While the thought of standing in line waiting for airport security or checking into a hotel might not be very appealing right now, when it’s safe to travel again, the sand and surf will have been beckoning many of us for months.
Retreat to one of these 82 oceanfront homes on the East, West, and Gulf coasts, whether it’s for a long-awaited family reunion, a solo getaway, or something in between. You’ll have your own four walls (or the geodesic protection of a yurt!) and the ability to drive there if you’re in the Lower 48.
East Coast
Maine
1. Bear Beach Cabin (With Sauna!) In Cutler
This massive log cabin sleeps 10, making it perfect for a multi-family get together or just stretching out. It has a decidedly woodsy vibe and a stairway leading down to the rugged beach. Also, it has a sauna, a clawfoot tub, and a kayak ready for your enjoyment.
2. Acadia Lodge In Hall Quarry On Mount Desert Island
This luxury lodge sleeps eight. The scenery is stunning and the interior decor is impeccable. Enjoy views of and access to saltwater fjord Somes Sound, and plan to spend some solid hours in the porch’s Adirondack chairs.
3. Cape-Situated Bailey Island 2-Story
This classically charming home on Bailey Island sleeps seven. The owners invite you to watch lobstermen as they go to and from Mackerel Cove. The L.L.Bean Flagship store is 40 minutes away. You can drive to Bailey Island via a series of bridges that connect it, Sebascodegan or Great Island, and Orr’s Island to the mainland.
4. Wolfe’s Neck Cabins And Comfort Camping In Freeport
If you want a smaller and quainter experience, the cabins and comfort camping tents at Wolfe’s Neck Oceanfront Campground fit the bill. The campground has three oceanfront cabins: the Bayview, Cove, and Point Senior, and a unique and charming Comfort Camping canvas tent that sleeps four and has a private outhouse.
New Hampshire
5. Beachfront Cottage In Rye
This classic-looking cottage can accommodate six guests. It boasts a wood stove, two gas fireplaces, and — musically oriented families, rejoice — even a piano! You’ll enjoy more than the beach when you check into this home, which is suited for all four seasons.
6. Tiny House In Hampton
If you won’t have the whole family in tow, this tiny house, which sleeps two, could be perfect for you. The decor hollers easy, breezy, and you’ll even have your own back porch where you can unwind after showering off the sand and sun.
Massachusetts
7. Houseboats At Newburyport
How about a houseboat? Houseboats at Newburyport invites up to four guests to a home away on the water, docked at Harbor Marina or Hilton Marina. Enjoy all the luxuries of an upscale hotel, plus a designated parking spot on Water Street.
8. Commanding Ocean Views In Marshfield
This large home sleeps 10, boasts a huge ocean-facing porch, and has gorgeous stonework and big timbers in the kitchen. Walk down the stone path and across Ocean Street to reach the beach.
9. Plymouth-Duxbury 3-Story
This home sleeps 10 and is accessible by boat or 4×4 vehicle as it’s located on a sandy peninsula. Enjoy paddle, boogie, and skimboards, plus three private moorings right in front of the house. The kitchen looks Top Chef ready, and the multiple decks mean you’ll get to appreciate the sand and sun from different vantage points throughout your stay.
10. Cottage In Sagamore Beach
The aerial view of this cottage, which sleeps five, paints a striking picture. It’s hard not to imagine running down the sandy drive and out to the ocean. The property also has an enclosed outdoor shower, which, to me, means freedom!
11. 6-Bedroom In Eastham
This architecturally impeccable Eastham home can accommodate 16 guests, and you may well get some takers when you show your loved ones the stunning views and high-end interiors you’d be checking into. Eastham is partway out the cape, and guests at this property have access to two private, deeded beaches, plus South Sunken Meadow Beach. Also, this property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
12. Aquinnah Beachfront Home (With Tennis Court) On Martha’s Vineyard
This large, comfortably appointed home sleeps eight and shares a private tennis court with three other Aquinnah properties. The homeowner promises perfect sunsets. Take the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard and let your beach vacation begin.
