Whether you are visiting for outdoor recreation or just to get away from the pace of everyday life, our home is ready to be enjoyed all year round. Ideal for family gatherings, groups of friends, or couples looking for a retreat. With three fully renovated levels including 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and over 3,200 feet of beautifully appointed living space, Crabb Cottage will meet all your needs and more!
This property sits on 3 acres and includes a beautifully landscaped yard that leads down to a private sandy beach and dock where youāll find picturesque Cecilia Lake. Cecilia Lake is a private, no-wake lake, perfect for fishing, swimming, kayaking, or just floating around with a cold beverage! Water toys are included: 2 paddle boats, 4 kayaks (2 sit on top, 2 sit inside), 1 kids kayak, and numerous inflatables. If youāre looking to bring your boat Big Star Lake has public access just down the road!
Crabb Cottage sleeps 8 comfortably with three bedrooms (King bed in Ownerās suite, Queen beds in both 2nd floor guest rooms) and one queen sleeper-sofa in the main floor living room. A Queen Aerobed is available as well. Two pack n' plays are also provided for younger guests. We've worked hard to make your stay as enjoyable and relaxing as possible (this property is the complete opposite of rustic).
Complimentary toiletries, all linens, and towels are provided (including beach towels), hair dryer in every bathroom, universal phone chargers, sound machines, air purifiers, and fans in each bedroom, hangers in all closets.
Important things to note:
Renters must be 25+. No pets or animals of any kind are allowed. No smoking. All guests must be authorized prior to arrival. Unauthorized guests are not allowed and will result in an immediate departure/end of stay. We adhere to the good neighbor policy. Please be respectful of the lake, the property, and our neighbors. No parties or large gatherings, please. The property can accommodate up to five vehicles at a time. All vehicles must be parked on the paved driveway and fully off the road and grass. Security: the cottage is equipped with a Ring Alarm System. The system includes an added layer of fire and carbon monoxide protection as well-- if smoke/fire or carbon monoxide is detected, the system will alert the local fire department. Due to the cottage's remote location, the property has an exterior ONLY Blink camera system.
About the area: Crabb Cottage is located in beautiful Lake County and is close to numerous activities and memorable locations. Within just a few miles youāll find hiking trails, golf, ORV/Snowmobile trails, fly fishing, canoe and tube rental, and more. In 45-75 minutes youāll reach even more activities and beautiful locations including Ludington (Lake Michigan), Traverse City (Wine Country), and Crystal Mountain (downhill skiing). Explore the beautiful area and then come back to unwind at the lake while soaking in the spa or reading a book in front of one of two fireplaces.
No open flames, candles, incense, of any kind allowed on property (inside or out).
No fireworks anywhere on property.
No Parties or large gatherings (more than 8 people). Additional guests/visitors must receive prior approval.
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
Baldwin
Located in Baldwin, this holiday home is on the beach. Travellers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Shrine of the Pines, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Pere Marquette Floodplain Plant Preserve and Huron-Manistee National Forest. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Is Lake Retreat with spa & private beach! šš pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Lake Retreat with spa & private beach! šš?
As of 26 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Lake Retreat with spa & private beach! šš on 12 May 2026 start from Ā£493, 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 Retreat with spa & private beach! šš?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Lake Retreat with spa & private beach! šš?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Lake Retreat with spa & private beach! šš?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Lake Retreat with spa & private beach! šš located?
Nestled on the beach, this Baldwin holiday home is just steps away from Huron-Manistee National Forest and Cecilia Lake. Big Star Lake and Basford Lake are also within 10 minutes.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Beautiful, comfortable, fully equipped home on a lovely sandy beach. Perfect for my young family, but would also love to go back for a couples trip. Had the best stay!
Brittany K.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jul 2025
It was wonderful having you and your family visit Crabb Cottage! Weāre so glad you enjoyed it. Come back soon!
We had a great stay at this beautiful home. Blake thought of every detail to make the stay enjoyable for our family. I would definitely stay here again.
The property is beautiful, so clean, every detail well thought out. Loved the decor, the amenities and special touches the host provided. The host was wonderful, very proactive with communication. The beach and lake were so beautiful. Loved the kayaks and paddle boats. We loved fishing and just hanging out at the beach. Outdoor areas of the house were super comfortable and had a lovely view. We would love to come back again. Highly recommend this home. Thank you Blake!! It was perfect!!!
Emanuela S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Jul 2025
It was wonderful having you as guests! We look forward to your return trip. Thank you!!
Such an amazing location (both indoors and outdoors)! Was perfect for our family vacation. The games provided kept us entertained lakeside and evenings. Blake was very accommodating and gracious. We would definitely stay there again.
Dana K.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug 2024
Dana, thank you again for choosing Crabb Cottage for your summer vacation! It was wonderful having your family visit and we look forward to your return!
What a beautiful home! The landscaping was spectacular. We all enjoyed the sandy beach, fire pit, hot tub, yard games, and the kayaks. The visiting loons were an added plus. Communication was excellent. Thank you for a great family vacation!
