All you landlubbers, get ready for an aquatic adventure! Spend your days fishing, kayaking and enjoying the sunset on these houseboats you can rent with your family. They have all the kid-friendly amenities you love and a cool factor that will make this family vacation one they won’t soon forget. All aboard!
West
Floating Vacation Home | Oregon City, OR
This beautiful property on the Willamette River has three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. It's surrounded by cedar decking and is the perfect spot for fishing and kayaking. Soak in the hot tub and watch the sunset.
Sleeps: 8
Cost: $321/night
Online: airbnb.com
Float House at Jack Creek | Astoria, OR
You'll love this delightful float house on the John Day River, minutes from charming Astoria. This home offers a perfect place to enjoy river recreation and relaxation. Originally a floating store, guests now enjoy all the modern conveniences mixed with old-world charm. Sitting adjacent to 16 acres of farmland, enjoy the peace and serenity of country life or use it as a jumping-off point for your adventure on the coast.
Sleeps: 8
Cost: $207/night
Online: airbnb.com
Charming Sausalito Houseboat | Sausalito, CA
This lovely houseboat has a great deck where you can view Mt. Tam and San Francisco. It is part of the historic Sausalito houseboat community and just a short walk to 7 restaurants.
Sleeps: 5
Cost: $311/night
Online: airbnb.com
California Yacht | Marina del Rey, CA
You'll love the location of this gorgeous yacht that's just a short walk to Marina del Rey and all it has to offer.
Sleeps: 4
Cost: $280/night
Online: airbnb.com
Southwest
Lake Waco Houseboat (as seen on Fixer Upper) | Waco, TX
You'll love your family getaway on this cute two-story houseboat that was on the TV show Fixer Upper. One room with a queen bed and another with two bunk beds will sleep your whole crew. In the summer you can often hear live music from nearby restaurants.
Sleeps: 7
Cost: $268/night
Online: airbnb.com
Midwest
Luxury Houseboat on Mississippi River | East Dubuque, IL
The backwaters of the Mississippi are home to this houseboat that's available year round. It has an amazing roof deck that you can access in the warmer months and view the sunset. The rental includes one-hour kayak rental for all the guests. There's even a water slide!
Sleeps: 12
Cost: $274/night
Online: airbnb.com
Jamestowner Houseboat | Lakeside Marblehead, OH
This is a true vintage houseboat! Multiple fishing poles are provided to guests along with two kayaks and life vests which are free to use. On the rooftop deck you will have access to lounge chairs and beach chairs.
Sleeps: 5
Cost: $206/night
Online: airbnb.com
Northeast
Casey's Houseboat | Newport, RI
This charming, renovated houseboat is located at the north end of Newport Harbor. Two single kayaks are available for your use. Grill some local seafood and enjoy the sunsets!
Sleeps: 4
Cost: $600/night
Online: airbnb.com
Tiny House on the Water | Washington, DC
What a fun option for your Washington, DC visit! Enjoy scenic views from the deck while your family enjoys time at the dock.
Sleeps: 6
Cost: $250/night
Online: airbnb.com
Southeast
Luxury Houseboat | Orange Park, FL
Enjoy amazing sunsets at this houseboat that has everything your family will need. Grill up some fresh fish on the BBQ and then explore the beauty of the surrounding area.
Sleeps: 4
Cost: $264/night
Online: airbnb.com
Tugboat on Your Own Private Lake | Louisa, VA
A magical getaway awaits when you stay at this tugboat on its own private lake. The Luxury Tugboat floats on an 8 acre private lake with an island on 142 wooded acres, with 5+miles of hiking trails. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, exploring, or just relax on your own beach by the fire pit.
Sleeps: 5
Cost: $357/night
Online: airbnb.com
Floating House Getaway | Andersonville, TN
Accessible only by boat, this little floating house is certain to be full of adventure! You'll especially enjoy the expansive deck and outdoor living area. Two kayaks are available for your use and dogs are welcome!
Sleeps: 5
Cost: $190/night
Online: airbnb.com
A Pirates Life For Me Houseboat | Charleston, SC
Your family will enjoy this very spacious houseboat with a vaulted ceiling in the main cabin. Lots of room to move around with a queen size bed in the Captain's Quarters (Bedroom) and a twin bed in the living room that's a day bed.
Sleeps: 4
Cost: $175/night
Online: airbnb.com
—Kate Loweth
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