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airbnb Cottage by the Water
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

The 7 best waterfront Airbnbs for a getaway from NYC

From houseboats to quaint cottages, these oceanfront Airbnbs are just begging to be booked for a vacation

Written by
Shaye Weaver
Contributors
Danielle Goldstein
,
Georgia Evans
,
Ella Doyle
&
Alex Floyd-Douglass
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In a city that never sleeps, sometimes you just need a little (or a lot of) peace and quiet. New York City is the ultimate destination for iconic sights, culture and food (including pizza slices bigger than your head), but we’ve got one way you could make your trip to the Big Apple even better. Just outside the city, there is a whole host of stunning Airbnbs right on the waterfront, so you can wake up to views of Orchard Beach, Brighton Beach or Coney Island, soothed by the soft swishing of the water. Ahh, bliss.

Have we convinced you yet? Go on, book one of these waterfront Airbnbs near NYC for your summer 2024 getaway now.

RECOMMENDED: The coolest Airbnbs in Brooklyn

Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Best waterfront Airbnbs near NYC

The Ziggy Stardust Surf House in Jamaica Bay
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

1. The Ziggy Stardust Surf House in Jamaica Bay

This Jamaica Bay houseboat is perfect for those who want to have a short walk to the beach from picturesque lodgings. The interior is all white with beautiful beachy decor, from a hammock in a window to reclaimed wood accents and modern furniture. Meanwhile, the boathouse itself can accommodate 8 people, but it's strictly not a party boat (aww shucks!) and only renters who are responsible and clean will be given the keys. There's no bathroom, so you'd have to use the marina toilets… Which isn't a big deal when you see where you'll be staying.

Rooms? Four. Sleeps eight guests.
Mood? Floatin' fun.
Location perks? It's a houseboat… On the water… It's pretty epic.
Budget range? Pricey but worth it. 

The Franco Floating Surf Safari in Queens
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

2. The Franco Floating Surf Safari in Queens

For a one-of-a-kind stay, check out this cozy boat on the marina at Rockaway Beach, nicknamed, for whatever reason, The James Franco. The houseboat is only two blocks from the local beach and features a cozy cabin, double bedroom and decked-out outdoor areas at the entrance and on the roof, all painted beautifully and hung with cute lights. The host says the community is a quaint artist, surfer and fishermen community that "keeps a close eye on visitors". Gorgeously eclectic.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Couple's getaway. 
Location perks? Okay, this might just outdo the Ziggy Stardust houseboat. Just.
Budget range? Very affordable.

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The modern architectural gem in Amagansett
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

3. The modern architectural gem in Amagansett

Really looking to splash out? Then this is the way to do it. Found in Amagansett, this sleek modern home is designed by architect David Ling (your host) and is found right on the coast of Ocean Beach. When you're not splashing around in the water, you can enjoy expansive vistas from the floor-to-ceiling windows, curl up by the open fireplace and cook up a storm in the kitchen. There's even a gorgeous terrace overlooking the beach, equipped with a BBQ and an outdoor shower for the warmer months.

Rooms? Three. Sleeps four guests.
Mood? Modern minimalism. 
Location perks? The surrounding views of Amagansett and Montauk are pretty stunning. Enjoy.
Budget range? Uber spenny.

The cozy apartment near the Hudson River
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

4. The cozy apartment near the Hudson River

This private hideaway is found just one block away from the Hudson River and has all you need for an escape from city life. The space features its own kitchen, bathroom and comfy queen bed. However, we'd say the main sell is the charming outdoor terrace, which boasts amazing views of the water. When you're not lazing around with a good book, you can explore the adorable surrounding town of Piermont.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Cozy vibes.
Location perks? Views over the water and sunsets to die for.
Budget range? A real steal.

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The waterside cabin with a hot tub in Greenwood Lake
Photo: Airbnb

5. The waterside cabin with a hot tub in Greenwood Lake

In little over an hours' drive north of NYC, you'll find yourself amid the Appalachian Trail Corridor, at a cute and stylish cabin surrounded by the Sterling Forest and overlooking Greenwood Lake. If you exhaust the views from the hot tub or BBQ on the deck (let's face it, you won't), then you'll be pleased to know there is also plenty do in the area, including brewery and winery visits, boating and hiking (obvs), skiing in the chillier months, shopping, golf and waterfront restaurants. Absolute bliss.

Rooms? Two. Sleeps six guests.
Mood? Cute and colourful.
Location perks? Believe it or not, there's an express bus stop within walking distance of the cabin, with a regular service to/from Port Authority.
Budget range? Affordable.

The tiny house by the lake in Nassau
Photo: Airbnb

6. The tiny house by the lake in Nassau

This unique miniature abode is located in Nassau, just a couple of hours up from NYC. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in ingenuity and surroundings. There are two queen-size beds in there, a living room with sofa and TV, well-equipped kitchen, breakfast bar overlooking the water and a full bathroom with stand-up shower and washing machine. There's also direct access to the water via a sandy slope and, if you're an animal lover, you'll be delighted to know that not only is it uber pet friendly, but there are grazing donkeys nearby.

Rooms? Two. Sleeps four guests.
Mood? Tiny but mighty.
Location perks? Two words: private peninsula.
Budget range? Affordable.

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The long-let beach room on City Island
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

7. The long-let beach room on City Island

If all you need is one bedroom near the water, this cozy apartment on Long Island Sound is for you. Based in the Bronx, you'll have access to Pelham Bay Park and Orchard Beach. In fact, the apartment has a shared garden just steps from the sand and access to the water for those who want to canoe or kayak.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Long-term waterfront life.
Location perks? Stunning views over Long Island Sound.
Budget range? Affordable for a 30-night stay minimum. 

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