Rhode Island
13. Lighthouse Views In Point Judith
This understated house sleeps six and boasts a light and airy interior. The tiered patio has more than enough Adirondack chairs for you and everyone you check in with to watch the sun go down in style.
14. Sherman Cottage On Block Island
This Block Island cottage sleeps eight and is decorated in a light and airy style. Take the Judith Point – Block Island Ferry. Whoever calls the master bedroom gets the ocean views! This cottage is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
Connecticut
15. Estate (With Pool) In Madison
This estate sleeps up to 18 and has gardens, numerous dining areas, and its own pool. The home was built in 1917 but has been extensively updated. It’s sure to charm anyone who’s fond of history and American architecture.
16. Modern Home (With Outdoor Spa) In West Haven
This huge, modern house will sleep 16 guests. If you want to enjoy being oceanfront without kitschy decor, you’ll appreciate the aesthetic here, and when you’ve had enough saltwater, you can turn to unwinding in the outdoor hot tub, or in the master sitting area, which is complete with ocean views and a coffee table that doubles as a sleek refrigerator for your beverages of choice. This property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
17. Cottage In Milford
This charming cottage in Milford is everything an East Coast vacation home looks like in my mind’s eye. It sleeps six and is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
18. Cottage In Stratford
This light-filled Stratford cottage sleeps four, and its unique decor manages to blend breezy and beachy with well-executed minimalism. This is another Airbnb Superhost-managed property.
New York
19. Baby Bella In Brooklyn
Didn’t think you could rent an oceanfront home in New York City? Well, you can. Meet Baby Bella, the little houseboat that can accommodate two guests. It’s managed by an Airbnb Superhost and is loved by guests who’ve called their stays perfect and even “a spiritual experience.”
20. FireIsland Pines In Sayville
This artist’s studio accommodates two in style. The architecture and decor are completely unique, and the saltwater pool is an alternative to the ocean. This property is run by an Airbnb Superhost.
21. Cottage In Riverhead
This Airbnb Plus cottage in Riverhead takes luxury to the next level. Just looking at the property’s light and bright spaces is elevating my mood, and I can almost hear the ocean breeze rustling through the tall grass between the house and the beach.
22. A-Frame In Southampton
This Southampton A-frame nails the quirky and cozy vibe. I’m ready to be cooking in the kitchen, playing on the deck, or snuggling into the upstairs master for a night of sleep before a day of sun and saltwater.
New Jersey
23. Waterfront Zen In South Amboy
This big, literally peachy house oozes charm and sleeps up to 12 guests. Light seems to pour into all the rooms, and while the beach is literally across the street, you might find yourself wanting to spend some time in the backyard under the thick vine-covered pergola, too.
24. 1-Story In Lavalette
This quintessential beach house sleeps eight and is decorated with the ocean in mind. The large deck is the perfect place for soaking up your Atlantic Ocean views.
25. Tiny And Tranquil In Cape May
This tiny house, “just 20 steps to the beach!” can accommodate two guests. The light and bright bedroom and kitchen have just the aesthetic I’m after when I think low-key beach getaway. I can imagine whipping up a seafood dish on the big gas stove and enjoying a sunset dinner right now! This property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
Delaware
26. Beachfront Cottage In Milford
This cottage looks understated from the outside, but the interior has plenty of modern amenities and room to sleep six. The big back deck (with gas grill) is ripe for hours of soaking up the sun. Bring your favorite portable speaker, and it’s a party.
27. The Sandcastle In Milford
This stately home can accommodate up to six guests. The decor brings the beach vibes inside, plus multiple decks where you can catch the breeze and ocean views from different angles throughout your stay.
28. Now Or Never Beach House In Milton
This massive home on Broadkill Beach can accommodate up to 11 guests, who will enjoy plenty of space to spread out and relax in its modernly appointed interiors. And then there are the three oversized decks, one of which affords third-story views from which you can enjoy the salty air and sunsets.
Maryland
Note that some of our Maryland recommendations face rivers and estuaries that feed into the Chesapeake Bay.
