Lake Michigan flat out stunned me! Everyone raves about ocean getaways, but this freshwater giant serves up views that made my jaw drop. Those crystal waters against massive sand dunes? Unreal. I fell hard for Saugatuck with its funky art scene and New Buffalo, where small town vibes meet food that had me texting photos to friends back home.
Finding the best places in Lake Michigan means scoring a beach house that delivers those water views without compromise. I went down a serious rabbit hole comparing rentals so you don’t have to waste vacation planning time. These spots nail the perfect combo of location and comfort, with private beaches where you can dig your toes in the sand and decks built for watching those Lake Michigan sunsets that light up the sky in colors that look photoshopped but are 100% real.
The Coolest Vacation Rentals in Michigan: Top Cottages, Condos + Beach Houses in 2025
Here are the best Airbnbs and VRBOs on Lake Michigan by category, considering factors such as amenities, trip types, and budgets. The following sections will cover each listing in more detail.
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- Most Luxurious Midwest Rental: Ultra-Stylish Six-Bedroom Getaway
- Most Affordable Lake Michigan Vacation Home: Romantic Lakefront Cottage
- Top Spot for Large Groups: Cave Point/White Fish Dunes Rental
- Best Michigan Rental Year-Round: Four-Season Cabin in Door County
- Most Breathtaking Views: Spectacular Port Sheldon Rental
- Best Pet-Friendly Option: White Pines Lakefront Beach House
- Top Spot for Surfers: Arcadia Cottage w/ Three Miles of Beach
- Most Relaxing Lake Michigan Rental: Tranquil Three-Bedroom Getaway
- Most Charming Midwestern Retreat: Vintage 1945 Lakeside Log Cabin
- Most Picture-Perfect Tourist Destination: Quintessential Beach House
- Coziest Cottage for Rent Near Lake Michigan: Secluded Lakefront Hideaway
- Best Location for Vacationers: Lake Michigan Rental Just Minutes From Town
- Top Spot for Fishers: Big Flower Creek Cottage
13 Best Lake Houses for Rent in MI: VRBO, Homeaway + Airbnb
If relaxing lakeside retreats, beach houses, and luxury rentals on Lake Michigan all sound good to you, then it’s time to get psyched! Below are some of the most unique stays in MI:
1. Great Lakes Splendor Cabin
- 📍 Location: Arcadia, MI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $238/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Jetted tub, updated kitchen, lakefront views, pet-friendly, outdoor grill
- 🌟 Perfect For: Nature seekers 🌿, couples & families 👨👩👧👦, sunset lovers 🌅, beach adventurers 🏖️
Escape to Great Lakes Splendor, a rustic yet modern Lake Michigan log cabin, located just 1 mile from Arcadia and 3 miles from Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course. This cozy retreat offers stunning lake views and unforgettable sunsets.
Indoors, enjoy the warmth of wood accents, a newly updated kitchen and bathroom, and modern amenities like a Smart TV, jetted tub, and Bose stereo system.
Step out to direct access to Lake Michigan’s shoreline, perfect for beach walks or relaxing by the water.
Nearby, explore the preserved beaches of the Grand Traverse Land Conservancy, visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, or ski at Crystal Mountain Resort in winter. Great Lakes Splendor is the perfect mix of lakefront tranquility and Northern Michigan adventure.
- Read More: 12 Awesome Things to Do in West Michigan
2. Seagull Beach Cottage
- 📍 Location: Sheboygan, WI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $247/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 2 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private beach, 3 decks, gas grill, paddleboards & kayaks
- 🌟 Perfect For: Romantic escapes 💑, beach lovers 🏖, nature seekers 🌄, golfers & race fans 🏁
Retreat to Seagull Beach Cottage, a cozy 1,200 sq. ft. getaway nestled on 3 acres of woods with direct access to a private Lake Michigan beach. This charming cottage features two queen beds, a fireplace, a fully stocked kitchen, and beautiful stained-glass windows.
Start your day with breathtaking sunrise views from the balcony, or unwind by the fire after a day of exploration.
Just minutes from Kohler-Andrae State Park, enjoy scenic dunes, or visit the nearby John Michael Kohler Arts Center and Blue Harbor Water Park for cultural and family fun. For adventure, head to Road America for racing excitement.
Seagull Beach Cottage offers the perfect blend of peaceful retreat and adventure, making it an unforgettable getaway.
3. Lake Michigan Beachfront Cottage
- 📍 Location: Montague, MI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $238/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private sandy beach, deck & porch space, wildlife sanctuary
- 🌟 Perfect For: Family vacations 👨👩👧👦, beach lovers 🌊, nature explorers 🌲
Relax at this charming 900 sq. ft. cottage nestled within the serene Big Flower Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, offering 76 feet of private sandy beach and peaceful lake views. This cozy retreat combines relaxation with lakeside adventure.
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The cottage offers three cozy bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a comfortable living area for relaxing after a day of exploration. Outside, enjoy a balcony and multiple decks for added space to unwind.
