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Maine  Cottage with a lobster boat lounge in Machiasport

  • New England is a worthy destination in all seasons for hiking, beaching, leaf-peeping, and skiing.
  • We found some of the best Airbnbs in New England, from Maine to Connecticut.
  • Our list ranges from quaint beach cottages to cozy A-frame cabins.

From Connecticut to Vermont and beyond, New England is a year-round vacation destination for scenic waterfront activities, gorgeous leaf-peeping, and skiing. New England is also known for wide-open spaces that make it easy to practice social distancing, especially if you opt for a private vacation rental.

In fact, experts say Airbnb is safe, especially compared to hotels, given that private vacation rentals minimize interactions with others, and Airbnb hosts must follow enhanced cleaning procedures. However, there's still an inherent risk to traveling and we recommend following CDC guidelines, practicing social distancing, double masking, and washing hands frequently.

Wondering where to vacation in New England this summer? Start with these vacation rentals below, based on our knowledge as long-time residents and visitors to the area. They're all within driving distance of most East Coast cities, and include some of the coolest Airbnb homes, from a beach cottage to homes with private pools, and a treehouse Airbnb.

Browse all listings below, or jump to a specific area:

Here are the best New England Airbnbs, sorted by state and price.

Travel Hotel Reviews Sub banners Connecticut

A contemporary cabin

Best Airbnbs in New England CT 1

Book this Connecticut Airbnb cabin

Self-described by the host as a “contemporary treehouse,” this Brookfield property is reminiscent of a classic cabin with a spacious deck, high ceilings and windows, and a polished wooden exterior. Inside, there’s a slotted spiral staircase and tons of natural light, plus eco-friendly features such as solar panels.

The host offers private lessons to guests in activities ranging from paddleboarding to yoga, and this property is less than two hours from New York City. It’s surrounded by gorgeous hiking trails, parks, and lakes.

Coastal chalet with a private beach

Connecticut  coastal chalet with a private beach in East Lyme

Book this Connecticut Airbnb

Skip the crowds at the state parks and carve out your own stretch of sand in this A-frame chalet in the coastal community of East Lyme.

Tucked behind a quintessential clapboard facade, this home plays up its beachside location with seaside design motifs and nautical blue-colored accents. There’s a lofted sleeping nook perched atop a spiral staircase (note that there’s no door to fully close the space off from the living area below) and an open floor plan that includes a plush couch, small table and chairs, and a cozy kitchen with a farmhouse vibe. Laundry is available too, hidden inside a whimsical bathroom done up with wallpaper adorned with sailboats and fish.

The home has deeded beach rights to a private beach that’s less than a mile away and a peaceful deck offers seating for laidback days. East Lyme is well-placed to explore the Niantic Boardwalk, Mystic Seaport, Essex Village, and more.

Chic guesthouse

Best Airbnbs in New England CT 2

Book this Connecticut on Airbnb

The wooden wall that accents the entirety of this home adds a sophisticated, cohesive feel, especially when complemented by wide-spanning glass doors that lead to an outdoor balcony. The minimalist design feels reminiscent of a modern hotel, yet the pond on the premises serves as a calming reminder of the surrounding suburban nature. 

Although this property does not have a kitchen, its amenities include nearly all other necessities such as air conditioning, heat, Wi-Fi, and bathroom essentials. It is an Airbnb Plus verified home and is located just a half a mile away from the coast, and the host specifically notes that beautiful bird watching and beaches are within the area. 

Cottage with hot tub and private pool

Connecticut  Cottage by the sea with hot tub and pool in Guilford

Book this Connecticut Airbnb with a pool

Another Guilford gem, this small cottage feels like a boutique villa with access to a serene pool outfitted with five-star fittings such as plush towels, loungers, umbrellas, and a hot tub.

The home is a guest cottage, so your host will be on-site, but there’s plenty of privacy within the design-forward home that includes one bedroom, a nice kitchen, and a calming blue and white color palette. At night, sink into the bed with goose feather duvets and shut the blackout blinds for a restful night’s sleep.

