TMTM

Vrbo

Cheapism is editorially independent. We may earn a commission if you buy through links on our site.
Vrbo

Shore Enough

In need of a vacation? We feel you. While some folks like to head to the ocean, a lakeside getaway can be more relaxing and a better value for your money. We've found 30 of the best lakeside rentals across America where you can take some time to recharge.


Prices and availability are subject to change.


Related: 35 Best Beach Towns for an Affordable Summer Vacation

Vrbo

Million $$ Panoramic Lake Views

Big Bear Lake, California
Book It


Located in the posh Eagle Point neighborhood, this 2,500-square-foot home (which was redecorated in 2019) has four bedrooms, three bathrooms, panoramic lake views, and a spacious floor plan. Unlike many of these listings, it allows pets and has a gated yard for your pup to run around in. Just imagine having your morning coffee on that deck.


Related: Beautiful Dog-Friendly Vacation Rentals Across America

Vrbo

FeatherNest on Big Bear Lake

Fawnskin, California
Book It


This one-bedroom, one-bathroom cottage offers a 180-degree view of the lake and a seasonal, private dock. There's a large deck and unobstructed views of the lake. The cabin proudly does not offer Wi-Fi or TV (though your phone should have service), offering even more of an escape from the day-to-day.

 

Related: The Most Remote Vacation Rentals Around the World

Vrbo

Spectacular Lakefront With Hot Tub and Dock

Boulder Bay, California
Book It


This cabin has three bedrooms (with eight beds altogether), three bathrooms, and 2,600 square feet of living space. There's also a private dock, a hot tub, a half-acre lot (with a fully fenced yard), and windows galore for gazing on Big Bear Lake. Inside, there's a game room complete with a pool table, too.

 

Related: Vacation Rentals for Large Groups & Family Reunions

Vrbo

Gilner Point on Big Bear Lake

San Bernardino County, California
Book It


Maybe you're looking for some lakeside luxury? If so, this rental may be exactly what you want. It has more than 3,000 square feet inside,  a ¾-acre beachfront, 35-foot ceilings, and a 700-square-foot glass enclosed patio with a built-in gas barbecue, gas fire pit, plus a brand new hot tub. There are four beds, two baths, lake views, mountain views, and reviewers have only wonderful things to say about it.

Vrbo

New Luxe Cabin

Lake Arrowhead, California
Book It


Located near San Bernardino, Lake Arrowhead is sometimes called the Alps of Southern California. This 3,000-square-foot cabin in Lake Arrowhead Village has six bedrooms, three bathrooms (sleeping 14 altogether), two decks, a fully stocked kitchen, and is pet-friendly. There's also a fully stocked kitchen for the chefs of the group. Reviewers call it "clean, spacious, and homey."


Related: A-Frame Cabins That Are Perfect for Fall Getaways

Vrbo

Lakefront Dream Luxury Estate

Boulder Bay, California
Book It


Another palatial cabin, this rental on Big Bear Lake is 5,000 square feet and has five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and thoughtful touches like a jetted spa, indoor sauna, a game room, and more. Head out in the morning to the private dock for a boating adventure, then head inside in the evening for a fire around the stone fireplace.

Vrbo

Quilt Maker Cottage on Sebasticook Lake

Penobscot County, Maine
Book It


This 600-square-foot cottage, right off a dirt road, offers a picture-perfect Maine getaway. There's a hammock. There's a boat dock, two kayaks, two paddle boards, a paddle boat, and a campfire pit (they provide the wood). There's a gas grill. Dogs are allowed. There's no Wi-Fi, but there is a sewing machine. Spend all day swimming, boating, fishing, and taking in the views.

Vrbo
Vrbo

Beautiful Burt Lake Family Getaway

Alanson, Michigan
Book It


Alanson is a tiny town (population 738 at the last census) located in Northern Michigan and known for its Inland Waterway, a stretch of connected lakes and rivers that span 38 miles. This home on Burt Lake has five bedrooms, four baths, a two-story great room, a walk-out basement, and more. Reviewers say it comfortably fits two families and mention the proximity to Little Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan.


