Waterfront holiday rentals in Charleston

Find and book unique waterfront rentals on Airbnb

Quick stats about waterfront rentals in Charleston

  • Total holiday rentals

    Explore 290 holiday rentals in Charleston

  • Nightly prices starting at

    Charleston holiday rentals start at £22 per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 22,860 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly holiday rentals

    210 properties offer extra space & child-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly holiday rentals

    Find 80 rentals that welcome pets

  • Holiday rentals with a pool

    80 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    170 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wifi availability

    290 of Charleston holiday rentals include wifi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Kitchen, Wifi and Pool across Charleston rentals

  • 4.8 Average rating

    Charleston stays are highly rated by guests – averaging 4.8 out of 5!

  • Nearby attractions

    Charleston’s top spots include Waterfront Park, Angel Oak Tree and King Street

Top-rated waterfront rentals in Charleston

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

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Top guest favourite
Villa in James Island

Villa overlooking Charleston close to Folly Beach

Nestled in a bird sanctuary on an oak filled tidal creek lot with expansive porch views of Charleston harbor, come share a coffee with friends and family and watch a spectacular marsh morning sun rise. Located minutes to the famous "Edge of America" Folly Beach, beach chairs, coolers and towels are provided for an enjoyable beach excursion. Centrally located, you are a short trip to historical Charleston, James Island County Park Splash Zone, and neighboring barrier islands. Off street parking.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 174 reviews
Top guest favourite
The image captures a serene landscape where sunlight filters through trees, casting long shadows on the grassy ground. Spanish moss drapes from branches, creating a tranquil and inviting scene alongside the waterfront.
Home in North Charleston

Waterfront Nature’s Retreat Cottage 2Bd/2B

Take it easy at this unique & tranquil waterfront getaway where you will be able to enjoy the stunning views of the Ashley river and beautiful sunsets over Magnolia Gardens. The 2 BR Cottage is located on 1.5 acres on private property Whether you are here for work or play, this property is centrally located: Min from airport, outlets, breweries, restaurants, I-26, 526, Boeing, 20 min from DT Charleston 30 min from the beach. NO PARTIES NO SMOCKING NO PET NO SWIMMING NO DOCK ACCESS 5 PERS

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 145 reviews
Top guest favourite
The exterior of the guest house features a mix of textured siding and an intricately designed balcony supported by stylish columns. Surrounded by greenery, it includes a circular window and a swing on the porch, inviting relaxation in a tranquil setting.
Guest suite in West Ashley

The Garden Folly Guest House

Our architect said, “this is NOT a garage, it’s a Garden Folly!” Our Guest House has a bird’s eye view of the rose covered pecan tree and a vista of the marsh and the Wappoo Creek. When we rebuilt our 1930's garage we saved all the beaded siding and pine floor. My husband enjoyed incorporating many design elements and creative ideas. It was quickly becoming the Taj Garage. We decided it was just the kind of property we enjoy when we travel, so, Voila! we decided to share it with you!

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 458 reviews
Top guest favourite
A coastal home is elevated on stilts, framed by palm trees and greenery. The entrance features a bright yellow staircase leading up to expansive porches. The sky displays a soft dusk palette of pinks and blues, enhancing the welcoming exterior of the property.
Home in Folly Beach

Best views on Folly!

King Tide offers some of the most spectacular views Folly Beach has to offer—spanning the marsh, the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse, the Ravenel Bridge, and the Atlantic Ocean. With two spacious back decks, a large front porch, and an open-concept living area, you’ll have no shortage of places to soak it all in. Located just across the street from the beach, King Tide is a short walk to public beach access and the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve. Sleeps 10–11 guests comfortably.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 143 reviews
Top guest favourite
A spacious bedroom features a black metal bed frame adorned with white bedding. Two stylish chairs are positioned beside large windows offering views of the surrounding landscape. A wooden dresser and a woven area rug add elements of comfort and warmth to the room.
Guest house in West Ashley

Large Guesthouse with Private Dock & Marsh Views

This newly built carriage house is separate from the main house. The cottage is about 1,200 sqft so it very open and spacious and great views of marsh and our tidal creek. We have a separate work area with desk and a massive dinning table if you need more room to work or to gather with friends. Full kitchen, washer and dryer, massive shower, the list goes on. You may not want to leave! Feel free to go sit and have coffee or cocktails on the dock. PERMIT# OP2025-06925

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 252 reviews
Top guest favourite
A vibrant sunset casts warm hues over a tidal creek, reflecting beautifully on the still water. The scene is framed by lush greenery and a dock, providing a serene view of the marsh and surrounding trees.
Home in James Island

