There’s something about being near the water that’s so perfectly peaceful. The tranquility and peace of a beautiful lake, resplendent river, or endless ocean prompts a sense of awe and wonder and calms a busy mind. And whether you’re by the coast or smack in the center of a landlocked state, opportunities to stay on — not simply “by” — the water abound in this beautiful country of ours. So pack a bag and get ready for some soul-soothing R&R when you stay on the water at these jaw-dropping accommodations across America.
Ross Lake Resort - Rockport, Washington
Ross Lake Resort/Facebook Ross Lake in Washington is located in the North Cascades, in a region of the state that can only be described as a nature lover’s paradise. That’s where you’ll find Ross Lake Resort, a collection of 12 cabins and three bunkhouses built on log floats not next to but actually on the lake, making for what’s quite possibly the dreamiest getaway in the Evergreen State. The resort is located on the west side of Ross Lake, just north of Ross Dam. Since there is no road access, there are two ways to get here: go for a hike, or take a ride on the Diablo Lake Ferry, which meets up with the Ross Lake Resort Truck. This adventure is merely a preview of what’s to come: an off-the-grid experience on the water in the wondrous wilds of Washington! Ross Lake Resort, 503 Diablo St, Rockport, WA 98283, USA
Cannery Pier Hotel and Spa - Astoria, Oregon
Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa/Facebook There’s a reason the #pnwonderland hashtag is a thing: because the Pacific Northwest is, quite literally, a wonderland. And nowhere is this epitomized more than the Cannery Pier Hotel and Spa, an Oregon accommodation located, quite literally, on the commanding Columbia River in Astoria. At the Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, guests get to experience Astoria in a wholly immersive and unprecedented way. You see, this hotel is actually located 600 feet into the river, offering guests an unrivaled waterfront experience. Every room boasts beautiful views and a private balcony for a front-row show to the fascinating life of a real working river. Amenities also include soaking tubs and binoculars for relaxing and enjoying these perfect panoramas. What a remarkable place to stay! Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, 10 Basin St, Astoria, OR 97103, USA
The Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort - Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
The Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort/Facebook With one look at The Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort, you’ll forget everything you thought you knew about Idaho. The Coeur d’Alene Resort is a stunning, world-class resort in the idyllic North Idaho city of Coeur d’Alene. Best-known as the site of the world’s only floating golf course, this entire resort is an incredible experience. Rooms at resort are located in three sections: the 17-story Lake Tower rises above downtown Coeur d’Alene on the north shore of beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene; The Park Tower features midsize rooms with views of the lake, city, and mountains; while The North Wing provides bucket-list-level accommodation options on a budget. Combined with the epic vistas, top-tier restaurants, and next-level spa services offered at the resort, and you have the makings of a truly extraordinary experience – in the most unexpected of places. The Coeur d’Alene Resort, 115 S 2nd St, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814, USA
Shasta Lake, California
Shunyu Fan/iStock via Getty Images Plus Shasta Lake is a favorite California house boating haunt where you can rent a vessel like The Empress and motor out to explore the largest manmade lake in the state. Carpeted with tall evergreen trees, the lake’s shoreline is mostly steep and mountainous, with many coves and waterfalls to explore, that is, when you’re not hiking a wilderness trail ashore or tossing out a line to snag one of the lake’s prized catches. But with views for days, you might be tempted to stay on board and simply soak it all up (drink in hand, of course); and for that, we wouldn’t blame you. Shasta Lake, CA 96019, USA
Geodome - Lake Travis, Texas
Airbnb With its commanding perch overlooking Lake Travis, this epic geodesic dome home might be the coolest place to stay in Texas. In true Texas form, everything about this 3,500-square foot geodome is larger than life, from its five full bedrooms and chef’s kitchen to its top-floor library tower that offers 360-degree Hill Country views. Only 30 minutes from Austin, this tranquil getaway makes for an unforgettable adventure where you’ll feel as though you’re on top of the world. Leander, TX 78641, USA
Tiki Suites - Key West, Florida
Airbnb We shouldn’t play favorites, but there is perhaps nothing more bucket-list worthy than this floating slice of paradise in Key West, Florida.. You’ll need to charter a boat ride to access the one-bedroom, one-bathroom Tiki Suites, which come decked with a hammock, stand-up paddleboards, air conditioning, smart technology, and generator-powered electricity. Amenities aside, the best feature of this bobbing abode is the spectacular surrounding scenery. Where else can you watch dancing dolphins and manatees while eating breakfast? Key West, FL 33040, USA
Flamingo Campground - Everglades National Park, Florida
