Reviews Travel
Written by Michelle Gross and Kinsley Searles; edited by Lauren Savoie
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Airbnbs with beachfront access continue to rank among the most popular properties on the vacation rental platform.
After all, who doesn't want to wake up to the sound of waves crashing right outside their back porch, or take a moonlit stroll along the sand after the sun goes down? Though, if you'd prefer to cool off in an Airbnb with a private pool instead, we have plenty of options for that, too. And if hotels are more your thing, here are the best beach hotels in the US.
If a beach vacation is on your mind, from sea to shining blue sea there's no shortage of beautiful Airbnb beach houses across the US.
These are the best Airbnb beach houses, sorted by region and price from low to high.
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Charming beachfront cottage on the Jersey Shore
Book this New Jersey beach home on Airbnb
Set along one of the Jersey Shore's most charming seaside towns, Cape May, this cozy bayfront cottage with one bedroom is best suited for couples and solo travelers, though it is also pet-friendly (with an additional fee for multiple pets).
It's important to note, this is a two-family home and while this space is completely private and uses a separate entrance, the other side of the house is occupied, which might not work for some guests. You are also required to bring your own linens to fit the Queen-sized bed.
The location, however, is unparalleled and you'll love spending time on the private back deck, which includes a gas grill and leads directly out to the beach. The front porch with chairs and an umbrella adds additional space for enjoying the sea breeze.
Inside, the decor is simple but includes a red leather couch, an all-white kitchen with a dining table for two, and ocean photos in the bedroom.
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Beach suite in Massachusetts
Book this Massachusetts beach home on Airbnb
The charming seaside town of Gloucester, pronounced Glah-Sta, in coastal New England comes alive in the summertime. From long walks on a private beach to romantic dinners on the deck, this one-bedroom beachside retreat will make a great getaway for couples.
This property comes with a private beachfront location, which can save you the $25 to $30 per day that most Gloucester visitors spend on beach passes. Plus, the hosts provide beach chairs and towels for the perfect beach day.
While this is a separate guest suite with its own private entrance, the entire cottage consists of two units that are each rented separately. Though, you can combine listings to book the entire property.
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Bayfront oasis in Maryland
Book this Ocean City beach house on Airbnb
Offering uninterrupted bayfront views, this cozy townhome in Ocean City, Maryland is the ideal locale for your beach vacation. Sip morning coffee on the private balcony, enjoy steamed crabs on the large bayfront deck, or kick back with a co*cktail and watch the sunset from the living room.
The layout is an open-living concept with a master bedroom upstairs with a private balcony and a King-size bed. The second bedroom has a Queen bed and there's also a beige striped sectional couch that converts to a bed in the living room. Wicker furniture and deep blue quilts give this home a subtle beach vibe.
Located on a corner lot of the bay, the owner explicitly states that it is not meant for parties or large group gatherings. Keep in mind, too, that the price for this property can get up to $625 during the peak season. That said, if you're looking for a chill and relaxing beach getaway, this is the place for you.
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Home by the bay in Maine
Book this Maine beach house on Airbnb
Three hours north of Portland, Maine, the Acadia Beach Bungalow is tucked away along the bay in Trenton, Maine. This property is just a 15-minute drive from Acadia National Park, making it a great option for those looking to explore the crown jewel of the North Atlantic Coast.
The guest house offers plenty of space to relax and explore. The beachfront comes equipped with Adirondack chairs for lounging and a firepit for roasting s'mores. The kitchen has everything needed to make yourself at home, and beachy accents like fish pillows and lighthouse art on the walls keep the home on theme. Keep in mind, though, that the uneven walkways and steep stairs make this home inaccessible to those with mobility issues.
The location is stellar, with your own slice of beach for swimming, kayaking, and more.
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Beachfront home with bay views in Delaware
Book this Delaware beach home on Airbnb
Featuring both beachfront and bay views, this spacious four-bedroom, three-bathroom home in the quiet community of Broadkill Beach in Milton, Delaware offers unobstructed water views from almost every room.
The home features a coastal design with plenty of natural light and soft tones. The well-equipped kitchen has unique tiling, a large island, and turquoise bar stools for grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a cup of coffee.