29. Private Cabana In Solomons
This private cabana — which is literally on a pier — is made for lovebirds, BFFs, or solo travelers. It’s perfectly decorated and quintessentially cozy, and it has a an outdoor hot water shower for rinsing off in comfort. The cabana is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
30. Muner’s Sunset In Tyaskin
This home sleeps six and screams family getaway. With a long pier, a grill, a bar, ping pong, and foosball tables, mountain bikes, and more, there’s fun to be had on and off the water. The property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
31. Waterfront Retreat In Princess Anne
This picturesque getaway includes an entire house and guesthouse that, together, will sleep up to 15 people. The decor is impeccable, and you can enjoy not only an ocean-facing porch with Adirondack chairs, but also a boardwalk that juts out into the water just off the grassy lawn. This property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
32. Scotland Beach Retreat In Ridge
This luxurious home sleeps 16 and boasts a gorgeous aesthetic and entertainment inside and out. It has a ping pong table, a bocce ball court, a fire pit, a grill, an outdoor shower, and an open-concept living space with Chesapeake Bay views.
33. St. George Island Escape In Piney Point
St. George Island isn’t an actual island; it’s a census designated place in St. Mary’s County that’s adjacent to Piney Point. These communities are situated on a peninsula that juts out into the Potomac, and this bungalow, managed by an Airbnb Superhost, is the perfect home away from home for an exploration of the area. It sleeps 12, has a 100-foot pier, an outdoor shower, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and even a ping pong table. Looking for more to do? The host notes that “rare colors of sea glass can be found along the beaches.”
Virginia
34. Grand Old Lady In Cape Charles
This grand house, which, according to its Airbnb Superhost, is known as one of the area’s Grand Old Ladies, was “built in 1927 for a wealthy Cape Charles merchant.” It can accommodate 12 guests. It has an ocean-facing porch with chaise lounges, a pool table, an outdoor fireplace, and even a popcorn maker.
35. Fishing Bungalow In Norfolk
This unique fishing bungalow on a private beach accommodates up to four guests. Those with a taste for eclectic decor will appreciate the unexpected touches in each room (including a kitchen island that leverages the grill of a car!) that have been curated by its Airbnb Superhosts, who own an international handicraft shop in Cape Charles.
36. Sanctuary (With Pool) In Virginia Beach
This mansion (let’s call it what it is) on the coastline of the Currituck Banks Peninsula is all about opulence. Guests will check in to a private pool, a sprawling deck, a massive kitchen, and a hot tub, not to mention access to the incredibly beautiful beach.
North Carolina
37. Bungalow In Jarvisburg
This adorable bungalow sleeps four and boasts a decidedly funky vibe. Guests can enjoy a gas fireplace in the cooler months, an outdoor firepit year-round, plus corn hole, ladder ball, an outdoor shower with hot water, a canoe, and three kayaks. The property is run by an Airbnb Superhost.
38. Sweet Carolina In Nags Head, Outer Banks
This towering home with a private pool can accommodate 16+ guests in airy luxury. In addition to direct beach access, there’s a pool table, a cinema-style media room, and a game room with a retro arcade machine and even Star Wars pinball.
39. Lang Cottage In Salvo, Outer Banks
This A-frame, which sleeps six, is one of my personal favorites. The impeccably earthy design effortlessly soothes the soul. Lay out on the tiny deck, rinse off in the outdoor shower, swing in the hammock, or cozy into one of the perfectly arranged sleeping areas knowing the beach is just a sand dune away. This property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
Going to Nags Head or Salvo? Read up on visiting the Outer Banks: 11 fun things to do with the family and the best beach towns on the Outer Banks.
40. Pineapple Beach Club In Ocean Isle Beach
This luxurious home, which sleeps 16+ guests, is made for a “go big” getaway. The kitchen island has seating for 15, and the kitchen is outfitted with double everything: dishwashers, sinks, cooktops, making mealtime alone an opulent affair. Lay out on the decks, pour (or enjoy) drinks at the poolside bar, or walk down the back steps and sink your toes into the sand. In addition to all the space and high-end amenities, his property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
South Carolina
41. Estate (With Private Pool) In Pawleys Island
This massive, classically appointed home can accommodate 16+ guests and boasts a private pool, a hot tub, and a chef’s kitchen. The property also has multiple bars, an outdoor shower, and a long walkway that’ll take you right to the beach.
