Entire home
Okiwayway's Bungalow [formerly Betula Cabin] renovated waterfront rustic cabin
Photo gallery for Okiwayway's Bungalow [formerly Betula Cabin] renovated waterfront rustic cabin





Reviews
9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 71200 sq ft
Popular amenities
Explore the area

East Jordan, MI
- Place, Lake Charlevoix1 min walk
- Place, Boyne Mountain21 min drive
- Place, Torch Lake31 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 7)
Bunk room
2 Single Bunk Beds
Living room
1 Double Futon
Master Bedroom
1 Double Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Okiwayway's Bungalow [formerly Betula Cabin] renovated waterfront rustic cabin
Thank you for considering Okiwayway's bungalow for your next vacation. This home has been a labor of love and a dream come true for us and we are happy to share it with you.
A few things to consider before reading further.
- as of 2024 this cabin DOES have AC in each bedroom.
- this cabin does not have a TV but does have wifi.
plenty of board and card games though
- The deck has been installed in 2024 but we aren't able to capture it in the photos.
- There are two cameras on property facing the parking area.
Okiwayway's bungalow was formerly known as Betula Cabin. The cabin (built in 1941 using cedar and field stones on the property) remains largely intact offering a genuine log cabin experience.
What we have updated the bedrooms, kitchen, and bathrooms. See below:
The master bedroom and bunk rooms are now on opposite sides of the cabin for greater privacy and easier access from both rooms to the water. Both rooms have closets with shelves, and luggage racks to settle in and feel at home and curtains for privacy. The masterbedroom room includes a loft offering a wonderful view of the lake and dock. The master bedroom has dimmable lights inside and dimmable remote lights outside. The bunks room has a modern chandelier and dimmable remote lights outside.
The bathroom has been split into separate toilet, shower, and vanity rooms allowing flexibility for guests. The shower room and toilet room heated floors (do not set above 75oF) to keep your feet warm on the cooler days. There is a storage closest in the vanity room where towels, first aid, toilet paper, extra bed sheets, vacuums, and cleaning supplies are stored.
The kitchen has been expanded and the mini electric range replaced with full sized four burner induction cooktop with induction compatible pots and pans. Please note then oven has been replaced with a combo microwave/oven/airfryer We have added pull out racks making it easier to access cookware from the shelves below the counter. And open shelving above the counter for easier access to dishes. Coffee machine, french press, and pour over are included and a coffee bean grinder for those who prefer fresh ground beans. A new sink has been installed with extendable faucet and glass rinser (like the ones you see at a bar!). The dining table is now in the kitchen (formerly in the living room)
Okiwayway Bungalow is connected via Google home and can be accessed via the ipad provided.
In the living room is an stereo with indoor and outdoor speaker sets. Music can be played either indoor or outdoor or both by selecting/deselecting the A and B areas on the unit. the stereo is connected to a Bluetooth receiver to play music from you smartphone.
Water proof blue tooth speaker with LED lights is included as well as bug spray and sun tan lotion. There is a small tool ikea tool kit provided for any quick fixes.
Washer and Dryer are in the shed as before. With Tide pods and fabric softener provided.
Seasoned firewood is provided.
A 6000lbs electric boat hoist is available (not for pontoons). For boats that will not fit poles are available on the opposite side to tie up to.
The dock has two sets of steps to enter/exit the water and a bench to enjoy the sunsets from.
A few things to consider before reading further.
- as of 2024 this cabin DOES have AC in each bedroom.
- this cabin does not have a TV but does have wifi.
plenty of board and card games though
- The deck has been installed in 2024 but we aren't able to capture it in the photos.
- There are two cameras on property facing the parking area.
Okiwayway's bungalow was formerly known as Betula Cabin. The cabin (built in 1941 using cedar and field stones on the property) remains largely intact offering a genuine log cabin experience.
What we have updated the bedrooms, kitchen, and bathrooms. See below:
The master bedroom and bunk rooms are now on opposite sides of the cabin for greater privacy and easier access from both rooms to the water. Both rooms have closets with shelves, and luggage racks to settle in and feel at home and curtains for privacy. The masterbedroom room includes a loft offering a wonderful view of the lake and dock. The master bedroom has dimmable lights inside and dimmable remote lights outside. The bunks room has a modern chandelier and dimmable remote lights outside.
The bathroom has been split into separate toilet, shower, and vanity rooms allowing flexibility for guests. The shower room and toilet room heated floors (do not set above 75oF) to keep your feet warm on the cooler days. There is a storage closest in the vanity room where towels, first aid, toilet paper, extra bed sheets, vacuums, and cleaning supplies are stored.
The kitchen has been expanded and the mini electric range replaced with full sized four burner induction cooktop with induction compatible pots and pans. Please note then oven has been replaced with a combo microwave/oven/airfryer We have added pull out racks making it easier to access cookware from the shelves below the counter. And open shelving above the counter for easier access to dishes. Coffee machine, french press, and pour over are included and a coffee bean grinder for those who prefer fresh ground beans. A new sink has been installed with extendable faucet and glass rinser (like the ones you see at a bar!). The dining table is now in the kitchen (formerly in the living room)
Okiwayway Bungalow is connected via Google home and can be accessed via the ipad provided.
In the living room is an stereo with indoor and outdoor speaker sets. Music can be played either indoor or outdoor or both by selecting/deselecting the A and B areas on the unit. the stereo is connected to a Bluetooth receiver to play music from you smartphone.
Water proof blue tooth speaker with LED lights is included as well as bug spray and sun tan lotion. There is a small tool ikea tool kit provided for any quick fixes.
Washer and Dryer are in the shed as before. With Tide pods and fabric softener provided.
Seasoned firewood is provided.
A 6000lbs electric boat hoist is available (not for pontoons). For boats that will not fit poles are available on the opposite side to tie up to.
The dock has two sets of steps to enter/exit the water and a bench to enjoy the sunsets from.
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Similar properties