Flamingo Everglades/Facebook The Florida Everglades is one of the most mesmerizing parts of the entire state – and country. Comprised of 1.5 million acres of wetland preserves, visitors to the Everglades often get a showcasing of nature that isn’t found anywhere else. With the hundreds of animal species throughout, not to mention the various terrains from coastal mangroves to marshes, the Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the country, and truly a bucket-list must. If you’ve ever wanted to spend the night in the middle of this real-life Garden of Eden, you can. In the heart of the national park, Flamingo Campground is home to a collection of eco-tents right on the marshes, for an immersive Everglades experience that’s second to none. Just watch out for wildlife! Flamingo, FL 33034, USA
Table Rock Lake Houseboat Rentals - Table Rock Lake, Missouri
Five Star Houseboat Vacations LLC/Facebook Luxury comes in all forms, and this houseboat on Table Rock Lake is peak luxury. In fact, these floating dwellings are so luxurious and lovely, you’ll probably have to book your stay far in advance – they’re that popular. But the extra planning is worth it. Each floating home features between four and seven bedrooms, making these anything but your typical cramped-quarter waterfront dwelling. Amenities such as hot tubs, gas grills, fully equipped kitchens, and double decks make this an amazing experience that, when paired with the pristine lakeside scenery, is truly bucket-list worthy. Table Rock Lake, United States
Ebel’s Voyageur Houseboats - Orr, Minnesota
EBELS VOYAGEUR HOUSEBOATS/Facebook Newly designated among the nation’s Dark Sky Parks, Northern Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park is a place of extraordinary natural beauty: pristine waters, towering trees, and a world-class house boating experience that feels both remote yet well-connected. Near the Canadian border and Boundary Waters, Voyagers sprawls across five natural lakes, without a single road running through. Rent a houseboat with an local outfitter such as Ebel’s Voyageur Houseboats and you can spend your days fishing, hiking the lush forests, and swimming in the cool Minnesota waters. Some of the houseboat models from Ebel’s boast screened-in porches and wrap-around decks, making for a wholly immersive experience in this epic wilderness. Ebel’s Voyageur Houseboats, 10326 Ash River Trail, Orr, MN 55771, USA
Floathause of Saugatuck - Saugatuck, Michigan
Airbnb Not only is the Floathause of Saugatuck an absolutely stunning accommodation, it’s also located within close proximity to an abundance of hiking opportunities: Saugatuck Dunes State Park, the Lake Michigan Dunes, and Mount Baldhead, plus the completely beguiling Saugatuck business district of Saugatuck. But prime location aside, you might not actually want to leave this charming floating house, which was inspired by the iconic floating homes found in the Pacific Northwest. The Floathouse was built locally and is a thing of beauty; this bright and airy, perfectly decorated 400-square foot dwelling comfortably sleeps up to six and includes numerous in-house amenities and those offered at the marina. the floathaus of saugutuck, Saugatuck, MI 49453, USA
Floating Cabins at Green River Marina - Green River Lake, Kentucky
Facebook/ Green River Lake- Visit Campbellsville KY Those not native to the Bluegrass are always blown away by the abundant bodies of water found in the state: 45 major lakes, to be exact. And Green River Lake is one of the state’s best and most beautiful. Spanning 8,000 acres and with 147 miles of shoreline, it’s a water lover’s paradise, and the well-appointed Floating Cabins at Green River Marina are dwellings worthy of this bucket-list destination. These Green River Lake floating cabins range in size from two to four bedrooms; some are single-story units, while others offer a second level and scenic balcony. A boardwalk connects the houseboats, which all come with a spot to keep a boat or other watercraft. Personal decks invite the outdoors in, providing million dollar views of one of the most beautiful lakes in the South. Green River Marina, 2892 Lone Valley Rd, Campbellsville, KY 42718, USA
Erie Canal Adventures - Macedon, New York
Erie Canal Adventures/Facebook It’s no exaggeration at all to say that the Erie Canal made New York the powerhouse of business and politics that it is today. It’s an American marvel, and a bucket-list must. And there’s no better way to experience the canal than, well, from the canal. Today, the canal is used most frequently for recreational, not commercial, boating, and while there are day tours available, we recommend going big and renting a canal boat for the night with Erie Canal Adventures. With private cabins, expansive kitchens, and full bathrooms, you’ll float down the commanding canal in the lap of luxury, soaking up incredible natural scenery, architecture, and history along the way. Erie Canal Adventures, 1125 Marina Pkwy, Macedon, NY 14502, USA
The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel - Kennebunkport, Maine
The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel & Restaurant/Facebook For the ultimate Maine experience, book a stay at The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel & Restaurant, an irresistibly charming accommodation in one of the state’s most irresistibly charming towns. The hotel, which sits directly on the Kennebunk River and just minutes from the ocean, offers 25 guest rooms in two different buildings. Everything here is light and modern, and each room and common space exudes the rustic and nautical vibes of Maine. Rooms feature bespoke decor from local designers, infusing a bit of whimsy to these well-appointed spaces. Of course, what’s outside the rooms is even better than what’s inside; the harbor views of Coastal Kennebunkport are nothing short of magical. The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel, 21 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, ME 04046, USA
For those who love the water, nothing compares to a waterfront getaway. But actually staying on the water? That takes things to the next level entirely, for a truly bucket-list worthy experience.
