America’s best beach homes to rent
Life's a beach

From the sun-drenched beaches of California and Florida to the rugged charm of the East Coast, America boasts beach homes catering to every type of beach lover. Whether you're seeking a cosy getaway for two or a spacious family retreat, we’ve rounded up 24 of the very best rentals across the country.
Click through this gallery to discover the best beachfront vacation rentals in America...
24. Sunsetter on Sapphire Shores, Siesta Key, Florida

The pristine, powdery beaches of Siesta Key, a barrier island off Sarasota’s coast in western Florida, could easily be mistaken for the Caribbean – and this stunning three-bedroom home sits right beside a private stretch of sand.
Inside, the sleek white design is complemented by minimalist décor, and expansive windows throughout offer panoramic views – bringing the beauty of the beach right into the home.
23. On The Beach, Milton, Delaware

Delaware’s coastline is often overlooked, which is surprising considering the beauty of places like this beachfront home. Step right out the door and onto the sand, surrounded by trees that add an intimate, secluded feel.
With a dedicated workspace, it's the perfect spot to mix up your work-from-home routine. Sleeping up to six guests in three bedrooms, this coastal retreat is not to be missed.
22. Oceanview Cottage, Dennis, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is beach home heaven, with both sides of the peninsula boasting ocean views. Take full advantage of this salt-sprayed outdoor playground by staying in this sleek and stylish oceanfront cottage, complete with a porch that leads directly to the sand.
With two bedrooms sleeping up to four people, the hosts have thought of everything to help guests make the most of the location, including beach chairs and an umbrella.
21. Dolphin Sunset, La Jolla, California

Just a stone’s throw from La Jolla Shores Cove, this stunning coastal escape has four bedrooms, three bathrooms and two ocean-view decks – making it the perfect spot for a family or group getaway.
Imagine enjoying sunset views over the Pacific from the large outdoor pool, gathering around the fireplace in the open-plan family room and generally basking in the Southern California lifestyle.
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20. Modern waterfront home, Sausalito, California

Just a short drive north of San Francisco, Sausalito is known for its colourful coastal homes and charming small-town vibe. This stylish waterfront property offers a front-row seat to it all, with floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay.
On the third floor you'll find an enormous balcony with a fire pit for those cooler evenings, while inside, the home is equally impressive. The home's central location places you within walking distance of local beaches, cafés, boutiques and the Sausalito Ferry Terminal.
19. Casey's Capt. Carl Houseboat, Newport Harbour, Rhode Island

This renovated houseboat is docked at the north end of Newport Harbour, offering a unique stay in a private marina just a short walk from town. Inside, the space may be small, but it’s perfectly formed, with wood panelling, cosy seating and a compact kitchen with a dining table.
The deck opens right up to the water, making alfresco dining a breeze, and with two kayaks just outside, you can explore the harbour at your own pace.
18. Pepper Creek Cabin, Seward, Alaska

Getting to this beachside cabin requires a boat or helicopter ride from Seward Harbour, but that’s why it’s so wonderfully secluded. Inside are two cosy beds (one tucked in a loft) plus a cute kitchenette and living space.
But the best stuff is found outside, from whale spotting on the private beach to alpine trails that weave past kettle ponds and up into the mountains.
17. Waterfront Serenity House, Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May offers a tranquil escape from the typical Jersey Shore hustle, with its charming pastel Victorian homes, pristine beaches and spectacular sunsets.
This spacious cottage mirrors the beauty of its surroundings, featuring beach-inspired décor, two decks that maximize the bayfront views and direct access to a private stretch of sandy beach. Perfect for a relaxing getaway, it’s an ideal spot for up to 10 guests to unwind in this coastal haven.
16. Oceanfront home, Pacific Grove, California

Ever get the feeling you’re being followed? In this spectacular home in California’s coveted Pacific Grove, it’s the ocean that seems to keep its big blue gaze on you as you move from room to room. It’s mutual, though, as you’ll want to stare at those views day and night.
Four of the six bedrooms have Pacific views, as do the living spaces, kitchen – and even the roll-top bath. Outdoor treats include a hot tub and deck with more than enough room for the 13 guests this place can accommodate.
15. Camelot, Robbinston, Maine

If you've ever dreamed of escaping to your own private piece of Maine's rugged coastline, Camelot is the perfect getaway. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic, this off-grid cabin offers total seclusion – no roads for half a mile and the sound of crashing waves at high tide.
Built in 1965 and renovated in 2023, this charming A-frame cabin features a cosy queen bedroom, a loft with twin beds and a screened room with a futon. Enjoy ocean views, campfires and beachcombing at low tide for shells and clams.
14. Alligator Point Beach house, St. James Island, Florida

Escape to a peaceful paradise in this beachfront home on one of Florida’s last private beaches at Alligator Point on the eastern tip of St. James Island, known for its untouched natural beauty and miles of pristine coastline.
Featuring two tranquil bedroom suites with stunning ocean views, step outside to your very own private beach or unwind on the screened-in porch, shaded by trees and serenaded by the soothing sounds of nature and gentle waves.
13. Sandy Serenity, Norfolk, Virginia

Relax with the whole family at this beautiful two-bedroom beachfront home, nestled in the sand dunes just steps away from the beach. Enjoy stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay – where you can watch boats and dolphins drift by – and don't miss the charming local farmers' market, open Saturdays from April to November, just a short walk away.
12. House Upon The Sand, Seabeck, Washington

