Vacation Rentals by Owner

Anniversary Getaway

Guest: Brian (Lebanon, IN)
Date of Stay: 05/04/12 Review Submitted: 05/15/12

We were looking for a beautiful romantic getaway and the "Miami" fit the bill perfectly! The amenities such as the steam room, hot tub and very comfortable four-post king sized bed were just what we needed to enjoy a wonderful romantic weekend at the beach. Lot's of natural light during the day meant we never turned the light's on. Plenty of light's in the unit means you can make it as bright as you want at night. The beach view from the deck, living room and bedroom are wonderful (if the fog hasn't rolled in) and the walk to the beach is a short one. The sand was super soft and the look and feel was that of a beach house on the Gulf minus the salt air and rotten seaweed smell. The unit is fully equipped though we didn't cook for the two nights we were there. The owner gave some wonderful recommendations for local restaurants. Rodini's is fantastic for wonderful steaks and seafood with a Greek touch. And you just can never go wrong with Saganaki. OOOOPA!. Schoop's is a wonderful 50's style diner with excellent hamburgers. In fact, all the local places we went to had fantastic food at great prices. The unit has everything you might need if you do decide to cook there. He even has some utensils there in a rental unit that I wish I had at home. So you shouldn't have to worry about bringing anything in the way of cooking, eating or drinking utensils. He has you covered. The hot tub on the deck was great! VERY private. In fact, even though the unit is in a part of town loaded with beach houses, it still had a very private and secluded feel to it once you arrived. The stream room is fantastic. So much so that my wife is ready to have one installed in our own home. The teak chairs are a fantastic idea and it was very relaxing. We never used the jacuzzi in the bathroom but it is much larger than what it looks like in the pics. It might be designed for 4 people but 2 would fit very comfortably. Owner was extremely easy to work with and was genuine in his concern that we have a good time and that everything was perfect. On site custodian was friendly and made sure everything was perfect when we arrived. He made sure to let us know to call him if we needed anything but otherwise we didn't see him hardly at all during our stay. Unit was extremely clean and well kept. Linens and paper items were in plentiful supply for our two day stay and the custodian said to let him know if we needed more. We highly recommend staying here and look forward to returning!

Recommended for:Romantic getaway

Delightful Oasis

Guest: John L.
Date of Stay: 02/01/12 Review Submitted: 03/01/12

From the moment you walk through the door, this delightful spot captivates you. We walked along the beach, reveling in the isolation on a cool winter day. The large jacuzzi tub beckons you although most of our time was spent with champagne in the hot tub. The house was well furnished, in great shape and the housekeeper was accommodating to our needs. I highly recommend this spot and we look forward to returning when the weather is warmer and the lake more welcoming. Despite being surrounded by houses, you felt like you were on an island.

Recommended for:

Fabulous Get Away

Guest: Rayn (Willow Springs,IL)
Date of Stay: 01/14/12 Review Submitted: 04/04/12

We escaped for a few days in the middle of the winter and found the most relaxing, beautiful and cozy location. I can only imagine what the location would offer in the middle of the warmer months. With views of the beach from the main windows, we enjoyed staying in doors, warming up in the hot tub, and even taking walks along the frozen sand. The unit had everything we needed, and both the owner and care taker were extremely accommodating. We can't wait to return.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Perfect!

Guest: Celeste M.
Date of Stay: 01/03/12 Review Submitted: 01/18/12

My husband and I had a wonderful, relaxing stay at this perfect vacation getaway suite. We enjoyed the panoramic view of the beach, lake and other interesting houses. Our accommodations were just as described, and everything was neat and clean. The owner was easy to work with and most accommodating when making our reservation. The caretaker, Mark, is very conscientious and helpful, and the two dogs are sweet. We sat in the hot tub on the deck, enjoying our wine and the night sky. We relaxed in the steam shower, in the jacuzzi, and on the couch by the fireplace. We loved watching the lake and taking walks in both directions from the house. We had 3 delicious dinners in town, and enjoyed our leftovers for lunch. We look forward to coming back in the summer!

