Entire home

Harbor Haven: Lake Michigan Beach Cottage | Union Pier | Family-Friendly

Photo gallery for Harbor Haven: Lake Michigan Beach Cottage | Union Pier | Family-Friendly

A kitchen with wooden ceiling, white cabinets, a window with blinds, and a hanging light fixture.
A living room with a stone fireplace, a television, and a sofa.
A yellow house with a blue door and a porch. There is a sign in front with the text "Freshwater Vacation Rentals" and a phone number.
A covered patio area with a screened enclosure, a wooden deck, and outdoor furniture.
A residential driveway with a black car parked on the street, a white picket fence, and houses in the background.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
Situated near a casino, this 2-bedroom vacation home accommodates 5 guests and includes 1 bathroom. It features a patio and balcony for outdoor enjoyment. Enjoy nearby activities like birdwatching and game walks, along with access to golf. Explore attractions such as Gordon Beach and Union Pier Beach.

Highlights

  • Family fun awaits

    Top-rated for families.
  • Laundry made easy

    One of the few properties with an in-unit washing machine and dryer.
  • Centrally-located

    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks

    Close to Townline Beach
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Balcony or patio
  • Barbecue grill
  • Washer/dryer
  • Onsite parking available
  • Air-conditioning
  • Refrigerator

Explore the area

View in a map
Union Pier, MI
  • Place, Union Pier Beach
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Gordon Beach
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Townline Beach
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Airport, South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.)
    ‪33 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bunk Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Half Bathroom 2

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Harbor Haven: Lake Michigan Beach Cottage | Union Pier | Family-Friendly

HARBOR HAVEN
SLEEPS: 5
BEDROOMS: 2
BATHROOMS: 1.5
*NEIGHBORHOOD VIEW…LAKE MICHIGAN BEACH BLOCKS AWAY
*FIREPLACE

Perfect home for a family of 4 looking for a simple, clean, vacation spot. Harbor Haven is just a short 8 minute walk or 3 minute drive to a gorgeous beach on Lake Michigan! The home comes with wood planked ceilings, 2 bedrooms, 1 and ½ bathrooms, fully-equipped kitchen, and beautiful deck with patio furniture for guests to relax. On the back of the house is also a screened-in porch where you can enjoy nature bug-free! A washer/dryer and electric grill are also present for guests to enjoy!

Union Pier is a fabulous summer city with wineries, casinos, and great restaurants nearby. With the Michigan City Outlet Mall only 20 minutes away, and golf courses galore, mom and daughter can enjoy shopping, while father and son hit the course!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A/C: Yes

Animals: Birds and small animals like squirrels and raccoons.

ATV/Snowmobiles: Not the ideal place for snowmobiling or ATV's. Can not ride from house to trails and there is no room for parking a trailer. Best to leave those home and enjoy the amazing views of Lake Michigan!

Bathroom:

Bathroom 1= Full bath with stand up shower

Bathroom 2 = ½ bath

Beach/Swimming: Gordon Beach is a short 5 minute walk. From house, looking at road, turn right onto Lakeshore Rd. Turn right onto Town Line Ave. Take all the way to the beach stairs.

Bedroom Configuration:
Bedroom 1= King

Bedroom 2= Bunk bed (twin on top, full size below)

Boat Rental: Oselka Marina in New Buffalo.

Bugs: Typical flies, mosquitoes, spiders, and ants.

Cable: Yes Living room is equipped with Xfinity Cable

Cell phone service: Great service with most carriers. AT&T may not be as good as others

Distances:

* Michigan City Outlet Mall: 20 minutes (14 miles)
* Chicago: 1 hour 14 minutes (74 miles)
* Detroit: 3 hours 18 minutes (210 miles)
* Notre Dame University: 44 minutes (37 miles)
* Grand Rapids: 1 hour 41 minutes (107 miles)
* Toledo, OH: 3 hours 3 minutes (185 miles)

Fire Pit: You are able to build bonfires on the beach, but there is not a firepit at the house. Whatever driftwood you find or purchase some firewood at the local grocer.

Fireplace: There is a wood burning fireplace in the home. Please bring your own wood.

Fishing: Bring your poles.

Fishing License: You can purchase your fishing license online

Grill: Charcoal grill-please bring your own charcoal

Handicap Accessible: If you can navigate a few stairs in/out of the house, you will be able to enjoy this one level home.