One room includes bunk beds decked out in comforters with a cute whale pattern for kids. The location is peacefully quiet and primed to enjoy beautiful sunrises over the bay.
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Gorgeous A-frame cabin in New York with ocean and bay views
Book this New York beach house on Airbnb
If a private beach and panoramic views of the ocean sound like your kind of vibe, then consider this waterfront haunt in Shirley, New York. After a day of exploring nearby beaches and hiking trails, enjoy an evening of watching the sun go down over the bay, snuggled up next to the wood-burning fireplace
The listing has three bedrooms that sleep up to six guests, ideal for bigger groups. You'll love the little details in this cabin, including beautiful stained glass detailing, floor-to-ceiling windows, an indoor swing, and a room with bunk beds for the kids.
Other perks include a fully equipped kitchen, deck chairs, and free parking during the stay, as well as recommendations for food, activities, and babysitters.
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Chic beachfront cottage in New York's North Fork of Long Island
Book this North Fork beach home on Airbnb
Set on a secluded stretch of Long Island's illustrious North Fork, this two-bedroom beachfront cottage is a great place to hang by the beach or go wine tasting at one of the area's many charming vineyards.
Wander along the private beach path or open up the floor-to-ceiling glass sliders that lead to a picturesque deck to dine at the picnic-style outdoor table, or relax on the plush lounger. A one-of-a-kind listing, the cottage's chic palette features crisp, minimalist whites and neutrals, creating a sense of serene seaside solitude for a quiet getaway. After a walk on the sand, rinse off in the outdoor shower while savoring water views.
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Cozy home on the North Carolina shore
Book this North Carolina beach home on Airbnb
A cute condo directly on North Topsail Beach in North Carolina, this is a great option for couples or small families looking for a low-key beach getaway. The bedroom has a queen bed and there are also Twin bunk beds built directly into the hallway.
Completely renovated in 2020, the apartment has a nautical-beach theme with soft blue and yellow hues, and big living room windows frame beach views. You can also head out to the balcony for a closer look.
Bright colors and floral decor give this home a warm, welcoming vibe, and a seashell bed quilt and striped bar stools at the eating nook add additional beach flair.
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Home overlooking the sound in North Carolina
Book this North Carolina beach home on Airbnb
Step into the backyard of this spacious home on the Albemarle Sound and you'll find nothing but peace and tranquility. Located in a quiet neighborhood in Hertford, North Carolina, the house is nice for bigger families or groups of friends.
Start and end your day on the dock, which comes with a bench to sit and watch the sunrise. Apart from the views directly overlooking the sound, highlights include the coffee bar in the kitchen, a gas-log fireplace in the living room, and a fully covered and screened-in porch for enjoying home-cooked barbecue from the grill.
The house also comes with a washer/dryer and high-speed WiFi.
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A modern cottage in Florida
Book this Florida cottage on Airbnb
This recently renovated condo in Cocoa Beach is a hidden gem. Take a short stroll on a boardwalk to a beautiful stretch of beach where you can surf, swim, or go bird watching. This property is also centrally located to famous Florida theme parks and attractions.
Your Cocoa Beach getaway will be complete with plenty of free parking, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, and a smart TV. The interior is tastefully decorated with minimalist shades of beachy teal and light gray.
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Waterfront beach bungalow in North Carolina
Book this North Carolina beach home on Airbnb
Relax on your own private beach or hop in a kayak and explore miles of pristine, undeveloped beaches and cypress tree-filled coves from this bungalow in Jarvisburg, North Carolina set at the confluence of the North River and the Albemarle Sound.
The home is pet-friendly, and the bedroom offers a Queen sized bed as well as a futon for extra guests if you don't mind the squeeze.
While not exactly modern, the bungalow has a homey vibe with string lights along the ceiling, a bright desk and bookcase, and purple cushions on the futon. The location is tranquil and fun amenities include a charcoal grill and outdoor fire pit. The house is only 15-minutes away from unspoiled shorelines and the beaches of the Outer Banks.