Verified traveller
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Aug 2024
Thank you so much for your return visit to Crabb Cottage, Jane! It was wonderful having you and your family visit again! Every year we add a little more so youāll have to come back again for new experiences! Thanks again for staying with us!
Crab Cottage is everything you could hope for in a vacation rental at the lake. Awesome property. Made wonderful memories. Canāt wait to do it again.
Charles H.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2023
Charles, thank you for the kind words! Weāre so glad your family enjoyed it! Please come visit us again!
We were so impressed by the immaculate condition of this property and all its amenities. We enjoyed swimming, kayaking, floating and fishing off the pier. We grilled/cooked nightly and the kitchen had everything we needed. The beds were very comfortable and the bathrooms were so well appointed. We have stayed at numerous rentals over the years and this one is at the top of the list.
Meg K.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jul 2024
Meg, thank you for the kind words! It makes me so happy to know how much your family enjoyed the holiday at Crabb Cottage. Thank you again for staying with us. We look forward to seeing out again!
Blake
Crabb Cottage was the perfect setting for our family vacation. It was clean, perfectly stocked (he's thought of everything!), comfortable, and expansive enough that even with extended family members and multiple kids, you can always find a space of your own for a moment of peace. There was so much to do, we didn't bother planning a day trip elsewhere. We can't wait to book it again!
Katherine S.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2023
Katherine,
Thank you again for choosing Crabb Cottage for your summer vacation! It was great having you as guests and meeting you! I hope you come visit again!
Take care, Blake
House was immaculate with thoughtful touches throughoutābottled waters, mints, makeup remover wipes. Gorgeous location on the lakeātruly a fortress of solitude. Host is great and communicates all information related to the house and the area, with extra suggestions if needed. This is truly an amazing vacation home.
So impressed with how our host thought of absolutely everything. Extremely well stocked kitchen, our family loves to cook, everything you need for a great family vacation! Impeccably clean and comfortable, a beautiful property.
Matthew P.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2023
Matt, thank you for choosing Crabb Cottage for a summer getaway! Weāre so happy you and family enjoyed your stay! Please come visit again!
Our family had a great time staying at Crabb Cottage. The house had everything we needed and more. It was close to ORV trails and the kids had a blast. We enjoyed the games on a rainy day. We have been coming up north now for about 10 years to various lake cottages, this one by far was the BEST.
Mike G.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2023
Thank you, Mike! Iām so glad your family enjoyed Crabb Cottage AND the surrounding area! Thereās so much to do in the area for someone who enjoys the outdoors. Please come stay again! š¦
Our stay at Crabb Cottage was just as pictured. The amenities were top-notch and we enjoyed all of the activities on the property. Blake did a wonderful job of communicating and making us feel at home with giftcard and gifts of wine and s'mores. When the weather was nice we enjoyed Lake Cecelia (kayaks, paddleboat) and when it rained, we got in the car for some daytime travel to nearby Lake Michigan. All in all, it was a great stay!
It was a lovely property. Blake thought of everything. We could have packed so much less as everything was thought of and considered. The property was comfortable and spacious with lots to do. We enjoyed the lovely lake, all the toys and our soundtrack of choice withAlexa.
Lisa W.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Jul 2024
Lisa, Iām so glad you enjoyed Crabb Cottage with your family! Thank you for your visit and for being such great guests! Please come see us again š¦š
What a fantastic house. So many amenities. Blake was so easy to work with and he has thought of everything! Great for my wife and I and our two young boys ages 7 and 9. Would absolutely return.
Scott L.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2023
Scott, thank you again for choosing Crabb Cottage for your family getaway! Please come again!
Given the reviews and the pictures, we had high expectations. And this cottage, with its location on a charming lake (featuring a family of bald eagles and huge largemouth bass), somehow exceeded our expectations!
This was our second stay at Crabb Cottage and it was as wonderful as the first one last August! ( see my review from 8-14-21 ). The home is very clean and equipped with all the amenities needed to ensure a great vacation! Plus Blake, the owner, has added many special touches. There is really nothing negative to say. The house is beautiful, the lake is clean & peaceful, and the host is very thoughtful and easy to work with!
Thank you, Blake, for sharing your amazing home!
Mary Ellen B.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Jul 2023
Mary Ellen, thank you for returning for your second summer at Crabb Cottage! We truly love having you and your family. I love how much you all enjoy the property. We hope to see you next year!
The was a beautiful lake home. Very quiet and private feeling with the surrounding trees. Beautiful landscaping and we loved the private beach with all of the water toys, floats, kayaks etc. Very nice outdoor seating areas also. We enjoyed the hot tub and the view of the lake from the decks out back. Very relaxing. The home was very clean and had all of the amenities that we needed. We were pleasantly surprised with some welcoming gifts from our host including a sāmore making kit to enjoy during our stay. We would recommend this home to anyone looking for a relaxing stay at a lake home.