Hunting: Not Onsite

Internet: WiFi included

Linens: Yes, we provide you with basic sheets and linens. Just like a hotel, the beds will be made for you upon arrival. If you are particular about the thread count of your sheets, let us know, and we will make sure we leave a bed open for your sheets.

Outdoor Shower: YES- we have an outdoor shower for you to enjoy between June-September.

Parking: 2 cars in driveway and 2 in- front if necessary

Pets: Pets are not allowed. Enjoy this allergen-free space.

Privacy: There is a home on the one side of the home that is visible. The backyard is semi-private. With mature trees on one side of the home and white picket fence, you will enjoy the comfort of the backyard.

Security: There is a Ring Doorbell on the front door.

Space: ranch-style home

Store: 4 miles away. It is called Barney's - 10 North Thompson, New Buffalo A convenience store is within walking distance, which hosts basic supplies.

Towels: Yes, we provide towels. Please bring your own beach towels to take to the water.

TVs: 2 Smart TVs. Living room with Xfinity Cable and Xumo Box, Master bedroom has a Roku Streaming only. Feel free to bring your Hulu, Netflix, or Amazon accounts! If you don't have Netflix, we can allow you to use our account during your stay.

Washer and dryer: Yes! Laundry soap is provided.

Winter Activities:
1. Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding
- Warren Dunes State Park: While primarily known for its hiking and beach access, the park may offer winter activities like snowshoeing and sledding.
Distance: About 3 miles, 5-10 minutes by car.
- Swiss Valley Ski Area: A small but popular ski resort in nearby Jones, Michigan.
Distance: About 40 miles, approximately 1 hour drive east of Union Pier.
2. Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
- Warren Dunes State Park: The park offers scenic winter trails that are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with views of Lake Michigan.
Distance: About 3 miles, 5-10 minutes by car.
- Galien River County Park: A peaceful spot for hiking and snowshoeing, with trails that wind through winter landscapes.
Distance: About 8 miles, 15 minutes by car.
3. Snowmobiling
- Berrien County Snowmobile Trails: These trails connect with the larger Michigan snowmobile network, offering routes through the woods and along country roads.
Distance: Local trails are within 10-15 miles, about 20-25 minutes by car.
4. Ice Fishing
- Lake Michigan (near Union Pier): Ice fishing is popular on Lake Michigan during the coldest months. Check local conditions for safe ice.
Distance: The lake is just a short walk or drive from the house, depending on where you're fishing.
5. Winter Hiking & Sledding
- Warren Dunes State Park: In addition to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, this park offers scenic winter hiking trails and areas to sled.
Distance: About 3 miles, 5-10 minutes by car.
- Hagar Park: A local park with sledding opportunities during the winter months.
Distance: About 6 miles, 10-15 minutes by car.
6. Holiday Events & Light Displays
- New Buffalo Christmas Parade: During the holiday season, this festive parade features holiday lights and activities.
Distance: About 8 miles, 15-20 minutes by car, in nearby New Buffalo.
- St. Joseph Winter Fest: A winter festival featuring ice sculptures, snow activities, and festive events.
Distance: About 30 miles, 40 minutes by car.

Wood: Wood NOT provided. Please bring your own. Can be purchased at Barneys, about 4 miles away - 10 North Thompson, New Buffalo 269-469-1210.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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

Check out before 11:00 AM

default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

default

Events

No events allowed

default

Pets

No pets allowed

default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 7113747
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.
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
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

About the area

Union Pier

Union Pier is home to this holiday home. Wilkinson Village Heritage Museum and Burnison Galleries are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Vickers Theatre and Hesston Steam Museum. Round Barn Union Pier Tasting Room and New Buffalo Pere Marquette Depot are also worth visiting. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including swimming, wildlife walks and winery tours.
Map
Union Pier, MI

What's nearby

  • Union Pier Beach - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Gordon Beach - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Wilkinson Village Heritage Museum - 10 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Townline Beach - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Burnison Galleries - 2 min drive - 2.1 km

Getting around

  • New Buffalo Station - 7 min drive
  • South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.) - 46 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Buffet at Four Winds Casino - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Timbers at Four Winds Casino - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪The Stray Dog Bar & Grill - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Redamak's Tavern - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Harbor Haven: Lake Michigan Beach Cottage | Union Pier | Family-Friendly pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Harbor Haven: Lake Michigan Beach Cottage | Union Pier | Family-Friendly?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Harbor Haven: Lake Michigan Beach Cottage | Union Pier | Family-Friendly?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Harbor Haven: Lake Michigan Beach Cottage | Union Pier | Family-Friendly?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Harbor Haven: Lake Michigan Beach Cottage | Union Pier | Family-Friendly located?