Ross Lake Resort/Facebook
Ross Lake in Washington is located in the North Cascades, in a region of the state that can only be described as a nature lover’s paradise. That’s where you’ll find Ross Lake Resort, a collection of 12 cabins and three bunkhouses built on log floats not next to but actually on the lake, making for what’s quite possibly the dreamiest getaway in the Evergreen State. The resort is located on the west side of Ross Lake, just north of Ross Dam. Since there is no road access, there are two ways to get here: go for a hike, or take a ride on the Diablo Lake Ferry, which meets up with the Ross Lake Resort Truck. This adventure is merely a preview of what’s to come: an off-the-grid experience on the water in the wondrous wilds of Washington!
Ross Lake Resort, 503 Diablo St, Rockport, WA 98283, USA
Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa/Facebook
There’s a reason the #pnwonderland hashtag is a thing: because the Pacific Northwest is, quite literally, a wonderland. And nowhere is this epitomized more than the Cannery Pier Hotel and Spa, an Oregon accommodation located, quite literally, on the commanding Columbia River in Astoria. At the Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, guests get to experience Astoria in a wholly immersive and unprecedented way. You see, this hotel is actually located 600 feet into the river, offering guests an unrivaled waterfront experience. Every room boasts beautiful views and a private balcony for a front-row show to the fascinating life of a real working river. Amenities also include soaking tubs and binoculars for relaxing and enjoying these perfect panoramas. What a remarkable place to stay!
Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa, 10 Basin St, Astoria, OR 97103, USA
The Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort/Facebook
With one look at The Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort, you’ll forget everything you thought you knew about Idaho. The Coeur d’Alene Resort is a stunning, world-class resort in the idyllic North Idaho city of Coeur d’Alene. Best-known as the site of the world’s only floating golf course, this entire resort is an incredible experience. Rooms at resort are located in three sections: the 17-story Lake Tower rises above downtown Coeur d’Alene on the north shore of beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene; The Park Tower features midsize rooms with views of the lake, city, and mountains; while The North Wing provides bucket-list-level accommodation options on a budget. Combined with the epic vistas, top-tier restaurants, and next-level spa services offered at the resort, and you have the makings of a truly extraordinary experience – in the most unexpected of places.
The Coeur d’Alene Resort, 115 S 2nd St, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814, USA
Shunyu Fan/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Shasta Lake is a favorite California house boating haunt where you can rent a vessel like The Empress and motor out to explore the largest manmade lake in the state. Carpeted with tall evergreen trees, the lake’s shoreline is mostly steep and mountainous, with many coves and waterfalls to explore, that is, when you’re not hiking a wilderness trail ashore or tossing out a line to snag one of the lake’s prized catches. But with views for days, you might be tempted to stay on board and simply soak it all up (drink in hand, of course); and for that, we wouldn’t blame you.
Shasta Lake, CA 96019, USA
Airbnb
With its commanding perch overlooking Lake Travis, this epic geodesic dome home might be the coolest place to stay in Texas. In true Texas form, everything about this 3,500-square foot geodome is larger than life, from its five full bedrooms and chef’s kitchen to its top-floor library tower that offers 360-degree Hill Country views. Only 30 minutes from Austin, this tranquil getaway makes for an unforgettable adventure where you’ll feel as though you’re on top of the world.
Leander, TX 78641, USA
We shouldn’t play favorites, but there is perhaps nothing more bucket-list worthy than this floating slice of paradise in Key West, Florida.. You’ll need to charter a boat ride to access the one-bedroom, one-bathroom Tiki Suites, which come decked with a hammock, stand-up paddleboards, air conditioning, smart technology, and generator-powered electricity. Amenities aside, the best feature of this bobbing abode is the spectacular surrounding scenery. Where else can you watch dancing dolphins and manatees while eating breakfast?
