Have you ever imagined the idea of living on the water, with tranquil views and the calming sounds of gentle waves right at your doorstep? If you’re someone who craves a one-of-a-kind and out-of-the-ordinary way of life, then living on a houseboat could be your perfect fit. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 11 places where you can enjoy year-round houseboat living, uncovering the enchantment of these floating homes and the remarkable destinations that make them truly extraordinary.
1. Sausalito, California
Sausalito, California, is an excellent location for living on a houseboat year-round, with its mild Mediterranean climate, stunning views, and vibrant artistic community. If you’re looking for the best marinas or locations to live on a houseboat in Sausalito, here are some top choices:
Sausalito Village: Sausalito Village is a popular marina that offers breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s conveniently located near the city’s downtown area, making accessing all of Sausalito’s amenities easy.
Waldo Point Harbor: Waldo Point Harbor is a cozy and peaceful marina that offers a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s located on Richardson Bay, just a short walk from the vibrant waterfront district of Sausalito.
Clipper Yacht Harbor: Clipper Yacht Harbor is a full-service marina that offers all the amenities you need for comfortable living on a houseboat. It’s located on the Sausalito waterfront, offering easy access to the city’s restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Gate 6 ½: Gate 6 ½ is a unique floating home community offering a tight-knit community of like-minded people. It’s located on Richardson Bay and is just a short walk or bike ride from downtown Sausalito.
Kappas Marina: Kappas Marina is a small, family-owned marina that offers a more laid-back and intimate atmosphere. It’s located on the Sausalito waterfront and offers easy access to the city’s shops and restaurants.
2. Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington, is a picturesque city that’s renowned for its stunning natural beauty, arts scene, and world-class amenities. Living on a houseboat in Seattle offers a unique lifestyle that’s perfect for those who love the outdoors and want to be surrounded by water and nature.
One of the best marinas in Seattle for living on a houseboat is the Eastlake neighborhood, which is located on the eastern shore of Lake Union. This charming neighborhood is home to a thriving houseboat community, with many floating homes offering stunning views of the city skyline and easy access to Lake Union’s many attractions.
Another popular location for living on a houseboat in Seattle is the Westlake neighborhood, which is located on the western shore of Lake Union. This neighborhood is known for its excellent restaurants, coffee shops, and boutique stores, as well as its picturesque houseboats and stunning views of the lake and city.
Living on a houseboat in Seattle also offers easy access to some of the city’s best attractions, including Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the Seattle Art Museum. With its thriving houseboat community, stunning natural beauty, and range of amenities, it’s no wonder that Seattle is such a popular spot for living on a houseboat year-round.
3. Miami, Florida
Miami is a vibrant and exciting city that offers an excellent location for living on a houseboat year-round. With its sunny weather, stunning beaches, and world-class amenities, Miami is a top choice for those looking to combine the best of city living with the freedom of life on the water.
One of the best marinas in Miami for living on a houseboat is the Dinner Key Marina. Located in the heart of Coconut Grove, the Dinner Key Marina offers easy access to the city’s best restaurants, shops, and attractions. This full-service marina offers everything you need for comfortable living on a houseboat, including fuel, pump-out services, and laundry facilities.
Another excellent marina in Miami is the Miami Beach Marina. Located in the heart of South Beach, the Miami Beach Marina offers easy access to some of the city’s most popular attractions, including the world-famous Art Deco District and Ocean Drive. This marina offers a range of amenities and services, including a ship store, fuel, and a restaurant.
Living on a houseboat in Miami also offers easy access to some of the city’s best beaches, including South Beach, Miami Beach, and Key Biscayne. Whether you prefer sunbathing, swimming, or water sports, Miami’s beaches have something for everyone.
4. Key West, Florida
Key West, Florida, is a popular destination for those seeking a year-round houseboat living experience. The island city is surrounded by crystal clear waters and is home to several marinas that cater to houseboat living, as well as a range of other amenities and attractions.
One of the best places for living on a houseboat in Key West is the Stock Island Marina Village. The marina offers boat slips with water and electricity, fuel, and pump-out services, as well as a range of on-site amenities such as restaurants, bars, and a swimming pool. The marina is also conveniently located near Key West’s historic district, making it easy to explore the city’s many attractions.
Another great location for living on a houseboat in Key West is the Sunset Marina. The marina provides boat slips with water and electricity, fuel, and pump-out services, as well as a range of on-site amenities such as restaurants and bars. The marina is also home to a variety of water sports and outdoor recreational activities, including fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Living on a houseboat in Key West also offers easy access to the area’s many attractions, including its beautiful beaches, cultural events, and outdoor recreational activities. The island city is known for its laid-back atmosphere, lively nightlife, and stunning sunsets.
5. Lake Havasu, Arizona
Lake Havasu, located in western Arizona, is a popular destination for houseboat living. The lake spans over 45 miles and is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, making it a scenic spot for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.
