Best Lake House Rentals in Michigan: Lakefront Cottages + More

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated February 14, 2023 tourism Dream Destinations
by Jon Miksis
This post may have affiliate links, where I may receive a commission if you purchase through them. Here's my Disclosure and Privacy Policy for more info.

Nicknamed the “Great Lake State”, there is a  long list of gorgeous lakefront Michigan rentals just waiting to be explored. If you’re looking to Vrbo or Airbnb in Michigan, you’re in luck. We already picked the 13 Best Airbnb in Michigan, now we’ve found the best lake houses in Michigan to rent through Vrbo. At these scenic getaways, you can take truly advantage of all the state’s natural treasures.

With so many cool things to do in Michigan, these beach house rentals offer easy access to water-based adventures like boating, swimming, paddling, and fishing. These year-round retreats are sprawling lake houses that offer enough space for the entire family. They also come equipped with luxury perks like private beaches, hot tubs, and dramatic water views. 

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, where I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The Coolest Airbnbs in Michigan: Top Vacation Rentals in 2021

Here are the best lakes houses in Michigan to rent by category, taking into consideration unique amenities, trip types, and budgets. The next sections will cover each listing—and also other top vacation rentals— in more detail.

Best Lake House for Large Groups: Lakefront Log Cabin That Sleeps 30 Guests

Most Affordable Michigan Rental: Cozy Dockside Home

Lushest Lap of Luxury: Pet-Friendly Rental with Panoramic Views

Ultimate Getaway Spot: 4-Bedroom Lake House with Private Beach

Top Rental Spot for Cold Weather: Beach House on Lake Superior

Best Beach House for Kids: Knotty Pine Lodge

Top Pick for Boaters: Beachside Rental on an All-Sports Lake

House with the Best Shopping Nearby: Vacation Home near Battle Creek

Most Stylish Beachfront Rental: Lake Huron House with Covered Deck

Best Spot for Stunning Views: The Bear Den

Best Lake House for Autumn Leaf Watching: Lakefront Getaway with Pontoon

Paradise for Fishing Fans: Three-Bedroom Rental with Waterfront Deck

Hottest Hot Tub Hotspot: Budget-Friendly Pine Lake Beach House

13 Best Beach House Rentals in Michigan

If sitting around a fire pit with friends, taking a boat onto the water, or just enjoying the view of a beautiful lake sounds good to you, keep reading! Here are some of the most unique lakefront Michigan rentals where you should spend your next vacation in the Midwest:

1. Beautiful Bass Lake Home, Minutes to Traverse City

Location: Traverse City, Michigan

Rates from: $299 per night

Accommodates: 6 guests

Front view of a top Michigan lake house rental
Located on the shore of an all-sports lake, this house is the perfect choice for boaters. | Credit: VRBO
View of the lake from Michigan beach house
Watching the sunset over Bass Lake is one of life’s purest pleasures. | Credit: VRBO

This charming beach rental in Michigan is set on Bass Lake, located on the west side of Traverse City. The two-level waterfront home has three bedrooms and faces northwest, which means you can experience amazing sunset views.

In addition to an outdoor deck overlooking the landscaped yard, there’s a fire pit at the shoreline and a dock. Inside you’ll find a luxurious sauna room attached to the lower-level bedroom, which includes a sitting area and a single hide-bed. Bass Lake is an all-sports lake. It’s a good thing, then, that the hosts of this Michigan beach house rental graciously provide two kayaks, a paddleboard, a paddleboat, and a canoe for you to use. 

2. Attractive Year-Round Beach House on Lake Superior

Location: Calumet, Michigan

Rates from: $200 per night

Accommodates: 8 guests

This Michigan lake house rental features a well-maintained lawn
This waterfront rental is a great place to view the Northern Lights. | Credit: VRBO
The kitchen and living room are cozy and stylish
The quaint kitchen and living room provide comfort all year round. | Credit: VRBO

Offering a beautifully stylish interior, this two-bedroom lakefront Michigan rental has a large deck with picture-perfect lakefront views. The quaint cottage has an inviting living area with a large window facing the lake and a stone gas fireplace, while the modern kitchen has everything you need for a weekend away.