Recommended for:

New Year's

Guest: Jurate
Date of Stay: 12/30/11 Review Submitted: 01/14/12

We spent 3 nights -celebrated New Years here and we loved it. . The place is great, we really enjoyed our stay:):).... The view from the deck is perfect , all of us loved the hot tubs overlooking the beach:).... We will definitely be staying again-hopefully in summertime now:)! Thanks Ben:)!!! Jurka and others

Recommended for:

nice trip

Guest: David c.
Date of Stay: 11/17/11 Review Submitted: 11/21/11

we arrived on thursday in late november it was a beautiful view the hot tub and jacuzzi were very nice the house was beautiful and well furnished we enjoyed ourselves we also took our dog and even in novenber she went for a wade in lake michigan it was close to everything and just beautiful we didnt have time for the steam shower im sure it would have been nice also.. we also saw deer running right in front of us that was really neat. it was well worth it. the bed was so comfortable i didnt want to get out of it.

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Lovely Beach House

Guest: susan m. (Chicago, IL)
Date of Stay: 10/14/11 Review Submitted: 10/20/11

We arrived on a Friday in the Fall -- the windiest weekend EVER -- for a 3 night stay. We were greeted by Mark, who is the custodian, and was on premises during our stay. This is the third floor unit, and is a fairly new addition to home. Very nice, open and airy, and clean. French doors open along the entire back of the unit facing Lake Michigan. You have a very short walk down a sandy path to the beach, which is really beautiful even during this time of the year. We brought our two dogs and they had a blast playing in the dune grass and on the beach, as well. I would not bring them along during High Season, as they would not be allowed on the beach at that time. There was no one around this time of year, so it was fine. I made sure not to leave them in the house unattended so we didn't get to venture out too much for any shopping, dining, etc. This is a beach town, there isn't much else to do than hang out and enjoy nature's paradise, and that was fine with us. The unit itself includes some extras - like a steam room, a huge Jacuzzi in the master bath, and a hot tub out on the deck. We used every one of those aquatic fun zones. The steam room might have been my fave, however, I couldn’t do more than about 15 minutes – but it was the most wonderful 15 minutes. You enter into the unit to an open space which includes a dining room area, kitchen and living area with two sofa beds. The kitchen has an island with bar stool to seat four or so. Kitchen has everything you needed as far as appliances/cookware/utensils go, except for an oven. If there was an oven, it was hidden, and I couldn’t find it. You have to two cooktop gas burners and a good microwave, plus a gas grill outdoors. Bathrooms are not equipped with hair dryer, so bring your own. Master BR had a king size comfy four poster bed. Premium hotel quality mattress, very nice. Master bath is large and roomy, separate Jacuzzi bath, shower and toilet area with a double sink with plenty of space and privacy if you had to share the bathroom with guests sleeping in the living area. Half bath in the living area. Very quiet this time of year. We had a relaxing getaway only an hour from home. Would stay again, next time over the summer with some friends.

Owner response:Sorry you did not ask where the oven was when you were looking for it. The microwave oven is also a convection oven with the plastic laminated instructions below the microwave on the counter top. Thanks for the nice review.

Recommended for:

Perfect Weekend Getaway

Guest: jreynolds10 (United States)
Date of Stay: 10/07/11 Review Submitted: 10/25/11

We spent our anniversary here and we loved it. Ben the owner met us when we arrived and showed us around the property. The pictures hardly do the house justice as it is very roomy and very clean. All appliances are modern and up to date and everything worked great. The view from the deck is perfect and you can see it both from the living room and the master bedroom. We will definitely be staying again!

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Great Getaway!!!

