We had a wonderful time during our week up north, during our first try at a friends-with-kids vacation. The owner had excellent communication via text and met all of our needs while we were there. The location was perfect, equidistant to the beach and "downtown" Elk Rapids, with less than a 5 minute walk (2-3 blocks) either way. The paddleboard, kayaks, and bikes included were high quality, and allowed us to bring our young kids (1-4 yo) along for a first "boat ride" or two on the river, while always holding on tight. The kayaks and paddleboard were walkable with us to the beach, carried by one or two people or transported on top of our soft beach wagon. The bikes were sturdy enough to carry a bike stroller with us. The Shorts Pull Barn with its giant sandbox was frequented (my new favorite is the Juicy Brut, and we were lucky to have a classic, The Magician, on tap as well). We loved the setup inside the Beach Barn, with enough separation and space that the families could have quiet time getting the kids to bed (the walls were thick even with music) and then reunite in the fresh looking new kitchen (beautiful updates). We only wish we could have stayed longer, as the week went by in a flash. When asking our 4 year old whether he would rather go back to Elk Rapids or Florida (our other most recent vacation), he said "Elk Rapids"! So proud - a Pure Michigander.