42. Downtown House Boat In Charleston
This beachy houseboat is actually on the Cooper River just before it feeds into the Atlantic. It sleeps four and has a full kitchen, plus two bikes for guest use. The boat is managed by an Airbnb Superhost and has a claim to fame: It’s been featured on FIY Network’s Tiny House Hunters!
43. Villa In Johns Island
This unique Johns Island villa can accommodate up to six guests and has an airy vibe. Take the minimalist boardwalk down to the beach to dig your toes in the sand. When you’ve worked up an appetite, consider a cookout on the massive deck, which faces the ocean. This villa is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
44. Bacon In The Sun In Folly Beach
This whimsically named home sleeps eight and is all about pops of color and beachy vibes, and having a sprawling beach just steps away, of course. You’ll literally be surrounded by palm trees and big blue skies when you check into this Airbnb Superhost-managed property.
Georgia
45. 2-Story On Tybee Island
This large family home can accommodate six guests with plenty of room to spread out. Bird-watch or watch the ships go by. This area is perfect for both, and the beach is just steps away. The house is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
46. Little Peach On The Beach On Saint Simons Island
This light and bright home is as cute as its name suggests. It has a tiny kitchen and a single bath but sleeps up to six. This home’s aesthetic is charming and unique, and it’s managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
47. Mod Home (With Private Pool) On Saint Simons Island
This modern home sleeps up to 14 guests, has its own private pool in what looks like a shady grotto, and is just steps from the beach and the Saint Simons Lighthouse and museum. This home is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
48. Private Island Glamping On Little Raccoon Key
Want a truly unique experience? How about glamping on a private island? Glamping on Little Raccoon Key involves a gorgeous tent outfitted with a memory foam mattress, a gas grill, and good odds of seeing dolphins depending on the season. You can also add on extras, like chef-prepared meals.
Florida (Atlantic Coast)
49. Coconut Cottage In Melbourne Beach
This cottage sleeps six and looks unassuming from the outside, but the interiors are ultra tasteful, and the home has a nice big deck and stunning beach and ocean views. Enjoy beach towels, an umbrella, a beach blanket, and snorkeling gear.
50. Seahorse Beach Cottages In Vero Beach
According to their property managers, the Seahorse Cottages in Vero Beach are “the last of their kind.” They invite guests to stay for a taste of the real Florida. “It’s still here!” One- and two-bedroom cottages are available. Take the extensive boardwalk system down to the beach, and know that you might encounter and befriend the armadillos that live on the property during your stay!
51. Mansion (With Heated Pool) On Summerland Key
This unique home has a heated pool, unique indoor and outdoor living spaces (including an outdoor pool table), intriguing art, and private beach access. It sleeps up to 10 guests and is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
West Coast
Washington
52. 4-Bedroom In Eastsound
This large, luxurious home sleeps up to 11 and has a perfect rustic-meets-modern aesthetic with gorgeous hardwoods and high-end appointments. Take the steps that wind down to the beach, sprawl out in the spacious shared living areas, play ping pong, or lay out on the deck. The home also has a wood-burning stove and a designated reading nook.
53. Halibut Hole In Port Angeles
The name might have you raising an eyebrow, but this tiny beachfront cabin, which can accommodate up to four guests, will find its way right into your heart. It has idyllic views, kitschy decor, and undeniable coziness; plus, it’s managed by Airbnb Superhosts.
54. 2-Bedroom Home (With Solar-Heated Pool) In Shelton
It’s hard to get more Pacific Northwest than this two-bedroom home, which sleeps up to four guests and has lush grounds, a solar-heated pool, and an earthy interior with views of Puget Sound. The property is managed by Airbnb Superhosts.
55. Love Shack In Seabrook
Just across the street from Seabrook’s town center, this oceanfront cottage can accommodate six guests. You’ll check into a modern space with a big back porch that looks out over the ocean, plus communal walking paths that are just steps from the beach.
