Airport, Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker)
42 min drive
Rooms & beds
3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)
Bedroom 3
1 Double Bed
Guest Bedroom 2
1 Queen Bed
Main
1 King Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom main
Bathtub or shower · Toilet
Bathroom master
Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area
About this property
The Frankfort Surf Cottage
Come visit the pure beauty of one of Northern Michigan's favorite small coastal beach towns- Frankfort. Frankfort is situated on the gorgeous shores of Lake Michigan. This splendid coastal beach town has plenty to offer for your perfect family get away! Frankfort is the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Lake Michigan, Surfing (yes surfing), Charter Fishing, the Bestie Valley Bike Trail, Shopping, numerous eateries, and countless adventures. The pristine dunes, beaches, and spectacular sunsets over the vast open freshwater sea will keep you in awe of what our family calls, Northern Michigan Surf City. Once you arrive to the cottage, there is rarely a need to drive. Simply grab the towels, chairs, and a cooler. As it’s a mere 5 minute stroll down a treelined Victorian home sidewalk to one of Lake Michigan's most beautiful beaches. Bring your Bikes, Paddle-boards, Kayaks, and beach toys. Or rent surfboards, paddle-boards, or bikes at Coastline Bikes or Crystal Lake Adventure Sports, both downtown. The cottage is a mere 50 yards away from downtown main street where you will find numerous restaurants, bistros, breweries, and shopping. Again, all within walking distance. Sit on the covered front porch and relax with a glass of wine while watching passers-by on our treelined Victorian street that leads right to the water. Or choose to lounge on the back deck and bask in the sun. There is a flagstone fire pit area in the backyard with several Adirondack chairs for your night time enjoyment. The cottage sits on a corner lot with room for the kids to play. The cottage has wireless internet for connectivity. Please note: by design there is No T.V. This is one of 120 licensed rental properties in Frankfort. In the lower level walkout there is a Ping Pong table, foos ball table, and video arcade games for those seeking refuge from the sun. As with most Northern Michigan cottages there isn’t Air Conditioning as the nights are generally cool. However, there are ceiling fans in all 3 rooms, as well as stand up fans placed in the closets for use if need be. We recently added a Culligan reverse osmosis water system to our kitchen sink so no need to bring or buy all those plastic water bottles. Over the years this cottage has provided our family and friends with countless wonderful memories. We are certain it will do the same for you and yours. Sincerely, The Mackey Family
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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
Note from host: NO Parties Allowed.
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
Frequently asked questions
Is The Frankfort Surf Cottage pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at The Frankfort Surf Cottage?
As of 2 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Frankfort Surf Cottage on 17 May, 2026 start from S$620, 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 The Frankfort Surf Cottage?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Frankfort Surf Cottage?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Frankfort Surf Cottage?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is The Frankfort Surf Cottage located?
This family-friendly Frankfort cottage is located near the beach, within a 10-minute walk of Betsie Lake and Lake Michigan. Elizabeth Lane Oliver Center for the Arts and Frankfort Beach are also within 10 minutes.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Wonderful place. The owners have thought of EVERYTHING. The kitchen was incredible, and we loved the bonfire area too. We enjoyed our stay and would choose the house again. Oh, the location is perfect.
We had a nice stay. We love Frankfort and Lake Michigan. The house was great and it was a treat sitting on the front porch and chatting with the neighbors and people walking by. Great location near the lake and downtown Restaurants and shopping.
Gerald (Jerry) H.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
We are glad you enjoyed your stay at the cottage! Thank you for choosing us and hope to have you as our guests again in the future.
Michelle and Todd
We had a great stay in Frankfort! The cottage was perfect, very clean and location was super convenient to everything. Michelle was a great host, very responsive with communications and provided information about the area to help us enjoy our stay. I would definitely recommend and would stay here again in the future!
Heather M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
Thank you for the kind words, Heather! We are very happy you had such a nice time at our place and in Frankfort. You are more than welcome back any time. We appreciate how clean you left the cottage. We could barely tell anyone had even stayed there! Thanks again for choosing us and we hope to hear from you again in the future.
Michelle
This has been our favorite stay in Northern Michigan! Blocks from the beautiful beach, amazing shops and restaurants, and plenty of space for all! Hosts were wonderful and were able to answer questions, provide recommendations, and even help us out with a postal delivery :)
Loved our time in Frankfort and can't wait to return!
Stephanie F.
Stayed 15 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
Thank you for staying with us and for the great review! We are so happy you enjoyed your stay and look forward to your return. Have a wonderful rest of the summer! ~ Michelle
We had another great week at the Frankfort Surf Cottage! A big thank you to Todd and Michelle for sharing such a special place with us! Great location for walking to town and to the beach! Took a few hiking adventures, visited Point Betsy Lighthouse, and took a day trip north to Leland, MI, on our rainy day. From our morning coffee on the front porch to our sunsets on the beach, and ending with a campfire, we were thankful for the rest and memories that the cottage provided. Thank you!