Guest: SAM (Indianapolis, IN)
Date of Stay: 09/14/11 Review Submitted: 09/18/11

We have very hectic, busy daily lives and we were searching for quiet, cozy place with beautiful vistas to steal away to... and we certainly found it here! The pictures really don't do it justice. The view out over sand dunes and Lake Michigan are breathtaking. Watching the sunsets and nighttime sky from the hot tub is a wonderful experience! Ben was really accommodating and generous. He called us when we were due into town to make sure we found our way ok, since we had never been up to Michigan City and he actually came to meet us to guide us to the house. The house was clean and cozy plus full of spa like amenities which made for a relaxing retreat. It was like having a spa at your fingertips. We recommend taking advantage of the steam room, which warmed us up after our evening strolls on the beach! We love to hike so we took full advantage of the sand dunes and hiking trails that were in close proximity to the house. We went mid September and the wind coming off the water was cool so we definitely recommend bringing some cozy warm cloths for the early mornings and evenings. We are already discussing our next trip, hoping to go when it is a little warmer out, but non the less, when we are in need of a relaxing getaway. We definitely found a great spot!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Guest: Lisa S. (-)
Date of Stay: 08/10/11 Review Submitted: 08/14/11

We had a wonderful time! Spectacular view, especially from the deck and hot-tub, beautiful home, easy path to the beach -- exactly what we wanted (five friends) for a few days of R&R. We hope to make it back next summer for a longer stay!

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

What you see is what you get!

Guest: Tammi V. (Plainfield, Illinois)
Date of Stay: 08/07/11 Review Submitted: 08/09/11

The pictures don't lie. It is a beautiful house, with a beautiful view. We only got to stay 2 nights due to our timing and finances, but it was an amazing time and would recommend this place to anyone.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Private, relaxing retreat with fabulous views

Guest: Brian D.
Date of Stay: 07/22/11 Review Submitted: 07/26/11

We were looking for a quiet weekend getaway within a short drive of Chicago, and this place had everything we needed and more. Private deck balcony with hottub and glassed rail allowed for unimpeded views of Lake Michigan. Vast skyline with clean, sandy beaches nearly trick you into thinking you are at the ocean. Bright, spacious condo has lovely master bedroom with sky-lights; comfortable king-sized bed; generous walk-in closet; large bath with double sink, spa tub, corner shower with dual shower heads, water closet with bidet. French doors here and in the living room give indoor/outdoor access and allow for cool breezes or sounds of the waves. Well-appointed kitchen has more than just the basic dishware plus seating for 4 at counter, 4 at table and/or 4 on the deck. Two sofa beds in bright, vaulted ceiling living area could sleep four. Half bath, cable t.v. in master & living room, dual fireplace, wi-fi access codes and sauna round out amenities. Printed directions available with reservation confirmation or via email would have been preferable and safer over phoning while on the road. Google Maps directions were not accurate. Ideal for couples but suitable for a family. Be aware of many stairs, but worth it for spectacular views--especially at sunset. Quiet neighborhood. We had great food and service at the many local restaurants and pubs we tried. Among our favorites: Shoreline Brewery, Swingbelly's, Matey's, Galveston Steakhouse, & Stop 50 Wood Fired Pizzaria, Friendly folks greeted us on our walks each day. Great Saturday morning farmers' market. We plan to return to Michigan City and to this condo!

Recommended for:Girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Beautiful Beach

Guest: 4queens&Aking (Indianapolis IN)
Date of Stay: 06/25/11 Review Submitted: 06/29/11

The view of the beach is wonderful. The top floor view is like living on the coast. There is nothing between you and the water except for sand. Our dog loved the freedom of the deck. Ben makes sure he takes care of you even before you ask.

Recommended for:Families with young children, pet owners.

