Planning a trip to Washington DC? The perfect waterfront hotel enhances your capital experience with stunning views and easy access to monuments. I researched dozens of properties to help you find accommodations that balance location with value. These 15 top waterfront hotels offer something for every traveler. After analyzing guest feedback, I compiled options ranging from luxury suites with Potomac River views to boutique properties near The Wharf's vibrant dining scene. Find your ideal DC base with character and convenience.
Sort:
655 Water Street Southwest | 0.3 mi (0.5km) to Southwest Waterfront
Experience luxury at Pendry Washington DC - The Wharf, a 5-star waterfront hotel with a seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. The elegantly appointed rooms feature flat-screen TVs and premium toiletries, just steps from top attractions like the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
975 7th Street SW | 0.4 mi (0.6km) to Southwest Waterfront
Canopy By Hilton Washington DC The Wharf offers stylish waterfront accommodations just minutes from top Smithsonian museums and the Washington Monument. Guests enjoy African-American cuisine at the on-site restaurant, complimentary bikes for exploring, and relaxing on the terrace after a day of sightseeing.
400 E Street SW | 0.4 mi (0.7km) to Southwest Waterfront
Just steps from the National Mall, Hyatt Place Washington D.C. offers stylish rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a rooftop bar with city views. Guests enjoy convenient amenities including 24-hour fitness center, room service, and free WiFi throughout this perfectly positioned waterfront hotel.
333 E Street Southwest | 0.5 mi (0.8km) to Southwest Waterfront
Located just one block from Federal Center SW Metro, Residence Inn Washington DC/Capitol combines prime accessibility with home-like comfort. Guests enjoy fully equipped kitchens in every room, free WiFi, and daily breakfast buffet, while the indoor pool, hot tub, and evening receptions create added value within walking distance of the US Capitol and Smithsonian Museums.
69 Q Street, SW | 0.5 mi (0.8km) to Southwest Waterfront
Just steps from Nationals Park, Cambria Hotel Washington DC Navy Yard offers waterfront luxury with a restaurant serving American cuisine and free WiFi. Guests enjoy convenient amenities including a fitness center, private parking, and bike rentals to explore DC's scenic riverfront neighborhood.
801 Wharf Street SW | 0.5 mi (0.8km) to Southwest Waterfront
Situated along The Wharf's mile-long pier, this premium waterfront hotel boasts a rooftop pool overlooking the DC skyline and three distinctive dining options. The elegant rooms feature Nespresso machines, 50-inch Smart TVs, and convenient access to the Potomac River's vibrant entertainment district.
50 M St SE | 0.5 mi (0.8km) to Southwest Waterfront
Capitol Hill Hotel provides the perfect basecamp for exploring DC's top attractions with the National Mall, Lincoln Memorial, and Smithsonian Museums nearby. Spacious suites feature full kitchens and separate living areas, while guests enjoy complimentary hot breakfast and Wednesday evening socials on the scenic rooftop terrace.
725 WHARF STREET SW | 0.5 mi (0.9km) to Southwest Waterfront
Situated directly on The Wharf's vibrant waterfront, this hotel offers river-view rooms with convenient amenities like mini-fridges and kitchenettes in select accommodations. Just three blocks from the National Mall, guests enjoy easy access to DC's renowned museums while having water activities like kayaking and sailing right at their doorstep.
550 School Street Southwest | 0.5 mi (0.9km) to Southwest Waterfront
Sleek and tech-forward, citizenM Washington DC Capitol sits just steps from the National Mall with a rooftop bar and iPad-controlled rooms. The 4-star hotel features free WiFi, a restaurant, and personalized entertainment options through Chromecast, all within 500 meters of the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum.
1265 1st Street SE | 0.6 mi (0.9km) to Southwest Waterfront
Strategically positioned across from Navy Yard Metro Station, Hampton Inn & Suites offers modern rooms with flat-screen TVs and free WiFi adjacent to Nationals Park. The convenient location provides easy access to DC's major attractions including The National Mall, US Capitol Building, and Supreme Court.
1233 First Street SE | 0.6 mi (0.9km) to Southwest Waterfront
Ideally positioned near Navy Yard, this pet-friendly Residence Inn offers well-appointed rooms with flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms just minutes from DC's iconic attractions. The 24-hour front desk, complimentary WiFi, and fitness center provide essential conveniences for Capitol Hill visitors exploring the nearby Smithsonian museums and National Mall.
867 New Jersey Ave SE | 0.6 mi (1km) to Southwest Waterfront
Overlooking the vibrant Capitol Hill Navy Yard, this modern Marriott hotel offers a fitness center, free WiFi, and stylish rooms with city-view balconies. Guests enjoy an American breakfast daily, with easy access to Nationals Park and the U.S. Capitol.
480 L'Enfant Plaza SW | 0.7 mi (1.1km) to Southwest Waterfront
This LEED Silver-certified Hilton boasts an outdoor rooftop pool and direct Metro access just one mile from the Smithsonian and Washington Monument. Guests enjoy elegant rooms with high thread-count linens and designer bath amenities, plus convenient dining at L'Enfant Grill and Bar.
140 L Street SE | 0.7 mi (1.1km) to Southwest Waterfront
Located just steps from Navy Yard metro and 1.7 km from the National Mall, Courtyard Washington offers modern rooms with 42 Smart TVs and mini-fridges. Guests enjoy free WiFi, an indoor pool with whirlpool, fitness center, and The Bistro's breakfast and lounge with HDTVs for sports viewing.
550 C Street Southwest | 0.7 mi (1.1km) to Southwest Waterfront
Situated just one block from the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, Holiday Inn Washington Capitol-National Mall offers 24-hour fitness facilities with an outdoor pool. The Capitol Bistro restaurant, in-room refrigerators, and prime location within walking distance to the Capitol Building, White House, and national monuments make this a convenient base for exploring DC.
Dan, a digital nomad with 10+ years of experience, has traveled to 55+ countries, sharing expert tips to help others find the best places to stay.
Please note that we earn a commission when you book through our affiliate links. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps us continue to grow our business. Thank you for being a part of our journey.
Post was updated on June 18, 2025
Did you stay at one of the hotels listed here? We always appreciate hearing from our customers. If you would like to connect with us and share your experience, please feel free to reach out to us directly. right here.