Entire home

A Spacious Lakefront Home Designed for Real Gatherings and Time Together

Photo gallery for A Spacious Lakefront Home Designed for Real Gatherings and Time Together

Exterior
Property video
Exterior
Property grounds
Pool

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
5 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 132630 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 13)

Kid's Beach Bunkbed Room

3 Single Beds and 1 Double Bed

Nautical Themed Room

1 King Bed

Outdoor Sports Themed Room

1 King Bed

Sunset Overlook Room

1 Queen Bed

Tranquility Themed Room

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

A Spacious Lakefront Home Designed for Real Gatherings and Time Together

This home was created for people who want to spend time together without feeling crowded.

The layout is intentionally generous, balancing shared spaces with quiet places to step away. Guests often comment on how quickly the house settles into “home”—how easy it is to relax, cook real meals, and simply be present once everyone arrives.

Mornings are calm. Evenings unfold naturally. The house supports connection without effort and rest without retreating.

The Home
This is a spacious, thoughtfully designed lakefront home that works exceptionally well for families, multi-generational groups, and friends traveling together. The layout allows everyone to spread out comfortably while still gathering easily.

Guests consistently mention how welcoming the home feels—comfortable rather than delicate, lived-in rather than sterile.

“It has a comfortable feeling like you are truly welcome there—not uptight or sterile.”

The living areas are designed for real use: conversation, games, shared time, and unhurried evenings.

Kitchen & Shared Meals
The kitchen is fully stocked and designed for actual cooking, not just light prep. Seating, flow, and workspace support shared meals and lingering conversations.

This is something guests call out repeatedly:
“The kitchen was fully stocked with everything we needed.”
“We cooked every night and didn’t feel limited at all.”

Many guests note that once they arrive, they don’t feel the need to leave.

Sleeping & Comfort
Beds are frequently praised for comfort, and bedrooms offer privacy and quiet after full days together. The home sleeps large groups without feeling like everyone is stacked on top of each other.

“Plenty of room. We never felt crowded, even with a large group.”

Bathrooms are clean, well-maintained, and stocked for convenience.

Outdoor Space
The outdoor areas extend the livability of the home. The yard, patio, dock, and fire pit provide space to gather or step away depending on the moment.

Spring brings peaceful mornings and returning wildlife. Summer brings long evenings and time spent outside together. The lakefront setting is calm and private, making it easy to relax without outside distractions.

For Families & Groups
Families appreciate the space, layout, and kid-friendly design. Adults appreciate the quiet, comfort, and ability to relax without managing the house. It works equally well for celebrations, reunions, and simply staying put together.

“Perfect for our family gathering.”
“We made so many memories here.”

What Guests Say Most Often
“The photos don’t do this house justice.”
“It exceeded our expectations.”
“Everything was thought of.”
“We didn’t want to leave.”

Guests also consistently mention responsive, attentive hosting and clear communication before and during their stay.

This is a home for guests who value comfort, space, and meaningful time together more than flash. If that’s what you’re looking for, you’ll feel at ease here.

Other things to note:
This property has special local compliance requirements, which include a signed rental agreement, ID verification, and a security hold of $1000 (which is not a traditional security deposit, just a pending transaction). As an optional alternative to the security hold, you may opt in to purchase a non-refundable damage waiver provided by a third-party insurance company. The optional damage waiver is $40 for stays up to 10 nights, with an additional $2 per day for stays longer than 10 nights. Damage waiver purchases are optional.

To make this process easy for you, we use a secure and very simple, app-free platform called Happy Guest. It is not an app, and you do not have to sign up for an account - it’s a safe and secure website. It also gives you a guest portal with all the info about the home and all of my favorite local spots.

If you have any questions, just message us anytime! Happy to help!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Pack 'n Play and high chair provided
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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
Long-term renters welcome
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.

About the area

Oscoda

Located in Oscoda, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Lakewood Shores Resort - The Gailes Golf Course and Lakewood Shores Resort - Serradella Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Harrisville State Park and Tawas Point State Park. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including golfing.
Map
Oscoda, MI

What's nearby

  • Lakewood Shores Resort - The Gailes Golf Course - 11 min drive - 7.1 km
  • Lakewood Shores Resort - Serradella Golf Course - 11 min drive - 7.1 km
  • Lakewood Shores Resort - Blackshire Golf Course - 16 min drive - 9.9 km
  • Harrisville State Park - 27 min drive - 29.0 km
  • Tawas Point State Park - 38 min drive - 33.2 km

Getting around

  • Alpena, MI (APN-Alpena County Regional) - 61 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Wiltse's Brew & Family Restaurant - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Mancino's Featuring Rob's BBQ & RDSJ Catering - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Blue Collar - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Hilltop Saloon - ‬8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is A Spacious Lakefront Home Designed for Real Gatherings and Time Together pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

How much does it cost to stay at A Spacious Lakefront Home Designed for Real Gatherings and Time Together?