In addition to the pool, the home enjoys water and marsh views from every room, a boon for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. This is a place to unplug as there is no TV, however, Wi-Fi is available.

Nautical-inspired beach house

Best Airbnbs in New England CT 3

Book this Connecticut Airbnb beach house

If New England feels synonymous with beach stays and boating, this Mystic home hits the ideal tone. Between the nautical furnishings and bedrooms named after ship quarters, this property takes the maritime theme to lofty levels.

And while themed homes can often lean kitschy, that’s far from the case here. The farmhouse kitchen leads to an abundance of open space, and the overall design feels contemporary. The four-bedroom home can house up to 10 guests and there’s even a second guest house included for additional space. Amenities run the gamut from a private back patio with a grill to an outdoor shower, bikes, kayaks, and even baby essentials. 

The best part? You’re just steps away from the water, so a real boating experience is just as attainable as the theme suggests.

Home with a private pool

Connecticut  Home with a pool in Litchfield

Book this Connecticut Airbnb with a pool

Ideal for a group or family getaway, this resort-style home boasts four bedrooms, a spa, and its biggest draw, a sprawling heated pool.

Ensconced within the rolling hills of Litchfield County, this home is located on a quiet country road but close to wineries, antique shops, horseback riding, dining, and shopping.

The master bedroom suite includes a King-sized bed, ensuite bathroom with a large jetted tub, and walk-in shower that’s practically the size of a large walk-in closet. There are also three additional bedrooms, a finished basement with a bar, and a sleek kitchen for gourmet cooking. Well-kept grounds include a large grassy fenced-in yard, a generous deck, and a stone patio that wraps around the pool.

Just note that the pool and spa are only open from April 1 to October 15.

Read more: The best Airbnbs in Connecticut

Travel Hotel Reviews Sub banners Massachusetts

Brightly colored home with character

Best Airbnbs in New England MA2

Book this Salem Massachusetts Airbnb

The cheery pink exterior of this apartment building permeates through the home, which comes with a full-sized kitchen with wooden cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops. The space is framed by a calming blue wall, and complemented by pops of red found in the quirky, yet elegant living room. 

The bedroom and bathroom feel as homey as they do meticulously crafted, while small details like built-in bedroom shelving, a walk-in closet, and a shower light offer convenience that doesn’t skimp on beauty. 

Salem, and all of its haunted happenings are within a 10-minute walk. 

Cape Cod cottage with sea views

Massachusetts  Coastal cottage with sea views in Cape Cod

Book this Cape Cod Airbnb

Stick your toes in the sand within minutes of arriving to this beachfront cottage on the Cape. Located in Yarmouth and facing the Nantucket Sound, you’ll wake to waterfront views every day in this quintessential gray clapboard Cape home.

Inside is light and bright with white-washed wood walls and furnishings set against splashes of cool blue and light wood. The space is intimate and best suited to a couple or a solo traveler planning a beachy getaway.

Yet, there’s still a nice-sized living room, full kitchen, air conditioning, and bedroom with a Queen-sized bed. There is a brick-lined patio with outdoor seating, though it appears to be shared with other cottages. As expected, most of summer is booked up, however, there are still some dates in May and August, and wider availability from September onwards, which is a wonderful time to visit when most crowds have left but the weather is still plenty nice.

Cozy waterfront Cape Cod home

Cape Cod airbnb rental

Book this Cape Cod Airbnb beach house

Although unsuspecting on the outside, this sweet home delivers on location, amenities, and hospitality. Inside, the open floor plan, cozy breakfast nook, and hardwood floors are all eye-catching and the fenced-in yard is welcoming to furry friends. Ample seating, including a hammock, is flanked by a grill and fire pit for tranquil nights.

The property sits just steps away from Swan Pond, and beaches are two miles away as well. The home is also near plenty of restaurants and shops, as well as a bike path. 

Read more: The best Airbnbs in Cape Cod

Berkshires mountain retreat

Berkshires airbnb home

Book this Berkshires Airbnb

This design-forward abode is nestled amid the Berkshire mountains, directly between the alluring towns of Stockbridge, Lenox, and Great Barrington, with easy access to fall foliage, ski, hike, or soak up culture.