Repeat Visit

Guest: Laura (Indianapolis, IN)
Date of Stay: 05/29/11 Review Submitted: 06/07/11

We just got back from the "Miami" for the second time. We love the house and the beach. Ben is great to work with - we talked to him last time to let him know that a beach wagon would be really helpful to take to the beach... and he got one! It was nice to have the wagon this time. Thanks Ben! We'll definitely be back! Seriously, don't hessitate if you are thinking about booking this property. You won't be sorry.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Romantic Getaway

Guest: Tisha (Indianapolis, IN.)
Date of Stay: 05/27/11 Review Submitted: 05/29/11

My husband and I were looking for a place to getaway from our everyday life, when we came across this beauty! When I walked in I fell in love, how could you not with the "birds nest" view of the lake. Inside we enjoyed a glass of wine in the jacuzzi, and the views of Lake Michigan from ALL rooms. The hot tub on the deck was set in regards to privacy. Who doesn't want to set 3 stories high in a hot tube with wine and enjoy views of a beach in the distance? The sandy path from the house opened up to an outstanding tan beach, with views of the water that went on for miles (who needs an ocean)! We also enjoyed the Blue Chip casino located within 5-10min. of the home, and a fabulous steak house down the road. I think we found our getaway... Thanks Ben, you were very kind and also appreciated ;) Mark & Tisha

Recommended for:Romantic getaway

So satisfying...sigh : D

Guest: Ann (Indianapolis, IN)
Date of Stay: 03/26/11 Review Submitted: 04/01/11

My boyfriend and I visited the Miami from Saturday through Friday. It was my spring break from middle school, and I wanted something special and quiet. Ben was very accommodating from the first inquiry email I sent to the week of the visit. The Miami has every sort of comfort with stunning views of the dunes and Lake Michigan. It’s private and cozy. What a treat to sit on the deck in our bubbling hot tub of steamy water and relax as often as we wanted. Michigan City has more to offer than one might realize at first. In our brief time we took the South Shore into Chicago and visited the Art Museum, we played slots at the Blue Chip Casino, we visited the Indiana Dunes State Park and National Lakeshore, got great shots of the lighthouse, walked to the beach, ate out, and ate in, too. Anyone wanting comfort, privacy, beauty, and choice activities needs to try the Michigan City, Miami.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Enjoyable Vacation Home

Guest: Alikat (Burlington, Iowa)
Date of Stay: 10/18/10 Review Submitted: 12/07/10

Home Away is a great site for finding a vacaiton home and we were equally pleased with home. The view of the lake is fantastic. The home was clean and neat. This was a very relaxing place to stay. We loved the steam room (what a treat). Ben was very helpful in directing us to local shopping and attractions. For us October was a good time to vacation. We loved Molly Beas and would recommend everyone go there. Customer service was excellent and great assortment of interesting food ingredients.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway

Horrible

Guest: Alex (Chicago)
Date of Stay: 09/19/10 Review Submitted: 09/30/10

I really would rate the experience at zero stars, but i don't think it's an option here. Just to summarize it was a waste of my money and my vacation time. It started when we were looking to get directions to get to the property. Instead of working with us to explain the directions, the owner concentrated on blaming my wife for not reading his mind. When asked to email directions, the owner came up with some silly half baked response that amounted to the fact that he's not really much of a typer. We have an 18 month old baby that has to take naps in the afternoon. I did ask the owner prior to booking if we can over huge windows with black garbage bags and we agreed that blue painters tape can be used to do so. When we got to the property, we discovered that there are sky lights in cathedral ceilings. How the owner neglected to mention it? So we did our best to create some dark spot for baby to nap. Another problem was with heating. The thermostat didn't go past 70. Initially i thought that maybe it's the limit but the room was going to get much warmer. Well that definitely wasn't the case. So my toddler actually woke up during night crying from what i assume being cold since she got sick around that time. So i called an owner and asked him to raise a temperature, to which i was replied that this is an acceptable temperature and nobody ever needed to set heat up for higher than 70. That is ridiculous on it's own, but he went on to suggested that i run the fireplace and furnace at night to warm up the condo. So after a long discussion the owner finally called somebody and get an answer after a grueling argument. But when owner showed up to set the thermostat he saw that the color of the tape is not blue but white, he just flipped. No explanation that the tape is still painter's tape and was specifically sold to me as painters tape by the store associates would suffice. He had to remove all the windows covering imidiately. That mind you, in the evening when the baby had to go to sleep. He just wouldn't listent about option of doing the removal the next morning. At that point we had nothing to do but leave and go home. On top of that he wouldn't refund me the night that i didn't stay because supposedly he can't get anybody in there. I wonder if he should be refunding me my spoiled vacation that ended in driving for 2.5 hours in the evening in the rainstorm and lightning with a sick 18 month old that supposed to be sleeping 3 hours ago.