As of 7 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at A Spacious Lakefront Home Designed for Real Gatherings and Time Together on 29 Apr 2026 start from £341, 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 A Spacious Lakefront Home Designed for Real Gatherings and Time Together?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at A Spacious Lakefront Home Designed for Real Gatherings and Time Together?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at A Spacious Lakefront Home Designed for Real Gatherings and Time Together?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is A Spacious Lakefront Home Designed for Real Gatherings and Time Together located?

This family-friendly Oscoda holiday home is located on the waterfront, 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from Lake Huron, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Au Sable River and Lakewood Shores Resort - The Gailes Golf Course. Lakewood Shores Resort - Serradella Golf Course and Lakewood Shores Resort - Blackshire Golf Course are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 22 out of 23 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 23 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 23 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 23 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 23 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Megan F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay at Redwood Retreat. This house is well-stocked with everything in the kitchen and bathrooms. Very clean and organized! This house has everything to offer. There was beautiful snowy weather during our stay and our kids had a great time walking the property and even sledding down the hill towards the lake. We will be back next winter!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Mar 2026
Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re so glad you enjoyed your winter stay and that the kids had fun exploring the property, our nieces absolutely love winter on the lake as well. We’d love to welcome you back to Redwood Retreat for another snowy getaway next winter! Matt & Mary
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marcie K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This home was gorgeous and even better in person than in the pictures. Every detail has been thought out by the owners, including accommodations for my senior dog. We had a family ranging in age from 11 months to 72 years old, and there was something for everyone. Beautifully appointed rooms, plenty of space for quiet time, open concept in the kitchen, dining and living areas so we could spend time together. The whole family was comfortable and we'd all like to come back next year. If it was possible to give 6 out of 5 stars, I would. The owners were so easy to communicate with through the VRBO app and very quick to respond. Wonderful place to stay, highly recommend!!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We’re so glad Redwood Retreat was a great fit for your whole family and that everyone had space to relax and be together. As pet people, it made us especially happy to know we could welcome your senior dog too. We’d love to host you all again at Redwood Retreat.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Meghan W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very beautiful place with great scenery!!! House was equipped for all our needs for a great weekend with family!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Sept 2025
Thank you! We’re so glad your family enjoyed a great weekend together at Redwood Retreat and that the home had everything you needed. The scenery is one of our favorite parts too—we’d be delighted to welcome you back anytime! —Matt & Mary
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Russell Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The attention to detail was impeccable ! The Communication was concise ! A wonderful stay, would definitely return!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Sept 2025
We’re so glad you had a great time and enjoyed your stay! Anytime you’d like to come back, whether for golfing or simply to relax at the house, we’d be happy to host you again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sherr L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A lovely place

Such a comfortable inviting place. The hosts have thought of everything to make this a fabulous get away.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Apr 2025
Thank you so much, Sherr! We're thrilled you found Redwood Retreat to be comfortable and inviting. It means a lot to know the little details we’ve included helped make your getaway feel special. We'd love to welcome you back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great get away location

We had a great time at our stay. Matt and Mary Santala were great hosts with keeping us updated on items and making sure we were all set.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Oct 2024
Thank you, Mark, for your kind review and for sharing your beautiful sunset photo! We loved it so much that we’ve made it the current cover photo on our listing. We’re thrilled that you enjoyed the small touches like the bathroom items, nightstand chargers, and welcome basket, as you mentioned in your email. It’s always a pleasure to hear that our guests feel right at home. We’d love to host you again at Redwood Retreat!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pat P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lots of fun

3 families had a great time at this beautiful beach house for a long weekend. The weather was windy and rainy but the owners have stocked the house with a lot of comfort and recreational amenities so the weather was never an issue. The hosts rate an A.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Jun 2025
Thank you, Patricia! We’re so glad you and the other families had a fun and memorable weekend despite the rainy weather. It means a lot to hear that the amenities helped make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. We’d love to welcome you back to Redwood Retreat anytime, hopefully with a little more sunshine next time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Liz S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

