If you’ve been dreading this summer’s sticky, sweaty heat, take a break from the high temps and retreat to a lakefront getaway. Across the country, waterfront vacation rentals offer pleasant breezes, decks with views aplenty, and a chance to cool off.
Even more important, staring at the water for a few hours is sure to get your head in a better place. We’ve rounded up seven lakeside retreats sure to have you booking a plane ticket (or packing up the car), stat.
Looking for other top-notch vacation rentals? Don’t miss our roundups on glamping yurts, geodesic domes, and Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes for rent.
A lakefront desert retreat in New Mexico
The house: This two-bedroom, two-bath oasis in Northern New Mexico is a custom adobe-style home on 22 acres. Perks include a fireplace, heated patios, hot tub built into the rocks, and a fire pit overlooking the arroyo.
The lake: The beautiful Abiquiu Lake is 70 miles north of Santa Fe with majestic mountain and desert views. There’s a hiking path to the lake from the house and a cove perfect for fishing and swimming.
The price: $215 per night
A love shack on Lake Superior
The house: Perched on a 500-foot cliff, this simple, off-the-grid cabin features a wood-burning sauna, water, gas heat, and a large screened-in patio so you can enjoy the views bug free.
The lake: Pine trees and sparkling water await on Lake Superior, and the cabin’s cliffside location makes for panoramic water views.
The price: $85 per night
Beachfront house in Lake Tahoe
The house: This four-bedroom, five-bath home on Tahoe’s west shore can sleep eight people and boasts three master suits. You also get a big fireplace and easy access to Homewood Resort or Tahoe City.
The lake: Directly in front of the house, the rental comes with a sandy beach, barbecue area, 200-foot pier, and access to the nearby marina. Throw in the provided beach chairs and kayaks and you have quite the water vacation.
The price: $1,626 per night
A fishing cabin in Washington
The house: A cute cabin with beds for four, the interior provides simple amenities, water views, and one bedroom with one-and-a-half baths. An expansive deck is perfect for reading a book or watching the sunset.
The lake: This private 0.5-acre pond is only available to guests and is perfect for swimming or fishing for trout. And if it gets too chilly in the evenings for a swim, you can always warm up in the property’s hot tub.
The price: $209 per night
Vermont treehouse on Walker Pond
The house: The treehouse is partially supported by two white pine trees and features a winding staircase to the bedroom upstairs. Other perks include a cedar hot tub, private deck, and fire pit.
The lake: Located on 40 acres of forest, Walker Pond is a picturesque spot for canoeing, fishing, and relaxation.
The price: $230 per night
A cabin on Lake Arrowhead in California
The house: With room for six, this three-bedroom, two-bath home sits on a quiet lane with gorgeous lake views. It’s pet friendly, includes water gear and two kayaks, and is ideal for families.
The lake: This privately owned lake is 14 around and 185 deep, and the rental comes with membership for up to 10 adults at the marina, yacht club, and beaches.
The price: $308 per night
Over-the-water bungalow in Florida
The house: This pet-friendly abode sleeps six at the end of a dock that stretches over 250 feet from the land. Outdoor decks let you take advantage of the water views, and there are two screened-in porches and a hammock.
The lake: It doesn’t get much closer to the water than this home on Crescent Lake. The perfect spot for boating and seeing wildlife.
The price: $225 per night
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