Running behind the cottage is a small babbling trout stream that opens up to the lake and beach. On the beach, you can enjoy a campfire under the stars, take a dip, barbecue on the charcoal grill, or see if you can spot the Northern Lights. In winter, ski, snowmobile, and snowshoe trails start right from your front door. All that and more make this one of the best lake houses in Michigan to rent no matter what time of year.

3. Lakefront Vacationing at It’s Best – Pontoon Rental, Hot Tub

Location: Twin Lake, Michigan

Rates from: $253 per night

Accommodates: 14 guests

A hot tub and fire pit make this  one of the best Michigan lake houses for rent
Who could resist a luxurious soak in an outdoor hot tub? | Credit: VRBO
The lakeside deck is a perfect place to relax
There’s plenty of shade to sit under while eating dinner by the dock. | Credit: VRBO

Enjoy classic lakeside living at this Michigan beach house rental, which features a hot tub, sandy beach, and pontoon boat. Lakefront vacations are made easy at the four-bedroom retreat set on Twin Lake, where the lake dips gradually so kids can easily make a splash in the shallow end.

In summer, there’s nothing better than kicking back at one of the many scenic lake houses in Michigan to rent, and sitting around the fire pit while listening to the frogs singing. In cooler months, meanwhile, you can stay warm around the fireplace and enjoy the fall foliage. Inside, you’ll find enough space for up to 14 guests with its spacious living areas. These include a cozy great room with a gas fireplace and a renovated kitchen.

4. Lake House Living on All-Sports West Twin Lake

Location: Lewiston, Michigan

Rates from: $239 per night

Accommodates: 11 guests

A lakefront Michigan rental perfect for getawayas
This picturesque little lake house is bursting with charm. | Credit: VRBO
Relax near the fireplace and enjoy the views
With its big comfy couch and roaring fireplace, guests can get cozy and relax. | Credit: VRBO

Featuring 2,100 square feet of living space, this three-bedroom beach house rental in Michigan sits on an all-sports lake with clear waters. The lake is great for families with its sandy bottom and gradual entry, ideal for younger swimmers, tubers, or water skiers. Meanwhile, fishing enthusiasts can reel in walleye, pike, perch, and bass.

The private dock has tie-off anchors for your jet skis or boat. A paddleboat, kayaks, and paddleboards are also provided for guests. Enjoy your morning coffee on the lakefront deck, roast s’mores around the fire pit, and enjoy this Michigan beach house rental’s many indoor amenities, including a fireplace, floor-to-ceiling windows, a Jacuzzi tub, and lakefront views. 

5. Lake House With Private Beach

Location: Wolf Lake, Michigan

Rates from: $398 per night

Accommodates: 14 guests

This Michigan lake house rental offers great views and a private beach
This Michigan rental overlooks its own private beach. | Credit: VRBO
An ideal getaway for swimmers and boaters alike
Sit and enjoy a drink or play a game while watching the wind-swept waters. | Credit: VRBO

One of the most popular lake houses in Michigan to rent, this spacious four-bedroom house sits on the 207-acre Wolf Lake. You’ll have 100 feet of sandy beach to enjoy with a gentle slope for little ones, while the interior features 2,800 square feet of living space for up to 14 guests.

Additionally, the family-friendly lakefront Michigan rental has an open floor plan with an updated kitchen, a washer/dryer, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a lower level with a family room. You can also take in the lake view from the upper deck, which features a patio set and a gas BBQ grill. Enjoy a paddling adventure in the complimentary kayaks, then wrap up your day stargazing around the waterfront fire pit.

6. Beautiful Spacious Lakefront Home

Location: Camden, Michigan

Rates from: $257 per night

Accommodates: 12 guests

Even in winter, this is one of the top Michigan lakefront rentals
The four-bedroom lake house boasts amazing panoramic views, even in winter. | Credit: VRBO
The kitchen and dining room come with everything you need for a fun vacation
A fully stocked kitchen and dining room are just some of this rental’s amenities. | Credit: VRBO

Enjoy gorgeous sunsets overlooking Lake Diane from the spacious deck of this beautiful four-bedroom Michigan beach house rental. Boasting four bedrooms, it even has remote-controlled awnings over its deck for those who prefer to be the shade.