Owner response:Proper directions with alternate address were given but refused to follow. They arrived frustrated claimed that directions made them late. They have to feed 18 month baby for dinner immediately—strictly on fish diet. Black plastic bags taped over huge windows make it dark for their 18month baby: Got angry when saw a skylight in bedroom that’s difficult to cover & stated baby will not be able to sleep. I offered a different unit no skylight, 1 window to cover instead of 8 openings. They agreed the place was better habitat for baby & want to switch, however the unit was already rented. The renter for the second place agreed to switch. Later I was told they changed their mind & that wife decided to stay in the high cathedral ceiling unit because views are better. The implication initially presented in providing a better place for their baby was no longer a top priority but instead to please wife’s desire. Temp preset at 70°. They wanted 76°F for baby. Meanwhile, I told the renter to use double-sided direct vented fireplace & they refused claimed it’s not safe & fear of asphyxiation. Fireplace safety features explained but no avail. Temp was reset. Asked to see the tape they used for taping plastic bags. I found not blue removable painter’s tape but a tan packaging tape. He admitted he saw the blue painter’s tape & didn’t buy. I went to get ladder & blue tape & offer to help undo taping. Husband said no & will do it next day-4th day, because they have to feed the baby. I said have his wife feed the baby & he and I will do the work but he says no. I offered to do it myself, or give me a deposit in case he removes it & damages painted walls. He said no, I’m not giving you a deposit & if you insist to do it now, I’m going to leave. Offered a 3-day refund & he argued that 3rd nite is not used yet. Check out time is 11Am-its 7 PM. The fact that he didn’t use the blue tape as agreed; negated the right to receive refunds but I agreed to also split the extra day. Conclusion: Had the mother not became selfish & changed her mind to an alternate unit with a darker room for the baby none of this would have happened. The mother decided to take the high vaulted ceiling with better views & difficult to have a darker room for the baby. Initially agreed to switch for the baby’s welfare, a better habitat, but wife refuses which in the end their implications as overly concerned for the baby didn’t make any sense.

Recommended for:

Great Family Getaway

Guest: Laura (Indianapolis, IN)
Date of Stay: 08/19/10 Review Submitted: 09/15/10

The house is beautiful, just like the photos. We took our 2 year old daughter, and had such a great time! The walk to the beach was a little difficult with a 2 year old... but VERY worth it. We felt like we had the beach all to ourselves; it was great! . The owner, Ben, is easy to work with and very helpful. When we told Ben it was a little hard to take all our beach stuff and carry a toddler, he said he would work on getting a beach wagon or something like that. He genuinely wants you to enjoy your stay. Like an older review said, if you are worried about reserving the property, don't be, just do it - you won't be sorry! We will be back, I am sure.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Our little piece of paradise

Guest: Mrsgoldengirl65 (Indiana)
Date of Stay: 08/08/10 Review Submitted: 08/20/10