James Island Creek Retreat | On the Water |

Welcome to our Lowcountry home on James Island — tucked along a tidal creek in a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood. Our large backyard backs right up to the marsh, with water access and gorgeous views at every tide. You’re just 7 minutes from downtown Charleston and 10 minutes from Folly Beach — a perfectly central spot to explore everything the Lowcountry has to offer. As a licensed US Coast Guard captain, I also offer discounted private boat tours for guests.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews
Guest favourite
A serene waterway is flanked by lush greenery and reflected clouds, creating a peaceful natural landscape. The calm waters mirror the sky, with a boat visible in the distance, indicating opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
Home in Johns Island

The River Girl, Private Dock, Great Outdoor Spaces

The River Girl is located on Johns Island, a beautiful 20 min drive to downtown Charleston, 20 min to Kiawah, & 20 to Folly Beach. We hope this place provides a comfy spot to rest your head at the end of a fun day exploring. We also want you to take advantage of the slow island life! Go crabbing off the dock and cook your supper! Read a book on the back deck & enjoy the breeze. Light a candle, & take a soak in the tub! Just enjoy yourself. Fully updated!

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 126 reviews
Top guest favourite
A serene cottage sits beside a calm pond, reflecting the surrounding trees. The structure features a spacious porch with rocking chairs, framed by palm trees. Large windows and skylights invite natural light, enhancing the connection with the tranquil outdoor environment.
Cottage in Johns Island

Quiet Cottage | Waterfront | Fire Pit

Welcome to our scenic waterfront retreat on Johns Island.We are a handicap friendly cottage with large, flat doorways and no steps. This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-level home offers woods and garden views.There is a dock to Church Creek where you can fish, crab and kayak. The roads are great for walking and biking.. Families and couples will enjoy the serene beauty and wildlife at this comfortable, hidden gem.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 116 reviews
Top guest favourite
Treehouse in Johns Island

Waterfront Treehouse

Marsh and creekside Luxury Treehouse nestled among historic Grand Oaks. Private Elevated TreeHouse that has closeup views of trees and wildlife from every oversized window. Sit back and relax on the large deck watching the ebb and flow of the tide as fish jump, birds hunt and fiddler crabs defend their bank. (This property has been granted an exemption and does not accept pets or Service animals due to allergies.)

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 163 reviews
Guest favourite
A wooden dock extends over calm waters, leading to a covered gazebo. The sun shines brightly in a clear blue sky, reflecting off the serene surface of the water, with grass and marshland visible in the distance.
Townhouse in James Island

Waterfront Gem on James Island!

Secluded space on the water on James Island. Newly constructed space with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.  Upstairs unit with magnificent waterfront views.   Come enjoy the amazing sunrises and sunsets while looking over Clarks Sound towards Folly Beach.  Deep in the heart of James Island yet just a few minutes from James Island Youth Soccer Club and only 15min to both downtown and Folly Beach. 

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 208 reviews
Top guest favourite
A private balcony features two comfortable wicker chairs facing a small table, overlooking lush salt marshland. The blue sky is dotted with fluffy clouds, creating a serene backdrop for outdoor relaxation. The wooden flooring complements the natural surroundings, enhancing the tranquil setting.
Guest suite in James Island

Marsh view retreat near Folly Beach and Downtown

Welcome to Lighthouse Lookout, a private-entry guest suite, offering a truly unique Charleston experience. Conveniently located on James Island, between Folly Beach and Downtown Charleston. The private balcony provides stunning views of the salt marsh and historic Morris Island Lighthouse. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the changing tides, abundant wildlife, and scenic sunrises.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 187 reviews
Guest favourite
An outdoor deck features a comfortable seating arrangement with a three-seat sofa and two lounge chairs. A small coffee table sits in the center, surrounded by lush greenery along the railing. Lake views are visible in the background, enhancing the relaxing atmosphere.
Home in North Charleston

Lowcountry Lakefront—Near DT, Breweries & Beaches

Escape to this charming lakefront retreat near downtown Charleston! Cozy coastal vibes, 3 comfy bedrooms (sleeps 5), 2.5 baths, and big deck with lake views. Cook in the full kitchen, dine with a view, or work in a private workspace. Fast Wi-Fi, free parking. Close to beaches, breweries, shopping & Topgolf. Perfect for families, couples, or friends craving a peaceful Lowcountry getaway!

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 110 reviews

Popular amenities for waterfront rentals in Charleston

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