Waterfront vacation rentals in Central California

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

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!

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!

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.

Airstream Coastal Hideaway (Sunset)

On 9 private acres overlooking the stunning Beach and Ocean from a breathtaking cliff top view. Stunning sunsets. Famous 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. Within 10 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive. If this one is booked, there are three other equally similar Airstreams on the property.

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!

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.

Romantic MOMA Villa on river near national park

Enchanting cottage nestled on over 4 private acres with exclusive river access and all of the charm of beautiful Three Rivers! You'll love every inch of this rustic modern master piece adorned by stone and timeless wood accents making this the most romantic cottage. The windows are dressed with sheer curtains to maximize natural daylight and create an airy feel. The cabin is located in a rural area with minimal nearby visibility, offering a comfortable level of privacy at night.

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.

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.

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 :)

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.