Key West, FL 33040, USA
Flamingo Everglades/Facebook
The Florida Everglades is one of the most mesmerizing parts of the entire state – and country. Comprised of 1.5 million acres of wetland preserves, visitors to the Everglades often get a showcasing of nature that isn’t found anywhere else. With the hundreds of animal species throughout, not to mention the various terrains from coastal mangroves to marshes, the Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the country, and truly a bucket-list must. If you’ve ever wanted to spend the night in the middle of this real-life Garden of Eden, you can. In the heart of the national park, Flamingo Campground is home to a collection of eco-tents right on the marshes, for an immersive Everglades experience that’s second to none. Just watch out for wildlife!
Flamingo, FL 33034, USA
Five Star Houseboat Vacations LLC/Facebook
Luxury comes in all forms, and this houseboat on Table Rock Lake is peak luxury. In fact, these floating dwellings are so luxurious and lovely, you’ll probably have to book your stay far in advance – they’re that popular. But the extra planning is worth it. Each floating home features between four and seven bedrooms, making these anything but your typical cramped-quarter waterfront dwelling. Amenities such as hot tubs, gas grills, fully equipped kitchens, and double decks make this an amazing experience that, when paired with the pristine lakeside scenery, is truly bucket-list worthy.
Table Rock Lake, United States
EBELS VOYAGEUR HOUSEBOATS/Facebook
Newly designated among the nation’s Dark Sky Parks, Northern Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park is a place of extraordinary natural beauty: pristine waters, towering trees, and a world-class house boating experience that feels both remote yet well-connected. Near the Canadian border and Boundary Waters, Voyagers sprawls across five natural lakes, without a single road running through. Rent a houseboat with an local outfitter such as Ebel’s Voyageur Houseboats and you can spend your days fishing, hiking the lush forests, and swimming in the cool Minnesota waters. Some of the houseboat models from Ebel’s boast screened-in porches and wrap-around decks, making for a wholly immersive experience in this epic wilderness.
Ebel’s Voyageur Houseboats, 10326 Ash River Trail, Orr, MN 55771, USA
Not only is the Floathause of Saugatuck an absolutely stunning accommodation, it’s also located within close proximity to an abundance of hiking opportunities: Saugatuck Dunes State Park, the Lake Michigan Dunes, and Mount Baldhead, plus the completely beguiling Saugatuck business district of Saugatuck. But prime location aside, you might not actually want to leave this charming floating house, which was inspired by the iconic floating homes found in the Pacific Northwest. The Floathouse was built locally and is a thing of beauty; this bright and airy, perfectly decorated 400-square foot dwelling comfortably sleeps up to six and includes numerous in-house amenities and those offered at the marina.
the floathaus of saugutuck, Saugatuck, MI 49453, USA
Facebook/ Green River Lake- Visit Campbellsville KY
Those not native to the Bluegrass are always blown away by the abundant bodies of water found in the state: 45 major lakes, to be exact. And Green River Lake is one of the state’s best and most beautiful. Spanning 8,000 acres and with 147 miles of shoreline, it’s a water lover’s paradise, and the well-appointed Floating Cabins at Green River Marina are dwellings worthy of this bucket-list destination. These Green River Lake floating cabins range in size from two to four bedrooms; some are single-story units, while others offer a second level and scenic balcony. A boardwalk connects the houseboats, which all come with a spot to keep a boat or other watercraft. Personal decks invite the outdoors in, providing million dollar views of one of the most beautiful lakes in the South.
Green River Marina, 2892 Lone Valley Rd, Campbellsville, KY 42718, USA
Erie Canal Adventures/Facebook
It’s no exaggeration at all to say that the Erie Canal made New York the powerhouse of business and politics that it is today. It’s an American marvel, and a bucket-list must. And there’s no better way to experience the canal than, well, from the canal. Today, the canal is used most frequently for recreational, not commercial, boating, and while there are day tours available, we recommend going big and renting a canal boat for the night with Erie Canal Adventures. With private cabins, expansive kitchens, and full bathrooms, you’ll float down the commanding canal in the lap of luxury, soaking up incredible natural scenery, architecture, and history along the way.
Erie Canal Adventures, 1125 Marina Pkwy, Macedon, NY 14502, USA
The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel & Restaurant/Facebook
For the ultimate Maine experience, book a stay at The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel & Restaurant, an irresistibly charming accommodation in one of the state’s most irresistibly charming towns. The hotel, which sits directly on the Kennebunk River and just minutes from the ocean, offers 25 guest rooms in two different buildings. Everything here is light and modern, and each room and common space exudes the rustic and nautical vibes of Maine. Rooms feature bespoke decor from local designers, infusing a bit of whimsy to these well-appointed spaces. Of course, what’s outside the rooms is even better than what’s inside; the harbor views of Coastal Kennebunkport are nothing short of magical.
The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel, 21 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, ME 04046, USA
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