Step outside and enjoy kayaking, fishing along Big Flower Creek, or a short 20-minute drive to Stony Lake for paddleboarding and more. Nearby, explore the vibrant atmosphere of Electric Forest, or enjoy indoor fun at Gold Rush Water Park.
Whether you’re enjoying the sunrise, relaxing by the grill, or venturing out to Silver Lake Sand Dunes, this lakeside retreat has something for everyone.
4. Luxurious Lake House
- 📍 Location: Norton Shores, MI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $2,783/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 24 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Indoor heated saltwater pool and spa, lake views, game room, 6,945 sq ft
- 🌟 Perfect For: Multi-family getaways 👨👩👧👦, reunions 🎉, year-round fun 🌊❄️
Welcome to your all-season retreat on Lake Michigan—just 20 minutes from Grand Haven and close to everything Muskegon has to offer. This spacious 7-bedroom home sleeps 24 and includes nearly 7,000 sq ft of comfort and fun.
Enjoy the indoor heated saltwater pool and spa, fully equipped kitchen, and game room with billiards, ping pong, and foosball. The flexible layout includes 3 king beds, 5 queens, 8 twin bunks, and twin Murphy beds in a den that doubles as a 7th bedroom.
Step outside to take in lake views from the shared deck, only 200 feet from shared beach access on Lake Michigan.
Nearby, explore Muskegon’s beaches, visit Michigan’s Adventure, hike local trails, or golf nearby. From swimming to skiing, this home is perfect for year-round family fun.
5. Peace of Beach Home
- 📍 Location: Sturgeon Bay, WI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $355/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private beach, two fire pits, panoramic lakefront view, pet-friendly
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 👨👩👧👦, beach lovers 🏖️, fishing enthusiasts 🎣, nature seekers 🌳
Begin your stay at Peace of Beach – a cozy Door County cottage with 200 feet of private Lake Michigan frontage. Perfect for families or small groups, this charming retreat blends lakeside relaxation with classic comfort.
Inside, the fully equipped kitchen and open living area offer a great place to unwind after a day by the water. Two comfortable bedrooms and a sleeper sofa accommodate up to 8 guests.
Just steps from the door, enjoy panoramic lake views from your private beach, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or windsurfing on the waves.
Close by, explore the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Lighthouse or visit the Door County Historical Museum. Sample local cheese curds, tour wineries and chocolate shops, or try your hand at salmon or walleye fishing. This lakeside gem offers fun in every season.
6. Cozy & Clean Getaway Home
- 📍 Location: Coloma, MI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $252/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 5 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Proximity to Lake Michigan, outdoor dining area, barbecue grill, beach towels
- 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 💑, small families 👨👩👧👦, beach lovers 🏖️
Welcome to this cozy lakeside home, just steps from the shores of Lake Michigan. Perfect for couples or small families, this charming retreat offers the ideal blend of relaxation and outdoor fun.
Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen and a cozy living room, providing the perfect space to unwind. Two bedrooms comfortably sleep up to 5 guests, with a queen bed in one and a double bed in the other.
Step outside to enjoy the spacious deck, barbecue grill, and fire pit, or take a short walk to the beach for a day of sun and sand.
Nearby, explore Silver Beach or visit Benton Harbor for local shopping and dining. Whether you’re sailing, boating, or relaxing by the water, this spot offers the ultimate lakeside getaway.
7. Charming Little Beach Cottage
- 📍 Location: Sheboygan, WI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $180/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 2 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private beach access, spectacular sunrises, spacious deck
- 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 🏖️, beach lovers 🌊, nature enthusiasts 🌅
Discover this cozy beach cottage, a unique Lake Michigan getaway nestled on a private beach. Perfect for couples, this charming retreat combines comfort with stunning natural beauty.
Indoors, the fully equipped kitchen and dining area offer a great space to unwind and enjoy meals together. The master bedroom features two queen beds, ensuring a restful night.
Step outdoors to a large deck overlooking the lake, where you can enjoy stunning sunrises and take in the natural beauty.
In the vicinity, explore Kohler-Andrae State Park for hiking, or visit the John Michael Kohler Arts Center for art exhibits. Head into Sheboygan to enjoy local shops and dining. From relaxing by the water to exploring the trails, this spot offers the perfect lakeside retreat.
8. Breathtaking Lake Michigan Stay
- 📍 Location: West Olive, MI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $683/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 16 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private beach, beachfront location, outdoor shower, two grills
- 🌟 Perfect For: Large groups 👨👩👧👦, beach lovers 🏖️, sunset chasers 🌅, adventure seekers 🏞️
Relax at this Lake Michigan retreat, a spacious 7-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom home with private beach access and sweeping lake views. This 5,000 sq. ft. getaway offers comfort and plenty of space to gather, unwind, and explore.
The fully stocked kitchen and spacious dining area make mealtimes easy, while lake-view bedrooms on both levels and a fun bunk room with games ensure everyone has room to relax.
Head out to a private walkway leading to the beach, or enjoy the fire pit and outdoor dining with two grills.
Nearby, explore Holland’s tulip gardens, Dutch Village, and Holland State Park. Head to Grand Haven for shopping and dining. From beach days to sunset views, this home is built for unforgettable memories.
9. Elegant Private Waterfront Retreat
- 📍 Location: Suttons Bay, MI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $608/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Beachfront location, sauna, central air, kayak/canoe, water sports gear
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏖️, beach lovers 🌊, water sports enthusiasts 🚤
Unwind at this private waterfront home in Suttons Bay, offering a serene lakeside escape with breathtaking views. Perfect for families or groups, this spacious retreat blends comfort and outdoor adventure.
On the interior, the bright and open living area features cozy furnishings and large windows to take in the views. The fully equipped kitchen and dining area offer plenty of space to gather. The three bedrooms comfortably sleep up to 8 guests.
Head outside to the beach and enjoy the hot tub, sauna, and private beach access. Explore the waters with the provided kayak and canoe, or relax by the water’s edge.
Close by, visit Ciccone Vineyard & Winery or Leelanau Sands Casino for local attractions. Take a short drive to Traverse City for shopping and entertainment. Whether you’re kayaking or relaxing by the beach, this lakeside retreat offers endless adventure.
10. Luxury Family Retreat Home
- 📍 Location: Holland, MI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $296/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Walk to Tunnel Park Beach, game room, fully equipped kitchen
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 👨👩👧👦, beach lovers 🏖️, outdoor enthusiasts 🌳
Welcome to this charming 3-bedroom family retreat, just a short walk from Tunnel Park Beach. This spacious home offers a mix of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal getaway.
The open-concept living area features a gas fireplace and plenty of seating for family gatherings. The fully equipped kitchen and large dining table, which seats up to 14, ensure meals are a breeze.
Nearby, take a stroll to Tunnel Park Beach, or visit Holland State Park for scenic views and outdoor activities. From kayaking and sailing to enjoying beach time, this retreat offers the ultimate lakeside experience.
11. Large Gathering Lake Retreat
- 📍 Location: Montague, MI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $700/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 20 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Beachfront location, panoramic lake views, on-site kayaks
- 🌟 Perfect For: Large groups 🏖️, families 👨👩👧👦, water sports enthusiasts 🚤
This Large Gathering Lake Retreat offers breathtaking views of White Lake, making it an ideal spot for large groups or families. The spacious home combines lakeside fun with ample comfort for up to 20 guests.
The cozy living room, featuring a 65″ OLED Smart TV, is perfect for relaxing evenings. The fully equipped kitchen, formal dining area seating 8, and second living room provide plenty of space to gather.
Enjoy the panoramic lake view from the expansive outdoor area, with a large sandy beach just steps away. Take advantage of private lake access, on-site kayaks, and plenty of outdoor space to enjoy water activities.
In the vicinity, visit Medbury Park or Michigan’s Adventure for exciting adventures. Explore Muskegon for shopping, dining, and more fun. This retreat is the perfect base for your ultimate lakeside getaway.
12. Lake Michigan 1945 Log Cabin
- 📍 Location: Muskegon, MI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $395/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private sandy beach, wood-burning fireplaces, paddle boat, pet-friendly
- 🌟 Perfect For: Family vacations 👨👩👧👦, nature lovers 🌲, beach enthusiasts 🏖️
The Lake Michigan 1945 Log Cabin is a vintage log retreat nestled in the woods, offering 2,500 sq. ft. of space and 80 feet of private sandy shoreline. With four bedrooms and three full bathrooms, it comfortably hosts up to 8 guests.
The main floor includes a king suite and a queen guest room, both with private baths. A cozy living room with a wood-burning fireplace and large windows frames stunning lake views.
The spacious front lawn includes a fire pit and plenty of seating for gathering. A private stairway leads down 65 steps to the beach, perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddle boating, and relaxing by the water.
Explore Muskegon State Park, spend the day at Michigan’s Adventure, or catch the ferry at Lake Express. Pet-friendly and full of charm, this cabin invites year-round relaxation.
13. The Dune Alright
- 📍 Location: Baileys Harbor, WI
- 💵 Price Per Night: $310/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Lakefront, ping pong, paddle boards, outdoor shower, pet-friendly
- 🌟 Perfect For: Family vacations 👨👩👧👦, nature lovers 🌲, beach lovers 🏖️
Dune Alright is a stunning 5,000 sq. ft. lakefront retreat in Baileys Harbor, offering panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the dunes.
Perfect for a group of six, this home features five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and an open layout with a wood-burning fireplace. Multiple decks overlook the dunes, while the game area includes a foosball, and high-speed Wi-Fi for streaming.
Enjoy direct access to a rocky beach with sandy-bottom swimming and two paddleboards for lake adventures. A fire pit and generous outdoor seating make evenings memorable.
Walk to Kangaroo Lake in just 6 minutes or explore Door County’s gems like Stone’s Throw Winery, Cana Island Lighthouse, and Whitefish Dunes State Park. From paddling the shoreline to relaxing with a glass of wine, this peaceful getaway offers the perfect lakeside escape.
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