When dreaming of a beach getaway, United States destinations like Hawaii, Florida, and California might come to mind. However, these states surprisingly weren’t the top candidates regarding luxury Airbnb rentals. Let us explain.
A new study by QR Code Generator revealed that the locations with the most five-star Airbnb beachfront and waterfront rentals (which may include ocean, lake, or bayfront) aren’t the typical vacation spots travelers might expect. But thanks to their attractive amenities and stunning views, they’re considerably boosting the economies of these coastal states as more people are itching to book their stays.
To come to these results, QR Code Generator, an online software that empowers users to create QR codes, analyzed ratings data for beachfront properties along coastlines to determine which spots offer the most top-rated accommodations. They were ranked by the total number of properties that received perfect five-star ratings from guests.
Below are their findings, including the cost of these highly praised Airbnb’s. Fair warning: you might want to jump on these properties, especially when discovering which ones made the top of the list.
Oregon
Leading the pack is Oregon, with 203 five-star Airbnb rentals. The location itself is a sought-after destination for its breathtaking scenery, easy accessibility, and outdoor adventures like kayaking, fishing, and boat tours, per The Oregon Coast.
Regarding the Airbnbs, it’s hard to resist seeing the beauty of Oregon while staying right on the water. The study found that the average weekly cost to stay in one of their highly rated properties from June 14 to 21 is $5,489. However, according to Oregon Coast Weekend, the cheapest time to visit the area is in the winter, so this price may decrease.
North Carolina
Yes, people often travel to North Carolina for prominent attractions like the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, and the bustling beer scene in Asheville, but nabbing an Airbnb along the coast (at least their five-star properties) would be an unforgettable experience.
QR Code Generator found that the state ranked second among the American states with the most five-star Airbnb rentals (197). The study also revealed that a week in one of these waterfront homes would cost $5,504. It could be worth it to enjoy the multiple national parks and other nature activities such as sailing, kiteboarding, and wildlife tours (via Visit North Carolina).
Washington
Ranking third in the nation with the most five-star Airbnb rentals is Washington, with 152 raved-about beachfront properties. The number of tourist attractions in the state is long, especially when traveling along Washington’s Evergreen Coast.
Aside from the savory food and drink options, guests can admire the wildlife, beaches, and crabbing and clamming opportunities. Per the study, the average cost for a one-week stay is $4,389.
New York
New York is often recognized for being home to the city that never sleeps (New York City) and rich history (i.e., Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty). But the one-third of the tri-state area also promises a fun and relaxing getaway if you stay at one of the five-star Airbnb rentals in the state.
QR Code Generator calculated that there are 149 top-rated waterfront Airbnb rentals in New York, and an average week-long stay would cost $5,653. That’s plenty of time to explore many of the buzz-worthy attractions in the East Coast state and maybe even venture into neighboring New Jersey and Connecticut as well.
Virginia
Rounding out the top five U.S. states with the most five-star beachfront Airbnb rentals is Virginia, which has 96 properties that promise a top-tier experience (per reviewers, that is). The beaches and watersports in the state attract visitors, not to mention the iconic three-mile boardwalk in Virginia Beach.
The cost for a week-long stay at one of these Airbnbs isn’t too far off Washington’s average rental price, which is $4,463.
Other States with Top-Rated Beachfront Rentals
The list continues with Florida (84 properties, $2,731 average weekly stay), Texas (83, $4,273), Maine (64, $4,273), New Jersey (59, $7,466), Massachusetts (56, $6,533), Alabama (54, $4,761), Connecticut (54, $5,234), California (47, $6,196), Maryland (46, $4,172), South Carolina (44, $5,189), Hawaii (37, $2,738), Georgia (27, $5,430), Alaska (18, $3,331), Delaware (17, $4,653), New Hampshire (16, $5,204), Mississippi (10, $3,016), Rhode Island (8, $11,699), Louisiana (5, $1,221).
Airbnb’s Economic Impact
Airbnb has significantly helped the U.S. economy since its launch in August 2008, as more travelers turn to short-term rental properties than hotels and other lodging. According to an April 2024 article shared by the online marketplace, Airbnb generated $85 billion in economic activity in the country in 2023, and beachfront properties have assisted in its growth with their premium rates.
Marc Porcar, CEO at QR Code Generator, commented on the study’s results, spotlighting the Pacific Northwest for leading the way in Airbnb satisfaction.
“The results of the study highlight interesting patterns in where travelers can find the most quality beachfront accommodations. Oregon’s position at the top shows that states not traditionally associated with beach tourism can still offer exceptional waterfront rental experiences,” Porcar stated.
“The Pacific Northwest exceeds expectations when it comes to five-star beach rentals, which speaks to the unique coastal experiences these states offer, from rocky shores and tide pools to stunning sunsets over the Pacific.”
He concluded: “For travelers seeking highly rated beachfront stays, this data provides valuable insights into which states consistently deliver quality coastal accommodations. The high number of five-star properties in states like Oregon and North Carolina suggests guests frequently have exceptional experiences in these locations.”