The ample home includes two bedrooms with Queen-sized beds, as well as an additional lofted space with two Murphy beds. During the day, light pours in through graciously appointed windows, while the space exudes warmth at night from chic lighting fixtures and a fireplace. Plan to savor a meal in the gorgeous dining room and admire contemporary touches in the bright kitchen and subway-tiled bathroom with a deep soaking tub. The look is highly curated, blending natural elements such as wood and stones with an urban mindset.

There’s also a funky bar area, screened-in back porch, and a patio with fire pit.

Travel Hotel Reviews Sub banners Maine

Cozy secluded cabin

Best Airbnbs in New England Maine 1

Book this Maine Airbnb cabin

This cozy cabin is a welcome respite for a snug couples’ getaway in the winter months, while the outdoor patio provides an inviting oasis in fall, spring, and summer.

Although the space is relatively small and unpretentious, its kind hosts and quirky traditions make it feel just as familiar as home. Our favorite: the “take a beer, leave a beer” policy, which encourages guests to try a new beer from the home while leaving one of their own for the next guest.

The town of Freeport is home to L.L.Bean, so the oversized L.L. Bean boot is certainly a top attraction, as is the Adventure Schools of L.L.Bean.

Sophisticated Kennebunk loft

Best Airbnbs in New England Maine 3

Book this Kennebunk Airbnb

An elegant couples retreat, this tiny but mighty home oozes coziness. The Murphy bed creates a comforting nook, while the couch, flat-screen TV, kitchenette, and full-sized bathroom ensure every need is met.

The property sits on 13 acres of private land with an outdoor shower available for rinsing off sandy feet after a day spent at nearby beaches and lakes. In the cooler fall months, breathtaking hiking and foliage is also available right near the home. 

Bayfront cabin

maine airbnb cabin

Book this Maine Airbnb cabin

Lined from floor to ceiling in light blond timber and framed by wraparound views of a peaceful bay, this two-bedroom Bowdoinham home channels Scandinavian minimalism with all the rustic accouterments of a remote cabin.

The living space feels open and bright thanks to ample sunlight through many windows, as well as beamed ceilings. There are five beds, a full kitchen, and a gas-powered fireplace. Other perks include free Wi-Fi, a private patio and fire pit, access to a shared dock, and a prime location for fishing and hunting, shrouded in lush leafy scenery. 

Cliff-perched cottage with private hiking trails

Maine  Cliff perched cottage with private hiking trails in Machiasport

Book this Maine Airbnb cottage

This Maine stunner was designed to feel like a ship, which is an easy feat given its location perched atop a 130 foot cliff overlooking the ocean and surrounded by over 30 acres of woods, wildlife, and beaches. In fact, 12 acres include private hiking trails for guest use. 

Known as The Prowhouse, this home was designed by Machiasport poet and sea captain Phil Rose with a distinctive, angular ‘prow’ like that of a boat. Floor-to-ceiling windows are found in most rooms and two bedrooms include a master overlooking the ocean and a smaller cozier room, though, it is missing a door. 

On themed motifs include a telescope, teak and brass accents, and blue and gold-colored nautical maps of New England. Most of the furniture, art, and design are by mid-century Modernists Paul McCobb, Norman Cherner, Percival Lafer, and Curtis Jere, and there is also a library corner with a Danish desk for the work-from-home crowd. 

Cottage with a lobster boat lounge

Maine  Cottage with a lobster boat lounge in Machiasport

Book this Maine Airbnb cottage

Enjoy the allure of the sea in this whimsical cottage with ocean views and full access to an adjacent docked lobster boat that’s been revamped and fashioned as a lounge and library.

Water views are available throughout the main house, which is complemented by midcentury furniture and maritime-inspired accents like a modern sailboat sculpture. Pops of yellow add a subtle dose of whimsy, too.

Though, it’s the lobster boat that really dazzles. A rusty dinghy adorned with barnacles it is not, but rather, a thoughtfully furnished space with vintage pieces such as a tasteful upholstered chair, a low slung leather sofa, and an attractive console table. With so much ’60s nostalgia, it’s practically begging you to sip on a martini while snacking on some fresh lobster, natch.