We arrived at the beach house and after getting up the stairs, which definitely improves your activity level, we walked into paradise. The house was elegantly outfitted. The 4 poster king bed had the most comfortable mattress we have ever slept on while renting anywhere in the world. All the furnishings were elegant and up to date. The dual fireplace would be so awesome in the fall and winter. The big bathroom was like entering a spa, complete with TV while you let the jets take you away.The solitude was wonderful; no car sounds, no noise, just the morning woodpecker in his tree. You don't even hear the boats or jet skis on the lake when you are on the deck enjoying the beautiful, unobstructed view. The views are just breathtaking from anywhere in the house. The restaurants in Michigan City were great, and the Blue Chip Casino was wonderful. This is a wonderful place to just unwind, relax and find peace within yourself. Bring lots of reading material because you won't want to leave your surroundings. The owner was wonderful, very helpful, and his son helped unload our car. The home is immaculate, very well maintained, and is as clean as your own home. All the appliances, fixtures and televisions were excellent. Furniture in the living room very comfy. Our dog, Mollymarie, loved being loose on the beautiful deck, which had a complete see-through enclosure around it for safety. The dining on the deck was great early in the morning. We apparently hit the hottest week in history but still enjoyed ourselves. The outlet mall is fantastic and has wonderful name-brand stores. The walk to the beach is very beautiful and quiet. Unfortunately we did not see any deer but I have read others have seen them. This was our most relaxing vacation but when I go again I will plan to eat my meals out. All you need to take are the clothes on your back, and your toothbrush. Ben provides the rest. This listing was exactly as promised, and customer service was top notch. This was a five star rental.

Recommended for:Girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Very Nice Place! Will Definately Stay Again.

Guest: Julie (New Haven Indiana)
Date of Stay: 07/25/10 Review Submitted: 08/08/10

My family really enjoyed this place. I am not a person who usually gets blown away by things-BUT I WAS. As soon as you come in you see the outstanding view. Very nice. I loved the bathroom! The shower was great. I will say that everything there was well thought of. Ben Ross it was a pleasure and my maxwell(yorkshire terrior) loved it too. Thanks so much Julie

Recommended for:Pet owners

All the comforts of home!

Guest: Laura (Palatine IL)
Date of Stay: 07/23/10 Review Submitted: 08/25/10

Ben's place is exactly as he describes...I would add that the location of his house, just beyond the dune from the beach is amazing and is much less of a walk than I expected. The house has everything you would want from a vacation rental with all the comforts of home. An added plus was a listing of local restaurants. I would absolutely recommend this rental and I hope to return to enjoy it again!

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, romantic getaway.

Enjoyed It

Guest: Snickers' mom (Orland Park, IL USA)
Date of Stay: 07/12/10 Review Submitted: 07/17/10

Breathtaking sunsets, comfortable, clean, and modern accommodations, beautiful stretch of beach, star gazing and deer sightings is what we will remember most about Ben's place. Phone reception is not great so don't fret if you can't reach him -- he'll call you -- and don't feel guilty about not making it to the gym because you'll get your workout on the stairs and the walk over the dunes to the beach. The house is tucked away down a side street, so driving skills are a must -- we learned to back into the parking spot. We took a chance renting over the internet, but once we got a hold of Ben, found the house, and settled in, we had a wonderful stay at the Beach House.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, girls getaway, pet owners, sightseeing.

Just a slice of Paradise!

Guest: Martouche (SouthBend, In.)
Date of Stay: 05/24/10 Review Submitted: 06/01/10

This was simply outstanding! The property was everything the owner proclaimed and so much more. It not only had the best of everything, Mother Nature provided the best of all she had as well. Perfect view of the lake surrounded by perfectly private wildlife. I can't wait to do it again!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

WOW!! You will have NO regrets!

Guest: mywifeandme (Indiana)
Date of Stay: 05/15/10 Review Submitted: 06/12/10

This is actually the second review I posted. I am not for sure why the 1st review didn't take. However, I feel that if you are interested in renting this property to go ahead and 'pull the trigger', you won't be disappointed. First off, if someone blindfolded you and told you they just dropped you off in Ft. Lauderdale you would have no reason to doubt them,,, well at least until sunset when you would be wondering why there is skyline of a city next to the beautiful sunset. The beach is beautiful and so is the view from your immaculate condo! The condo itself is perfect for a romantic get-away, from the stainless steel appliance and granite countertops to the indoor sauna, outdoor hottub, indoor jacuzzi tub, and TajMahal bathroom. The set up is wonderful with the entire place having French Doofs that open to the view of the Lake and Beach. We even saw a deer at dusk roaming the dunes. If it rains no big deal there is an outlet mall, casino, and restuarants within a couple of miles (if that). To be honest, the condo is so relaxing and beautiful we didn't want to leave it other than to go to the beach. The owner, Ben or as I call him, 'Dan' is located in Californina, but don't let that deter you he is on it and will get you what you need through the property manager, Mark. I can't wait to go back, I don't know that I will ever drive the 10+ hours to the coast ever again, when I have this wonderful place in my backyard.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