One of the best marinas in Lake Havasu for living on a houseboat is the Nautical Inn Resort, which offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and hot tub. The marina also provides boat rentals, fuel, and pump-out services.
Another popular location for living on a houseboat in Lake Havasu is the Lake Havasu Marina. This marina is located near the city’s downtown area and offers easy access to a range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. The marina offers a range of amenities, including fuel, electricity, water, and pump-out services, as well as a boat launch ramp and boat rentals.
Living on a houseboat in Lake Havasu also offers easy access to some of the city’s best attractions, including the London Bridge, which was transported from England in the 1960s and rebuilt in Lake Havasu City. The city also hosts several annual events, including the famous Lake Havasu Balloon Festival and the Western Winter Blast fireworks show.
6. Tomahawk Island, Oregon
Tomahawk Island is a unique and scenic location for living on a houseboat in Portland, Oregon. The island is on the Columbia River and offers stunning views of the surrounding waterways, mountains, and forests.
The Tomahawk Bay Marina is one of the best marinas on Tomahawk Island for living on a houseboat. The marina provides a range of amenities, including fuel, electricity, water, and pump-out services, as well as a boat launch ramp and boat rentals. The marina is also home to a range of restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a convenient and comfortable spot for houseboat living.
Tomahawk Island is located just a few miles north of downtown Portland, which makes it easy to access the city’s many attractions and amenities. Portland is known for its vibrant food and arts scene, as well as its outdoor recreational opportunities. From hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful part of the Pacific Northwest.
7. Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas, is a great location for living on a houseboat year-round, thanks to its warm climate, beautiful scenery, and vibrant culture. The city is situated on the banks of the Colorado River, which provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports.
The Emerald Point Marina is one of the best marinas in Austin for living on a houseboat. The marina provides a range of amenities, including electricity, water, pump-out services, a fuel dock, and boat rentals. The marina also features several on-site restaurants, a swimming pool, and a fitness center, making it a comfortable and convenient spot for houseboat living.
Another great location for living on a houseboat in Austin is Lake Travis, located just west of the city. The lake spans over 60 miles and offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. Several marinas on Lake Travis offer amenities for houseboat living, including boat slips, boat rentals, fuel, and pump-out services.
Living on a houseboat in Austin also offers easy access to the city’s many attractions, including live music venues, museums, and galleries. The city is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene and its delicious cuisine, ranging from traditional Tex-Mex to farm-to-table restaurants.
8. San Diego, California
San Diego, California, is an ideal location for living on a houseboat year-round, thanks to its mild climate, beautiful scenery, and active boating community. The city boasts a range of marinas, each with its unique character and amenities, making it easy to find the perfect spot for houseboat living.
The Harbor Island West Marina is one of the best marinas in San Diego for living on a houseboat. The marina provides a range of amenities, including electricity, water, pump-out services, a fuel dock, and boat rentals. The marina is also home to several on-site restaurants, a swimming pool, and a fitness center, making it a comfortable and convenient spot for houseboat living.
Another excellent location for living on a houseboat in San Diego is Mission Bay. The bay offers over 4,000 acres of water and several marinas catering to houseboat living, including the Mission Bay and Sun Harbor Marina. Both marinas offer boat slips, fuel, pump-out services, and a range of other amenities.
Living on a houseboat in San Diego also offers easy access to the city’s many attractions, including its famous beaches, world-class museums, and vibrant arts and culture scene. The city is known for its laid-back lifestyle and friendly locals, making it a welcoming and inviting place to call home.
9. Fort Worth, Texas
Fort Worth, Texas, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of houseboat living, but it offers a surprising range of options for those seeking a unique and exciting lifestyle. The city is home to several marinas and lakes that cater to houseboat living and a range of other amenities and attractions.
Eagle Mountain Lake is one of the best places for living on a houseboat in Fort Worth. The lake offers over 8,000 acres of water and several marinas that cater to houseboat living, including the Eagle Mountain Marina and the Lake Country Marina. Both marinas offer boat slips, fuel, pump-out services, and a range of other amenities.
Another great location for living on a houseboat in Fort Worth is Lake Granbury. The lake spans over 8,000 acres and is home to several marinas, including the Lake Granbury Marina and the Harbor Lakes Marina. Both marinas offer boat slips, fuel, pump-out services, and a range of other amenities.
Living on a houseboat in Fort Worth also offers easy access to the city’s many attractions, including its world-famous Stockyards, museums, and galleries. The city is known for its rich history, cowboy culture, and delicious cuisine, ranging from traditional barbecues to modern fusion restaurants.
10. Fort Washington, Maryland
Fort Washington, Maryland, is a hidden gem for those seeking a unique and exciting houseboat living experience. The city is situated on the banks of the Potomac River and is home to several marinas that cater to houseboat living, as well as a range of other amenities and attractions.
