Entire home

Relaxing Harborfront Getaway

Lakefront cottage with kitchen and furnished patio

Photo gallery for Relaxing Harborfront Getaway

“We had a fantastic time at the Sawyer Harbor Retreat — the views were breathtaking and the sunsets over the bay were unforgettable.” Jacob S (October, 2025)
Get ready to feast your eyes on one of the most beautiful sights you'll ever see! The open kitchen and living room of this house provide you with awe-inspiring views of Sawyer Harbor. With plenty of space to cook, lounge and enjoy the beauty around you, th
The first floor features an open floor plan, two bedrooms and an enclosed sunroom.
The loft space features two queen beds and a queen futon for a total sleeping capacity of 6 people.
Gather around the dining table for a family meal or some game-night fun - perfect for up to 8 people.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 101336 sq ft

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View in a map
Sturgeon Bay, WI
  • Place, Sherwood Point Lighthouse
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Potawatomi State Park
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Peninsula State Park
    ‪47 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Guest Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Loft Bedroom

2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Guest Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Master Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Relaxing Harborfront Getaway

☀️ Summer at Sawyer Harbor Retreat — A Waterfront Favorite in Door County
Sawyer Harbor Retreat shines in summer, offering a peaceful waterfront escape on Sawyer Harbor with easy access to kayaking, boating, golf, hiking, and everything Door County is known for. Guests consistently describe the home as spotless, calm, well-stocked, and incredibly comfortable—the kind of place you look forward to coming back to after a full day outdoors.
Located just minutes from Sturgeon Bay, Potawatomi State Park, and Idlewild Golf Course, this is an ideal home base for families, couples, and friend groups looking to enjoy Door County at a relaxed pace.

🌊 Waterfront Living & Summer Fun
Right on Sawyer Harbor, the calm waters are perfect for:
• Kayaking & canoeing
• Wildlife watching (eagles, deer, turkeys, and more)
• Morning coffee with harbor breezes
• Sunset views over the water
The peaceful harbor setting means less boat traffic, making it especially great for families and guests who value quiet mornings and tranquil evenings.

🚤 1 Minute to the Public Boat Launch
Bringing a boat or water toys?
The public launch just down the road offers:
• Easy access for boats, trailers, and kayaks
• Ample parking
• Quick in-and-out harbor access
This unbeatable convenience lets you spend more time on the water—and less time driving.

🌞 Designed for Easy, Comfortable Summer Living
Inside, the cottage is bright, airy, and thoughtfully laid out for warm-weather stays:
• Large windows with harbor views
• Open living space perfect for gathering
• Cozy seating for movie nights after sun-filled days
• Well-equipped kitchen for cooking, grilling, and picnics
• Peaceful bedrooms for restful nights
• Dedicated desk in master bedroom for remote work stays
Guests frequently comment on how clean, organized, and well-stocked the home is—making it feel effortless from the moment you arrive.

✪ What Guests Consistently Love
(Curated from Sawyer Harbor Retreat reviews)
• Spotless, extremely clean home
• Exceptionally well-stocked kitchen (organized, labeled, quality cookware, spices & condiments)
• Peaceful, private waterfront setting
• Beautiful lake views — especially sunrise & sunset
• Comfortable beds with high-quality linens
• Thoughtful décor that feels cozy but uncluttered
• Firepit with provided firewood
• Kayaks, yard games, and outdoor seating
• Wildlife sightings right from the yard
• Clear instructions, excellent guidebook, stress-free check-in
• Super responsive, proactive hosting
• Quiet location that’s still close to Door County attractions

☕ Morning Coffee, Lake Breezes & Starry Nights
Start your day on the patio with coffee as the sun rises over the harbor. Spend afternoons kayaking, exploring nearby parks, or relaxing in the large waterfront yard. Evenings are for grilling, fireside conversations, s’mores, and stargazing.
This home is designed for slowing down and reconnecting—whether that’s with family, friends, or nature.

✪ 2026 Water Level Note
Water levels in Sawyer Harbor are lower than in previous years, which may affect kayak launching depth at the dock. Kayaks and canoes are still available for guest use; launching may require a bit more effort depending on conditions.

🍽 Fully Equipped Kitchen + Dining
The heart of the home, the kitchen is a guest favorite:
• Fully stocked with cookware, dishes, and essentials
• Dedicated coffee station
• Gas and charcoal grills for summer cookouts
• Dining space ideal for meals, games, and late-night conversations
Many guests say the kitchen is better stocked than expected, making longer stays especially comfortable.

