Waterfront vacation rentals in James Island

Find and book unique waterfront rentals on Airbnb

Top-rated waterfront rentals in James Island

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

%{current} / %{total}1 / 1
Top guest favorite
A spacious open floor plan is presented, featuring a comfortable King size bed adorned with white bedding. A light-colored coffee table is centered in front of a cozy couch. Kitchen amenities are visible in the background, and wood-paneled ceilings add warmth to the space.
Guesthouse in Charleston
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 161 reviews

Luxury Loft (2 miles from Folly Beach)

The Luxury Loft is perfect for one person or a couple. The stylish surfer vibe loft is adjacent to the main house with a separate entrance. Located 2 miles from Folly Beach, walking distance to a grocery store, and 20 minutes from Downtown Charleston. Spacious shower, kitchen with hot plate, convection oven, microwave, coffee maker and blender. It has Wifi and smart TV with a split unit A/C. Off-street parking space for one and one space street parking. Beach vibes without all the crowds.

Top guest favorite
Villa in Charleston
5 out of 5 average rating, 166 reviews

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.

Top guest favorite
A serene outdoor balcony features a round table surrounded by colorful chairs, offering expansive views of marshlands at sunset. The warm colors of the sky reflect on the water, creating a peaceful setting. Glass door access enhances the connection to the interior space.
Condo in Charleston
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 254 reviews

Little Oak Love | 5 Minutes to Folly | Marsh Views

Little Oak Love is a serene escape just a mile from Folly Beach, nestled in a gated community. This top-floor, two-bedroom, two-bath condo offers stunning views from almost every room, and ultimate privacy. Sip your morning coffee or catch sunset views from the screened lanai or balcony. Enjoy access to the community pool, pavilion, gas grill & fire pit. Plus, you're only a 20-minute drive from historic Downtown Charleston. This condo is perfect for the ultimate Lowcountry vacation experience!

Top guest favorite
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 Charleston
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 117 reviews

James Island Creek Retreat | On the Water |

Welcome to my low country home on James Island, located on a tidal creek within a quiet family neighborhood. The large backyard is on a beautiful marsh with water access allowing for amazing views. It’s 7min from downtown and 10min from Folly Beach. Perfect central location on James Island to everything Charleston has to offer. As a certified US Coast Guard boat Captain I offer discounted private tours to guest. Please book ahead as the summer gets busy. IG Huckleberry_Boat_Tours for photos

Guest favorite
Home in Folly Beach
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 181 reviews

Marshfront 5BD Oasis | Pool, Yard & Steps to Beach

🏝️ Private Marshfront 4BR/5BD/3.5BA Home with stunning views, saltwater pool, fenced yard, hammocks, grill & outdoor shower 📍Steps to the beach! 🛎️ Personalized concierge services by On The Coast Property Group (fees vary) • Grocery stocking • Decoration setup • Dining reservations • Private chefs • Transportation coordination • Boating/water excursions • Beach rentals • Sports equipment • Baby gear • Spa, fitness & wellness services • Event planning for celebrations/gatherings …& more!

Top guest favorite
A charming bungalow is surrounded by lush greenery and mature trees, providing a serene outdoor space. The vibrant green exterior is complemented by a garden area with well-maintained grass, and a pathway leads to the entrance. A cozy seating area with chairs is visible nearby.
Cottage in Charleston
5 out of 5 average rating, 214 reviews

Island Bungalow on Bowens Island

Island Bungalow, located on Bowens Island, a one bedroom 400 sq ft stand alone cottage on the Folly River as part of the owners property with deep water dock with sunset views. Fishing/crabbing/boating/paddle boarding/kayaking available right on the island. Cottage is nestled among mature oak and palm trees for that relaxing island ambiance. A walk down the dirt road is the world famous Bowens Island Restaurant, Folly Beach 2 miles by car or bike, 15 minutes to Charleston. LIC#LIC009777

Top guest favorite
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 Charleston
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 442 reviews

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!

Top guest favorite
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.
Guesthouse in Charleston
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 239 reviews

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

Top guest favorite
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 Charleston
5 out of 5 average rating, 172 reviews

Marsh view retreat near Folly Beach and Downtown

**Please review additional notes below about potential construction noise** 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.

Superhost
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
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 118 reviews

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!

Guest favorite
A private deck features a small round table with two blue chairs surrounded by lush greenery. The wooden railing provides an unobstructed view of the neighborhood, enhancing the outdoor setting for relaxation.
Guest suite in Charleston
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 225 reviews

Surfer's Studio! Clean Tiny Apt 2 Miles from Beach

Modern, funky studio apartment located between Folly Beach and historic downtown Charleston. The deck overlooking the neighborhood pond is perfect for your morning coffee or a sunset cocktail. Inside is a clean and quiet living space. The ocean, sand, surfers, and dolphins are just 2 miles away, where you can also find great restaurants, shops, music, and the Folly Beach pier. Perfect for couples or a solo traveler.

Top guest favorite
A spacious sleeping area features a wooden platform bed with neutral bedding, complemented by a decorative throw. A bedside table holds a lamp. Large windows allow natural light, offering views of outdoor greenery. A tall plant adds a touch of nature to the corner.
Apartment in Charleston
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 530 reviews

Private Marshfront Studio Nestled Among Grand Oaks

Make your Charleston vacation unforgettable and stay in this stunning newly constructed studio apartment on marshfront property in Charleston, SC. This private, serene getaway offers stunning views of local wildlife, and is completely surrounded by mature grand oak trees. Located between downtown Charleston and beautiful Folly Beach, you will be perfectly situated for everything Charleston has to offer.

Popular amenities for James Island waterfront rentals

Destinations to explore