Waterfront vacation rentals in New Hanover County

Find and book unique waterfront rentals on Airbnb

Top-rated waterfront rentals in New Hanover County

Guests agree: these waterfront rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Guest favorite
A spacious home is seen from above, featuring a private pool in the foreground and serene pond views beyond. Surrounding gardens provide a natural setting, while lush trees frame the landscape, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Home in Wilmington
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 133 reviews

River Road Retreat - Heated Private Pool, Pond, Fi

Private pool, pond views, gardens, and a 10 minute drive to the beach! This home backs up to a nature preserve. Relax by the pool and tiki bar area watching TV or enjoying music. Pool Heater: Our pool is open and maintained year round. The pool heater can reliably generate heat as long as the outside temperatures are above 50 degrees which will generally be from March to November, however in our area it is not unusual for us to have warm days at any time of year. Many vacation rental propert

Top guest favorite
A dog is captured mid-leap from a wooden dock into the calm waters of a tidal marsh. The scene features lush golden marsh grass reflecting in the water, with trees lining the horizon under a clear blue sky. A serene and natural setting is highlighted.
Cabin in Wilmington
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 267 reviews

Beautiful Bradley Creek Residence

Erik's tidal marsh waterfront property close to UNCW, Airlie Gardens, Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), Wrightsville Beach, US-17/Ocean-Highway, I-40 & 8 miles to ILM airport–available only when I'm in Costa Rica! Bike, fish, kayak, paddle, run, skateboard, walk to UNCW. Observe tidal events, watch animals & birds, chill, relax, go surf, practice yoga on deck, pier & grass! Optimal for nature loving couple or tight singles willing to deal with 1943 house. Good vibes included at no extra costs! :-)

Top guest favorite
A scenic view of the Intracoastal Waterway features a long wooden pier extending into calm waters, framed by lush greenery and marsh grass. Nearby, small boats can be seen anchored, with a distant island adding to the tranquil coastal landscape under a clear blue sky.
Cottage in Wilmington
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 141 reviews

The Cove At Myrtle Grove

Come relax and enjoy this comfy house nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway and ​the Masonboro​ Island Reserve​. Enjoy many waterfront views from inside the cottage, outside on the deck, around the fire-pit, playing games, or on the hosts' private pier. You can see lots of boats, a wide variety of native wildlife, sunrises, and more. Pier activities include fishing, lounging, or docking your own small boat, kayaks, etc. Minutes from the beaches, board walks, fine dining, boating, and more.

Top guest favorite
A private balcony offers views of the Cape Fear River, showcasing a table set with two glasses and a wine bottle. The scene is illuminated by twilight, with the USS North Carolina Battleship visible in the distance against a vibrant sunset.
Condo in Wilmington
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 293 reviews

Panoramic Riverview * Heart of Downtown w/ Parking

Relax on your private balcony overlooking the Cape Fear River, with an unbelievable view of the USS North Carolina Battleship, and it's an excellent spot for people-watching! Unbeatable spot for enjoying the vibrant downtown on foot. The River District has over 40 locally-owned restaurants, pubs, and cafés, most of which are within a 5-10 minute easy walk. The Convention Center is a 10-minute walk. Live Oak Pavilion is a 20-minute walk. Parking pass to the nearby covered deck included.

Superhost
A private balcony features a hanging chair and an adirondack chair, providing a comfortable seating space. A small table sits between the chairs, with the ocean visible beyond the railing. The walls are painted in a soft blue, complementing the coastal atmosphere.
Condo in Kure Beach
4.81 out of 5 average rating, 165 reviews

Oceanfront Condo With Balcony and Pool

Welcome to our beachfront 1 bedroom condo at "The Riggings"! Enjoy the stunning ocean views from the comfort of your own private balcony. Inside, you'll find a cozy queen size bed, perfect for a romantic getaway or a solo retreat. We also have a twin size bunk bed and a pull out couch, making it perfect for families or groups of friends. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a relaxing solo trip, our beachfront condo has everything you need for a perfect stay.

Top guest favorite
A light-filled living area features a comfortable sofa, accent chairs, and a coffee table atop a textured rug. A wall-mounted television is positioned across from the seating. The open layout leads to a kitchen dining area visible in the background, illuminated by natural light.
Home in Wrightsville Beach
5 out of 5 average rating, 118 reviews

On Island Time

Beautifully located in the tree lined Harbor Island community of Wrightsville Beach. Amazing view of Banks Channel from the top floor porch/sunroom along with the back door stunning sunset view over the marsh and elementary school. Enjoy riding our bikes, paddling on provided kayaks in Banks Channel across the street, a jog around the famous 2.5 mi loop, or a fun day at the beach! Easy 10-minute walk or very short bike ride to the beach, bars, restaurants, coffee, shopping, and ice cream!