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Oceanfront condo with a pool in Florida
Book this Florida beach home with a pool on Airbnb
Serenity awaits at this casual oceanfront condo in Florida's Cape Canaveral. Set on a beautiful private beach, this Airbnb stands out for its whimsical decor and thoughtful amenities, which include blues of every hue from the turquoise velvet armchair to the robin's egg backsplash in the kitchen. A mirror made out of oars, a mermaid statue, and an octopus painting over the couch are all fun touches for a beach home.
This is also a great place to spend your time kayaking, paddle boarding, or enjoying some much-needed downtime just lounging on the beach or pool, which are both just a few steps away. Within minutes of downtown Port Canaveral and the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier, there's plenty to do right nearby. Keep in mind that the minimum stay is seven nights.
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Condo with a private beach in South Carolina
Book this Hilton Head beach house on Airbnb
Located on the famous Hilton Head Island, this property (cheekily named Sea la Vie) prides itself on offering anything you might need on a beach vacation. The hosts provide small kitchen appliances, beach accessories, games, a portable speaker, and toys for the kids. Not to mention, this property is located right where the Atlantic Ocean turns into the Sound, so you are sure to get beautiful views of boats on the sea.
During your visit, you're also welcome to enjoy the complex's indoor and outdoor pools, picnic tables, hot tub, and tennis court. The interior, with its light turquoise cabinets and starfish pillows, will give you those beach vibes.
If this home is booked up, consider our other picks for the best vacation homes on Hilton Head Island.
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Gulf-view beach house in Texas
Book this Texas beach home on Airbnb
Located on the bayside of the Bolivar Peninsula on Texas' Gulf Coast, this home offers two bedrooms, plus plenty of views of the Gulf of Mexico. It's also just a few miles away from popular bird-watching areas including Bolivar Flats, Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge, and the Smith Oak Sanctuary.
Bright and colorful, this house is perched on stilts, and underneath, you'll find your very own tiki bar and outdoor shower. You can't beat the view from the wraparound porch, which is decked out with vibrant deck chairs and string lights.
Inside isn't bad either, with beachy details like fish and parrot paintings, shiplap detailing, and reef-themed bedspreads.
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Oceanfront condo in South Carolina
Book this South Carolina beach house on Airbnb
Watch the waves roll in as you enjoy your morning coffee on the private terrace from this modern Isle of Palms condo in South Carolina.
Recently renovated, this third-floor condo is especially nice for families with young children since it offers a king-size bed in the master and a bunk bed in the hallway. The decor is tasteful but beachy with coral pillows, a gray sofa, velvet armchairs, and a modern kitchen has a funky blue stone backsplash.
The building has easy access to the beach and a private fishing pier, as well as a community pool and coin laundry facility.
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Pet-friendly oceanfront condo with pool access in South Carolina
Book this South Carolina beach home on Airbnb
Watch dolphins from the private balcony, walk to the beach, or laze the day away by the pool — this oceanfront condo in South Carolina offers it all.
Located in a private community just a stone's throw from one of the state's most beguiling beaches at Hunting Island State Park, the area offers miles of unspoiled beaches and is frequented by birders and nature lovers for some of the best animal sightings in the area.
This second-floor condo offers one queen bedroom and a second bedroom with a twin bed. Guests have access to the community pool and the beach. The unit also comes with a washer and dryer and is great for families with pets looking for a low-country getaway.
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Waterfront nest cottage in Mississippi
Book this Mississippi beach house on Airbnb
Set on the Mississippi Gulf Coast on ever-popular Long Beach, this waterfront cottage features breathtaking views over the Gulf of Mexico from its spacious front porch and has direct beach access.
The two bedrooms can easily accommodate up to six people and inviting outdoor wicker furniture is framed by idyllic views.
Inside, modern interiors include a spacious kitchen with marble countertops, soaking tubs in the bathrooms, and living room couches that face the water.
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Chesapeake Bay beach cabin in Virginia
Book this Virginia beach home on Airbnb
A new beach cabin on the Chesapeake Bay, this spacious home is steps from the beach.
During the warm months, watch the sailing regattas from the balcony on Wednesday and Sunday evenings, or walk to nearby Ocean View Beach Park to listen to live music.