🛋 Bright, Cozy Living Area
Gather in the open living and dining space featuring:
• Vaulted ceilings for an airy feel
• Large harbor-facing windows
• Smart TV for movie nights
• Board games and books for unplugged fun
Perfect for relaxing after a full Door County day.

🛌 Bedroom Layout (Sleeps Up to 10)
Main Bedroom – King Bed (Main Level)
• Water views
• Ensuite bathroom
• Dedicated desk/workstation
• Ceiling fan
Guest Bedroom – Queen Bed (Main Level)
• No stairs
• Full bathroom adjacent
• Extra blankets and charging access
Sleeping Loft – 2 Queen Beds + Futon
• Sleeps up to 6
• Favorite space for kids and groups
• Games, books, and cozy seating

🌳 Spacious Waterfront Yard + Dock
Enjoy:
• Private dock (water levels vary seasonally)
• Large grassy yard for games
• Firepit with seating
• Patio dining with umbrella
• Dual grills (gas + charcoal)
Ideal for outdoor meals, relaxing in the sun, and peaceful evenings by the fire.

📍 Close to Everything — Yet Quiet & Relaxing
• 10 minutes to downtown Sturgeon Bay
• 7 minutes to Potawatomi State Park
• 5 minutes to Idlewild Golf Course
• 1 minute to a public boat launch
You’re close to beaches, wineries, orchards, parks, shopping, and dining—while still enjoying a calm, private waterfront setting.

🌞 Why Sawyer Harbor Retreat Is Perfect for Summer
If you’re looking for:
• A peaceful waterfront home
• Easy access to kayaking, boating, and outdoor fun
• A clean, comfortable, and well-stocked stay
• A quiet retreat that’s still close to Door County highlights
Sawyer Harbor Retreat delivers a summer experience guests return for again and again.
Book early—summer dates fill fast in Door County.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Guests are required to sign a Rental Agreement.
A security deposit of $300 is required.
Food is not allowed in any bedrooms. Quiet time is from 11 p.m to 8 a.m.

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
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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Sturgeon Bay

Located in Sturgeon Bay, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Lake Michigan and Potawatomi State Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Door County Maritime Museum and The Garden Door. The Farm and Plum Loco Animal Farm are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Sturgeon Bay, WI

What's nearby

  • Sherwood Point Lighthouse - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Potawatomi State Park - 7 min drive - 5.8 km
  • Whitefish Dunes State Park - 37 min drive - 39.9 km
  • Egg Harbor Beach - 39 min drive - 50.2 km
  • Peninsula State Park - 47 min drive - 62.7 km

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Stone Harbor Resort & Conference Center - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪5th and Jefferson Coffee House - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Starboard Brewing Company - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Waterfront Mary's - ‬17 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Relaxing Harborfront Getaway pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Relaxing Harborfront Getaway?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Relaxing Harborfront Getaway?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Relaxing Harborfront Getaway?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Relaxing Harborfront Getaway located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within 1 mi (2 km) of Sherwood Point Lighthouse and Lake Michigan. Hi-Cliff Park is 2 mi (3.1 km) away.

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. 43 out of 47 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 47 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 47 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 47 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 47 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jessica J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
nice host.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mona W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Dana is a very responsive and gracious host. Her place is fantastic...I absolutely LOVED sitting in the lazy chair and staring out the back yard...seeing the colorful trees on the property and across the water. The house is very clean, comfortably decorated and lots of spices to help flavor the soup we made (: The neighborhood is beautiful to walk in and quiet. I still close my eyes and picture the beautiful view of the backyard.We enjoyed delicious vegan pierogis at Prince of Pierogi Restaurant and oat milk latte at Kick Coffee!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Becky J.

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

Wonderful Retreat

We loved our stay in every way! The house was clean and nice and in the most idyllic, peaceful setting. We would LOVE to stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Taryn V.

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

Great retreat

This property was fantastic!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Leslie S.

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

Our trip

Fantastic place to stay! Its largwr than i realized and has everything you need.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth B.

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

Weekend Getaway

This was a fantastic place for our family to get away for a weekend. The cornhold game was great entertainment and the firepit wonderfully relaxing.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Neels D.

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

Excellent!

Great views, very comfortable accommodation, well appointed kitchen and a great fire pit.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ellie L.