Related: 20 Best Winter Home Rentals in America

Vrbo

Here & Now on Mullet Lake

Indian River, Michigan
Book It


This cottage offers three beds, two baths, and 102 feet of Mullet Lake frontage. There's a dock for boating, a large patio deck, a fireplace, and plenty of room to recharge in nature.

Vrbo

Burt Lake Guesthouse

Indian River, Michigan
Book It


Or maybe you're going solo or with a partner. This one-bed, one-bath property on Burt Lake offers 100 feet of beachfront, a breakfast deck, a hammock, and more. Swim, kayak, and sail to your heart's content, and enjoy the cottage, which was just remodeled in 2018. Reviewers praise the beauty of the location and note that the owners are prompt and helpful. The owners do warn that the property's rural internet service is slow and unreliable.


For more great travel guides and vacation tips, please sign up for our free newsletters.

Vrbo
Vrbo

Prime Location on Lake Winnipesaukee

Gilford, New Hampshire
Book It


This all-season cottage on a dead end has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fire pit, a sun deck, and a 30 foot lakefront porch. You can expect privacy, views, and a quintessentially New England lake getaway.

Vrbo

Camp Two Pines on Lake Placid

Town of North Elba, New York
Book It


Family-owned Camp Two Pines offers almost 300 feet of private frontage on Lake Placid. There are four bedrooms and four bathrooms, views of the Adirondacks, plus kayaks, paddleboard, and a large dock with a slip if you'd like to bring a boat.

Vrbo

Amazing Lake House With All Amenities

Alder Creek, New York
Book It


This four-bed, two-bath home on Kayuta Lake is set up for comfort. There's central air, a sauna, two showers plus a steam shower (and a tankless water heater so no one's showering cold), and a whirlpool tub. There's also a private dock, a stainless steel grill, and an extended deck. Reviewers say it's clean and comfortable, and the steam shower receives extensive praise.

Vrbo

Beautiful Retreat With Amazing Views

Town of Jerusalem, New York
Book It


Nestled in New York State's Finger Lakes region, this all-season log home is on over an acre of land, with waterfalls and wildlife nearby. There are four bedrooms, two bathrooms, 115 feet of Keuka Lake frontage, plus two lakeside decks. Make sure to check out the breweries and wineries nearby, as this region is world-renowned for its Riesling and more.


Related: The Most Beautiful Cabin in Every State

Vrbo

Charming Cottage With Private Beach

Town of Brant, New York
Book It


Styled after an early 1900s beach cottage but featuring modern amenities, this property on Lake Erie is a relaxing place to get away from it all. Built in 1919 but since renovated, it's less than 30 minutes away from downtown Buffalo, and has a "secret beach," kayaks, fire pits, a grill, and more. This home has two beds and one bath, but if you're a larger group, the home next door is also available to rent.

Vrbo

Luxurious Texoma Lakefront Home

Pottsboro, Texas
Book It


Only 150 feet of trees are between this home and the lakefront on the Texas side of Lake Texoma. There are five bedrooms (sleeping 10 altogether), three bathrooms, decks on several levels, and a fully stocked kitchen. Reviewers say it's clean and has incredible views.

Vrbo

Lakefront Living in Madison

Madison, Wisconsin
Book It


This home on Lake Monona has plenty to offer: three bedrooms, comfortable beds, three bathrooms, a pier and a boat lift, and even a bird-feeding station maintained by the owners. Fish from the shoreline or simply lounge about in your room — every room in this place has a lake view.

Vrbo

Madison-Area Lakefront Home

McFarland, Wisconsin
Book It


Just 15 minutes away from downtown Madison, this three-bed, two-bath cottage on Lake Waubesa has a large lawn, a deck, and a dock. The living room, dining room, kitchen, first floor bedroom and the upstairs master bedroom also all have lake views. And, just a five-minute walk will take you to McFarland's restaurants, bars, and shops.

