easy to get around and plenty of parking if you need it
9. Old two-bedroom, one-bath loft in Saybrook
Experience Old Saybrook at this cosy and quiet loft, located on the third floor of a colonial building. This accommodation offers a private bedroom, a spacious living room with cable television and its own ensuite marble bathroom.
It is conveniently located near the highways that give easy access to many of the key attractions in Essex – only minutes away from the iconic Essex Steam Train, the Connecticut River Museum, Lyme Art Academy, Griswold Museum, Norma Terris Theater and much more! Guests also get a free beach pass to the Saybrook Town Beach during the summer and the Turtle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary is just within reach.
Old Saybrook, Connecticut, United States
12.12 km (7.6 mi) from Gillette Castle State ParkAccommodates: 5
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the rooms and bathroom were beautifully renovated and even better than expected from the photoswe felt comfortable immediately and enjoyed having our own space in the loftthere is a lovely living room with cable tv where you can spend time relaxingit felt like a mini hotel room on her top floorthe space was incredibly clean with a large bathroom and multiple sleeping optionsCleanliness:
everything is clean and the beds are comfortablethe room was clean and spaciousvery hospitable and extremely clean placethe house is very clean and quietthe space is clean and comfortable and the bathroom is beautifulHost:
we enjoyed this lovely home and the great hoststhe owners are so welcomingthe hosts are quite graciousthey are wonderful hosts who make you feel very much at homehosts were gracious and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
the general location is beautifulnice accommodations in a great locationideal location for us- right off the highwayquiet picturesque location near the shorethe property is very close to two amazing restaurants and the water
10. Refurbished farmhouse with pool and hot tub
Experience the best of coastal Connecticut with a stay at this bucolic farm. You will enjoy a relaxing vacation and wake up to the stunning landscape of hills and a scenic river during your stay. Built in 1737, this farmhouse can house up to 12 guests in their seven charming bedrooms. This place is ideal for a family vacation, engagement parties, or large gatherings.
It is completely furnished with complete amenities and even more - a large kitchen, a pool with pool house, a hot tub, woodburning stove and a lovely garden. Nature lovers will definitely enjoy basking in the forest gazebo or taking a walk to the barn, to watch the caretakers feed the horses.
Lyme, Connecticut, United States
7.82 km (4.9 mi) from Gillette Castle State ParkTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the grill is fantastic as is the kitchenthe house was a magical wonderland filled with thoughtfully placed treasures and cozy places to spend quality timethe pool where we enjoyed the water and viewsthe house is beautifully restored with an amazing view great pool and also very soothing atmospherethe pool is so nice it almost seems like an infinity pool with the viewCleanliness:
had a great stay clean with plenty of space and a very unique house with all of the artHost:
camomile was a nice and helpful hostshe was so responsive and lovelyhost was great but did take some time to answer our questionscamomile was really helpful and accommodatingthe owner is quick to respond professional & made the stay very easyRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is just amazingwalking distance to fox hopyard a great golf coursethe perfect location for a long weekend away with the extended family i would highly recommendit was the perfect trip at the perfect placegreat location close to hiking beaches or golf
11. Chalker Beach House
Beach lovers, look no further! There is no better place to stay than this luxurious beach house, located in the heart of Chalker Beach. You will enjoy the beach facilities, the clubhouse, onsite beach parking pass and plenty of shopping and dining.
This beautifully-furnished, three-bedroom beach house is perfect for getaways, retreats and celebration parties. Watch the sunrise (if you’re an early riser) or the sunset, with a cup of coffee or glass of wine in the open backyard. It is a beautiful choice, not to be missed.
Old Saybrook, Connecticut, United States
15.6 km (9.7 mi) from Gillette Castle State ParkTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nice backyard with patio table and chairs for 8wi-fi and tv work greatthe kitchen does not have ac but sufficient fresh air cosmetics through the 2 windowswe had a hot week so a/c was a nice reliefthe natural lighting in every room was also a huge plusCleanliness:
upon arrival the place was very clean and organizedthe house was cleanhouse was clean and well taken care ofthis house exceeded our expectations very spacious clean and comfortablethe house was well maintained clean and accurate to photosHost:
deborah is a fantastic hostdeborah was very responsive to questions that came updeborah was a great host - she responded extremely quickly any time we had questionsdeb was super responsive to any little questions we haddeborah was very responsiveRead more reviewsLocation:
great location private yet close to everythinggreat location close to beach but also centrally located to many other new england attractionswe loved how close to beach the house ishope to visit during summer next time to enjoy the seaside location even morethis was the perfect location for my combined work and play trip to ct
12. Old apartment in Saybrook
Come stay in a centralized location in Old Saybrook, near the Connecticut River at the best Airbnb in Essex. Not only is this place ideal for a relaxing vacation, it is also a cosy place for special occasions. Enjoy the best of Old Saybrook with its beaches, wildlife sanctuary, minigolf course, spa, museums, vineyard, shopping and dining - perfect to check-off the list of things to do in Essex.
This ensuite bedroom is located on the second floor of a new colonial house, with easy access to the highway and Amtrak train. Enjoy a comfortable quiet evening with a cup of tea or a glass of wine at the firepit in the backyard.
Old Saybrook, Connecticut, United States
12.14 km (7.6 mi) from Gillette Castle State ParkAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the ac unit in the room was so nicethe room was private quaint and a/c was terrific with how hot it was outsidecoffee and pastries for breakfast was a great bonus alsothe room decor was both cheering and lovelywonderful hospitality (fruit + coffee in the morning fresh flowers in our room)Cleanliness:
and everything was very cleanthe room is clean and very comfortableeverything was amazingly comfortable clean and quietimmacuually clean great bath products and a beautiful areathe room is clean comfy and the bad is wonderfulHost:
an amazing home with amazing hoststhe hosts are friendly and helpfulsondra and victor were wonderful hostslovely warm hosts with tons of great recommendationsvictor and sondra were great hostsRead more reviewsLocation:
this is a good location for exploring the areaa beautiful house in a beautiful locationthe location was perfect to accommodate us and very near the location for the wedding we were attendingvery nice home great location and proximity to towngreat place great location lovely bike rides through rural towns and the coastline
Cosy in Connecticut
When nature and picturesque scenery call out to those seeking some respite, answer the call - slow down and enjoy the view. There’s no other place that will make you feel as cosy as these vacation rentals will, in Connecticut!
Frequently asked questions about Airbnb vacation rentals in Essex, Connecticut
History
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