One of the best places for living on a houseboat in Fort Washington is the National Harbor Marina. The marina offers boat slips with water and electricity, fuel, pump-out services, and a range of on-site amenities such as restaurants, shops, and a casino. The marina is also conveniently located near Washington, D.C., making accessing the city’s many attractions easy.
Another excellent location for living on a houseboat in Fort Washington is the Fort Washington Marina. The marina provides boat slips with water, electricity, fuel, and pump-out services. The marina is also home to several restaurants and offers easy access to Fort Washington Park, which boasts scenic views of the Potomac River.
Living on a houseboat in Fort Washington also offers easy access to the city’s many attractions, including its historic sites, museums, and galleries. The city is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and beautiful parks and outdoor recreation areas.
11. Lake Cumberland, Kentucky
Lake Cumberland, Kentucky, is a popular destination for those seeking a unique and exciting houseboat living experience. The lake offers over 63,000 acres of water and is home to several marinas that cater to houseboat living, as well as a range of other amenities and attractions.
One of the best places for living on a houseboat in Lake Cumberland is the Jamestown Resort and Marina. The marina offers boat slips with water and electricity, fuel, and pump-out services, as well as a range of on-site amenities such as restaurants, shops, and a pool. The marina is also conveniently located near the Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, which boasts scenic views of the lake and offers a range of outdoor recreational activities.
Another excellent location for living on a houseboat in Lake Cumberland is the State Dock Marina. The marina provides boat slips with water and electricity, fuel, pump-out services, and a range of on-site amenities such as restaurants, bars, and a movie theater. The marina is also home to the Lake Cumberland State Dock, which offers boat rentals, fishing, and water sports.
Living on a houseboat in Lake Cumberland also offers easy access to the area’s many attractions, including its beautiful state parks, historic sites, and cultural events. The lake is known for its clear water and excellent fishing, as well as its stunning scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Benefits of Living on a Houseboat
Living on a houseboat is not just a lifestyle; it’s an adventure. With water as your backyard, you’ll experience a sense of freedom and tranquility like no other. The benefits of houseboat living include:
- Escape to Nature: Houseboats provide a deep connection with nature, allowing you to live amidst breathtaking landscapes.
- Simplicity: Embrace a minimalist lifestyle, free from the clutter of traditional homes.
- Community: Join vibrant houseboat communities and form close-knit bonds with fellow residents.
Factors to Consider Before Making the Move
Before you dive into the houseboat lifestyle, it’s essential to consider some important factors:
- Location: Your chosen location significantly impacts your experience, from climate to community.
- Budget: Determine your budget for purchasing and maintaining a houseboat.
- Maintenance: Be prepared for regular maintenance and repairs to ensure your floating home remains in excellent condition.
- Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local regulations, as they can vary significantly.
FAQs
Why are these places the best for houseboats?
These places are the best for houseboats due to their scenic and serene water bodies that offer ample opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities. They are equipped with marinas that provide boat slips, pump-out services, and other necessary amenities for living on a houseboat year-round. Additionally, these places offer easy access to area attractions and events, making them an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and exciting lifestyle. From beautiful beaches and state parks to cultural events and historic sites, these places have something to offer for everyone.
What is the climate like in these locations?
The climate in these locations varies depending on their geographical location. However, most of these places experience a mild and pleasant climate, with warm summers and mild winters. They are often located in regions with a Mediterranean or tropical climate, which is characterized by abundant sunshine, high humidity, and occasional rain showers. The temperature and humidity can vary throughout the year, but they generally remain comfortable for living on a houseboat year-round. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating for much of the year due to the favorable climate.
What is the cost of living like in these locations?
The cost of living in these locations varies depending on the specific area and local housing market. In general, living on a houseboat year-round can be more affordable than living in a traditional home, especially in areas where housing costs are high. However, the cost of living on a houseboat can also depend on factors such as marina fees, maintenance costs, and insurance. Additionally, other living expenses such as food, transportation, and healthcare can vary depending on the location. Some of these locations are known for being more expensive than others due to their popularity as vacation or retirement destinations, while others are more affordable due to their rural or less developed nature. It is important to research the cost of living in each specific location to determine whether it is a feasible option for you.
What are some benefits of living on a houseboat year-round?
Living on a houseboat year-round offers a unique and adventurous lifestyle with access to water-based activities, breathtaking views, and a strong sense of community among other boaters. It can also be a more affordable and environmentally friendly living option compared to a traditional home.
What are some challenges of living on a houseboat year-round?
Living on a houseboat year-round can present challenges such as limited space and storage, maintenance and upkeep of the boat, and potential weather-related issues such as storms or floods. It can also require a certain level of self-sufficiency and independence in terms of handling repairs and maintenance on the boat.
What are some tips for living on a houseboat year-round?
Some tips for living on a houseboat year-round include maximizing storage space, investing in high-quality weatherproofing materials, establishing a maintenance routine for the boat, and building a strong sense of community with other boaters in the marina. It is also important to be prepared for potential weather-related emergencies and to have a contingency plan in place.