Tucked away in the charming beach town of Seabrook, this renovated 1920s cabin offers stunning views of Hood Canal – best admired from the hot tub or luxe outdoor shower. Inside, cosy wood panelling and porthole windows give a nautical vibe, while a compact but high-spec kitchen makes cooking a breeze.
With direct beach access just steps away, this one-bedroom cabin is the perfect spot for a romantic escape in one of Washington’s most picturesque seaside locations.
11. Bayside Sensation, Southampton, New York

Live the Hamptons dream in this chic New York home, featuring private beach access, heated outdoor pool and breathtaking water views. Enjoy your morning coffee on the back deck, or head to the lower level for a fun movie night after a day in the sun.
Upstairs, two of the four bedrooms come with their own private balconies, plus you’ve got a kayak and paddleboard at your disposal for fun on the water. Want to take it up a notch? Rent a boat from the nearby marina and cruise the coastline like a true Hamptons local.
10. The Iconic Round House, St. Simons Island, Georgia

If Brutalist architecture appeals to you, the Iconic Round House on St. Simons Island is a must-visit. This distinctive structure combines concrete with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering panoramic ocean views from nearly every angle.
Featuring direct beachfront access, an outdoor pool, elevator and games room, you probably won't want to leave – but if you do, St. Simons Island has plenty to offer.
9. Casa Solana, Cocoa Beach, Florida

Welcome to Casa Solana, a luxury oceanfront retreat in Cocoa Beach, Florida. With five bedrooms, four bathrooms and three master suites, there's plenty of space to unwind, and each room boasts access to a balcony or terrace.
With private beachfront access, sea views and an outdoor fireplace surrounded by lush gardens, the home itself is packed with modern amenities, including a games room for family entertainment. Plus you’re just a short stroll from Cocoa Beach – making it the perfect base to explore the best of Florida’s coastline.
8. Surfside Paradise, Gulf Shores, Alabama

Surfside Paradise is a beachfront getaway you won't want to leave – with direct access to the Gulf’s soft white sands via a private boardwalk, calming nautical décor and two king ensuites, each with its own private deck boasting sweeping ocean views.
Head out to explore nearby attractions like Gulf State Park and Fort Morgan, before heading home to unwind in the hot tub or refresh in the outdoor shower.
7. Paradise Breeze Retreat, Keaau, Hawaii

Oceanfront luxury meets the raw beauty of nature at this stunning two-bedroom home on Hawaii’s Big Island. Inside, stylish rattan furniture and calming neutral tones create a serene space, but the back garden is the highlight.
Dramatic lava rock cliffs and black sands stretch out before you, perfect for sipping your morning coffee as dolphins and sea turtles pass by. Whether you're unwinding in the hot tub or simply soaking in the scenery, this home is the ultimate Hawaiian retreat.
6. Wonder Waves, Manchester, California

Perched high on a scenic bluff with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, this three bedroom haven offers a front-row seat to endless whitewater views. Inside, spacious, stylish rooms include the romantic Canopy Room and ocean-themed Marine Room.
But the real showstopper is the luxurious hot tub – perfect for unwinding after a day of beach adventures. Whether you're lounging on the expansive decks, enjoying the open living space, or taking advantage of the private beach access, this Californian cottage is the stuff dreams are made of.
5. North Shore Beachfront Retreat, Haleiwa, Hawaii

Located in the laid-back surf town of Haleiwa on Oahu's North Shore, this coastal sanctuary sleeps up to eight guests, and with its stylish mid-century modern décor, you'll feel like a Hollywood star (or even James Bond) as you take in the stunning ocean views from every room.
The open-concept living areas flow effortlessly into the outdoor space – making it the perfect spot for sunset cocktails – and everything you need for the perfect ocean retreat is provided, from snorkelling gear to surfboards.
4. Sandy Feet Retreat, Panama City Beach, Florida

Picture this: you wake up, step outside and your toes are already in the sand. That’s exactly what you get at this home in Panama City Beach, where up to 20 guests can enjoy beachfront living at its best.
Inside, modern décor creates a spacious and inviting atmosphere, while the expansive two-level deck is made for relaxation – complete with a hot tub and gazebo for laid-back evenings. And with local restaurants and shops just minutes away, it really is the perfect spot.
3. SplashLanding, Gloucester, Massachusetts

This picture-perfect retreat boasts over a mile of private sand and surf right outside the door, so you can truly relax while soaking up the sun or strolling along the shore. An intimate one-bedroom cottage, it's ideal for couples or solo travellers seeking a peaceful escape.
Travelling with another couple? You can book the adjoining SquishInn unit for extra space. With breathtaking views of Annisquam, Halibut Point and Essex Bay, SplashLanding is the ultimate spot to unwind and enjoy the Massachusetts coast.
2. Beachfront Paradise, Freeport, Texas

Escape to a tranquil retreat on the picturesque Texas coastline with this three bedroom beach house, where every room offers stunning views of the water. Step out onto the deck to listen to the waves crashing and feel the salty breeze, the perfect setting to watch the sunset and soak in the coastal magic.
Wake up each morning to the soothing sight of the ocean, setting the tone for a blissful day ahead. Located just a short distance from fishing, boating and nearby nature reserves, this home offers both relaxation and adventure.
1. Beachfront home, Dauphin Island, Alabama

Our pick for America's best beachfront rental is this stunning home on Dauphin Island, offering breathtaking Gulf views. With four bedrooms, two baths and room for up to 13 guests, it’s the ideal retreat for family gatherings or a fun-filled getaway with friends.
Step outside and you'll be greeted by a wrap-around deck, perfect for alfresco dining, with panoramic views of the shimmering water – whether you're sipping your morning coffee or enjoying a sunset dinner. It really doesn't get much more 'beachfront' than this.
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