Modern Kennebunkport farmhouse

Maine  Modern farmhouse in Kennebunkport

Book this Kennebunkport farmhouse Airbnb

A restored barn is now a contemporary oasis with minimal Scandinavian-inspired modern furnishings, a farmhouse kitchen, and lots of wooden touches. However, there’s also a strong upscale feeling with a subway-tiled walk-in shower set behind a sleek glass panel wall that’s stocked with Kiehl’s toiletry products. Other features include modern light fixtures, soaringly-high windows that pour in light, and a nice patio. There are two bedrooms, plus an air mattress that is available for the sleeping loft. 

In the summer months, grab the provided beach chairs and cooler and head to Kennebunkport’s famous beaches, or take advantage of the bikes and helmet for a ride around town.

Read more: The best Airbnbs in Maine

Travel Hotel Reviews Sub banners New Hampshire

Trendy Portsmouth condo

Best Airbnbs in New England NH 3

Book this Portsmouth Airbnb

With a central beach location, sleek decor, and an array of amenities, this home makes a comfortable base for an attractive New England trip at any time of year.

Highlights include the inviting, clean lines of the design and furniture, which feel new and vibrant, complemented by exposed brick behind the TV and a bright blue printed rug that ties the entire space together. 

Outside, downtown Portsmouth is a bustling New Hampshire town. Stop by Market Square for the city’s top dining, shops, and nightlife.

Elegant studio loft

New Hampshire airbnb

Book this New Hampshire Airbnb

From the wood-paneled bedroom wall to the baby blue kitchen counters, as well as the electric fireplace built into an accent wall, this apartment feels whimsical yet modern.

Although the small space sits lacks a full kitchen, it does offer contemporary fixings and a small outdoor seating area to enjoy during the warmer months. 

The property is a short drive to major cities, but its tiny size and secluded location position it as an ideal remote spot for solo travelers or couples. Even at peak pricing, the home remains relatively affordable.

Chic mountain lodge

New Hampshire  Mountain lodge in Intervale

Book this New Hampshire Airbnb cabin

This creative chalet appears unassuming from the outside but inside, delightfully blends midcentury design, tribal prints, and pops of blue and orange with a wood-beamed ceiling, stone fireplace (nonworking, however), and plenty of rustic wood.

There are three bedrooms set under the A-frame structure, with a master on the main floor that may be configured as a King-size bed or two twins. And while the home is very much a woodsy cabin, comforts such as multiple air conditioning units promise to keep things cool and comfy in the summer months. Take in the mountain views from the large deck, and feel free to bring your pup; dogs are allowed with a small fee.

Cottage right on the lake

New Hampshire  Cottage on the lake in Northwood

Book this New Hampshire lake house Airbnb

We love a good lake house and this charmer with a bright blue exterior and knotty pine walls lining the inside is no exception.

This simple home is nothing fancy but has all new appliances in the full kitchen, multiple living spaces to spread out, and books, games, and puzzles for relaxing nights in. A wall of windows line the front of the house facing the lake making it a serene spot to sip your morning coffee. When it’s time to venture out, descend the stairs to your own dock where rowboats and kayaks are available to use from May through October. Or, settle in the fenced in yard with a hammock, fire pit, and outdoor seating.

Cabin in the woods

Best Airbnbs in New England NH1

Book this New Hampshire Airbnb cabin

Reminiscent of a woodsy ski lodge, this home features wintry delights including stacks of firewood, a sun and game room with a ping pong table, and a wooden dock for sunbathing and grilling. 

The home is set deep in the woods for an intimate family getaway, yet shops, restaurants, and the slopes are all just a short drive. The host also makes a point to note that the surrounding area is kid-friendly. 

Scenic Bear Ridge lodge

New Hampshire  Bear Ridge Lodge in Franconia

Book this New Hampshire Airbnb

Views abound in this impressive large log cabin-style family home. There’s plenty of wood and stone to go around but the feel leans more luxury than rustic thanks to Scandinavian-inspired decor such as platform beds, low slung seating, and a minimal but calming color palette. Contemporary light fixtures dangle from sky-high cathedral ceilings and soaring windows allow tons of light to shingle through. 