Katie C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2023
Katie,
Weāre so glad you enjoyed the cottage with your family! Thank you again for choosing us for a summer getaway! We look forward to welcoming you again in the future! Blake
We were very impressed with the thoughtfulness and details that went into this VRBO. From the mini makeup remover wipes to the sleep masks and ear plugs provided, you can tell how much care went into the property. These touches really make you feel at home.
While we were here we enjoyed the Marquette Trail golf club with drinks and lunch across the street. many breweries in the area, dune buggies in Silver Lake and day trips to Ludington and Grand Rapids.
We spent most evenings in the hot tub, hanging out on the deck and beach area with fire pit.
You will not be disappointed.
Josh E.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2023
Josh,
Thank you for the kind words! Iām so glad your group enjoyed Crabb Cottage and the surrounding area. Please come visit again!
It was phenomenal. The house is amazing. The process was smooth and our host Blake was beyond thorough. Every amenity that you can think of was available to us to use. Everything throughout the house had labels and instructions. Which was very helpful especially the fireplace instructions. The cottage was very clean, warm and inviting. I would love to bring the family during the summer months to enjoy the lake and everything else that is offered! Well done Blake!
Deke C.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2023
Deke,
Thank you for bringing your family to Crabb Cottage for your ski weekend getaway! Iām so glad you enjoyed the cottage⦠thank you for the kind words! Looking forward to your future summer stay as well. Crabb Cottage is in the middle of so many outdoors activities! Thanks again!
Our family had a great stay on Lake Cecilia! The house had everything we could need, with little touches to make it feel extra special. With young kids, we especially appreciated the baby gates, door alarms, and sound machines! Our family loved the being on the lake, and we spent many hours down there swimming, fishing, using the bonfire pit, kayaking, and paddle boating. The air hockey table in the garage was used quite often as well! The house had so much that we didn't need to leave often to go find things to do...it was all right there for us! The owner was easy to communicate with and very friendly. Thanks, Blake, for a great week!
sarah b.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2023
Thank you, Sarah! I love hearing how much your family enjoyed Crabb Cottage. Please come visit again! š¦
About the host
Hosted by Blake Crabb
Hello!
Thank you for checking out Crabb Cottage! Growing up in the Michigan's Upper Peninsula I developed a fondness for living on the water. In 2003, I moved to Grand Rapids for college (Grand Valley State) and ever since then my dream was to own a lake front property. While my work led me to move to Southern California for 2 years, I never lost sight of being back "home" and having my own place on the lake. In the summer of 2020, I found a magical place located just 75 minutes North of Grand Rapids. I knew immediately that Cecilia Lake was special and this was where my dream would come to fruition. Buying a property in the midst of a pandemic was interesting, to say the least! Now though I have the opportunity to share this special place with friends, family, and VRBO guests!
My BA is in Hospitality Management and details are important to me. I love to make sure my guests have a great, relaxing time. The Cottage has special touches throughout. One thing you'll notice is the purple lighting lakeside. This is to honor patients facing pancreatic cancer and as a symbol of HOPE for all cancer survivors. In 2015, my Mom passed away from stage IV pancreatic cancer. She is part of everything I do, including Crabb Cottage. When you visit you'll also notice signs for "Bonnie's Margarita Bar" which is a tribute to my Mom, a woman who loved life, being a Registered Nurse... and a good margarita!
I look forward to your visit!
Why they chose this property
Crabb Cottage is a great escape from the city life! Recently remodeled from top to bottom, the Cottage is your luxuriously appointed landing pad for rest and relaxation (and adventure if you so choose!). While you're away from the city you won't miss the comforts of home. With over 3200 sq ft of living space you'll have plenty of room to spread out. The home features all new furniture, beds and bedding, and amenities you won't find elsewhere in the area. Two levels of wrap around decks face picturesque Cecilia Lake.
Picture yourself with a glass of wine relaxing next to the propane fire pit, overlooking the lake. Then, wind down with a dip in the six-person spa (also located lakeside). The cottage is centered on a 1-acre lot with a private, sandy beach with a wood fire pit. Perfect for launching one of the cottage's kayaks, taking a swim, or making s'mores at night.
Back inside you'll find three very well appointed bedrooms. Not ready to turn in for the night? Take a relaxing bath in the master suite's claw foot soaking tub. Or head downstairs to the bar and game room where you can enjoy a night cap or play some pool. Now you're ready for another day at the lake!
Whether you're coming from Detroit, Chicago, Grand Rapids, or any other major metro area, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city life with just a short drive (1.25 hours from Grand Rapids and less than 4 from Detroit or Chicago). The Cottage is in the heart of Lake County which is known for its wide array of outdoors activities including fly fishing, boating, river tubing (Baldwin Canoe Rental), hiking, ATV and snowmobile trails.
Within just a mile of the cottage you will find trails, great fishing, and a golf course. Downtown Baldwin is only 8 minutes away. Head "into town" to stock up on groceries, take care of that sweet tooth (check out Jones' famous ice cream!), or if you don't feel like cooking (Baldwin has several great local restaurants).
What makes this property unique
*Close proximity to numerous outdoor activities *Spa *Private beach *Remodeled with high-end materials and finishes (there is nothing rustic here!)