Vrbo

Spacious Waterfront Property on Big Green Lake

Green Lake, Wisconsin
Book It


With room for 16 people, this five-bed, four-bath property has 100 feet of lake frontage. There are two homes available for rent if you have a larger party, plus a pier with boat slip, stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, bean bag toss, gas as well as charcoal grills, a fire pit, wrap around porches, and more, so your Green Lake getaway is a good mix of relaxation and recreation.

Vrbo

The Lost Lanai

Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Book It


Perhaps you're looking to see some Arizona wildlife. Perhaps an outdoor kitchen sounds appealing. Perhaps you'd like beach access. All of these options are available at this rental, which has one bedroom, one bathroom, and spectacular views of Lake Havasu.

Vrbo

Hip Lake Tahoe Condo

Dollar Point, California
Book It


This little one-bedroom, two-bathroom condo is on 95 acres, with a mile of lake frontage. Enjoy your morning coffee on the deck, then go for a walk in the evergreens before taking a pre-lunch dip in the lake. Reviewers call the cabin's design "eclectic" and "artsy."

Vrbo

Luxurious Lakefront Condo

Hollister, Missouri
Book It


Hollister is located in Southwestern Missouri, just minutes away from Branson, known for its amusement parks and family-friendly fun. This two-bedroom, two-bath condo in a gated community on Table Rock Lake has a fully stocked kitchen, a gas grill on the lake-facing balcony, a marina to store your boat (if you reserve it ahead), a nearby state park, a clubhouse, and more. A fun spot for a small family or a couple.


Related: 19 Destinations Where Houseboat Rentals Beat the Beach

Vrbo

Stunning Lake and Mountain Views

Town of North Elba, New York
Book It


This three-bed, two-bath rental is part of Loon Lodge at Whiteface Club Resort, and it gets high marks for views and convenience. It also is a beautiful space, one reviewer raves, "Every inch of this home was a work of art and the owners thought of everything a family could possibly want or need for the perfect vacation." And, its views of Lake Placid should give you plenty of Facebook photos to post, at least until your next vacation.

Vrbo

Luxury Lake House on Great Sacandaga Lake

Mayfield, New York
Book It


Located on a private road in the Adirondacks, this four-bedroom, two-bathroom home on Great Sacandaga Lake offers year-round, climate-controlled comfort. There's a sandy beach on the property, a hot tub, a patio, kayaks, and it happens to be just a minute from a golf course if you're a golfer.

Vrbo

Shiraz Haus on Lake Travis

Lago Vista, Texas
Book It


Perhaps you're trying to decide between a vineyard retreat and a lakefront retreat. With this rental, you can have both. It has two beds, one bath, lots of open living area, a large deck, and is 45 minutes from downtown Austin. Spend your days swimming, boating, jet skiing, and sailing before enjoying some local wine in the evening.

Vrbo

180-Degree Lake Views of Lake Champlain

North Hero, Vermont
Book It


Some 45 minutes north of Burlington, Vermont, lies North Hero on North Hero Island in Lake Champlain. This cottage has views of the Green Mountains, a screened-in porch, a dock for swimming and fishing, a screened-in porch, kayaks, a canoe, a rowboat, and more. It's also a little over an hour's drive to Montreal if you'd like an easy day trip to a bigger city.

Vrbo

Angler's Retreat on Lake Petenwell

Arkdale, Wisconsin
Book It


Located in tiny Arkdale, Wisconsin, this lake home had three bedrooms, 2½ baths, and plenty of outdoor space for lounging in nature. It offers a dock, an open floor plan, a deck, and a wall of windows overlooking Lake Petenwell. Reviewers praise the clean space, the abundance of nearby nature, and the large driveway.


Related: Best Fishing Spots in All 50 States

Vrbo

Tranquility Way

Stoughton, Wisconsin
Book It


This Stoughton Lake home with two beds and one full bath offers a fully stocked chef's kitchen, a futon (to make the house comfortable for up to six people), and plenty of outdoor space for birdwatching and recreation. The minimum stay is seven days.