Situated in Union Pier, this holiday home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Union Pier Beach and Lake Michigan. Gordon Beach and Wilkinson Village Heritage Museum are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

9.6

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. 68 out of 85 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 14 out of 85 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 85 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 85 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 85 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.4/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great house, perfect for family of 4. Very good experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful little cottage! Great location easy walk to the beach and easy walk to the shops of Union Pier!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jun 2026
So glad you enjoyed the cottage and the location, being able to walk to both the beach and Union Pier is one of our favorite things about it! You were wonderful guests, and we really appreciated how easy you were to host. We’d love to welcome you back anytime! -Van, FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fireplace was excellent!! Kitchen was open to the whole area which we enjoyed, beautiful home in the area, very clean and quiet neighborhood, lots of wildlife in the area as well, will be coming back for sure!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Apr 2026
Thank you so much for the wonderful feedback! We’re glad you enjoyed the fireplace, open kitchen, and the peaceful surroundings, it really is a special spot. We’d love to host you again anytime! -Van, FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was nice
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Apr 2026
Thank you! We’re glad you enjoyed your stay, and we’d be happy to host you again anytime. Van, FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean, cozy and convenient
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Oct 2025
Thank you! We’re glad you found the place clean, cozy, and convenient. You were wonderful guests! -Van, FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean and easy to find. Happy with the area and short walk to the Lake!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Nov 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're glad you enjoyed the area and the short walk to the lake. You were wonderful guests, and we’d be happy to welcome you back anytime! -Van, FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Very enjoyable stay

The home was comfortable, clean and well maintained. Really enjoyed the quiet stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Dec 2023
Hilda, first, thank you for being such a responsible guest. We're so happy to hear that you had a very enjoyable stay, and we hope to see you back again. -Claire, FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay at Harbor Haven! Harbor Haven is cozy and comfortable! We have stayed at many rentals and Harbor Haven was one of the cleanest ( spotless). We enjoyed our walk to and on the beach. Convenient coffee spot to walk to in the mornings was a plus! Communication for arrival/ departure info was great ! We enjoyed a quiet, lovely getaway ! We hope to visit Harbor Haven in the future!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Nov 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed your stay at Harbor Haven and appreciated the cleanliness, location, and overall experience. You were such great guests, and we would absolutely love to welcome you back anytime for another relaxing getaway! - Van, FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Family Vacation

Great location.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2024
Angie, we're glad that you like the location of the cottage, and we'd love to host you again. - Claire, FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Very cute cabin

Perfect for a little family for a 2 or 3 night stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Aug 2023
Kathy, we're glad that Harbor haven was perfect for your family, and we hope that you come back again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My wife and I loved the house! Quiet neighborhoodand amenities like off street parking- great back deck area and overall cleanliness was awesome! Not to mention proximity to Lake Michigan!!We will book a stay again as well as recommend to family and friends! Price was very affordable too!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Sept 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed the house and all the amenities. You were wonderful guests, and we’d be happy to welcome you back anytime. We truly appreciate your recommendation to family and friends! -Van FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Nice place

Very nice close to beach.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Sept 2023
Steve, we happy that you enjoyed your stay, and we hope to work with you again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Terrific!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Oct 2025
Thank you! We’re so glad to hear that you were terrific guests as well! -Van, FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Summer stay

