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Travel
Where the air is fresh and the vibes are immaculate
By Audrey Lee and Leah Muncy
Some of the most beautiful, vacation-worthy lakes in the world can be found in the United States, and thanks to Airbnb, many of the best lake house rentals are easily bookable with just a few clicks. To make things simple, we’ve picked out some of the nicest lakefront cottages, cabins, and guest houses across Airbnb right now, with amenities like saunas, hot tubs, and lakeside fire pits. (And while summer may be winding down, plenty of the rentals below have ample availability through August and September—just in time for a last-minute Labor Day getaway or family vacation.) You’ll want to book your stay ASAP, however; we suspect these great vacation rentals won’t be available for long.
All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Modern Mini Mansion Cabin in Kings Beach, California
1/20
Modern Mini Mansion Cabin in Kings Beach, California
This one’s all about rustic appeal with a modern twist. Enjoy all the cozy details this wood chalet has to offer, like a retro-looking gas fireplace, claw-foot bathtub, and dreamy bedroom skylight—all just a short distance from the shores of Lake Tahoe.
Modern Mountain Retreat
2/20
Modern Mountain Retreat in Tahoe City, California
Admire the beautiful views from the living room of this modern lake cabin where the picturesque mountain line is visible in the distance. This south-facing property just off Lake Tahoe is drenched in sunlight all day and includes access to a large deck, dry sauna, and hot tub for optimal relaxation. When you’re ready to go into town, it’s just a short drive to several restaurants and wineries.
Double-Decker Boathouse in White Lake, New York
3/20
Double-Decker Boathouse in White Lake, New York
Located just steps from White Lake in upstate New York, this double-decker boathouse offers private dock access, as well as optional kayak and private boat rentals from June through September. Along with a fully-stocked kitchen, both bedrooms have their own private showers and a vine-covered outdoor dining area—complete with a gas fire pit—that can comfortably accommodate up to six guests.
Lakefront Cottage With Year-Round Views
4/20
Lakefront Cottage with Year-Round Views
This newly-renovated cottage along Candlewood Lake—the largest lake within a 60-mile radius of New York City—is excellent for couples, friends, and families alike. Centrally located within a private community, the cottage is just a short walk to the beach, playgrounds, volleyball court, baseball fields, basketball court, and boat launch pad. The home and patio face west, making it especially ideal for catching beautiful lake sunsets year round.
Family-Friendly Lake House in Rollins, Montana
5/20
Family-Friendly Lake House in Rollins, Montana
Overlooking Montana’s Flathead Lake—and with its own private dock and fire pit—this three-story lake house offers three bedrooms and 270-degree views through its floor-to-ceiling windows. Spend the day on the water in your boat or kayak, then head inside and take advantage of the high-tech media room.
An Artist’s Eclectic Cottage on Lake Michigan
6/20
An Artist’s Eclectic Cottage on Lake Michigan
This roomy lakeside cottage is owned and furnished by furniture maker and ceramicist Floyd Gompf—with a warm, vintage-inspired interior you won’t help but want to photograph. When you aren’t swimming in Lake Michigan, the vacation rental is a short drive from several antique shops, farmers markets, restaurants, a movie theater, and a brewery (plus, it’s dog-friendly!).
Charming Centuries-Old Lakehouse–A Short Drive from NYC
7/20
Charming Centuries-Old Lakehouse — That’s A Short Drive from NYC
Located on the shores of Lake Oscawana in Putnam County—just over an hour from New York City—this impeccably designed waterfront home has an airy, almost English feel (it’s also very close to Fahnestock State Park’s many hiking trails). Along with four bedrooms and bathrooms, it offers an abundance of amenities, like a sauna, a fully-stocked kitchen, a boat dock, paddleboards, a kayak, and a canoe (the claw-foot tub in the stone bathroom—likely built in the late 1800s—is also a nice touch).
Quaint Scandinavian A-frame Getaway
8/20
Quaint Scandinavian A-frame Getaway in Rocky Mount, Missouri
This recently updated A-frame near Lake of the Ozarks offers peace and relaxation amid nature. With comforts like a midcentury fireplace, meditation nook, and sunset views, this Scandinavian-inspired retreat aims to fully reset and restore. Though if you’re not ready to totally unplug, it does offer both Wi-Fi and a smart TV.
Cabin at the Old Swiss Village in Osage Beach, Missouri
9/20
Cabin at the Old Swiss Village in Osage Beach, Missouri
This quaint stone cabin offers a modern living space with updated kitchen and bathroom amenities tucked within its cozy wood-panel walls. Take in the local fireworks shows and breathtaking sunset views from the nearby dock, or walk a short distance to Osage Beach for restful days enjoying the Ozark lake breezes (and because it’s pet-friendly, you won’t have to worry about finding a dog-sitter).