The decor is simple but useful, with wicker furniture accents, ocean-themed artwork, wood floors, and a big kitchen. A plaid couch and floral armchair are comfy spots to relax, though they may feel a bit dated. A patio out back adds additional hangout space.
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Beach house on a private island in South Carolina
Book this private island beach house on Airbnb
Instead of renting a regular old cottage on the beach, opt to claim your own private island here on Old House Cay. Accessible only by boat, this is as secluded and off-the-grid as it gets.
Just a 10-minute ride away from neighboring Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, the home is part of a series of private islands that you'll have all to yourself over your stay. Experience everything from boating, fishing, and kayaking to simply lounging around the island and going for long beach walks. As far as getting around, the owners will take you and your guests back and forth from Hilton Head on their private boat as needed.
Accommodations include a large, multi-story home with gorgeous wood floors, high ceilings, a modern kitchen, and a big blue dining table with room for the whole crew. The home's all-wood walls give it a hint of a cabin feel, while bright pillows and quilts add pops of color. A wooden deck with a fire pit out front is a lovely place to relax or make s'mores in the evening.
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Beachfront condo in Southern California
Book this California beach house on Airbnb
Open your door and step directly onto the sand at this charming beachfront condo in Carlsbad, California, near San Diego.
Within walking distance to Carlsbad Village, this home is close to restaurants and boutiques, with a cozy set-up that is best suited to solo travelers and couples. The two-story condo unit is on the ground floor and features a brick fireplace, a small dining table and kitchen, a blue sofa with colorful pillows, and a private balcony with a table and chairs that overlook the ocean, which is just a few feet away.
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Beach house on a cove in Oregon
Book this Oregon beach house on Airbnb
Set on a cul-de-sac in the quiet neighborhood of Port Orford along the Oregon coast, this three-bedroom beach house is protected by old-growth forest and faces a cove where orcas are known to stay and take shelter.
With gorgeous bay windows and total privacy within the neighborhood, along with private beach access and unobstructed views of the Lighthouse at Cape Blanco, it's tough to beat the spectacular setting. A private trail off the backyard takes you directly to Shelter Cove.
The house itself offers big windows for a light and airy feel, with neutral colors of grays and creams, huge bedrooms, and a porch with a dining table, as well as a small fire pit in the yard.
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Oceanview apartment in Northern California
Book this Northern California beach house on Airbnb
Overlooking the Pacific and Black Sands Beach, this one-bedroom cliffside home is lovely for a romantic trip.
Inside, you'll find a private entrance and a wrap-around deck. The bedroom has a California king bed, plus a modern kitchen, bathroom, and a living room with a fireplace. You can charge your electric vehicle with one of the four Tesla charging ports available at the property. There is even a private hot tub that directly faces the ocean.
Take the trail from the home leading to the beach or walk or bike to any of the nearby beaches, restaurants, cafes, bars, and golf courses. The balcony is a great spot for whale watching.
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Cozy ocean view cabin in Northern California
Book this California beach house on Airbnb
Tucked away on the San Mateo Coast, this historic cabin offers breathtaking ocean views. Rumor has it that Jack London used to frequent this cabin. The property perfectly balances the historic and modern. You'll love the gorgeous reclaimed wood detailing on the walls and the floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a sweeping view of the Pacific.
Top-rated features include the in-unit washer and dryer, a wood-burning fireplace, and a fire pit for roasting marshmallows after a long day. The deck offers ample space and lucky guests might even spot whales from the bench overlooking the sea.
The house is set on steep cliffs, which means you'll have phenomenal views but won't be able to walk right out onto the beach. Instead, you will have to wind your way down to the shores below. Because of the cliffs, this property is not recommended for kids.
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Posh beachfront apartment in Malibu
Book this Malibu beach home on Airbnb
This sweet one-bedroom Airbnb Plus listing is well-placed on the iconic shores of Malibu for sweeping, dramatic views that feel plucked from a Nicholas Sparks novel.
Light and airy, this seaside haven is impeccably decorated with pristine white fixtures that stand out against natural wood floors and beams. Unique details like a small, wire Eiffel Tower perched on an antique desk and old framed letters and clippings add whimsical charm.