Top guest favorite
A sunset casts a warm glow over the water, with hues of orange and yellow reflecting on the surface. In the foreground, two glasses of wine rest beside a bottle on a white railing, offering a serene view of the river and a boat anchored nearby.
Apartment in Wilmington
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 151 reviews

Riverfront sunset balcony + free covered parking

Our space has earned an Airbnb Guest Favorite badge! Enjoy all the Cape Fear riverwalk offers in the heart of charming, lively downtown Wilmington. Stroll along the picturesque riverwalk. Take advantage of fun couple- or family-friendly activities. Experience a hopping nightlife, with a variety of cuisines and North Carolina’s best microbreweries. Walk home to your quiet, restful condo on the river, whose beautiful sunsets and many amenities guarantee a memorable, rejuvenating stay.

Top guest favorite
A round table with two turquoise chairs is set up on the balcony, featuring two glasses of red drinks and a bottle in the center. The background showcases a scenic view of the River with the setting sun casting a warm glow across the water.
Condo in Wilmington
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 556 reviews

Spectacular Riverfront w/ Parking & A King Bed!

This is genuinely the BEST location in downtown Wilmington! Your balcony is directly over the River Walk with a huge unobstructed view of the River and gorgeous sunsets! A Parking spot, king size bed & multi jet spa shower is included! This bright, newly renovated space is unique because of the enormous balcony overlooking the Cape Fear River and the attention to detail that will make your stay perfect! We use high-end furnishings with extra touches to make your stay unforgettable!

Top guest favorite
An aerial view from a covered balcony displays a serene dusk sky, transitioning from soft purple to deep blue. The Cape Fear River is visible below, with scattered lights reflecting off the water surface. A drone is captured in flight, adding a modern touch to the tranquil scene.
Condo in Wilmington
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 421 reviews

Pop’s Villa - 8th Floor - Waterfront

In the Heart of Historic Downtown Wilmington. The views from the private covered balcony are incredible!! The sunrise, to the east and front balcony or sunsets facing west, incredible!!! Walking distance many restaurants, art galleries, and shopping...River boat cruises, historical tours, & the theatre! Easy check-in!! Parking is included for 1 vehicle, and is a short walk away, so park your car, and forget about it. Everything is within walking Distance!

Top guest favorite
A spacious bedroom features a large bed dressed in a light-colored patterned comforter with decorative pillows. Two bedside tables with lamps are positioned on either side of the bed. Natural light enters through a window adorned with light curtains, illuminating the wood flooring.
Condo in Southport
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 133 reviews

Stones Throw to downtown Southport

Welcome to our gorgeous 1 bedroom/ 1bath home away from home! These roomy accommodations are just steps from the Southport Marina and in the heart of historic Southport. You have at your disposal boat parking, outdoor pool area, and walking access to Southport's many charms, such as fine dining and shopping. Bikes and beach chairs are in the closet in the covered parking. Your relaxation begins with easy self check-in and keyless entry! Enjoy your stay.

Top guest favorite
A calm waterway reflects the expansive sky dotted with soft clouds. Lush green marsh grasses line the banks, creating a serene landscape. A small island is visible in the distance, along with a boat gliding gently across the water's surface.
Cottage in Wilmington
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 360 reviews

Waterside Cottage 'HoriZen'

This is a recently renovated rustic 1947 cottage with an outstanding view of and access to the Intracoastal Waterway. It is perfect for meditation or quiet time by the water's edge, or for fishing, art, reading, writing, kayaking or paddleboarding. It is close to Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Topsail Island and Hampstead where there is shopping, restaurants, outdoor and cultural activities and beautiful beaches. It's old, but it is full of charm!

Guest favorite
A charming exterior view of the home is presented, showcasing a welcoming front porch with steps leading up to it. Soft lighting highlights the entrance, while surrounding trees create a natural backdrop. A peaceful atmosphere is suggested by the lush grass and nearby vehicles.
Guest suite in Wilmington
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 699 reviews

Pond View Loft Apt

The Pond View Loft Apartment offers a private retreat on a quiet three-acre wooded property with a beautiful spring-fed three-quarter-acre stocked pond. Conveniently located just seven miles from Wrightsville Beach and ten miles from downtown Wilmington, the loft provides the perfect balance of seclusion and accessibility. Shopping, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a movie theater, are also nearby.

Popular amenities for New Hanover County waterfront rentals

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