In fact, there are actually four outdoor sitting areas to choose from to admire the nature views or enjoy a meal alfresco, while the indoor windows also offer panoramic lake views. Like at all the best beach house rentals in Michigan, your boat or watercraft is welcome at the dock, while the shoreline is an ideal spot for playing, swimming, and fishing off the dock. 

7. Just Beyond Paradise – 200 Feet of Dramatic Water Views

Location: Whitefish Point, Michigan

Rates from: $300 per night

Accommodates: 10 guests

Front of one of the most unique beach houses for rent in Michigan
With a prime location in Whitefish Bay, guests here can enjoy the majesty of Lake Superior. | Credit: VRBO
The multi-story cabin is very spacious
The Bear Den’s towering windows provide beautiful views and plenty of natural light. | Credit: VRBO

The Bear Den cabin boasts incredible lakefront views on its 200 feet of shoreline along Lake Superior’s Whitefish Bay. Experience the best of the Upper Peninsula’s Michigan beach house rentals with this four-bedroom lakeside retreat, which includes modern perks like a gourmet kitchen, stone fireplace, and finished lower level walkout with a second TV area that is perfect for kids.

Just a short drive away from many of the Upper Peninsula’s top attractions, the spectacular custom-built home boasts enough room for up to 10 guests. It also offers beautiful Lake Superior views from every point, making it an ideal lakefront Michigan rental for those looking to take home scenic snapshot souvenirs. 

8. Beautiful Luxury Waterfront Property on Lake Huron Beach

Location: Au Sable Charter Township, Michigan

Rates from: $370 per night

Accommodates: 9 guests

Sandy beaches give this Michigan lake house rental a tropical feel
What better way to wake up than by stepping out onto a beachside deck to watch the sunrise? | Credit: VRBO
The living room is a perfect blend of comfort and style
With its nautical decor, this rental captures the essence of lakeside leisure. | Credit: VRBO

Sitting on the sugar sand beach of Lake Huron, this beautiful Oscoda home is where to stay when you want to get away from it all. With 60 feet of frontage, the beautiful lake house rental in Michigan offers a quiet getaway where you can enjoy beautiful sunrises from its partially covered deck.

It has amenities for a family getaway, including a fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, and family room with a fireplace, while its outdoor area is the real highlight. Explore the beautiful beach with its clear waters or enjoy yard games, then sit together around the fire pit at night or fire up the grill. Beach house rentals in Michigan like this are the definition of comfort.

9. Relax or Play Year-Round at Cozy Lakefront Home

Location: Battle Creek, Michigan

Rates from: $131 per night

Accommodates: 4 guests

This quaint little lakeside Michigan rental is affordable and cozy
Beaches don’t come much quainter or cozier than this. | Credit: VRBO
Jump into the lake from your very own dock
Relax and enjoy the peaceful waters, or jump in for a refreshing dip. | Credit: VRBO

One of the most affordable lake houses in Michigan to rent, this one-bedroom home offers a peaceful getaway for couples. Set within feet from the water’s edge, the Mill Lake getaway offers easy access to great fishing, boating, and swimming on the 88-acre natural wonder.

A paddleboat is provided for leisurely rides around the lake, while winter offers a chance to enjoy ice fishing and cozying up by the electric fireplace. Then, thanks to this Michigan beach house rental’s prime location, you can venture to the attractions nearby in Battle Creek or Hastings, where you’ll find opportunities for golfing, shopping, and gambling.

