Airport, Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker)
38 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 8)
Bedroom 1 - Lower Level
1 Single Bunk Bed
Bedroom 2 - Lower Level
1 Queen Bed
Great Room
1 Double Futon
TV Room/Bedroom 3 - Upper Level
2 Double Futons
1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom
Bathroom 1 - Lower Level
Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet
Bathroom 2 - Upper Level
Toilet · Outdoor shower
Spaces
Deck or patio
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Dining area
About this property
Lake MI Cottage w/105' of Private, Sandy Beach. Sept/Oct. Availability.
Sitting at the top of a cedar-lined bluff, this charming and secluded contemporary cottage offers open beam ceilings, a wood-burning stone fireplace, soaring views of Lake Michigan, and 105' of private-access sandy beach. Only two miles from downtown Frankfort.
As you travel west toward Lake Michigan and turn onto the tree covered private drive, you'll know you've found a special place. Located on a one acre lot and over 200' from the road, this peaceful location will put you into vacation mode instantly.
The home has two bedrooms located in the walkout lower level of the home with polished concrete floors. The first downstairs bedroom is equipped with a bunk bed and trundle bed (three twin mattresses). The master bedroom has french doors and large, east-facing picture windows which provide a nature view of the property. It is equipped with a queen bed with memory foam mattress. Each of the rooms has a closet with hanging storage baskets and hangers. An ironing board and iron are provided.
The downstairs bathroom is a full bath with combination bathtub/shower, toilet, and double vanity. A hair dryer and first aid kit are located here.
Upstairs you'll find a 1/2 bath and laundry room with stacked full size washer & dryer.
The upstairs "bedroom" is a combination bedroom/TV room, which is somewhat open to the living area/great room. Though less private, this is the largest sleeping area with both a futon and a queen-sized sleeper sofa and has beautiful lake views.
The great room boasts the most dramatic lake views of the entire home and easy access to the deck. A wall of windows provide an unforgettable panorama of Lake Michigan framed by hearty cedar trees. A beautiful stone fireplace runs floor to ceiling in the center of the room, separating this area from the kitchen and dining peninsula. Note that the fireplace has been converted to a wood-burning insert/stove, with large viewing glass for a safe and smoke-free experience.
The galley style, eat-in kitchen includes a 36" 5-burner gas cook-top, built in 30" oven, refrigerator with built in water/ice dispensers, dishwasher, and 36" stainless steel apron sink (with reverse osmosis water dispenser and garbage disposal) set in marble countertops. Take your morning coffee on the outside deck or enjoy it in the kitchen without missing a view of the lake. Plates, bowls, silverware, pots/pans, cookie sheets, electric mixer, rice maker, bread maker, Ninja blender, electric griddle, Kurig coffee maker, french press, paper plates, paper towels, napkins, and well equipped spice rack are provided for your convenience.
The beach is accessible by stairs immediately off the deck, which take you directly down to the lake (~70 feet below). The stairs are shared with only one neighbor through a longstanding agreement made by the previous owner, which we continue to honor. An alternate set of stairs is available at the public access point at the end of Grace Rd (a nice alternative if you have guests with physical limitations).
If you drive an electric vehicle, Level 2 (240V) charging is available via an outdoor NEMA 14-50 (RV) plug, located within easy reach of the circle drive. With "your" portable charger and adapter, you'll be able to charge at (up to) a continuous 50A from this circuit allowing a quick top-off or full overnight charge for your EV. If you need a charger or adapter, let us know in advance and we will try to accommodate you.
Located just 1/2 mile off of M-22; Traverse City (and the region’s 40+ vineyards), Sleeping Bear Dunes, Crystal Lake, Manistee, and Interlochen are each less than 50 minutes away. Spend the week exploring this wonderful little corner of the state or stay locally in Frankfort, the quintessential northern Michigan beach town. Though small in size, Frankfort offers a bakery, several cafes, shops, and restaurants, including Stormcloud Brewing, the local microbrewery. The city of Elberta, which sits on the opposite shore of Betsie Lake, boasts its own beach, several restaurants, and a distillery (with live music and wonderful views of Betsie Lake).
If you’re into fishing, you can fish from the Frankfort pier or choose from several local charters, all with great reviews. The Betsie River is well known for seasonal fishing of steelhead and salmon, but also trout.
If the wind is out of the south, surfing is quite popular on the leeward side of the pier (at your own risk).