Oregon
56. 3-Bedroom In Gearhart
This stately three-bedroom home sleeps eight. Enjoy a hot tub, ping pong table, foosball table, fireplace, fire pit, and massive panoramic windows that look out over the water. The rental includes kayaks and bicycles that invite you to get active and explore.
57. The Dude’s Abode In Otter Rock
I have a thing for A-frames, and maybe it’s because they always seem to be so eccentrically styled. The Dude’s Abode, which sleeps four, is no exception. The ’70s are back, and the beach is just a path away. This property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
58. Retreat In Brookings
This stunning retreat accommodates just two guests and is the most romantic place on our list. Wake up surrounded by ocean views, lounge in two indoor swinging chairs, or take to the deck to inhale the salty air. You’re just steps from the beach and will fall asleep with views of the stars over the water. This property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
California
59. Artist’s House In Westport
This former blacksmith shop, built in the 1890s, has been converted to accommodate up to four guests in unique style. Each and every room, and even the garden, is filled with eclectic art. Enjoy coffee in the lush yard’s Adirondack chairs, then amble down to the beach to dig your toes in the sand. This property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
60. Coast Guard House On The Mendocino Coast
The Coast Guard House Historic Inn and Cottages have been on my bucket list for nearly 10 years. There is something so lovely and charming about these cottages, which look out over Arena Cove. Formerly a U.S. Life-Saving Station, today, there are multiple cottages to choose from. After years of visiting their website just to daydream about a visit, the Boathouse is my favorite.
61. 7-Bedroom In Dillon Beach
Words hardly do this luxurious home on the Kailua Bluffs of Dillon Beach justice. It has a hot tub, ping pong and pool tables, an open-concept living space, and steps winding all the way down to the secluded beach. The property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
62. Yankee Point House In Carmel-By-The-Sea
This stunning four-bedroom home can sleep eight. It has enormous windows and a sprawling garden that tumbles down to the beach. In addition to the beautiful indoor spaces and the beach, guests can enjoy sandy walking paths that go up and down the coastline.
63. 3-Bedroom (With Pool And Spa) In Big Sur
This high-end three-bedroom home can accommodate eight guests and will treat you to almost unbelievable mountains-meet-ocean views. The property is richly appointed inside and out, with unique paintings, statues, and furniture that give it an undeniably West Coast vibe.
64. 5-Bedroom (With Hot Tub) In Oceano
Casa de Coocoo can accommodate up to 12 guests. It boasts big, open spaces, multiple fireplaces, international decor, a ping pong table, a hot tub, and multiple decks for your enjoyment. We can hear the waves crashing on the rugged beach right now.
65. Beach Van On Belmont Shore
This beach van is the most affordable “home” on our list. Affectionately named the MarshMellow, it can sleep two guests (and charge their devices). That’s about it. The van’s Airbnb Superhost provides toilet paper, soap, and towels, but showering and “toileting” have to be taken care of at the Belmont Pool next door. Alternatively, an RV/camping toilet can be set up on-site for $30 per stay.
66. Cottage In Leucadia
This enchanting cottage, which can sleep three, is both romantic and playful. Light pours into the artsy space, which mixes hardwoods, marble, and metal elements. Cozy up to the home’s centerpiece, a retro fireplace, or throw the doors and windows open and let the ocean air in. This cottage is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
67. Airstream In San Diego
If you’re looking for something a little smaller and more affordable, this Airstream on Pacific Beach in San Diego could be just the spot. It can accommodate two guests in truly tiny house style.
Gulf Coast
Texas
68. The Brass Turtle Lodge Heron Hut In Ingleside
This understated hut on Corpus Christi Bay sleeps two. It has a definite summer camp vibe. Guests will enjoy access to a private beach and can actually fish off the hut’s front porch. This property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
69. 7-Bedroom In Rockport
This massive home can accommodate 16+ guests. Enjoy a game room with pool table, multiple decks, a designer kitchen, and gigantic (or should we say, Texas-size?) bedrooms. This property, set on the Aransas Bay, is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
70. Brazoria County Cabins On Quintana Beach
These simple cabins, maintained by the Brazoria County Parks Department, are perfect for family getaways with gorgeous Gulf views. You’ll have access to the beauty of Quintana Beach and its amenities, which include a jetty, hiking trails, picnic tables, a grass volleyball court, and more.