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

Girls weekend

We stayed here for my friend's bachelorette party. It was wonderful! Everything was very clean and they had all the supplies we could possibly need during our stay. We loved it and would definitely come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Devesh S.

Great / Beautiful location , right in front of water

Our entire group stayed here comfortably , beautiful house and we had a comfortable stay. The house is equipped with all the things you need and has a beautiful sunroom

10/10 Excellent

Sara M.

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

Girls weekend

Clean and very well maintained! Great property.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ashley T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This cottage is perfect. The owners have literally thought of everything. There were 10 of us for a family vacation. It’s far enough away from the hustle and bustle of door county but close enough to enjoy it all. We took the kayaks out, the water is shallow but we were still able to get out there and enjoy the water. Beds were comfortable! Plenty of room for all of us, we had a great time! Owners were super responsive if we had any questions, we didn’t have too many because they had us prepared for anything we might need. We would love to come back again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Miranda M.

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

Girls Weekend

We had a great time on our girls long weekend! Everyone thought the cottage was super nice and enjoyable!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Robin B.

Fabulous Family Weekend

What a beautiful property. We spent the weekend in Door County with our family and loved the house. It was absolutely spotless and had everything we needed. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Julia N.

Great little cottage on Sturgeon Bay

Even before we arrived at the cottage, we had great communication with Dana. She was very responsive and helpful throughout our stay as well. This has a nice large grassy area that our kids enjoyed. The cottage is well stocked and we felt at home here. We would stay again.

10/10 Excellent

Neil M.

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

Very peaceful

Property was in excellent shape. It was visited by deer, a fox, black squirrels and lots of birds.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Monika C.

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

Fall weekend

The property was extreme clean. Beautiful area, the house was very organized and had everything we needed for our long weekend. I would definitely recommend and looking forward to going back in the summer.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kristin F.

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

Perfect Door County Getaway

This property was amazing. It was located in a quiet neighborhood just 10-15 mins away from good shopping and food. The house itself is very nice, and was completely stocked with whatever you needed. There was more provided here than any other property we have ever stayed at. I would highly recommend staying here.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Diane P.

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

SB GETAWAY

Truly a wonderful property stocked with everything one could need and/or want for a great getaway! A well appointed, well organized, and welcoming vacay home! We loved it!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark W.

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

Great house, great firepit, nice layout.

The house we very comfortable and had everything you need for a kitchen. House sits level and was easy to access for my elderly mother with walker. Fire pit was very nice as we had fires nightly. Kayaks were great and the water is calm.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa L.

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

Incredible stay!

The owners were excellent to deal with. Everything was well organized so we knew right where to find things and easy to put away. The house was WELL stocked with all kinds of things you might need. Beautiful place!! Highly recommend these folks.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michelle J.

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

Easter Visit

Stayed overnight for an Easter getaway to meet up with family. The Sawyer Harbor Retreat is roughly 10-15 minutes from the busy-ness of the city. A comfortable and quiet place to stay. And listening to the birds singing this morning was very relaxing.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeff M.

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

Beyond expectations

Excellent property. So much provided.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Frederick H.

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

Fun family vacation at Sawyer Bay

This property is very nice, clean, and has everything you could possibly need. This was our first tri to Door County and found this location great. Quiet and peaceful. I would highly recommend this place! 5+ stars!
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Annette M.

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

Vacation fishing tournament

Wonderful area big spacious yard. The kitchen has all your cooking needs. Having the view of the lake and listening to nature how relaxing. This house very clean and inviting will definitely stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

8/10 Good

Cynthia W.

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

Great family stay!

House is WELL stocked with just about everything you would need! Beds were comfortable, and the bedding was a big hit!A full septic tank caused a stressful late afternoon into evening. Host responded quickly once they was informed of the problem, and situation was resolved. An abundance of ticks limited yard activity. Bay was too shallow so we were unable to use canoe/kayaks that were provided! We would go back again!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025

About the host

Hosted by Dana Vanden Heuvel

Host profile image
We are Dana & Timothea and we live and work in Green Bay, but have been coming to Door County for our whole lives. We wanted to share our love for the area with our guests by opening Sawyer Harbor Retreat!

Why they chose this property

We purchased the cottage as both a family getaway and as a vacation rental so that we could share our love of Door County and the Southern Door area with our family and also with our guests.

What makes this property unique

We have kayaks and a canoe available for use from Spring-Fall.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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