June 2024 Weekend

This was a great place for a friends' weekend getaway! We loved the amenities and proximity to fund activities, like canoeing the Au Sable. We hope to stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Jul 2024
So glad you enjoyed your stay! And the amenities offered at Redwood Retreat! There are sooo many fun activities in Oscoda. We look forward to hosting you again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

wendy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Get Together

Our family of 12 enjoyed our weekend! The house had everything we needed. The listing was accurate and everyone was comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Sept 2024
Thank you for your kind review! We're so glad your family had a comfortable and enjoyable stay and that the house met all your needs. It's great to hear the listing was accurate for your group of 12. We look forward to hosting you all again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angie E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family time

We were visiting family from out of town and we had a wonderful time. We loved the house, we were able to relax and enjoy the views of the lake while accommodating our large family. Matt and Marry were excellent hosts, we would love to stay in their home again. The house was perfect for my family, I already tried to book it again for August but it’s already booked up. Great stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Dec 2024
Thank you, Angie, for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that your family had a relaxing and enjoyable stay while visiting. It’s so rewarding to know the house was perfect for your needs, and we’re honored by your kind words about our hosting. We’re sorry it’s already booked for August, but we hope we can welcome you back soon for another memorable visit!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Charles

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Family Vacation Spot!

We booked this property to celebrate my dad's 60th birthday as a family and it was a perfect spot for us. My dad loves to fish and the outdoors so he was so pleased. The home was clean and well stocked and just lile the photos.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Oct 2024
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear that Redwood Retreat was the perfect spot to celebrate your dad’s 60th birthday. It’s great that he enjoyed the fishing and outdoor activities, and we’re thrilled the home met your expectations. We’d love to welcome you and your family back again in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ann R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Delightful

Everything here was delightful and nothing was lacking! This house offered comfort, cleanliness, as well as accommodating all of our needs. We had a wonderful relaxing time. We would highly recommend this house to anyone.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Sept 2024
Thank you so much, Ann, for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you had a delightful and relaxing stay and that the house met all your needs. Your recommendation means the world to us, and we hope to welcome you back to Redwood Retreat in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

DANIEL K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our small wedding experience

The house is beautiful and well maintained. It has a great view out onto the lake with a large sun room. New Year's was a bit chilly but we did take several walks on the beach. I'm sure that would be a fantastic beach to enjoy in the summer. Hope to visit again with friends and family, when it's warm.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jan 2025
Thank you, Daniel, for your lovely review! We’re thrilled you chose Redwood Retreat for such a special occasion and enjoyed the beautiful lake views. Winter walks on the beach have their own charm, but summer is a fantastic time to fully experience the lake and beach. We’d be delighted to welcome you back with friends and family when it’s warmer! Congratulations again on the wedding!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Girls getaway

We had a great weekend at Redwood Retreat! The house is very well kept, clean and comfortable. It was nice that the light switches were labeled to know which lights/fans they operated. The property managers were very easy to work with and promptly answered questions before our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Oct 2024
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear you had a great weekend at Redwood Retreat and found the home clean, comfortable, and easy to navigate with the labeled light switches. It was a pleasure working with you, and we’re glad we could assist with any questions. We’d love to welcome you back for another relaxing stay in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brooke M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thanksgiving long weekend

There were 12 of us, 8 adults 4 kids, this home was perfect for us! We ate a family of cooks, the kitchen was very well stocked with all the necessary pots, pans, dishes etc…their property is very warm and inviting. Thank you Mary and Matt
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Dec 2024
Thank you, Brooke! We're thrilled to hear that our kitchen had everything your family needed for Thanksgiving cooking. It’s wonderful to know you found our property warm and inviting. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we’d love to welcome you back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best lake house

Highly recommend this property! The pictures don't even do it justice. The place was so clean and spacious, comfortable and beautiful! There was enough space for the large family and amenities galore. We made use of the fully stocked kitchen, grill, firepit, kayaks, life jackets and the boat! They had everything you could need with extra lawn chairs, lawn games, beach towels, etc. Responsive and helpful hosts. We all loved our stay and would stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Jul 2024
We're thrilled to hear that you had such a wonderful stay and enjoyed all the amenities our property has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you and your family back in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Easter weekend getaway

Cannot say enough about this property and the owners. Seamless from start to finish communication was great the booking process was very simple the house was gorgeous inside and out tons of space super comfortable beds we really love the giant refrigerator and freezer. The only negative part was that there wasn't a whole lot to do in the area. Not many great restaurants around. a few Pub and Bar type things but we had to go to Tawas to get a decent steak. Which isn't horrible it's only about a 20 minute drive or so other than that? It was perfect LOL
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Apr 2025
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! We’re glad to hear you enjoyed the house—especially the spacious layout, comfortable beds, and that giant fridge (a guest favorite!). Oscoda definitely offers a more peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience than the busier west side of the state. While the area may not be packed with chains or trendy hotspots, there are some truly fantastic local dining options—wood-fired pizza, relaxed fine dining, authentic Italian, and upscale comfort food—all within a short drive if you know where to look (and many are featured in our welcome book!). We really appreciated hosting you and would love to welcome you back for another relaxing stay by the lake. – Matt & Mary
Verified

8/10 Good

Kimberly D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Slight critique

Your home is beautiful, and we loved the view! The availability of charging outlets, snacks, and large sized rooms were an added touch. We all noticed that there were no tissues in the house. And the tub and shower both could use either grab bars or Textured floors to reduce the possibility of falls.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Oct 2024
Kimberly, thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re happy to hear you enjoyed the views and amenities like the charging outlets and snacks. We also appreciate your suggestion about the bathroom safety features. In response, we’ve purchased a Foldable Non-Slip Silicon Bath Mat for guests who wish to use it. Your feedback is important to us, and we’d love to welcome you back to Redwood Retreat in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jim D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Wedding Gathering

This property and its owners really delivered a quality experience for me and my family during our stay in Oscoda for a wedding near Alpena. From a much appreciated gift basket to a well organized welcome booklet, nothing seemed to be overlooked. One of our family members is wheelchair bound, Matt and Mary were able to confirm room layouts and accommodations prior to our stay. Once at the property, we were really impressed by the room sizes and how well the large gathering spaces allowed for great family time. By far our favorite moments were spent around the campfire in the evenings. My wife commented that this was one of her favorite rentals, and I would agree.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Sept 2024
Thank you, Jim! We're so glad that you and your family enjoyed your stay and appreciated the welcome basket and booklet. It was our pleasure to ensure the accommodations worked for your family, and we're thrilled the gathering spaces made for memorable family time. We're honored to be one of your favorite rentals, and we'd love to host you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

susan m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Getaway for Family

We were impressed from the minute we pulled into the driveway. House and grounds were perfect. Our group ranged in age from 1-69yrs old. The owners have covered every want need to make your stay fun and enjoyable. From kayaks to board games - they even had a fishing pole which delighted our 12 yr old grandson. Did he catch a fish you ask? He sure did! Right off the end of the dock. Evening fire to finish off the day was the perfect way to unwind before bed. Will definitely book again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Aug 2024
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are thrilled to hear that your family had such an enjoyable time at Redwood Retreat. It’s great to know that everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, found something to love about their stay. We’re especially delighted to hear about your grandson's success with the fishing pole—what a memorable moment! We take pride in providing amenities that cater to guests of all ages, and we're glad to see that it made your experience special. The evening fires by the lake are one of our favorite ways to unwind as well. We look forward to welcoming you back for another fantastic getaway in the future! Warm regards, Matt and Mary
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joyce M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway!

My family and I have stayed in dozens of different rentals all over the country and this house thought of all of the little things, that made this beautiful home perfect for us! Small little thoughtful things, like having hooks in the showers to hang your washrags or razors, to having zip lock bags available for use, to having a snack welcoming basket! The place was very clean, spacious for the 11 of us that stayed there and the view and amenities outside did not disappoint either! There were kayaks to use, that our kids loved and a rowboat to use as well. The owners were awesome to work with and very accommodating and quick to answer any questions we had! The kitchen was so easy to cook in and having the washer and dryer was an added bonus! I would HIGHLY recommend this beautiful home!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jul 2024
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience with our vacation rental property. We are thrilled to hear that your family had such an enjoyable stay and that the home exceeded your expectations. Your feedback about the thoughtful little touches, like the hooks in the showers and the welcome basket, is very much appreciated. We strive to anticipate our guests' needs and provide a comfortable and hassle-free experience. Knowing that these details made a positive impact on your stay is extremely rewarding for us. Thank you again for your wonderful review. We are so grateful that you and your family had such a fantastic time, and we would be honored to welcome you back in the future.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

3 Generation Family Gathering

We stayed at Redwood Retreat for a long weekend (TH - M) in the middle of May. Unfortunately it was cooler than we had hoped for, but that didn't prevent us from taking advantage of the good fishing right off the dock, and roasting marshmallows each night in the lakeside firepit. The yard was huge - it provided plenty of space for playing yard games and privacy from neighbors. The house was more than adequate for our family of 3 couples, and 2 kids - 1 1/2 and 3 1/2 years old. The kitchen had everything we needed for cooking and food storage. The house was very close to town - easy to run into the store or visit the bowling alley on a rainy day, but gave the feeling of being away from it all when we were there. Our hosts, Matthew and Mary responded quickly and helpfully when we reached out with questions a couple of times. We would definitely return during warmer months to take advantage of the kayaks and row boat on the beautiful lake.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Jun 2025
Thank you, Mary! We’re so glad your multi-generational getaway was a success—even with the cool May temps. It’s great to hear the dock fishing, fire pit, and yard games still made for a memorable time. We’d love to welcome your family back in warmer weather so you can enjoy everything the lake has to offer. Thanks again for being such thoughtful guests!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Fun Vacation

My wife and I, along with our three daughters, their spouses and our grandchildren have been using VRBO for our annual family vacations. We have been in Charlevoix, Traverse City, South Haven, Lewiston, Saugatuck and Louisville, Kentucky to name a few our destinations. This year we decided to try the sun rise side of Michigan and are glad we did. The property we chose is the Redwood Retreat on Lake Van Etten in Oscoda, MI. The property was immaculate with all the amenities a family would need. The lake was used for swimming, fishing and using the supplied kayaks. There was plenty of room for 7 adults and four grandkids. We are a family who loves to cook and everything we needed to prepare our meals was there. The individual temperature controls in each bedroom was a bonus. We had movie night and game night in the sunroom, and spent a third night enjoying a bonfire by the Lake. This place is perfect for family fun. There is plenty to do in Oscoda area, including nearby golf. We played Serradella at Lakewood Shores, just minutes from the Retreat.Out of all the places we stayed at, this one is the only one that gets 5 stars. We are planning to return next year. We would like to thank our hosts, Mary and Matt for all the information they supplied about the home and area! Thank you!M. L. Witkowski
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Jan 2026
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review and for choosing Redwood Retreat for your family vacation. We’re thrilled to hear how much your entire group enjoyed the lake, the kayaks, the sunroom movie and game nights, and evenings by the fire. It’s especially meaningful to know the home worked well for a multi-generation stay and that the kitchen and bedroom temperature controls made everyone comfortable. We truly appreciate the kind words and are honored that Redwood Retreat earned your only five-star rating. We would love to welcome your family back next year. Warm regards, Matt & Mary

About the host

Hosted by Matthew and Mary Santala

Host profile image
We’re Matt & Mary, hosts of Redwood Retreat and founders of The Waypoint Collection. We’re based in Michigan and have always loved the peaceful beauty of the north—especially in winter, when the world slows down and the lakes and forests feel almost magical.

Some of our favorite memories come from spending time up north with family—watching our nieces play in the snow, sharing meals together, and enjoying those quiet winter mornings that feel like a reset. Creating spaces where other families can make memories just like that is why we love hosting.

We enjoy traveling, exploring new places, and finding little ways to make people feel welcomed and cared for. Our goal is to offer comfort, thoughtful details, and a sense of calm—so your stay feels effortless, cozy, and meaningful.

We’re grateful to share Redwood Retreat with you and hope it brings warmth and joy to your getaway.

—Matt & Mary

Why they chose this property

We chose this neighborhood because it captures everything we love about being up north—peace, natural beauty, and a true sense of escape. Nestled along a quiet inland lake, the area feels especially magical in winter: snow-covered pines, still mornings, and the kind of calm you don’t get in busy vacation towns.

What we enjoy most is the balance. It’s peaceful and private, yet close to everything that makes Oscoda special—Lake Huron’s winter shoreline, the River Road Scenic Byway, sledding hills, scenic trails, and small-town shops and cafés. The neighbors are friendly, the nights are quiet, and the views are unforgettable in every season.

It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the simple beauty of Michigan’s winter.

What makes this property unique

Redwood Retreat stands out for its blend of comfort, thoughtful details, and the peaceful beauty of a true up-north winter. The home sits directly on a quiet inland lake, giving guests stunning snowy lake views, soft winter sunrises, and a serene backdrop you rarely find so close to town.

Inside, the spacious layout, fully stocked kitchen, and three-season sunroom create a cozy, welcoming space for families and friends to gather. Guests love our game room, kid-friendly touches, and the way the house is designed for both connection and relaxation.

What really makes it unique is the feeling—calm, private, and comforting. It’s a place where you can slow down, enjoy winter’s quiet charm, and make memories together in a home that feels thoughtfully prepared for every season.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback