Vacation rentals with a kayak in McDowell County

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Top-rated kayak rentals in McDowell County

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Guest favorite
Home in Marion
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 6 reviews

Lakefront | Hot tub, Fire Pit, Games, & Movie Room

Welcome to our Lake James retreat - where every detail allows for connection, joy, and unforgettable moments for your family and friends! Tucked into a peaceful cove at one end of the lake, it has one of the easiest water access on the Lake James shoreline. No endless staircases or tricky descents to the waterfront - just a gentle stroll across the wide grassy lawn to your private dock. Just 10 minutes to Marion, 45 minutes to Asheville, and less than 2 hours to Charlotte or to Winston-Salem.

Top guest favorite
The exterior of the custom-built home showcases a striking A-frame design with large glass windows allowing for natural light. A spacious deck extends from the structure, surrounded by greenery, creating a serene outdoor environment ideal for relaxation.
Home in Nebo
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 103 reviews

Close to Lake James- The Lake is better than ever!

Post-Storm Peace: Lake James is Safe for Fun and Relaxation! Relax on the stylish covered deck and enjoy stunning views. Conveniently located between Morganton and Marion, you'll have access to unique restaurants, shopping, wineries, and breweries. Perfect for multiple families, with a full gym, work station, and all the comforts of home. Check-in at 3:00 pm Check-out at 10:00 am. Guests must be 25 years or older to book. No weddings/parties Experience the perfect retreat at LakeWays!

Top guest favorite
The house is positioned on a hillside with a spacious deck overlooking the lake. A dock with boats and lounge space is visible at the water's edge. Lush greenery surrounds the home, creating a serene lakeside atmosphere.
Home in Nebo
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 91 reviews

Lake James Private Dock Quiet Cove Starlink

Our house is the last on a quiet "no outlet" street on one of the best hidden coves on Lake James. It’s only a couple hundred yards to the main channel and big Mountain View’s and sunsets. Our home is comfortable and expansive. A place to relax, fish, swim, use our 4 kayaks, or tie up your own boat or pontoon rental for your stay. Black Bear, Hidden Cove, or Canal Bridge are the closest boat launches. We now have lightening fast Star-link internet for remote workers and your entertainment!

Guest favorite
A two-story blue house with a gray roof is situated on a gently sloping lot surrounded by trees. A stone pathway leads up to the welcoming front porch, which is flanked by wooden steps. The paved driveway extends up to the garage door.
Home in Morganton
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 18 reviews

Lakefront Home on Beautiful Lake James!

Welcome to Loving Lake Life – Your Perfect Lake Retreat, Just 15 Minutes from Morganton! Nestled on the waterfront, our home offers easy access to the water with a short stone path leading to our private dock. It comfortably accommodates up to 6 guests and comes fully equipped with two kayaks, two paddleboards, a cozy fire pit, beautiful porches, a fun-filled game room, and more! Thoughtfully designed with all the amenities you need, this space is the ideal setting for your next getaway!

Superhost
Lush greenery and rolling hills are observed in the distance, with the mountains majestically rising in the background. A clear blue sky with scattered clouds complements the serene landscape, creating a natural scene inviting outdoor exploration.
Home in Old Fort
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 71 reviews

Leaf Peeping Views-Hot Tub-Fire Pit-25 min. to AVL

Escape to our charming 700 sq. ft. mountain retreat overlooking Jacks Mountain Preserve - an old golf course turned nature preserve. Perfect for small families, couples or friends, this cozy 2-bedroom, 1-bath home features modern comforts and decor, 4 beds total, a fully equipped (and then some) kitchen, and reliable internet. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views by day and stargazing at night. Pet-friendly, with clean water and nearby nature trails, it’s ideal for relaxation or adventure.

Top guest favorite
A spacious lakefront home is surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flower beds. A large deck extends from the house, providing outdoor seating options. Steps lead down to a grassy area with lounge chairs, while the nearby landscape features trees and pathways that invite exploration.
Home in Nebo
5 out of 5 average rating, 15 reviews

Lakeside Home w Mtn Views & Dock

Relax--Zen inspired getaway just steps from Lake James. A peaceful courtyard welcomes you at the entrance. Glass doors surround the entire house, revealing lake and mountain views. The open floor plan is newly renovated with bamboo flooring, new kitchen and updated bathrooms. A large covered deck with dining table overlooks the lake with great views. The kitchen comes fully equipped , including a gas grill on the deck! Wood burning fireplace in great room for cozy fall evenings.