Louisiana
71. 7-Bedroom In Eden Isle
This big, beautiful home is close to the ocean, but it’s actually on Lake Pontchartrain. We’ve included it in our roundup despite this technicality because it maintains all the oceanfront vibes. Enjoy the wraparound porch and the long pier, which is perfect for fishing, crabbing, and sunbathing.
72. Grand Isle Rentals
These beachfront homes on Grand Isle, a barrier island in the Gulf about two hours south of New Orleans, are just about as far south as you can go in Louisiana. Choose from a number of properties that accommodate different needs and promise access to the Isle’s unique and beautiful beaches.
Alabama
73. 4-Bedroom On Dauphin Island
This four-bedroom home is literally on the beach. You might even hear the waves lapping as you cook and lounge inside! Eat out on the covered porch or catch some rays on a chaise lounge. Some guests have even reported dolphin sightings.
74. USA II In Gulf Shores
In case the name didn’t give it away, this enormous home in Gulf Shores features pops of decidedly patriotic color both inside and out. USA II has five bedrooms and can accommodate 16+ guests. In addition to multiple decks, plenty of space to lounge inside, and the huge beach, the property management company gives guests an Xplorie pass, which will afford you access to a fun center, scenic and nature-oriented cruises, golf, fishing, and a waterpark. The listing notes that some exclusions may apply.
75. Cabins At Gulf State Park In Gulf Shores
These modestly appointed cabins are the perfect option for a more affordable Gulf Shores getaway. Choose from multiple units that accommodate different needs, and read up on the best Gulf Shores experiences along Alabama’s Coastal Connection Scenic Byway, plus the seven best restaurants in Gulf Shores.
Mississippi
76. The Nest In Long Beach
This ultra-charming two-bedroom cottage can accommodate four guests. The porch has gorgeous beach views and promises a shady place to lounge after all the sand and sun. It’s an eight-minute drive from downtown Gulfport and a 10-minute drive to Bay St. Louis. This property is managed by Airbnb Superhosts.
77. 3-Bedroom In Gulfport
This newly constructed beach home can sleep up to eight guests. Enjoy the open-concept shared living space, a wraparound porch, and items for kids and babies upon request. This property is managed by an Airbnb Superhost.
78. Front Beach Cottages In Ocean Springs
These quaint cottages have enclosed outdoor showers, private patios, well-equipped tiny kitchens, and unique decor. One even has a freestanding soaking tub with an in-bathroom television for the ultimate unwinding sesh!
While you’re in the area at any of our recommended Mississippi oceanfront properties, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Bay St. Louis’s excellent food culture.
Florida (Gulf Coast)
79. Yurt In Port St. Joe
This extraterrestrial-looking yurt can sleep 10 and promises a completely unique vacation experience. It’s literally on the beach. In addition to the quirky interior, guests can enjoy the wraparound porch, grilling, and depending on which of the beds you’re sleeping in, stargazing from the yurt’s circular, sky-facing windows.
80. Limulus Lodge At Bald Point
This three-bedroom lodge can accommodate up to eight guests. It has a vintage vibe, with dark woods, gauzy white curtains, and a marbled island in the kitchen. Enjoy access to beach toys, kayaks, bicycles, and various fishing supplies the property managers keep at the house.
81. 3-Bedroom In Holmes Beach
This light and bright home accommodates six, is comfortably appointed, and has a big, heated pool. Relax on the porch, the pool deck, or down on the beach, which is just steps away. There’s also ample room for relaxing inside (and quite a few flat-screen TVs)!
82. Beach House 9 On Captiva Island
This four-bedroom house can sleep up to nine guests and has an upscale fishing lodge vibe. Enjoy the common living space, dining or lounging on a small open deck, or making the most of the large screened-in porch. The lush vegetation around the house means an opportunity for hanging in the shade with your toes in the sand, too.
