This Town Has Floating Cabins You Can Stay In

If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping on a floating cabin nestled on a quiet island near the Northern California river delta (and who hasn’t had that dream), New Life Marina can make those visions a reality.

Northern California has its fair share of small surf towns, hiking trails through sprawling redwoods and sailing adventures on one of the many picturesque bays. But only a short drive from the Bay Area, the slightly secluded Bethel Island is unlike anywhere else in the state. Tucked away on the island’s waterfront, New Life Marina offers guests an experience like no other – a chance to stay in one of their cabins where you can sleep while floating on the river delta.

A quiet, serene place in the heart of the California Delta, Bethel Island is seemingly a world away from bustling nearby San Francisco. The entire landmass spans approximately 3,500 acres, which measures to less than six square miles (15.5 square kilometers). Located on the northwestern side of Bethel Island, in an area called Taylor Slough, New Life Marina is an ideal place to get some rest on the water after a day of fishing, jet-skiing or grilling out.

The interior of the floating cabins features a small TV, a kitchenette and bunk beds in a style that will make you nostalgic for summer camp. The cabin’s private deck is a perfect place to watch the sunrise, drink some coffee and hop directly into a kayak for a day of adventure.

Many guests enjoy golfing nearby, renting a jet-ski or exploring nature on the island. New Life also offers seven cabins on land for those who like the waterfront but prefer to stay on solid ground. Each of the floating cabins sleeps four, and the land cabins sleep up to seven people, making the marina a great overnight stop for a California family road trip between national parks.

1. New Life Marina

Lodge, Cabin, Short-term Rental

Lodging at New Life Marina on Bethel Island includes seven waterfront cabins and three floating cabins.

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