10. Pine Lake Retreat with Hot Tub & Sandy Lakefront

Location: Plainwell, Michigan

Rates from: $150 per night

Accommodates: 10 guests

Even in the snow, this Michigan beach rental is picturesque
During winter, Michigan renters can enjoy ice fishing or skating at this lakeside retreat. | Credit: VRBO
An outdoor fireplace that is sure to impress
One of this rental’s most striking amenities is a beautiful outdoor fireplace. | Credit: VRBO

Designed for lakefront relaxation and entertainment, this Pine Lake beach house rental in Michigan boasts 60 feet of sandy lakefront for up to 10 guests. Outdoor fun is made easy on the large deck with its comfy outdoor sofa, as well as porch swings, gas fire table, BBQ grill, and dining table. You can also hop in the bubbling hot tub or take advantage of the complimentary kayaks.

On a sunny day, Pine Lake is a 660-acre all-sports lake that is perfect for exploring by boat, while winter offers access to ice fishing, snowmobiling, and ice skating. This retreat is one of the more affordable lake houses in Michigan to rent, but it has as much to offer as many of its pricier counterparts.

11. Family Beach Vacation Rental with Boat Docking Onsite

Location: Oden, Michigan

Rates from: $277 per night

Accommodates: 10 guests

One of the best Michigan lake houses for rent
Located right on the banks of Crooked Lake, there’s plenty of space to relax here. | Credit: VRBO
The cabin comes with its own kitchenette/bar
Enjoy a snack, or a drink, at this stylish kitchenette set-up. | Credit: VRBO

If you’re planning a family getaway in Michigan, this four-bedroom Michigan beach house rental is a solid choice. With 450 feet of waterfront access, it has a shallow, hard bottom sandy beach that stretches out about 300 feet. As a result, this is an ideal destination for kids on Crooked Lake. 

The park-like lakefront Michigan rental also has a private marina, with two slips available for your watercraft, as well as a volleyball court, horseshoe pit, and multiple fire pits. First, sit on the wooden swing and watch the boats go by. Then, cruise to the historic inland waterway. Finally, get out and explore the unique shops, boutiques, and art galleries in Petoskey’s Gas Light District and Harbor Springs. 

12. Large Lakefront Log Home with Sandy Beach

Location: Lexington, Michigan

Rates from: $700 per night

Accommodates: 30 guests

Front view of a log cabin-style Michigan lake house rental
With enough space for a whopping 30 guests, this is a perfect getaway for large groups. | Credit: VRBO
The log cabin's interior is beautiful and spacious
The beauty of this log cabin’s exterior is matched only by its interior. | Credit: VRBO

This picture-perfect beach rental in Michigan is a luxurious getaway nestled on 10 acres. Surrounded by towering trees, open fields, and 200 feet of sandy Lake Huron frontage, it can accommodate up to 30 guests in its 3,600 square foot layout.

Perfect for large families or groups of friends, the two-story great room features a fireplace and beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows for watching the sunrise, as well as a modern kitchen, first-floor den, and basement equipped with a pool table, ping pong, and cable TV. With its nearly deserted beach location, the luxe home is also suited for exclusive events such as small retreats, workshops, family reunions, and weddings, making it one of the most versatile lake houses in Michigan to rent.

13. Knotty Pine Lodge with 47 Wooded Acres, Sandy Beach Accessible

Location: Cassopolis, Michigan

Rates from: $435 per night

Accommodates: 24 guests

A top Michigan beach house rental that comes with 47 wooded acres to explore
This family-friend rental includes a rock-climbing wall, swings, slides, and more. | Credit: VRBO
Play table tennis, billiards, or foosball in the game room
The game room at Knotty Pine is fully equipped for fun. | Credit: VRBO

Nicknamed the Knotty Pine Lodge, this wheelchair-friendly 3,700 square foot home is nestled amongst the trees in a serene setting. The lakefront Michigan rental is just 25 feet from a sandy, gentle-slope beach on Stone Lake and set on a quiet dead-end lane as a part of a privately 47-acre wooded nature preserve.

Families will love the game room with a pool table, foosball, ping pong, leather sofas, and bistro tables, as well as the projection TV for watching movies with a 10-foot screen and audio system. The three-story beach house rental in Michigan boasts a lakeside wall of windows and seven bedrooms so everyone can find a quiet corner, while kids can play on the playset with multiple platforms, swings, slides, and a rock-climbing wall. 

You may also like

Leave a Comment