Your lodging—whether an Airbnb or a hotel—is a key part of your Lake Michigan vacation. Factors like lodge views, amenities, food, service, and proximity to fun activities can make or mar your holiday.

When picking a lodge, you must consider the kind of holiday experience you wish to have. Lake Michigan’s vastness means several fun activities to keep your vacation active, whether boating, hiking, or summer festivals.

Even if you’re a reserved vacationer who wants to relax and sip a cool drink, it’s only fair that you retire at the end of your daily activities into a comfortable and well-equipped lodge. Here are the seven best Airbnb and hotels for your next Lake Michigan holiday.

The Top 7 Airbnb and Places to Stay on Lake Michigan

Airbnb

1. Looking Glass Beachfront Inn

   

   The Looking Glass’ adventure starts at its 79-step staircase—or an electric trolley if you prefer not to walk—and leads to a homely building seated on a dune. It has five uniquely styled rooms offering calming views of Lake Michigan or the Grand Haven lighthouse.

   Each morning here starts with a choice of breakfast. Afterward, you may explore the nearby Grand Haven beaches and engage in water sports, hiking, or local events.

   Should you choose to stay indoors, you can amuse yourself with amenities like flatscreen TVs, Blu-ray players, a game library, and free Wi-Fi. There’s also a deck where you can sunbathe.

   Location: 1100 South Harbor, Grand Haven, Milwaukee 49417

   Amenities: Family-friendly, Wi-Fi, street parking and wheelchair accessible

   Price: From $300 a night

2. Still Bend/Frank Lloyd Wright’s Schwartz House

   

   Many important people contributed to the marvel of Still Bend. Frank Lloyd Wright designed it, Bernard Schwartz built it, and Gary and Michael Ditmer opened it to the public. The red hue structure is a top dream vacation house for Lake Michigan vacationers.

   It has a 65ft long recreation room, a second-floor balcony, and custom furniture designed by Lloyd Wright. The lodge is close to the East Twin River and Lake Michigan so that you can enjoy beach attractions, hike trails, or the Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast.

   Location: 3425 Adams Street, Two Rivers, Wisconsin 54241

   Amenities: Television, Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchen, shower, bathtub and towels

   Price: From $300 a night

3. Michigan Family Retreats/Saddle Lake

   

   Saddle Lake is the perfect choice for a spontaneous vacationer who can’t decide between indoor and outdoor activities. It has seven well-furnished rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, karaoke tools, a pool table, movie night items, and a long dining table.

   When you step out, there’s a 300ft waterfront where you can swim, fish, or cruise your boat. Saddle Lake also has two kayaks and canoes, a 7-person Jacuzzi hot tub, a firepit with outdoor seating, and sports courts.

   Hike trails, ski points, local breweries, and farms surround the lodge. It’s also within driving distance of the resort town of South Haven.

   Location: Grand Junction, Michigan

   Amenities: Lake view, outdoor shower, free washer and dryer in building, room darkening shades, HDTV, Wi-Fi, dedicated workspace, EV charger, popcorn machine, and ice cream maker.

   Price: Around $800 per night

4. Blacksmith Inn On the Shore

   

   The Blacksmith Inn is ideal for nature-infused relaxation or a romantic getaway experience. Inside are 15 rooms whose designs personify thoughtfulness, elegance, and modern comforts. Each room has a private balcony with views of Bailey Harbor.

   The lodge offers a complimentary breakfast for guests. For the newlyweds, you can book an exclusive honeymoon package that comes with gifts.

   The fun here includes kayaking, sailing, hiking, and visiting local attractions like wineries and art galleries.

   Location: 8152 State Highway 57, Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin

   Amenities: Fireplace, Wi-Fi, TV, air conditioning, outdoor furniture and picnic area

   Price: From $155

Hotels

1. The Harbor Grand Hotel – New Buffalo

   

   The hotel sits just steps away from Lake Michigan. It has 54 elegantly designed rooms and suites offering picturesque Lake Michigan views.

   They serve a complimentary breakfast and have an onsite spa. There are complimentary beach chairs and towels if you decide to go to the beach.

   It’s also close to noteworthy points like the New Buffalo lighthouse, community mural wall, Oinks Dutch treat pig bench, and New Buffalo Bison. Every year, there are events to thrill guests, like the St. Mary’s carnival and the Harbor fireworks of the 4th of July.

   Location: 111 Water St, New Buffalo, Michigan 49117

   Amenities: Spa, room fireplaces, heated indoor pool and fitness studio

   Price: From $329

2. Hotel Earl of Charlevoix

   

   The Hotel Earl of Charlevoix is a luxurious holiday resort near Lake Michigan, Round Lake, and Lake Charlevoix. It has 56 rooms with modern interior theme designs.

   Some rooms have balconies and terraces where you can lounge and enjoy views of the water. The lodge also has two ADA-compliant rooms to ensure everyone is involved in the fun.

   There are many indoor and outdoor activities for guests, like an indoor pool, an outdoor hot tub, a 26-mile bike trail to Harbor Springs, and four golf courses. You may also engage in seasonal fun activities like sailing and skiing.

   Location: 120 Michigan Aven, Charlevoix, MI 49720

   Amenities: Gym, boutique, disabled persons access, Wi-Fi, child-friendly, bar and swimming pool

   Price: From $350

3. LODGE KOHLER

   

   LODGE KOHLER has two notable perks. It’s an adventurous holiday hotel and close to major sporting activities. It has over 100 guest rooms and suites designed with custom Kohler fittings. From your room, you can enjoy views of Lake Michigan and the Lambeau field.

   Its other luxury amenities include the Kohler Waters Spa, the Taverne in the Sky restaurant with rooftop views, and an infinity-edge hot tub. The staff consistently delivers exceptional service.

   Its nearby attractions include hiking trails, seasonal water sports, and Green Bay’s vibrant cultural scene.

   Location: 1950 S Ridge Road, Green Bay, Wisconsin 54304

   Amenities: Spa, fitness center, restaurants, Kohler custom rooms

   Price: From $450 per night

When is the best time to visit Lake Michigan?

The best time to go to Lake Michigan depends on your vacation goals. Go in the summer if you want a relaxing holiday with warm weather and outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and festivals.

A Fall trip is better if you prefer a quieter experience of nature and local activities like farm visits, wine tasting, and fireplaces.

Spring is perfect if you enjoy boats and sailing. Winter is best if you’re enthusiastic about snowboarding and skiing.

Should I go for a hotel or an Airbnb for a Lake Michigan trip?

Your wants and needs determine which lodge type is better for you. An Airbnb will suit you better if you’re with a group and would prefer a homey holiday. It usually includes features like a dining area, kitchen, sleeping area flexibility, and privacy.

However, you should choose a hotel if you prefer exclusive services like spas, room service, and fine dining.

The features of a hotel or an Airbnb are not exclusive, so you can find either having features that come with the other. For instance, a hotel can also have a dining area and kitchen, which may be more expensive.

Other things to consider include proximity to Lake Michigan and other holiday activities.

Can I get a tour guide for my Lake Michigan vacation?

People usually get the services of a local guide to help them get the best out of their vacation. As expected, there are many tour guides and services around Lake Michigan. You may check your lodging to see if they partner with local guides. You can also check the local directories for registered local tour guides and contact them.