Chris and Rachel C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Jul, 2025
We are so happy that you enjoyed your stay again at the Frankfort Surf Cottage and look forward to your return next year. Thank you for the nice review and for cleaning up so thoroughly!!
My family and I enjoyed another great summer stay at Surf Cottage. The cottage is spacious, well equipped and perfectly located. And Michelle is a fabulous host - so easy to communicate with. We hope to return next year!
Wonderful beach cottage in the perfect location… steps to the restaurants and shops of town. 3 blocks to the beach. Friendly neighbors. Super responsive and accommodating host who went out of her way to make our stay comfortable. Highly recommend!!
Manal P.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Sept, 2024
Thank you for your wonderful review and so happy you enjoyed your stay!
This is such a great property! Plenty of space indoors for a sizeable group, and multiple areas outside for fun and conversation. Situated in a lovely neighborhood. Only steps from town and the beach!!
David B.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jul, 2024
Thanks for being such wonderful guests! So glad you have found your “Happy Place” up North:)
My family and I had a wonderful extended stay at Surf Cottage this August. The location was perfect and the cottage was clean, spacious and well equipped. We especially loved all the outdoor spaces, downstairs game room and big dining table. The hosts were helpful and responsive. It was perfection all around and we look forward to returning!
Carrie H.
Stayed 21 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
Thank you for your wonderful review, Carrie and also thank you for being such great guests! We look forward to seeing you in the future!
Michelle and Todd
It was our second time staying here because we loved it so much. Such a wonderful home and location so close to town and the beach. The owners are very kind and helpful. We hope to come back next summer!
- The Long family
Laura B.
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
Thank you for being such awesome renters!! Yes, hope to see you next summer! Thanks for the review!!
We had a great stay. It could not be more convenient for walking to downtown Frankfort. Everything is a 5 minute walk, including the beach. The cottage has had a lot of great updates. We would definitely recommend.
Tim P.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
Thank you for the great review and so happy you enjoyed your stay!
Location is great. Short walk to beach and one block off the main street of Frankfort. Very nice house with a great kitchen, front porch, deck and yard.
We had an amazing week during our stay at Surf Cottage! The location is perfect for time on the beach, browsing through shops in town and peaceful walks in the quaint neighborhood. Michelle was great to work with and the cottage had everything we needed for the week! Very clean and comfortable home base to relax and unwind. We are all looking forward to a return trip to Surf Cottage and the charming town of Frankfort!
Rachel C.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Jul, 2024
Thank you for your sweet words, Rachel! So happy you had a great stay! We look forward to your return next year:)
We enjoyed our stay at the Frankfort Surf Cottage. The house is clean and fresh and very well located. We walked to the beach and to town easily. The communication with our host was great ... they got back to us quickly to answer our questions. We would definitely stay again.
Jim T.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
Thank you for your nice review! You are welcome anytime, as, we appreciate your keeping the cottage so clean and tidy. ~The Mackey’s
The property location was perfect, just blocks from the Frankfort Beach, steps from downtown shops and restaurants. The house was clean, with a front porch to enjoy coffee, back deck to relax and fire pit to enjoy an evening under the stars. We enjoyed the Frankfort area with great activities including, Golfing, Bike Trails and Lake Michigan Beaches and Sunsets.
Thomas K.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
Thank you for staying with us again this year and a special thank you for keeping the house so clean! Enjoy the rest of your summer!~Michelle Mackey
This is a lovely cottage. Great spaces. Clean.
Just a few steps to town, and just a few more to the beach. Very nice front porch and back deck. Fun basement room with bed, comfy couches, t.v. , ping pong, and arcade games. It was perfect for us!
David B.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
Thanks for the great review, David. Also, thank you for leaving the cottage in immaculate condition upon your departure. We look forward to your stay again next summer!
Very clean house, five blocks to Lake Michigan’s beautiful sandy beach and awesome sunsets. Within walking distance to cute downtown. Within 20 minutes of Arcadia Dunes, Green Point Dunes and several golf courses with great views of Lake Michigan. The front porch and back deck were great for relaxing and enjoying morning coffee. Owners were very responsive to our needs.
Thomas K.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
We are so happy to hear you enjoyed yourselves. You were an outstanding renter and we hope to serve you again.
I hate to write this as others will be interested in the property. We have stayed in this house 3 of the past 4 years. Never been disappointed. Great location, nice house extra property makes it easy to entertain the children.
Ray A.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Aug, 2024
Thank you for the review, Ray! So happy you enjoyed your stay and thanks for your continued stays!!
We loved the location of the Frankfort Surf-Cottage, walking distance to downtown restaurants and shopping. The property was clean when we arrived and easy to contact owners. Thank you for sharing your home with us!! 🐠🐠🐠
Jennifer N.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
So glad you enjoyed the Frankfort Surf Cottage!! We hope you can make it back again sometime. Thank you for cleaning the cottage so nicely upon your departure. ~The Mackey’s
A wonderful location for enjoying the beauty of Lake Michigan. The house and yard were spacious and comfortable with many options for outdoor enjoyment. Walking to restaurants and coffee downtown so close and sunset just a 5 minute walk (or less). The listing was accurate but it was so much more spacious than I anticipated with outdoor and common spaces. Thanks for sharing your beautiful home.
Wendy B.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
So glad to hear you had such a nice time! Congrats to those in your party on placing top ten in their age groups in the Ironman!
Awesome house. Steps away from main street. 5 minute walk to Lake Michigan. Perfect house for family - Pac Man and NBA games in basement awesome rainy day activity. Ping pong was a keeper. Owner awesome and easily accessible. Perfect week in Frankfort.
Tim D.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
Tim, Thank you for the great review. So happy you enjoyed your stay in Frankfort! Hope you can make it back in the future.
Michelle and Todd Mackey
Our family had such a wonderful stay here. The owners were great to communicate with and made sure everything was perfect at the house before we arrived. The house is beautiful- clean, comfortable and so close to downtown Frankfort! We walked into town and the beach every day. Our 4 year old loved the basement with the fun games! We really hope to be back again soon and would stay here again in a heartbeat! Thanks so much!
Laura & Brendan and kids
Laura B.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2023
Thank you for the kind review! Also, thank you for leaving the house so clean, as, you were the perfect guests. Clean, kind, and considerate.
About the host
Hosted by Michelle & Todd Mackey
We are a family of seven (7) Five kids, 3 girls and two boys. Our children, now grown are off to college and beyond. Our family cottage now sits awaiting to make you and your family life long memories like it has ours.
Why they chose this property
We purchased this cottage as a get-away for our large family (5 kids). It has provided us with countless memories and experiences over the years. We have always loved that fact that once you park the car there is really no need to use it again. In fact, it only a 2 min walk to downtown stores, shops, and the beach. Our kids loved the water, the beaches, the downtown, etc. A typical day for our kids would be a big breakfast at the 10 ft kitchen table, possibly a morning bike ride on the BVT trail, maybe some tennis at the public park, a skateboard session at the skate-bowl park, and of course Beach Time playing in the waves, Sand volleyball, and who can forget jumping off the Frankfort city pier. If the winds are 20kts or more out of the South or SSW it means waves- Surfing Waves! Yes you can surf Frankfort when the conditions are right. Each of our children became proficient surfers learning on Lake Michigan. (If the surf is up there will be numerous surfers in the break as the secret is now out). After a long day playing outside, our routine typically involves a stroll downtown (50 yards from our back yard) to eat at any one of the downtown restaurants. This is always followed by Ice Cream at one of four (4) downtown ice cream shops. Finally, a must-do is watching the Sunset over Lake Michigan at the Beach. In the summertime this may be as late at 10:30pm in June/July. There will definitely be a crowd, and yes they do clap each night when the sun sets into the water. Finally, in the evening we often pull up an Adirondack chair encircling the flagstone fire-pit and enjoy a warm fire under the stars with family and friends. You're going to love it here!
What makes this property unique
Frankfort, located on the gorgeous beach shores of Lake Michigan. This splendid beach town has plenty to offer for your perfect family get away! Frankfort is the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Lake Michigan, Surfing (yes surfing), Charter Fishing, the Bestie Valley Bike Trail, Shopping, eateries, and countless adventures. The pristine dunes, beaches, and spectacular sunsets over the vast open freshwater sea will keep you in awe of what our family calls, Northern Michigan Surf City. Once you arrive to the cottage, there is rarely a need to drive...just grab the towels, chairs, and cooler. It's a mere 5 minute walk down a treelined victorian home sidewalk to one of Lake Michigans most beautiful beaches. Bring your Paddle Board, Bikes, and beach toys, or, rent surf and paddle-boards at Adventure Sports downtown. The cottage is a "stones throw" away from downtown where you will find restaurants, breweries, and shopping, again all within walking distance. Sit on the covered porch and relax with a glass of wine while watching passers-by on our main street that leads right to the water. Or choose to lounge on the back deck and bask in the sun. There is a flagstone fire pit with several Adirondack chairs for your night time enjoyment. Wedding guests...there isn't a better spot!! Located kitty-corner (across street) from the First Congregational Church. The cottage sits on a corner lot with room for the kids to play. The cottage has wireless internet for connectivity although by design..NO T.V. In the lower level walkout there is a Ping Pong table, Foosball table, and arcade games for those seeking refuge from the sun. Over the years this cottage has provided our family with countless wonderful memories and we are certain it will do the same for you and yours. The Mackey's