Fall asleep to the sound of ocean waves after enjoying drinks on the deck as you catch a sunset. Just know that this home is incredibly popular andtends to book almost a year in advance.
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Pacific Ocean beachfront home in Encinitas, California
Book this Californian beach home on Airbnb
This beach home wows right away with its stunning panoramic ocean views, available throughout the house. However, they're especially impressive from the open plan living room thanks to its arched beam ceilings that make the space feel airy and breezy.
The unobstructed views are also sure to dazzle from the multiple patios, which come with a grill, lounge chairs, an outdoor shower, and a private stairway leading to the sand.
The amenities are also nicely appointed, with a fireplace, full kitchen with a wine fridge, and multiple bedrooms, some of which lead directly to the terrace.
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Pet-friendly beach cottage with amazing views in Oregon
Book this Oregon beach cottage on Airbnb
This modern beachfront home in beautiful, iconic Cannon Beach, Oregon has easy beach access just 100 feet from the front door.
Inside, large picture windows offer unobstructed ocean views and a gas fireplace makes for a cozy spot. The outdoor shower is a nice way to rinse away sand after a beach day and the outdoor balcony is a great place to savor the sweeping views. At night, have a bonfire with s'mores in the yard.
The pet-friendly home is located on a quiet residential street with free street parking and is within easy access of plenty of shops, grocery stores, and restaurants.
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FAQ: Airbnb beach houses
Where is the best place to rent a beach house?
For the classic New England look of windswept beach grass, large dunes, and shingled cottages, you'll find great homes in places like Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and the Jersey Shore. For something posh, try the Hamptons.
Bluer waters and warmer temperatures, of course, will be found on the South or West Coast, and the West Coast offers stunning scenery.
How do I search for a beach house on Airbnb?
You can specifically search for a beach house on Airbnb. First, input your preferred location and dates, then select More Filters, and refine results to only show beachfront homes by selecting the box that says Beachfront under Amenities.
What should I look for in an Airbnb?
Sorting through the vast array of homes available on Airbnb can be tough. Consider using criteria similar to what we use, which includes looking at the average rating, as well as reading up on recent reviews to ensure the home is still in top shape. Look for Superhosts and consider sorting by Airbnb Plus or Airbnb Luxe if you want a higher-end stay that's been vetted for exceptional amenities, decor, and hosting.
Of course, for a beach getaway, location will be key. Be sure to look on the map and ensure before booking that the home is actually close to the beach. You don't want to arrive only to find out you actually need to take a 30-minute car ride before your toes can hit the sand.
What is Airbnb's cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies on Airbnb differ from home to home and are set by each individual host. You can find a full breakdown of Airbnb's Major Disruptive Events Policy.
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How we selected the best beach houses on Airbnb
- Every Airbnb listing is for the entire home, per current expert recommendation.
- All Airbnb homes are highly-rated listings with a rating of 4.7 or higher.
- All beach houses are located right on, or next to the beach.
- The homes offer strong value in terms of price, offerings, amenities, and location and are priced between $100 and $700 per night to start.
- Homes are available to book in the coming weeks and months, as of publishing. However, some homes are quite popular and book fast. Consider booking for a future vacation in a few months or next year.
Freelance author
Michelle Gross is a travel, food and lifestyle journalist now based in South Carolina. Her stories and photographs have appeared in Forbes Travel Guide, New York Post, Travel + Leisure, Vogue, The Huffington Post, Men's Journal, Thrillist, Food&Wine and The San Francisco Chronicle. A member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), you can keep up with Michelle's travelson Instagram@pinktravelprojector Twitter@pinktravekpro. Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.
Freelance writer
Kinsley (she/they) is currently pursuing her MA in composition and rhetoric from Kansas State University. She is particularly interested in writing about embodiment and identity. When she is not writing or talking about writing, you can find Kinsley playing video and card games, attempting every arts and crafts project, enjoying a good nap, and hanging out with her chaotic pup, Boo.
Axel Springer, Insider Inc.'s parent company, is an investor in Airbnb.
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