In winter, the stone fireplace makes for a cozy central gathering space, while the expansive front deck with a covered porch is a coveted perch come summer for sunbathing. And, year round, you can’t beat those views.

Other amenities include rain fall showers, a library and reading loft, as well as a family room with a seven speaker home theater for movie nights, a workspace, and a toddler play area.

Travel Hotel Reviews Sub banners Rhode Island

Tiny house with a big personality

Best Airbnbs in New England RI 1

Book this Rhode Island Airbnb

“Tiny” may describe the size of this Rhode Island home, but elements like the teal front door, walk-in closet, and even a washer position this home as anything but small when it comes to worthy amenities.

Thoughtfully and creatively crafted for both vacations and the work from home lifestyle, the host notes a workspace in the bedroom, pull-up bars on the ceiling, and super fast internet.

The house is within walking distance to Pawtuxet Village, the harbor, and plenty of shops and restaurants. Downtown Providence is just a 10-minute drive away. 

Waterfront beach home

Best Airbnbs in New England RI 3

Book this Rhode Island Airbnb beach house

French doors open up to a breathtaking bay view on this home’s massive deck, making a socially distant beach vacation incredibly attainable. The floor plan inside feels nearly as open as the water beside it, while amenities include a full-sized kitchen and washer-dryer.

If you are able to tear yourself away from the view, the property is a 10-minute walk from downtown Providence and historic Pawtuxet Village, dotted with shops and restaurants. 

Sea-inspired Newport apartment

Best Airbnbs in New England RI 2

Book this Newport Airbnb

Be it the whale pillow on the bed, model ships placed around the house, or the anchor doormat, this home subtly pays homage to its nautical-adjacent location throughout the home. These accents are accompanied by a full stainless steel kitchen, a crisp white color scheme, and even a clawfoot tub. 

The Airbnb Plus verified home also includes a grassy backyard with a grill and two-floor deck. Newport’s shops, restaurants, and attractions are a five-minute walk away, and the host notes Bellevue Avenue as a highlight for runners. 

Family home with a garden

Rhode Island  Family home with a garden in Jamestown

Book this Rhode Island Airbnb

While most crowds flock to nearby Newport, Jamestown is another coastal island gem with a quieter vibe while still being steeped in ample history, natural beauty, and quaint New England charm.

This posh home is well-suited for a family with two bedrooms and two baths. There’s a true luxury feel here with indulgent amenities such as a walk-in marble rain shower, a chic stone gas fireplace, a large glam chef’s kitchen, and generous living and dining areas. For entertainment, break out one of the provided board games or watch a movie on the smart TV with access to multiple streaming services. There’s also a magnificent stone patio with plush chaise lounges, a large dining table, and a verdant not-so-secret garden.

Boathouse cottage

Boat house cottage in Tiverton

Book this Rhode Island Airbnb boathouse

This once-abandoned home was discovered by its hosts half-submerged into the water below and was masterfully renovated to its current incarnation which appears more like a boutique hotel. The design is immaculate, boasting a clean, light, white palette brightened by lush green plants and black wood floors. Bedding and linens exude luxury vibes down to the provided robes hanging in the closet. 

There’s also a gourmet chef’s kitchen (with fishing rods available to catch your own dinner), a private beach, three bedrooms, one bathroom, kayaks, outdoor lounge areas, and spectacular views from almost every room. 

Read more: The best Airbnbs in Rhode Island

Travel Hotel Reviews Sub banners Vermont

Treehouse in the woods

Best Airbnbs in New England Vermont 2

Book this Vermont treehouse on Airbnb

If your childhood dreams of a backyard treehouse were sadly never fulfilled, this may be the place for you.

Hidden in the woods of Hardwick, this one-bedroom New England treehouse has all the offerings of a traditional home including a stunning chandelier, a fireplace, and a kitchenette, yet it’s perched amid rich foliage and leafy trees. The only caveat is that the bathroom doesn’t have a shower. Though, the hosts welcome guests to use their bathroom through a separate entrance if needed. 