Nice location and good property. Entire process and stay was very easy.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Aug 2022
Tom, we're glad that you enjoyed your stay, and we hope to see you back again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Girlfriends annual trip so we are very familiar with the area but this was our first time at this house. Location was great. Lots of fun things to do in both directions. House was very clean and comfortable for the two of us. Having the extra half bath was great, The shower had strong water pressure and the outdoor shower was a bonus. The beds were comfortable including the full bed bottom bunk in the second bedroom. That room would be a bit small for more than two people or two kids but having the BR TVs was a nice touch. Stacked washer/dryer convenient in closet. Consider a linen/towel upgrade.The living room was really comfortable and the layout of the house with separation between the BRs on one side and the living space on the other made it really functional. DRTable seats 4 but there is also sitting space at the kitchen counter. Kitchen was not fancy but it got the job done and we cooked and BBQd all week. (Charcoal Weber) Stainless fridge, dishwasher w/ disposal. Electric stove is a bit older but worked fine. Not a huge fan of grouted tile countertops. They have bought some new pots and pans etc since past reviews and there were plenty of dishes and silverware. Need a new pod coffee maker. The one that works is single cup, The spare needs to be discarded. Also would be great to have a tea pot for the stove or a plug-in kettle. We loved the deck & screened in porch when it rained and Lakeshore Rd is a lovely quiet street. Will absolutely come back next year! Thx
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Sept 2026
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a detailed review! We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the great location, comfortable layout, clean home, and the deck and screened-in porch. It’s wonderful to know the home worked so well for your annual girls’ trip and that you enjoyed cooking and relaxing throughout the week. We truly appreciate all of your helpful suggestions regarding the linens, coffee maker, kettle, and kitchen items. We’ll be sure to pass these along to our team for consideration as we continue making improvements. Most importantly, we’re so happy to hear that you’ll be back next year! We look forward to welcoming you again! -Van, FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cozy and Quiet

The property was great for a weekend getaway. Cozy, clean, quiet, and close to lots of food and fun.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Dec 2023
John-Michael, we're so glad to hear that the property was great for your weekend getaway. We appreciate what a conscientious guest you were, and we hope to work with you again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cute and clean!

Can't wait to book again, such a great place.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Sept 2023
Norma, we love your enthusiasm to come back again! We look forward to hosting you again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Nice place, convenient location

This home served us well for biking, hiking and visiting Indiana Dunes National Park.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept 2023
Martha, it sounds like you had an active stay! We're glad that the cottage worked out well for you, and we hope to see you back again.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The house was adorable and a perfect location do check out all that the area has to offer. Short and easy walk to the beach, and the property manager was responsive via both text and phone call with a few small issues & questions we had.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great beach vacation

This was a great little house that was within walking distance to two different beach access points. It had everything we needed and communication with management was prompt when we had a small issue with checking in. Would stay here again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Jun 2022
Kevin, we're glad that you had a good stay and we'd love to have you stay again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Union Pier Perfect Location

Comfortable & so cozy! The perfect location, walking distance to the beach & a short drive to town.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Nov 2023
Angela, we're glad that you found Harbor Haven to be comfortable and cozy. Being walking distance to Lake Michigan is certainly an added bonus! Thank you for being such a responsible be guest, and we hope to work with you again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

A great house with a great location!

We had a wonderful time here and the bedroom bunk beds worked out perfectly for our two kids. We enjoyed the big couch and all of the outdoor seating. You can walk to shops and the beach!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct 2024
Thanks Rebecca! We absolutely love how close the shops are, you were such a wonderful guest and we look forward to having you back soon! Jayne FVR
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful/convenient

Accurate to description! Beautiful, quaint, short walk to the beach. We loved our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Aug 2022
Tommy, we're glad that you loved your stay, and we hope to see you back again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Wonderful

We had a wonderful time! It was so close to the beach and shops.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Oct 2022
Natalie, we love hearing that you had a wonderful time, and we hope that you come back again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Our Family Vacation at Union Pier

Very clean house walking distance to the beach. We had a great time and would definitely return again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Aug 2023
Massimo, we're so glad that you had a great time, and that you plan on returning!

About the host

Hosted by Freshwater Vacation Rentals

Host profile image

Freshwater Vacation Rentals
• Established in 2005
If you are looking for a vacation rental, you have come to the right spot! We offer an unparalleled selection of properties across the state-from private islands and large family lodges to peaceful Great Lakes getaways. We specialize in finding your ideal setting, whether it's a social spot where you can enjoy evening fires with neighbors, or a remote retreat where you won't see another soul.
Our philosophy: We work hard so you don't have to. As both owners and property managers for nearly two decades (since our start with Republic island and the Rapid River Lodge), we offer a unique, insider perspective. Our mission is to guarantee our guests a wonderful experience and help our owners maximize their investment. Give us a call, and we'll find the right fit for you!

Languages:

English, Spanish, Danish, Croatian

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback