Direct Lake Michigan Beach Frontage with Sunset Views of the Manitou Islands!

Dear Ed, Thank you for staying with us and for taking the time to share your experience. It was a pleasure to host you, and we are glad to hear that you enjoyed the house as well as exploring Northern Michigan's hiking trails, wineries, charming small towns, and wonderful local restaurants. We are sorry that your visit coincided with the annual midge hatch, sometimes referred to locally as "day bugs." While these insects can certainly be annoying in large numbers, they are completely harmless—they do not bite, sting, or transmit disease. Adult midges live for only about 24 hours, and the swarms typically disappear almost as quickly as they arrive. The entire hatch generally lasts only 7–10 days each year, although the timing varies considerably and some years there is little or no hatch at all. Importantly, this is not unique to our beach. Midges emerge along shorelines throughout the Great Lakes region and can be found on beaches across Michigan when conditions are right. Interestingly, their presence is actually considered a sign of good environmental health, as they require clean water to complete their life cycle. As a Lake Michigan beachfront property, we are fortunate to enjoy beautiful beaches, spectacular sunsets, and abundant wildlife. Seasonal natural events such as the midge hatch are part of that ecosystem and, unfortunately, cannot be predicted with precision. Because early May can occasionally coincide with this brief natural phenomenon, along with cooler spring weather, our low-season rates are approximately one-third of peak summer pricing. Even during the hatch, many guests continue to enjoy the property's covered porch, where they can relax with a meal, listen to the waves, and take in the lake views while being largely unaffected by the insects. We appreciate your feedback and hope that, despite this short-lived natural event, you were able to enjoy the beauty of Northern Michigan. We would be delighted to welcome you back during another season. Warm regards, Tanja