Guests also enjoy access to a porch, hammock, shaded seating area, grill, and a designated spot for campfires. Hardwick Village, filled with restaurants and farmer’s markets, is three miles away. 

Alpine A-frame in the woods

best vermont airbnbs

Book this Vermont Airbnb cabin

Inside and out, this alpine A-frame is stunning, from the bright blue walls to the enchanting interiors crafted from solid wood, flanked by a wood-burning stove, midcentury modern furniture, and a cozy bedroom with a Nectar Queen-sized mattress and organic linens. 

Small details shine, from the lighting that includes both a sleek installation and fairy tale twinkle lights, as well as a record player, farmhouse-inspired kitchen, and creature comforts such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and P.F. Candle and Beekman 1802 products.

The home is dog friendly (for a small fee) and includes a fire pit and deck with Weber grill and outdoor dining set for a meal under the stars. A short stroll away is a lovely lake and hikes, skiing, shopping, and state parks are all nearby.

Lake home with gorgeous views

Best Airbnbs New England Vermont 1 (Credit  Airbnb)

Book this Vermont Airbnb lake house

Situated facing a gorgeous lake, this beachfront home is a great reminder that Vermont isn’t just for forests and ski bunnies. 

With a nautical white and blue color scheme, a serene kitchen, and a living area surrounded by nearly floor-to-ceiling windows, the design of this lakefront getaway is seemingly immaculate. The bedrooms are also well-styled alongside an updated bathroom, and the upstairs terrace offers dramatic views of Shelburn Bay. Outside, find additional seating, a grill, fire pit, plus the free use of kayaks in the summer. 

The home is tucked amid farmland and hiking trails, and bread and cheese-making classes are available nearby.

Stowe canopy house

Vermont  Canopy house in Stowe

Book this Stowe Airbnb

Every detail in this gorgeous A-frame home is purposeful and thoughtfully designed by an attentive host. White, blonde, and dark wood contrast with precision alongside green leafy plants, mountain-inspired art, tribal decor, and furnishings done up in hues of cream, beige, and other neutrals. 

There are two meticulously curated living areas, three well-appointed bedrooms, and two dazzling bathrooms with spa-like subway-tiled showers. There’s also a working fireplace, a six-person hot tub, and a lovely deck with a grill and outdoor seating where you may likely find yourself stargazing while strumming on the provided guitar.

Read more: The best Airbnbs in Vermont

FAQ: Everything to know about booking an Airbnb in New England

Is it safe to book an Airbnb right now?

Medical and cleaning experts told us that private home rentals on Airbnb are safe, especially compared to hotels. They eliminate interactions with others outside of your group, and hosts must follow enhanced cleaning procedures. However, there’s still are risks with traveling and we recommend following CDC guidelines, practicing social distancing, wearing a mask, and washing and sanitizing your hands frequently.

How do I book a home on Airbnb?

Whether in New England or across the world, search for homes on Airbnb based on location, price, date, number of bedrooms or bathrooms, features, and more. Once you’ve found a home, review the final price and don’t forget to check the cancellation policies, too. For a full breakdown on how to book on Airbnb, click here.

What is Airbnb’s cancellation policy?

Cancellation policies on Airbnb differ for each home and are set by the individual host. Here’s a closer look at Airbnb’s cancellation policies.

Are there travel restrictions in New England?

There are no blanket New England travel restrictions. Most states offer their own guidelines on recommendations around self-quarantine based on recent travel and activity. It’s best to look up each state’s individual policy before booking a vacation rental such as Airbnb.

Is it safe to travel to New England?

Despite the COVID vaccine rollout, there is still no guarantee when it comes to safety with travel, though staying in a private home such as those found on Airbnb will lower your risk of exposure. Be sure to take added precautions recommended by the CDC including social distancing, wearing a mask, and hand washing. Consider postponing travel if coming to or arriving from a hotspot.

More of the best East Coast Airbnbs

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