What a beach house should be...

Guest: Ron P. (Island in San Francisco Bay)
Date of Stay: 06/05/09 Review Submitted: 05/03/10

If you want: the sound of waves at night, sound of leaves in the warm lake breeze, beach trail in the sand, hot tub and shower, outdoor grill, peace and quiet, view, charm, full kitchen, luxury spa and bath... this is it. We spent a few days melting away stress and adding life into our lives. This house sets the standard and everything else pales in comparison.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Happy Family.

Guest: Laura&Josh (New York, New York, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/24/09 Review Submitted: 07/18/09

My husband and I were struggling to find a place to stay while visiting Michigan City for my cousin's wedding. We eventually stumbled upon this website and discovered the "Miami." We have two kids who love playing on the beach and a dog that was dying to come with us. This house was perfect. The inside was very well kept and had everything we needed for our stay. The sand dunes came right up to the house and led us out to a beautiful beach on Lake Michigan and the hot tub under the stars was the perfect way to end a long day. We all had a wonderful stay at the Miami and I would definitely recommend this rental to anyone interested. - Laura

Recommended for:Families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

bad time

Guest: lindsay008 (chicago)
Date of Stay: 08/18/08 Review Submitted: 06/28/09

the place was nice but the renter did not leave us alone watching our every move. we went to spend my mothers birthday at the beach to relax and that is not what we got. the light house is not there so there is not a panoramic view. we had a bbq for my mothers birthday and two of her best friends came for dinnner that havea cottage down the street and we were scolded for having them there. very uncomfortable for us.

Owner response:This renter violated the agreement when they rented Miami last August of 2008. The son who rented the place agreed with me who I clarified before renting Miami the total number of people in the house night or day to a maximum of six, as stated in the website ad "six persons all time anytime day or night". I am somewhat flexible in the past and allowed people to bring a couple to visit while staying. But having a birthday party with 10-12 people far exceeds the capacity of the one bedroom unit. The son's mother apparently had a birthday celebration and decided to do it while they were staying in Miami; created much more noise than I thought. It was unclear to me to how many more people were staying in. The revelation came to me when I went down to the beach and found them in a group of 10-12 people. I spoke to the son about what I just saw that there were more people than it was agreed. Immediately the mother (birthday celebrant) was defensive, yelled, and threatened me that they will leave if I won't leave them alone. She went on and told me that she was in a real estate business and it was best to just leave them alone. I could not say more and swallow my pride the offensiveness of this lady. They went and carry on the mother's birthday celebration. I believed I was not unreasonable; I was simply protecting the integrity of my place.

Recommended for:

Magic on the Beach

Guest: LB2008 (Chciago)
Date of Stay: 05/02/08 Review Submitted: 06/30/09

My husband and I stayed at the Miami in May 2008. The home is located on the Dunes themselves, you walk out the door, and you are on national parkland. A small hike over a picturesque dune and you are on the beach. That early in the season the beach was quiet and we had the entire area to ourselves. The bedroom overlooks the lake, but is set back and high enough to ensure privacy. Open the windows, and fall asleep to the sounds of nature. The outdoor hot tub was so relaxing with a glass of wine watching the sunset. But the view of the sunset from the tower was even more stunning. The kitchen was just the right size for the two of us. This is a perfect romantic get away! All I can say is location location location! This Home leaves other rentals in the dust!

Recommended for:Romantic getaway