Summer might be winding down, but it’s certainly not too late to escape the concrete city for a long weekend of sand and surf or lazy river lounging in the Big Apple’s backyard. (In fact, it may be even better over the next few months, as the temperatures start to drop.) Without further ado, here are the very best waterfront Airbnbs near NYC, including swanky studios with stunning Hudson River views, historic cottages with private ponds and streams, and boardwalk bungalows at the Jersey Shore and Rockaway Beach, where you can fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves.
10 Waterfront Airbnbs Near NYC for a Carefree Escape
Including swanky studios, historic cottages and boardwalk bungalows
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Published Aug 25, 2026
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Airbnb
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bath
- Rate: from $579/night
- Why We Love It: direct beach and boardwalk access, large patio, comfortable furnishings, fireplace
- Pet-Friendly: no
Perfectly located at the vibrant boardwalk of Point Pleasant, this charming beach home boasts sweeping ocean views and a sprawling patio that’s perfect for sunbathing and people watching. Indeed, visitors about the prime location, which is just a short walk from the liveliest part of the boardwalk, but far enough removed for guests to enjoy a quiet and relaxing stay. The interior of the rental also gets high marks from numerous reviewers like this one, who wrote, “from the fuzzy comforters to the selection of channels on the tv, it felt like home away from home. It was clean, beautifully decorated and comfortable.”
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
- Rate: from $381/night
- Why We Love It: direct beach and boardwalk access, central location, grill, patio, washer/dryer
- Pet-Friendly: yes
Here, a boardwalk beauty that you can enjoy without even leaving NYC. This gem on Rockaway’s extremely popular surf beach boasts a spacious and airy open floor plan with every modern amenity you could need for a comfortable stay. When you’re not hanging out on the beach, which is conveniently located right outside the front door, be sure to spend some time lounging (or grilling) on the generously sized back patio. Plus, its prime waterfront location is just a short walk away from restaurants and grocery stores alike, so you will be wanting for nothing during your stay.
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
- Rate: from $315/night
- Why We Love It: couple’s retreat, panoramic river views, grill, private patio
- Pet-Friendly: no
If you’re looking for a room with a view, then you’d be hard pressed to find a more beautiful vista than the one offered by this studio cottage set right on the Hudson River. The modern interior features a queen-sized bed in its own little nook and a large, breezy living area with a serene panorama of the river. WiFi, a Smart TV, air conditioning and a grill for cooking up your own grub are just a few of the many amenities on offer at this well-appointed pad. That, combined with the exceedingly convenient location (within walking distance of several hikes and less than a five-minute drive to a drive-in theater) have earned this property a 4.99-star rating.
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 1 bed, 1 bath
- Rate: from $261/night
- Why We Love It: couple’s retreat, natural beauty, private swimming stream, washer/dryer, private patio and backyard
- Pet-Friendly: no
If you’ve never heard of Guilford, prepare to be swept off your feet by the classic charm of this quaint New England town on the coast of Long Island Sound. This cottage sits on an impeccably landscaped property with a babbling brook and swimming stream running right through it. The rental also features stunning stone fireplaces, both indoors and outdoors, and a gorgeous, cathedral-style living room. Be sure to check out the historic colonial homes in the area and the quaint shops in town and, if you want to get some more exercise in, take a hike on one of the numerous nature trails that are accessible from the property. Or just stay put and delight in the romantic beauty of the natural surroundings—because, as one guest puts it, “the cottage is perfect. Pictures do not do it justice…because no pictures could.”