Guest favorite
A two-story yellow house with gabled roofs stands amidst a forested area. Gravel paths lead to the entrance, which is flanked by a spacious deck. Stacks of firewood are neatly arranged around a central fire pit. The lake is visible in the background.
Home in Nebo
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 24 reviews

Lakefront, private cove w/ creek

Now pet friendly. A perfect waterfront playground to forget your worries while immersed in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Pisgah National Forest. Direct water access to Lake James for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. Enjoy Dales Creek, which feeds mountain water into the lake. Whether swimming, paddling, fishing, or wading in the creek, there is no shortage of wildlife and flora to enjoy. Picnic and BBQ at the pavilion and relax by bonfires in the evenings.

Guest favorite
An outdoor patio features a circular fire pit surrounded by four light-colored Adirondack chairs. Beyond the seating area, expansive views of Lake James and the surrounding mountains are visible, framed by lush trees and a clear sky.
Vacation home in Nebo
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 31 reviews

New Waterfront Home | Amazing Views of Lake James

This brand-new house has Panoramic views of Lake James and the Western North Carolina mountains. Enjoy the views from almost every room in the home. Have a seat under our wrap around porch and take it all in. Enjoy family and friends on our screened in back porch or enjoy some smores at the fire pit in Adirondack chairs. Everyone will have a blast in the basement with a ping pong table, shuffleboard, or sit back and watch the game. Plenty of room for the whole family!

Guest favorite
Home in Nebo
5 out of 5 average rating, 12 reviews

Enjoy Fall - Lake James Cottage with Lakeview- 3/2

Enjoy Lake James at our lakeview cottage just footsteps from the most serene cove on the lake. Prepare your meals in the fully stocked, large kitchen or have a BBQ and enjoy the beautiful surroundings on two decks overlooking the lake. During the day, cruise the lake with our kayaks, or bring your own Standup Paddle Board or small boat--the cove has its own private boat launch. Lake James is the perfect getaway to enjoy the fall colors of the Blue Ridge Mountains!

Top guest favorite
A spacious mountain home is nestled among trees at the edge of a forest. The two-story structure features a combination of wood and stone accents, with multiple decks overlooking the natural surroundings.
Home in Nebo
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 44 reviews

Carpe Diem on Lake James private lakefront oasis

Welcome to my new construction home nestled in a quiet cove on Lake James. This mountain/lake oasis is set on a sprawling 1.5 acre waterfront estate and is a haven for those looking for all the comforts and amenities of a 5-star resort. Perfect for those looking to enjoy all the beauty and adventure awaiting in this mountain and lake retreat. While I often escape to this sanctuary for personal retreats, I believe in sharing its beauty with guests.

Guest favorite
A sectional sofa in inviting green upholstery, adorned with a mix of decorative pillows, is positioned around a round coffee table. A wooden staircase is visible in the background, leading to the upper loft space, while large windows provide natural light and views of the surrounding trees.
Cabin in Nebo
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 66 reviews

Mountain View Cozy Cabin - Penny's Peak

*FIRE PIT WITH MOUNTAIN VIEW * Community 10 acre Lake with Sand Beach * Community Hiking Trail to Waterfall * Community Game Area with Activities * 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom * 2 King rooms, 1 Twin room with trundle * Linens Included * Coffee Bar: * Keurig: Carafe & Single Serve * French Press * KCups/Ground Coffee/Teas/Hot Chocolate provided * Gas Fireplace * Smart TVs in Living Room and Master Bedroom * Weber Charcoal Grill

Superhost
A panoramic view showcases a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. The calm water reflects the sky, while a dock and a home are seen along the shoreline, emphasizing the tranquility of the natural setting.
Apartment in Nebo
4.71 out of 5 average rating, 7 reviews

Sail Away Suite

Enjoy morning views with coffee, evening drinks on the balcony, starlight at the fire pit and lazy days of swimming, picnicking, kayaking, or fishing from our private dock, no boats. Access to the community pool is just minutes away. Our area offers lots of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, rock climbing, tubing, water sports, and nearby boat rentals for a day out on the clear, crisp, water.

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