Vacation Rentals by Owner

Like Staying with Family

Guest: korie (winner,sd)
Date of Stay: 10/07/10 Review Submitted: 10/09/10

Staying at this house was like staying with family. When we arrived, there was a basket of muffins and a bowl of fresh peaches waiting for us, each with a note welcoming us. There were also fresh flowers in every room. The property is very very clean and neat. The location is great, less than a five minute walk from the beach. Stan and Annie were wonderful, they even called to make sure that we arrived safely (we arrived very late in the evening) and that we didn't need anything. This is the place to stay if you are looking for a very clean house where you will feel right at home!!

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

A Great British Getaway

Guest: The Applebys from England (Southampton, UK)
Date of Stay: 08/27/10 Review Submitted: 09/16/10

We took a bit of a risk booking a summer vacation on the edge of Lake Michigan, not knowing anything about the area beforehand - and not being somewhere that most British people would even think about. We did a week in Chicago and a week at Plum Hollow, and were lucky to have sunshine pretty much the whole time. Plum Hollow made the perfect contrast to our Chicago hotels. We booked it partly because of the excellent reviews on this site, and they are all true. We were greeted with a basket of fresh muffins and a bowl of locally grown peaches, and were delighted by how clean and spacious the house was. It was much better equipped than most UK self catering properties, and regular visits from Stan meant we had all the maps, tips and help we could possibly need. Stan and Annie are the kind of hosts who 'go the extra mile', posting a whole box of tourist information to us in the UK when we first booked at their own expense. The lovely little garden with - for us - an exotic range of birds and black squirrels was a bonus. We would happily book again, if there wasn't so much more of the USA still to explore...

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

Great Place, Great Beach, Great Owners!

Guest: tulita (Torrance, CA)
Date of Stay: 08/14/10 Review Submitted: 08/24/10

We had a short, but wonderful stay at Plum Hollow. The place was VERY clean and had everything you could possibly need. The location is also great - very quiet, but only a five minute walk to the gorgeous Lake Michigan beach. The hospitality that we received from Stan & Annie was exceptional - by far the best experience we have had through the years in renting a home from owners. We look forward to coming back and spending more time at Plum Hollow.

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

Great Place, Awesome Beach, Unmatched Hospitality

Guest: A Relaxed and Happy Family (Illinois)
Date of Stay: 08/09/10 Review Submitted: 08/14/10

The hottest week of the summer and we still had a great time! The place was so welcoming and the owners couldn't have done more to make it feel like home. We had 4 teenagers aged 13 to 15 and 2 adults, and we were all really comfortable and enjoyed the amazing beach nearby. How many places can you stay where the hosts place fresh cherries in the refrigerator, muffins on the dining room table, and a beautiful yellow rose or two in each room as a welcome? They even made sure that there were things to for the teenagers to do (bats and balls and volleyballs etc.) and stopped by with maps and information on things in the area we might be interested in. There is a fresh herb garden and tomato plants for the guests to use along with plenty of towels and all of the amenities needed for a week's stay from paper towels to cooking utensils. Very lovely and relaxing place to be and hopefully we will get to visit again someday. It felt like a home away from home and best of all, it had a great beach that was perfect for swimming and staying cool!

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, sightseeing.

July 2010 Lake Michigan

Guest: Hans (Maarssen, The Netherlands)
Date of Stay: 07/17/10 Review Submitted: 02/22/11

We stayed at “Plum Hollow” July 2010 for about 2 weeks. From “Plum Hollow” we made sightseeing tours throughout the Muskegon surrounding places of interest. The house is situated very quietly at walking distance from Lake Michigan beach. Being in the house we expected any moment Fonzie (happy days) to stay in the door opening. Even though the house was a little bit older, everything was working fine and we felt at home immediately. Stan and Annie were very friendly and made us feel special guests, but I’m sure everybody is treated the same friendly way. I made a bicycle tour with Stan around Muskegon Lake – kind of a private tour – and Stan explained me some of Muskegon “City”. As I am from the Netherlands the chance of being there for a second time is very small, but if I am, I certainly will try to visit Stan and Annie. We were overwhelmed with loads of information about Muskegon, Michigan and places we planned to visit during our “Great Lakes tour” all sent by Stan. (Even for the part of our tour in Canada!) If I ever was in Muskegon for business and had to choose between the Local “Holiday inn” and “Plum Hollow” I would choose for the last one. Stan and Annie thank you very much for everything! (Apologize for the late review). Hans, Michaela, Uschi, Ernst and Michael.

Recommended for:Sightseeing

We give it TWO thumbs up

Guest: Shelli (Southwest Missouri)
Date of Stay: 07/05/10 Review Submitted: 07/12/10

Our family of six stayed in this well equipped cottage for a week and couldnt have felt more at home. We have three teenagers and one almost teenager and they all loved how close this house was to the beach and we felt safe in letting them go to the beach without having to worry about traffic issues. The house had everything you needed and even some stuff you didnt think you would need like books and information about Michigan and movies. The muffins and cherries were gone and so appreciated. Spices, utensils, pans, plenty of space! The bedrooms were all comfortable and well furnished. They even provided fans! I would recommend this place and Stan and Annie to anyone that asked about a nice vacation spot. Thank you again Stan and Annie for a wonderful time for my family. We look forward to coming back.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great property, Great owners - Thanks!

Guest: David (Chicago suburbs)
Date of Stay: 07/02/10 Review Submitted: 07/08/10

Stan and Annie were greats hosts, their property was in great shape, very clean, and just like being at home (stocked kitchen with all utensils, fully operational). We had two families, both with young children, and this was a great location for us. A quick 1-2 block walk to the beach, quiet area for relaxing outside around the fire at night - it couldn't have been better. There are a lot of nice touches in the house, like their book collection and bits of local history and information scattered about. We would definitely come back and also recommend the property to others. A concern we initially had when booking the property was going over the middle of the summer with an infant since the cabin has 2 window Air Conditioners in the kitchen and living room, but not in the rooms. This was not an issue at all. The place stayed cool, there was plenty of shade from the large trees around the house, and the ACs filled the house well. A great time had by all! Highly recommended.

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

Home Away from Home

Guest: Jim & Shar (Elkhart IN)
Date of Stay: 08/22/09 Review Submitted: 08/31/09

We had a great time at Plum Hollow. Stan & Annie went far beyond our expectations in providing all our needs. Essentially everything we needed was already in place upon our arrival. The cottage was "very clean" & comfortable. Stan provided so much information in advance, it made planning our activities so easy. The personal touches were evident in the fresh muffins on the dining room table & sweet cherries in the frig. Every need was met in the cottage & outside(lawn furniture, firewood, beech chairs, etc). The beach really is only a 5 minute walk & is very clean & not crowded. The cottage was such a great location for all our side trips. Our grandkids enjoyed riding bikes & playing on the playground at the school across the street. Stan & Annie have really gone the extra mile to make Plum Hollow a home away from home. We definitely plan to visit the cottage again. We just needed more time to enjoy all that the area has to offer. We will definitely recommend the cottage to friends & family. Thanks, Stan & Annie, for sharing your "home away from home".

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, sightseeing.

Great location!

Guest: Val and Kim (Quincy, Illinois)
Date of Stay: 08/16/09 Review Submitted: 08/24/09

Plum Hollow was everything Stan and Annie advertised it to be and more. The property was exceptionally clean and stocked with everything we needed for our stay. The location was great with the beach a short walk away. We were delighted with all the personal touches Stan and Annie put into getting the house ready for our visit (we especially enjoyed the fresh cherries in the frig!!). I highly recommend this property.

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

Felt right at home

Guest: tplusj95 (Macomb, MI )
Date of Stay: 08/16/09 Review Submitted: 08/24/09

I highly recommend Plum Hollow. It is in a wonderful location on the beautiful west side of the state. We enjoyed the beautiful, clean beach (truly five minutes away), bike paths, adorable used bookstore, diner, candy store in town, and the huge ice cream sundaes at the Frosty Cove. We only wish we had more time! Thank you for providing information on the many activities in your area. The day it rained we found Rainbow Ranch by looking through the pamphlets you had out. The kids went horseback riding for the first time and are still talking about it! The cottage comfortably accomodated our family of six. Stan and Annie were so very helpful from the first phone call. They really pay attention to every detail and offer so many nice touches. The home was very clean and the layout was perfect. The "Malt Shop" was a great place to take off shoes and play cards at night. One day we were able to grill on the gas grill they provided and eat out on the picnic table. Everything I needed was provided including the little things I wished I had bought and sure enough were stocked in the kitchen. Thank you. We truly enjoyed our stay.

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

Wonderful Experience

Guest: GibbM (Aurora, IL)
Date of Stay: 07/17/09 Review Submitted: 08/05/09

This was our first time renting a house instead of going to a hotel. It was wonderful! We expected to have to bring a lot of stuffs ourselves, which proved to be needless since Stan and Annie did not forget a thing! Our children enjoyed the stay very much, especially since the beach is so close by. We'll certainly consider going back if we have a chance.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with young children, romantic getaway.

Would stay here again in a heartbeat!

Guest: Jo-Elle (Quantico, Virginia)
Date of Stay: 06/27/09 Review Submitted: 10/08/09

Plum Hollow was the perfect rental for my family while we were in Muskegon visiting family and friends. We had 3 adults and 2 toddlers who all felt completely comfortable and at home during our entire stay. Stan and Annie were excellent hosts. The house was immaculate. Everything you could have needed (and then some) was provided, and Stan and Annie were extremely helpful with any questions we had. Not only do we hope to have the pleasure of staying here again in the future but we would, without reservation, recommend this rental to anyone looking for a clean, comfortable place to stay while in this beautiful part of Michigan. It was just like home! Thanks, Stan and Annie!!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Excellent place to stay for beach vacation

Guest: mother of six (Olmsted Falls, Ohio)
Date of Stay: 06/28/08 Review Submitted: 07/12/08

Our family has stayed at the Denman's Cottage 3 times in the last 5 years. We plan to return again, many times. It is a close walk to the beach and right across the street from an elementary school with swings, basketball court and new playground equipment. Stan and Annie are gracious hosts and are quick to get anything we need. House is clean and the property well laid out. Herb garden is a plus for those who love to cook. We would highly recommend this property to friends and family looking for a summer cottage near the white sandy beaches on the shores of Lake Michigan.

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

Guestbook comment

Guest: Steve & Susan (Chicago)
Date of Stay: 05/11/08 Review Submitted: 06/02/08

The house was one of the most comfortable and clean (very clean!) vacation rentals we've ever had. Stan and Annie were warm and welcoming, but also sensitive about when to leave guests to themselves. Our visit was in May, during the spring migration, and we saw many birds at the feeder outside the house. We enjoyed the American Impressionists exhibit at the Muskegon Art Museum and recommend a quick stop at the town library to see its stunningly beautiful stained glass windows (and check your email). The house proved a great stepping off point for day-trips to Duck Lake, Ludington State Park, and the Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary to the north, and a lot of wineries to the south. Try the Sardine Room - we had both a dinner and a breakfast there and enjoyed them both.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Guest: lisamc (Novi, Michigan)
Date of Stay: 08/01/07 Review Submitted: 08/12/07

We extremely enjoyed our stay at this property.The location was perfect and the neighborhood was wonderful. The home was also in a good location to take day side trips. The property was in excellent condition. All we needed to bring was our clothing and beach wear. Everything else was provided right down to the gas grill for having a barbecue. Everything was very comfortable and restful.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Kevin and Shelly Sprague (Republic, MO)
Date of Stay: 07/01/07 Review Submitted: 07/09/07

This was our first visit to Michigan. The house was clean, spacious, and very comfortable for a family of four. The location was perfect; it was within walking distance to the beach, school playground (just across the street), and a small store. Stan and Anne were very hospitable and extremely helpful in providing us with information about the area. We had no problems in navigating the area and enjoyed Muskegon and several outlying areas. We consider this one of our best vacations!! Stan and Anne won't disappoint you.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Bill Heckman (Montague, Michigan)
Date of Stay: 02/01/07 Review Submitted: 02/20/07

Both of Stan and Annie's houses on Plum street are wonderful. They are clean, warm and charming. We lived in both of them for a total of nine months and loved every minute. The beach is spectacular and is a 5 minute walk away from either house. Stan and Annie are great people. I can't say enough about them or the house.