5. Waterfront Oasis (East Hampton, NY)
Airbnb
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths
- Rate: from $1,803/night
- Why We Love It: private pond, private beach, designer furnishings, pool, hot tub, fireplace, washer/dryer, children’s gear and toys
- Pet-Friendly: no
There are breathtaking waterfront views to be had on nearly every square foot of this stunning East Hampton retreat, which sits on the banks of a pond, just minutes away from the beach. Watch sailboats go by and savor the gorgeous sunsets from the comfort of a stylish and thoughtfully designed interior, swim in the heated saltwater pool and lounge in the generously sized backyard or grab some beach gear (the home is well-stocked with towels, paddleboards and everything in between) and set off down a private footpath that leads you around the pond and straight to a private beach. When it comes to dreamy spots to unwind, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
- Rate: from $602/night
- Why We Love It: lakefront, close proximity to town, close proximity to beach, washer/dryer, grill, private patio and yard
- Pet-Friendly: no
This unique waterfront house in the Hamptons—a modest-sized but very well-appointed two-bedroom cottage with bohemian vibes—is suspended above the lake, providing an immersive waterfront experience you can enjoy while lounging in the comfort of the living room. The larger property features a private deck, a sprawling (shared) lawn with equally amazing views and direct access to Fort Pond itself, where you can swim and kayak to your heart’s content. Oh, and did we mention that it’s also conveniently located within walking distance of the beach and Main Street? Yep, this place checks all the boxes.
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 5 bedrooms, 4 baths
- Rate: from $657/night
- Why We Love It: good for groups, bay views, private pool, close proximity to beach, washer/dryer, exercise equipment, children’s gear and toys
- Pet-Friendly: yes
Stretch out and make yourself right at home in this Hamptons Bay waterfront property, which consists of two side-by-side residences (one main house and one pool house) framed by a private dock and a rear deck with stunning views of the bay and harbor. Due to its layout and generous size, this rental is particularly well-suited to larger groups who want a little more privacy. Better still, glowing reviews suggest that the interior of the home is cozy, comfortable and well-appointed with designer furnishings and ample interior space for guests to gather.
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
- Rate: from $377/night
- Why We Love It: couple’s retreat, riverfront, close proximity to town, pool, fireplace, private patio and yard
- Pet-Friendly: no
Located just two hours away from NYC by train is Athens, a charming Hudson Valley town where you’ll find this picturesque rental—a lovingly restored 1850s home that’s full of character. The cottage, which is situated right on the Hudson River, features a riverfront patio, a beautifully landscaped private backyard and a shared pool for seasonal use. The sun-drenched, wood-paneled interior is well-appointed and full of oh-so homey. Don’t take my word for it, though, just check out the numerous five star reviews, like this one, which reads, “Highly recommend staying here, it's an amazing gem! Incredible river views for watching birds and boats, the pool is delightful and cooling on a hot day, the scenic bench on the river is so peaceful. Inside, the home is full of beautiful and fun decor and lots of character—it's not one of those sterile Airbnbs. The place is excellently located. It's a 10-minute walk into restaurants in town, and it's right across the street from an ice cream spot.”
9. Waterfront Studio (Neptune City, NJ)
Airbnb
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 1 bed, 1 bath
- Rate: from $281/night
- Why We Love It: close proximity to town, couple’s retreat, private backyard, firepit, grill, water equipment, children’s gear and toys
- Pet-Friendly: yes
Head to the Garden State for a relaxing stay at this Neptune City studio, which boasts direct access to a private waterfront and breathtaking views of the bay. The home is very well-equipped indoors and out, with kayaks and paddleboard available or guests to use. Have some fun on the bay or at the ocean beach just minutes away; then, relax on the large deck and take in unparalleled views before heading out to one of the numerous bars and restaurants within close proximity. Note: Keep in mind that most meals will likely be had off the property, since this studio has a high-efficiency kitchen (i.e., no stove or oven) with a single induction cooktop and small under-the-counter fridge.
10. Ocean Front Escape (Long Branch, NJ)
Airbnb
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
- Rate: from $382/night
- Why We Love It: good for small families, ocean views, walkable location, outdoor area, grill
- Pet-Friendly: yes
Those who prefer the ocean to the bay, will find just what they’re looking for at this home on the Jersey Shore. The stylish and spacious living room features panoramic windows with unobstructed views of the ocean (per the reviews, you’re close enough to even catch some dolphins swimming by). The spacious two-bedroom interior is impeccably clean and well-appointed with all the amenities you need, and the walkable location provides easy access to nearby shops and restaurants. What more could you ask for?