The Betsie Valley bicycle trail can be picked up just 2 miles away in Elberta and will take you into downtown Frankfort or you can ride a paved trail all the way to Crystal Lake to the north. From Crystal Lake the trails turns back to the south and will take you all the way to Thompsonville. The trail is 22 miles long in total. https://betsievalleytrail.org/trail-map/
My wife and I purchased this cottage in the fall of 2018 and completely renovated the home over the fall/winter/spring of 2018/2019. New for the 2020 season is an outdoor shower and foot-wash station. The home is available as a weekly rental only, due to local ordinances, though we can accommodate shorter stays in the off-season. Please see the calendar for availability/pricing.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds, gather used towels and store extra beds
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
See Welcome Book for detailed check-out instructions. Note - Electronic Welcome Book is the most recent version.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
No fireworks or fires on beach or deck.
Do not walk on dune grass or hillside due to erosion concerns
No vaping or e-cigarettes. These devices attract fruit flies, which are very difficult to get rid of once established in the home.
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
We should mention
A car is required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Frankfort
Located in Frankfort, this cottage is on the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Enjoy the area's slopes with skiing, and don't miss out on the sledging.
Green Point Dunes Nature Preserve - 4 min drive - 4.7 km
Elberta Beach - 5 min drive - 4.4 km
Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital - 7 min drive - 6.5 km
Frankfort Beach - 7 min drive - 6.5 km
Getting around
Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker) - 43 min drive
Restaurants
A&W Restaurant - 5 min drive
Stormcloud Brewing Company - 8 min drive
Petals & Perks - 7 min drive
Stormcloud Brewing Parkview Taproom - 6 min drive
Villa Marine Bar & Grill - 8 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Lake MI Cottage w/105' of Private, Sandy Beach. Sept/Oct. Availability. pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Lake MI Cottage w/105' of Private, Sandy Beach. Sept/Oct. Availability. ?
As of 31 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Lake MI Cottage w/105' of Private, Sandy Beach. Sept/Oct. Availability. on 29 May 2026 start from £260, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Lake MI Cottage w/105' of Private, Sandy Beach. Sept/Oct. Availability. ?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Lake MI Cottage w/105' of Private, Sandy Beach. Sept/Oct. Availability. ?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Lake MI Cottage w/105' of Private, Sandy Beach. Sept/Oct. Availability. ?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Lake MI Cottage w/105' of Private, Sandy Beach. Sept/Oct. Availability. located?
Nestled on the beach, this Frankfort cottage is within 3 mi (5 km) of Lake Michigan, Elberta Beach and Betsie Lake. Green Point Dunes Nature Preserve is 2.3 mi (3.7 km) away.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
What a location! This is a stretch of Lake Michigan that is truly an amazing gem. It was wonderful heading down the bluff stairs to swim everyday and walk the beach for miles. The house is stylish and unique!
Our stay was amazing! It was clean and had everything we would have needed. How the supplies were organized and labeled were appreciated, along with the stock of spices. The views and the beach were beautiful! The communication with the host was great as well. We plan to stay there again.
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this beautiful home! Very clean, so nicely decorated, spacious yet cozy and gorgeous views! Would absolutely stay here again!
We stayed here as a home base as we hosted our daughter’s reception at the Life Saving Station. Perfect location. The view is incredible. I loved waking up every morning as the lake came to life and loved every beautiful sunset. The home worked out great for us. The large counter space was so helpful as we prepared food for the event. We felt right at home. There were a lot of steps down to the beach but it was so worth it. Just a beautiful, gorgeous beach. The host was good with communication. We really enjoyed our stay.
This house was perfect for a weekend getaway for my partner and I. Lovely panoramic view of the lake. House is set in the woods at the top of the dune with ateps down to the lakeshore within feet of the deck. Beautiful location.
We had an enjoyable time at this rental. Views are breathtaking, beach was nice and not busy. Downtown Frankfort was super close and enjoyable to shop and dine. Grocery store close by. Everything you would want for a relaxing beach getaway!
The home was in a fabulous location with access to the beautiful private beach. Everything was very clean and the home was equipped with all the amenities needed for a great vacation. The only down side was the "sleeping area" off the great room. The pull out couch was lovely but the area did not provide much privacy. It worked for my 16 year old but might be hard for others looking for bedroom type arrangements. We loved staying here and would definitely visit again.
The view is astounding! It's 180 degrees of Lake Michigan, with Arcadia Dunes to the south, the horizon directly to the front of the home and the Frankfort lighthouse to the North. The views are great inside and on the deck. The home is great! The kitchen is perfect for meals at home. We usually choose to eat at the home because there are no restaurants with such a beautiful view. This is the third year we've rented this home and hopefully, if the owners will have us, it won't be the last time we stay at this beautiful spot.