Owner response:Bill & Michelle were from Arizona and only planned on staying 4 months. After being here 1 month, they decided to live in the area. They had to move out of Plum Haven since we had already booked a few summer guests. That's when they stayed in Pedler's Paradise. Annie & I really enjoyed getting to know the Heckmans, and the boys, Will & Joseph.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Ellen G. (-)
Date of Stay: 01/01/05 Review Submitted: 01/22/05

We've had two occasions to stay at this quaint home with our two sons during the last couple summers. The home really met our needs and was a great location for easily accessing Lake Michigan and the beach. Our sons loved the fact that they could just walk over to the beach anytime as there were many activities taking place. Annie and Stan were great hosts. We're looking forward to returning again this summer.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Paul & Bonnie Marcus (Los Angeles, CA)
Date of Stay: 10/01/04 Review Submitted: 10/19/04

Our family of 4 (kids, 13 & 9)stayed at the Bluffton Beach House 3 times in the last 2 years. Whenever we stay in Muskegon, we will plan to stay at this charming and convenient beach house. Hopefully, it will be available. It's located only a 5 minute walk to magnificant Lake Michigan's pristine beach and is also just 5 minutes from Muskegon Lake and the Yacht Club. A boaters paradise! Good restaurants are also nearby. The house is well maintained with all the modern conveniences and appliances. The owners, Stan & Annie, couldn't be more accommodating. A great vacation spot!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: tracy hudson (ellsworth,ks67439)
Date of Stay: 09/01/04 Review Submitted: 09/08/04

Our family,daughter,husband,4 grandchildren,and my husband and I,just stayed a week at Stan & Annie's home in July,2004. The accomadations were very nice, but not as great as the people themselves. We are planning a trip to come back next summer, as we only slightly touched on a few of the many things to see and do in the area, and one week was just not long enough.We drove over 900 miles to come see your fine city and wonderful beach and highly recommend both the city and beach to everyone. We have been to Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, Jamica, the Carriebean,etc. and found no cleaner or prettier beaches...what more can I say except that it was worth every penny....Sincerely, TRH

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Jack & Linda Groves (Eureka Springs, AR)
Date of Stay: 08/01/04 Review Submitted: 08/25/04

We had a wonderful vacation staying at the Denman house. The entire neighborhood and area is a "vacation setting" and there were just too many things that we wanted to do and didn't have time to do. Next year we will have to spend twice the vacation time in their home. The many personal touches that the Denmans provide makes the whole experience a real treat and their home is absolutely spotless. They are extremely thoughtful people, obviously willing to ensure that we enjoy our time in Muskegon. We enjoyed the close access to the beaches and the social atmosphere of the neighborhood. We hope to stay there during the snow season for winter sports. I'm sure it will be a "winter wonderland".

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Elizabeth Bielski (Hamburg, MI 48189)
Date of Stay: 08/01/04 Review Submitted: 08/18/04

Neat and clean home. Close to beach. Enjoyed staying at this comfortable cottage home with many ammenities. Would recommend to friends and family. Would stay again.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Tori Robinson (California)
Date of Stay: 07/01/04 Review Submitted: 07/20/04

We have stayed at the Bluffton residence on numerous occasions and find it to be incomparable to other vacation spots because of it's nearness to Lake Michigan, the quiet, safe location for our kids, and comfort and convenience of staying in a home. The breeze coming off of the lake keeps the house cool during the hot, summer months and the short walk to the beach was among our favorite evening rituals. There is a great loop for joggers/runners that goes by the lake.You just can't beat the location and it's just offset enough from the beach so that you have lots of privacy. The house is very comfortable and kid-friendly with all the amenities one could ever need. Stan and Annie Denman are wonderful hosts and go out of their way to meet your needs. We would recommend this rental to anyone that would like their very own beach house for their vacation and the price is so right!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Theresa and Chris Sauer (Corydon, KY)
Date of Stay: 07/01/04 Review Submitted: 07/19/04

Our family had a wonderful time here. The house was warm and cozy and felt like we had lived there forever! Stan and Annie were attentive to our every need and went out of their way to make our stay as hospitable as possible. We highly recommend this rental. Theresa and Chris Sauer July 19, 2004.

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