Barn Loft
10/20
Barn Loft in Hinesburg, Vermont
Rustic woodwork, open cathedral ceilings, and lots of natural sunlight add warmth to this barn turned vacation rental in Vermont. Centrally located near Burlington, the Green Mountains, and Lake Champlain, this rental will allow you to fill your days with hiking, swimming, and exploring local hot spots.
Camp Rousseau Cabin
11/20
Camp Rousseau Cabin in Keeseville, New York
Affectionately called Camp Rousseau, this secluded hideaway overlooks Willsboro Bay, Lake Champlain, and the Green Mountains of Vermont for breathtaking natural views year-round. Wood furniture and patterned decor accents give this forest green cabin a charming, rustic feel.
Modern Lake House With Waterfront Access
12/20
Modern Lake House with Waterfront Access in Manson, Washington
Next up on our list of the best lake house rentals, this guest cottage overlooking Lake Chelan is an oasis with stunning views from nearly every living space. When you’re not enjoying the tastefully minimal decor or amenities—like the impressive full kitchen—you and your guests can gather on the balcony each evening to watch the sunset.
Be Our Guest in Chelan, Washington
13/20
Be Our Guest in Chelan, Washington
Bright pops of purple, orange, and green decor make this modern cottage feel inviting. In this Lake Chelan–adjacent lodging, you’ll be able to relax and unwind thanks to plenty of natural sunlight, local pool access, and a cozy back porch that creates a welcoming experience for guests.
Stylish A-Frame Getaway in Granby, Colorado
14/20
Stylish A-Frame Getaway in Granby, Colorado
Watch as elk, antelope, and moose graze in the meadow below this refreshing getaway located within walking distance of Lake Granby. Equipped with two private decks and a hanging bench swing, this charming A-frame is the ideal place to take in the fresh mountain views and air while still enjoying convenient amenities like Wi-Fi access.
M22 Stone Cottage With Lake View
15/20
Stone Cottage with Lake View in Onekama, Michigan
Explore nearby lakes and beaches during your stay in this updated 1930s stone cottage located near Lake Michigan’s sprawling coast. This hideaway boasts modern amenities like an updated kitchenette, bathroom, and fire pit—ideal after long days spent hiking, biking, or kayaking.
Beautifully Renovated Home in Ludington, Michigan
16/20
Beautifully Renovated Home in Ludington, Michigan
This getaway is just a 10-minute stroll from Lake Michigan and a short drive away from the scenic views of Ludington State Park. Vacationers can enjoy the modern living room furnishings, bright wall accents, and impressive full kitchen during their time in this recently updated stay.
Private Getaway in Granby, Colorado
17/20
Private Getaway in Granby, Colorado
In this chic, four-bedroom “treehouse” cabin rental overlooking the Colorado mountains, you can enjoy tons of space and breathtaking views from either of the two private decks. Conveniently located minutes away from Lake Granby, it’s a good base for water sports, boating, mountain biking, and fishing.
Large Cabin on Orchard With Lake Views
18/20
Cozy Cabin on Orchard with Lake Views in Bigfork, Montana
If you’re looking for a unique vacation home, consider this Montana Airbnb with views of Flathead Lake and nearby mountain ranges. Located on an orchard that visitors are welcome to explore, this sweet cabin also offers secluded relaxation and lots of local hiking. (And if you’re not one to stick to an itinerary, enjoy easy self-check-in with a key code.)
Charming Cabin Close to Hiking, Lakes, and Rivers
19/20
Charming Cabin in Lakeside, Montana
Another secluded hideaway with fantastic views, this mountainside cabin has all the appeal that Montana wildlife has to offer. This spot is three miles from Flathead Lake, where jet skis, paddle boards, and fishing tours are readily available.
Pine Island Paradise
20/20
Pine Island Paradise in Karnack, Texas
Perfect for enjoying a bit of fishing, this stay has a fully equipped kitchen where you can cook up your catch of the day. On the property’s serene private dock, visitors can relax or have a meal while enjoying Caddo Lake’s calming breezes.
Audrey is the commerce editor at Architectural Digest based in New York City. She enjoys recommending products, writing about interiors, and catching up on last year’s Oscar-nominated films. Before joining AD she previously held roles at Business Insider and The Strategist.
Formerly a staff writer at New York Magazine (and later an interior design assistant), Leah Muncy has been covering the best things you can buy on the internet for nearly half a decade. She lives in New York with her cat, Pony, and currently works on the creative team at... Read more
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