Our research is editorially independent but we may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.

9 Best Waterfront Vacation Rentals in Utah

Utah is a picturesque destination home to an abundance of noteworthy water features, whether it be a rushing river full of salmon or trout, a reflective lake tucked within Alpine mountains or a massive recreation hub where everyone brings their boats, kayaks, and canoes. Regardless, the mountains and iconic structures that dot the state just enhance the beauty of these beloved water-focused destinations. To help you best experience this, we have come up with a list of the best waterfront rentals in Utah, that suit a variation of travel styles and interests.

Riverside Shipping Container Tiny Home Near Zion - Virgin Riverside Shipping Container Tiny Home near Zion
Credit: Riverside Shipping Container Tiny Home near Zion by Airbnb.com

Riverside Shipping Container Tiny Home Near Zion - Virgin

Stay riverfront while being extremely close to Zion National Park. Enjoy privacy, and an escape from the Zion crowds at the end of the day, within this adorable shipping container, tiny home retreat. Inside is modern, yet cozy, with herringbone wood patterns, shiplap walls, and a ladder leading to the sleeping loft. Guests consistently note the space to be thoughtfully prepared, neat, and a perfect place to unwind.

Bear Lake Whiskey N Water Lake House - Garden City Bear Lake Whiskey N Water Lake House
Credit: Bear Lake Whiskey N Water Lake House by airbnb.com

Bear Lake Whiskey N Water Lake House - Garden City

Located on “the Caribbean of the Rockies“, also known as Bear Lake, guests will be treated to a unique yet highly accommodating space. When entering the living room, the first noteworthy attribute is the cylinder fireplace constructed of brick, and the ultra inviting seating that circles it. In the kitchen, is an aquatic vibe, and glistening naturalistic countertops. Outside, you will find the jewel blue waters of Bear Lake, which will certainly make for a stunning vacation.

Charming Woodland Cabin with Stunning River View - Richfield Charming Woodland Cabin with Stunning River View
Credit: Charming Woodland Cabin with Stunning River View by airbnb.com

Charming Woodland Cabin with Stunning River View - Richfield

The Sevier River is a central/southern Utah gym, that is perfect just to look at, or to fish! Purchase a Utah fishing license, and bring along a pole, to reel in some beautiful trout. The cabin is ideally minimalistic. Inside, guests will find cozy bedding, a kitchenette, and a table to dine at. Note that the restrooms are in a separate building on the property. If you’re looking to disconnect from the high traffic of Salt Lake City, this little nook might be just what you need. Just a few minutes up the road is Richfield, where you’ll find both local and chain restaurants.

40 Acre Retreat in the Escalante Canyon - Escalante 40 Acre Retreat in the Escalante Canyon
Credit: 40 Acre Retreat in the Escalante Canyon by Vrbo.com

40 Acre Retreat in the Escalante Canyon - Escalante

Escalante National Monument is close to both Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef. A cross between a cabin and a traditional home, the rental presents in a cozy fashion. From the open kitchen to the vibrantly blue tile bathroom, the until itself is enough to attract any vacationer. But the big show-stopping aspect is that it sits on a river, near Escalante. Meander a short way down, and find a sparkling swimming hole for afternoons full of memory-making. Adding more fun to the adventure is the low water river crossing that vehicles will need to conquer when making their way to the property.

The Lighthouse at Yuba Lake - Levan The Lighthouse at Yuba Lake front private beach dock boat NEW xl family reunion
Credit: The Lighthouse at Yuba Lake front private beach dock boat NEW xl family reunion by Vrbo.com

The Lighthouse at Yuba Lake - Levan

Yuba Lake is a little gem near the charming small town of Gunnison— about 15 minutes away to be exact. With its own private boat dock and beachfront, guests will be able to frolic along the sandy shores or launch kayaks and boats. Plenty of toys is a part of the experience, from paddleboards, and a ping-pong table, to a barbecue smoker. On a hot day, how nice would it be to get a cup full of pebble ice from the ice machine? Being able to accommodate about 25 people, we can only imagine the amazing family reunion that awaits you within this stunning, modern beauty along the corner of this Central Utah lake.

Zion River View - La Verkin Zion River View
Credit: Zion River View by Airbnb.com

Zion River View - La Verkin

This highly functional suite is located within a walkout basement of a home that has striking views of Zion’s Virgin River. Guests will have the amenities of home, while being able to travel with up to six guests, on a budget. Zion National Park it’s just a 20-minute drive away, and the host will be able to provide some advice on the best places to explore. However, it might be hard to depart from that balcony view and toasty warm hot tub.

Dreamy Desert Dome with Pellet Stove Heat Near Zion - Virgin Dreamy Desert Dome w/ Pellet Stove Heat Near Zion
Credit: Dreamy Desert Dome w/ Pellet Stove Heat Near Zion by Airbnb.com

Dreamy Desert Dome with Pellet Stove Heat Near Zion - Virgin

Get into the Zion spirit by staying in a geodesic, off-the-grid dome! Various see-through shapes of the structure allow you to fully absorb the beauty of the outdoors. Nestle yourself along the river for a few days, and stay warm with a pellet stove during the colder months. Off the grid doesn’t mean you’ll have to truly be roughing it, as there is a separate building with a composting toilet and a lovely outdoor shower.

Beautiful Lakeside Cabin - Central Beautiful Lakeside Cabin #02
Credit: Beautiful Lakeside Cabin #02 by Airbnb.com

Beautiful Lakeside Cabin - Central

This resort hosts a list of cabins, that vary in size. However, all guests will have their own kitchen, and bathroom, along with comfortable sleeping arrangements. Being close to Saint George, within about 35 minutes, there is a wealth of outdoor activities, and restaurants to explore. The resort itself has a variety of amenities, in addition to having a lovely lake. Pickleball, volleyball, horseshoes, and cornhole are just a few of the family activities to be found around the grounds.

Last Hurrah - Moab Last Hurrah
Credit: Last Hurrah by Airbnb.com

Last Hurrah - Moab

A Hogan is a minimalistic traditional shelter of the Navajo people. Come stay in this simplistic, Yet surprisingly well-equipped structure that makes one feel much more in touch with nature since it disconnects you from the high stress and fast pace feel of city living. The property is located along the banks of the Colorado River, and a short walk will take you to incredible kayaking waters. The host provides a lot of the toys, some being at a “breakeven“ price, such as the ATVs.

Travel Deals

Air & 12-Day Adriatic Tour | Get $400 Off

$2699+

Fontainebleau Las Vegas | Daily $50 Food/Drink Credit

$216+

14-Days - 8 Countries Tour | Baltic States & Scandinavia

$2424+

8-Day Luxury Mediterranean Cruise | Up To $4,000 Off

$4570+

Celebrity Cruises | Up to 75% Off 2nd Guest, Drinks

$211+

Air & 9-Day Island Hopping In Greece | Get $400 Off

$2499+

Create the Ultimate Trip w/ the Anchorage Travel Guide

PLAN

Discounted R/T Domestic U.S. Airfare on Top Airlines

$49+

Flash Sale! 24-Hr All-Incl. RIU Beachfront Resorts

$95+ pp/pn

Create the Ultimate Trip to Anchorage this Year

PLAN

Air & 11-Day Croatia, Slovenia & Montenegro Tour

$2999+

8-Day Rhine River Cruise | Up To $4,000 Off

$2695+

Up to 77% Off R/T Business Class Flights to Europe

$1405+

$75 Off | 9-Day Portrait of Poland Guided Tour

$1524+

One-Way Flights Up to 50% Off | Worldwide Destinations

$25+