Steps from Lake Charlevoix with great views. Beach access & small fee for pool
Steps from Lake Charlevoix with great views. Beach access & small fee for pool
- Pool
- Hot tub
- Kitchen
- Washing machine
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Events
No events allowed
Pets
No pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
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
East Jordan
Located in East Jordan, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and Torch Lake, while Elm Pointe Historical Museum and Boyne Heritage Center are cultural highlights. Castle Farms and Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

East Jordan, MI
What's nearby
- Lake Charlevoix - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
- Boyne Mountain - 21 min drive - 23.2 km
- Castle Farms - 22 min drive - 23.6 km
- Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark - 24 min drive - 28.3 km
- Torch Lake - 31 min drive - 36.2 km
Restaurants
- McDonald's - 9 min drive
- The Nugget In Ellsworth - 20 min drive
- South Arm Cafe - 8 min drive
- The Landings Restaurant - 20 min drive
- The Front Porch - 20 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window9.0/10
Cleanliness
9.8/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
13 Oct, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Subi D.
13 Jul, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Subi D.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lisa G.
28 Sept, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lisa G.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Grant P.
19 Aug, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Grant P.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Anna A.
21 Aug, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Anna A.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Anna A.
24 Jul, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Summer retreat
Anna A.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
8/10 Good
Maynard H.
18 Jun, 2025
Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lake house
Maynard H.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Wren H.
27 Sept, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great getaway
Wren H.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
John E.
9 Jul, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great summer getaway...............
John E.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Laura S.
13 Jul, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Stay
Laura S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Wren H.
25 Sept, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just Perfect!
Wren H.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Sara F.
7 Jul, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
4th getaway
Sara F.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
4 Jul, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect getaway
Verified traveller
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
8/10 Good
Colleen J.
12 Aug, 2024
Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful location
Colleen J.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Ryan H.
19 Aug, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Firm retreat
Ryan H.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
10/10 Excellent
Camerin B.
4 Aug, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lake Charlevoix Up North Paradise
Camerin B.
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
angela n.
19 Jul, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect
angela n.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
10/10 Excellent
Colleen J.
15 Jul, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quintessential Northern Michigan
Colleen J.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer B.
14 Jun, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely enjoy our stay, so relaxing and a big hit with my 7 year old.
Jennifer B.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021
8/10 Good
Melissa Z.
12 Jun, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in
Adorable cabin
Melissa Z.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021
10/10 Excellent
Wouter d.
23 Nov, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place
Wouter d.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020
8/10 Good
BEth L.
12 Oct, 2020
Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness
Great cabin
BEth L.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020
10/10 Excellent
Cristy R.
8 Oct, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pure Michigan in the fall
Cristy R.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020
10/10 Excellent
Lindsay D.
14 Sept, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Getaway!
Lindsay D.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
10/10 Excellent
Sarah E.
14 Sept, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Betula Cabin
Sarah E.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020
About the host
Hosted by Lou Gavino
A midwest native, I have always dreamed of one day having my own slice of heaven on Lake Charlevoix. Making this dream come true with my wife has been beyond amazing. We live in Seattle (moved 2019) but with family locally we make many trips home. Having lived abroad in Asia we have applied some of that aesthetic to the bungalow. Outside of traveling we enjoy good food, good wine, and great company. And with the recent creature comfort updates we feel the bungalow is even more enjoyable!
We hope you appreciate the flair my wife and I have added to modernize the bungalow. We hope to continue updates and maintain 1940's cabin charm while bringing the comfort and amenities into a more modern ambiance.
We hope you appreciate the flair my wife and I have added to modernize the bungalow. We hope to continue updates and maintain 1940's cabin charm while bringing the comfort and amenities into a more modern ambiance.
Why they chose this property
I grew up coming here (just 2miles north) in the summers with my mothers extended family. My Uncle owned a log cabin (similar to this one) and owning a lakehouse on this lake has always been a dream of mine. This property has all the rustic charm I love when I get away with all the modern amenities (AC aside)
What makes this property unique
100ft of waterfront is not so common anymore, 1/4 mile from the road and on the sunset side of the lake. Google home mini to answer questions and turn on lights (Patio light, Parking Light, Chandelier). Simply turn things on and off by saying "Hey Google, Turn on (or off) [insert lights here]".
Languages:
English, Japanese, Korean
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback




























