Waterfront holiday rentals in Central California

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Top-rated waterfront rentals in Central California

Guests agree: these waterfront rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Top guest favourite
An A-Frame cabin is surrounded by lush greenery, positioned on elevated ground. A stone pathway leads to the entrance, flanked by wooden railings. The cabin features large glass panels on its façade, allowing natural light to flood the interior. A deck with seating overlooks the nature surroundings.
Cabin in Felton
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 145 reviews

Santa Cruz A-Frame

This unique A-Frame cabin, in a quiet mountain neighborhood with private creek access, was handbuilt in 1965 and remodeled in the summer of 2024. Now a little slice of heaven on the creek in the redwoods. *5-10 min to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroad, Loch Lomond Recreation Area, the Trout Farm Inn, Quail Hollow Ranch + Felton stores. *20 min to Santa Cruz, beach + Boardwalk. *1 min to Zayante Creek Market (EV charger) Find us on social: Insta @SantaCruzAFrame

Top guest favourite
The cabin is situated near a serene private fishing lake, surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees. The reflection of the mountains is seen in the still water, creating a peaceful setting. A small dock is visible at the water's edge, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.
Home in Springville
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 338 reviews

Modern Cabin, Private Fishing Lake, Near Sequoias

The Bear Creek Retreat is a beautiful modern cabin above Springville, CA, surrounded by the stunning foothills. This two-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin is on a serene private fishing lake, where guests can unwind and enjoy nature's beauty. This idyllic cabin is conveniently located near Sequoia National Forest and Park, Lake Success, and River Island Golf Course. The cabin is designed to offer the perfect home-away-from-home experience, with all the modern comforts and amenities. Excellent fishing!

Top guest favourite
A large tree with twisted branches stands prominently, surrounded by well-maintained landscaping. The backdrop features a rustic building with wooden siding and a vibrant mix of autumn foliage, showcasing shades of orange and yellow. Smooth stones line the ground near the base of the tree.
Guest house in Three Rivers
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 537 reviews

Romantic River Craftsman w Terraces & Gazebo

Nothing more stunning than spring time rivers, a romantic, private & large guest studio w its own entrances, private terraces w towering ceilings, & King bed in historical craftsman on the South Fork of the Kaweah River in charming 3 Rivers,. Launch to Sequoia Natl. Park, Gen Sherman & Grant Grove, Kings Canyon Nat’l Park & Mineral King. Come enjoy the trees, trails, & beauty of a Natl’ treasure! Lake Kaweah, the foothill rivers and moments to town. Book your stay @ Crystal Cave far in advance!

Top guest favourite
A scenic view showcases a lush garden with various plants and sculptures, extending towards rolling hills and distant water. The sky is bright blue with scattered clouds, providing a vibrant backdrop to the tranquil landscape.
Guest suite in Moss Landing
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 216 reviews

An oasis on a private retreat

A beautifully secluded area (40+ acres) surrounded by natural beauty with lovely views of Elkhorn Slough and the Pacific Ocean, away from the maddening crowd. Yet, accessible to Carmel / Pebble Beach / Santa Cruz. A variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, bicycling, kayaking, golfing and whale watching. A full breakfast is served daily. It should also be noted it is a gated property and the home is accessed through a dirt / gravel private country lane which is 0.75 mile from the gate.

Top guest favourite
A serene outdoor deck features two lounge chairs facing a tranquil river and mountain landscape. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting a warm glow over the space. The surrounding area is adorned with lush greenery and natural scenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Camper van/Motorhome in Kernville
5 out of 5 average rating, 140 reviews

The Kern River House: MoonShine Trailer Waterfront

MoonShine Trailer, an epic riverfront property by The Kern River House. Very cool 1955 Boles Aero Ensenada Trailer is lovingly restored & updated. Its forever home on a beautiful spot of Kern River, just south of Big Daddy Rapids. Private Waterfront with River Access, cedar hot tub, patios, gas BBQ, fire pit, outdoor shower, speedy WiFi & the coolest vintage vibe. Has queen bed, single sofa bed, indoor bathroom, a/c & heating, refrigerator, stovetop, all kitchen tools. Endless relaxing fun!

Guest favourite
Tiny home in Three Rivers
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 237 reviews

Infinite Luxury Mirror House | Hot Tub | Sauna

Paradise Ranch Inn is a private nature retreat minutes from Sequoia National Park. Stay in design-forward mirror cabins with private hot tubs or luxury glamping tents set across a scenic riverfront landscape. Enjoy fire pits, sauna, outdoor cooking with pizza ovens and grills, forest trails, and pure mountain air. A mile of river runs through the property, offering natural cold plunges, swimming, and peaceful nights under clear Sierra stars. Note: This is our only pet-friendly listing.

Top guest favourite
Cabin in Three Rivers
5 out of 5 average rating, 240 reviews

Botanist Cabin: Your Magical Forest Escape Awaits

Built in 1948 beside a flowing stream, this historic botanist’s cabin was created for simple living and deep connection with nature. Light-filled and intimate, the studio is wrapped in windows that bring the forest indoors, with a full kitchen, soaking tub, and outdoor shower. Surrounded by redwoods, a lily pond, a water garden, and wandering paths, this is a rare place to slow down, unplug, and experience something truly one of a kind in Three Rivers.

Top guest favourite
Earthen home in Sonora
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 297 reviews

Birds Nest, fresh, rustic, romantic, pond front

Come stay at this rustic, unique, hand sculpted cob earth house in the heart of the gold country surrounded by wilderness. The house is magical inside and out, with unique curved walls and ceilings, facing a seasonal pond and home to much wildlife. Sit outside at night under the Milky Way, watching shooting stars and listening to toads in the pond. Please note the bedroom is upstairs, the bathroom is down an external staircase. There is no oven.

Top guest favourite
An aerial view of a modern cabin is displayed, featuring a spacious deck with soft lighting. The deck curves around a custom cedar hot tub, providing a welcoming area for relaxation. Surrounded by trees, the cabin is set against a backdrop of the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Cabin in Mariposa
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviews

Couples Riverfront Cabin w Hot Tub

I designed & built this architectural cabin specifically for couples looking to experience a unique and beautiful location that feels like a mini Yosemite. It has a custom cedar hot tub that gives the PERFECT viewing place for the expansive night sky with shooting stars a plenty. Also has a swimmable River with jaw dropping granite features & rock pools. Double shower & sleek design features, you may just spend your whole trip, right here :)

Top guest favourite
A view of the outdoor space showcases a fire pit with a gentle flame surrounded by smooth rocks. Comfortable seating is arranged beneath a wooden pergola, and large windows highlight the welcoming interior of the architectural retreat.
Cabin in Three Rivers
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 205 reviews

Conscious Nest Riverfront Retreat No.4

Embrace nature in this beautiful river front Architectural Getaway! Nestled amongst the foothills of the Sequoia National Park ( and it is only a short 10 minute drive to the park entrance!) with breathtaking views of the Kaweah River, are the Conscious Nest Retreats. We combine the comforts of home with the wonders of the wild~ Our spaces are designed to feel authentic and rooted in the energy of the ancient Sequoias trees 🌲

Top guest favourite
A wooden outdoor deck surrounded by lush greenery features a propane grill and seating options. A solar panel is positioned on the cabin, while nearby colorful flowers enhance the natural setting. The area offers a peaceful retreat amidst the trees.
Guest suite in Wilseyville
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 309 reviews

Sierra Foothills River Retreat

Enjoy a private guest suite on the Mokelumne river with no cleaning fees and a hassle free stay. Fall asleep to the sound of the river. Sit on 1 of 3 decks to enjoy the scenic views and watch the wildlife. Walk in the river, go fishing, pan for gold. The lower deck on the river has a hammock & 2 person swing. Visit Silver lake, Kirkwood, Big Trees Nat. Park or Lake Tahoe. Go wine tasting, antiquing or hiking.

Top guest favourite
The sleek Airstream is positioned on a wooden deck overlooking the beach and ocean, surrounded by lush hills. Cozy seating is provided with Adirondack chairs near a fire pit, creating a tranquil outdoor area for relaxation while enjoying the captivating coastal views.
Camper van/Motorhome in Half Moon Bay
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 185 reviews

Airstream Beach View (Dream) - New Listing

On 9 private acres overlooking the stunning Beach and Ocean from a breathtaking cliff top view. Stunning sunsets. Surf views with large windows. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, outside BBQ, outside griddle, Heat, A/C and fully stocked kitchen. Full bathroom with shower. If this one is booked, there are three other equally similar Airstreams on the property.

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