Beautiful view, great beach walking and comfy home
We had a wonderful time. We walked on the beach and sat up on the deck everyday and all day. Its so beautiful and peaceful. We ate at home because no restaurant could offer the view from this lovely home. It's hard to leave.
We love our August Lake Michigan getaway more every year. Very clean, modern property, equipped with everything you need. Communication with owners (Not a Management Company!!!) is excellent and appreciated.
We've stayed here before and enjoyed everything so much we returned this year again. I think that says it all. Great location, excellent property manager, very courteous and communicative. We'll most likely be back again!
My husband and myself and our two young children enjoyed our stay here! Perfect home for a family of 2 young children or even just a couple visiting. Beach was beautiful, totally private but a HIKE down there. Be warned lol! Kitchen was beautiful and equipped with everything you need.Very clean & great time! Hosts were helpful and provided lots of local resources and ideas!
There are panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Arcadia dunes to the south and Frankfurt break water to the north. The home is comfortable and well appointed. The architecture is interesting with stone work inside and out. This was our second time renting the home and we’ll be back.
Excellent lake view with freighters and an eagle. Excellent aesthetic design despite a few safety flaws and precarious beach access. The weather was less than perfect but good hiking all around us. The deer and TV bested the sporadic wet weather. WE did find negotiating the sloped stone floor stair landing in bare feet or stockings to be uncomfortable. Only descended to the beach once and felt tentative to try it again. Would suggest fixing the toe tripper floor transitions. Maybe paint the raised stair threshold white or a bright color. We also enjoyed the many excellent surrounding restaurants.
Very cool house in a quiet area with a magnificent view and beach. The house is a woodsy surrounding but the view from the deck, main room and kitchen seating island is amazing. Kitchen has everything you need to support cooking all your meals. The house worked well for us, just two people and we had a third person with us for three nights. Beach was quiet and lovely for long walks. Communication with owner was great through the app and he was responsive. Thank you!
Everything was fine, location was as expected, except
the stairs leading to the beach were a bit of a challenge, for the almost 60 crowd. We were basically not expecting that climb.
Richard K.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Sept 2023
Shoreline access to Lake Michigan can be challenging and long flights of stairs are more often the rule than the expectation, unfortunately. The height of our bluff is probably "average" at about 80 ft above the waterline. I have attempted to show the length of the stairs in the property description photos (currently numbered 17, 33, and 35). I will add additional/updated photos in the future, based on this feedback. A public access point to the beach is available to our south, which offers fewer steps and more resting platforms.
The cottage is lovely. It was built for a 180 degree view of Lake Michigan. Sunsets can be seen from the comfort of the cottage or out on the deck. The kitchen has a good pots and pans. Even the knives are good. The beach is peaceful and a great place to look for Petoskey & Charlevoix stones. The beach is also easy underfoot for long walks either towards Arcadia Bluffs or towards the Frankfurt channel lighthouse. Our stay was peaceful and restful.
Everything about this place was perfect....the communication with the owners, the location, the house and all it’s amenities and the amazing view. This was our first time to Michigan and we couldn’t have picked a better place. This house is nestled through some trees and sits on the edge overlooking Lake Michigan. If you didn’t know any better you’d think it was the ocean. We will definitely be returning to this place. It captured our hearts.
kathy k.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2019
About the host
Hosted by Jeremy Kirklin
My family and I live and work in the Detroit metro area, however I'm originally from a small rural town in central Michigan. We've always dreamed of retiring to a beach home on Lake MI and though retirement is still a few years away, we're working hard to achieve that vision. We're looking forward to moving to Frankfort eventually.
Why they chose this property
We wanted a location that was close to some of our favorite Northern Michigan travel destinations, such as Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Interlochen, and Manistee. Frankfort was the perfect location. It has the small town feel that I enjoyed growing up, yet has most of the amenities that I've come to appreciate from living in "the city".
What makes this property unique
The bluff views and beach are among the best you'll find. This home had great "bones" but we've also tried to add some amenities to make your stay even better; such as bench seating, extended (beach) wi-fi, and an outdoor shower.
Being able to ride a bicycle into downtown Frankfort is a great perk and we love that the home is located on a dead-end private drive, off of a dead-end road. Amazingly quiet and secluded location yet less than 2 miles to the nearest restaurant.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests