Entire home

Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City

Photo gallery for Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City

Yes, the water is that blue
Sitting on the beachfront deck
The tops of the bridge towers are visible from our beach
What you see when you drive up- it sold us immediately!
View from water side

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6780 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Carp Lake, MI
  • Wilderness State Park
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Headlands International Dark Sky Park
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional)
    ‪21 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom #1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom #2

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom/laundry

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City

This is a cozy two bedroom cottage (sleeps 4. Note: in 2025 the sleeper sofa will likely be replaced with a sectional, so no extra sleeping space) that has been completely renovated fall 2019/winter2020. It’s on a quiet and private wooded lot on a dead end road. The main part of the cottage is a mobile home with an attached 4 season room addition on the lake side.
The 4 season room has 2 sofas, dining area with a high chair, and a wood stove, books and games. It’s a relaxing place to read, watch the numerous ships that go by (with the telescope), play games, or nap. The view out the many windows is of the Straights of Mackinaw, including St. Helena Island, and the many pines and cedars on the property.
One bedroom has a queen bed, the other a full size bed.
The bathroom has a tub/shower and a small washer/dryer unit.
The kitchen is fully equipped with a gas range, full size fridge, microwave, coffee pot, k-cup coffee machine (its not a Keurig) and dishwasher.
The former dining area is now a pantry area with room to store and prep your food.
The “den” is the original living room with a sofa and smart TV with DVD player.
Outside is a gas grill, deck with seating, fire pit, and storage shed with 3 kayaks and a canoe for your enjoyment. The waterfront is beautiful with crystal clear shallow water with a sandy bottom. Bald eagles nest nearby and fly overhead. The towers and north causeway of the Mackinac Bridge are visible from the beachfront, which is especially beautiful at night. We have added security cameras- one is aimed at the driveway and road and 2 are aimed at the water away from our beach just so we can see the weather/water. The one near the campfire area will be removed before warm weather for the privacy our guests. The other is near the shed facing the lot/beach to the west.
We are close to Wilderness State Park and the Headlands Dark Sky Park- but the stars are just as visible right out our door. Mackinaw City is 7 miles away. For convenience, the Trading Post store is a short walk away- it sells food, souvenirs, scooped ice cream, pizza for takeout, firewood, and bike and kayak rentals. You will want to check it out.
Internet was added after the remodel so we have that available now thankfully.

Property manager

Todd and Jacki VanHuis
Premier Host

Languages

English
Lock

Protect your payment — always book on Vrbo

If someone asks you to book through them or pay them directly before you book on Vrbo, report it.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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

About the area

Carp Lake

Located in Carp Lake, this cottage is on the beach. While the natural beauty of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal. Travelling with kids? Consider Spy Quest Laser Maze and Animal Tracks Adventure Golf. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Carp Lake, MI

What's nearby

  • Wilderness State Park - 4 min drive - 2.0 km
  • Headlands International Dark Sky Park - 11 min drive - 8.0 km
  • Mackinaw City Dock - 15 min drive - 12.2 km
  • Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse - 15 min drive - 12.3 km
  • Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal - 15 min drive - 12.4 km

Getting around

  • Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Keyhole Bar & Grill - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Dixie Saloon - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Hook Lakeside Grill - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Darrow's Family Restaurant - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Wienerlicious - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City located?

This family-friendly Carp Lake cottage is located on the beach, within 1 mi (2 km) of Wilderness State Park and Lake Michigan. Lake Huron and Headlands International Dark Sky Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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 window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 65 out of 72 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 72 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 72 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 72 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Candice C.

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

Great stay

Beautiful location for our short get-away. Would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rickey R.

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

Great stay

Beautiful stay
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenny K.

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

Family Vacation

We had a great time! The cottage was clean and just what we wanted for our vacation.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Beautiful setting

We were just there for beds and bath but really enjoyed the back yard and sun room.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laney G.

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

Love this place!

This was our second stay, and we loved it again. You just can't beat a private beach. It also has easy access to the bridge and ferries to the island. Definitely recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura B.

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

Serene and convenient

Cute and well appointed. Very close to downtown Mackinaw City. Right by many points of interest. The time by the water was so peaceful.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

6/10 Okay

Amber F.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Beautiful place. Needs pest control

The place was gorgeous but unfortunately the gnats and mice made it less than enjoyable at times. If hosts got pests under control it would be five stars.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey O.

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

Location and property was amazing

Enjoyed the fire pit and beach daily. The area was quiet and very enjoyable
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

David E.

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

Cozy Cottage- great view!

A lovely quiet area near Headlands Dark Sky Park. Great walking trails near by.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Monica W.

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

The perfect getaway

This was a such a magical place!! The perfect little cottage. Beautifully updated, a great location with it only being 15 mins to Mackinaw City. The beach and the views of the lake were breathtaking. The kitchen has everything you could think of so we could prepare meals. Highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jan R.

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

Beautiful location.

We really enjoyed our stay here. The cottage was very clean and very nice and the description is accurate. Beautiful location on Cecil Bay. We would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Leandra S.

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

Simply perfection

Wonderful stay. Had everything we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Matthew R.

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

Perfect spot

Our family (husband, wife and two 4 year old kids) stayed at Cecil Bay for our “home base” while visiting the Mackinaw area. It’s a perfect location for quick access to Mackinaw City, ferry boats to the island and the U.P. while being away from the city to have your own quiet oasis to enjoy the peace of northern Michigan. The beach area is perfect for young kids. Tons of sandy area to play in and very shallow water for 100s of feet as you walk out. We enjoyed use of the canoe and kayak as well. Would definitely stay again in a return trip to the Mackinaw area.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Dan H., Sandpoint, Idaho

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our getaway

It was a perfect setting for us. It is secluded away from the busyness. The private beach was fantastic.
Stayed 14 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rachael E.

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

Amazing location

We have stayed at this property for three summers. It is just perfect and so private.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

K S.

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

Great relaxing beach time

Beautiful location on the lakeshore. It was too cold to swim but very enjoyable relaxing in the beach chairs, enjoying the views.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lisa S.

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

Beautiful View!

Sisters trip and we had a wonderful time staying in Cecil Bay at the cottage! Great location, secluded with beautiful view of Straits of Mackinaw, the bridge, Lake Michigan and close to Mackinaw City. We saw the northern lights during our visit. Also saw many species of water birds from the beach area at the cottage as well as deer and bald eagles! The owners of the Trading Post was very knowledgeable of things to do in the area. Memories made and wonderful time at The Cottage.....highly recommend this place!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paul S., Detroit-metro

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

Calm on Cecil Bay

Pointe West met our expectations and need for a quiet place to relax and enjoy nature and each other. Near many attractions but secluded enough to ‘get away’.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Rachael E.

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

Great get family getaway

We have stayed here before and loved it so much we came back. Our five and three year old absolutely love the beach and yard. It is our new favorite family tradition!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Amy H.

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

Relaxing and Serene

We had a wonderful stay! The property is comfortable and the views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding area (The Mackinac Bridge!) are stellar. We particularly enjoyed the fire pit and the four seasons room. It really was a relaxing and enjoyable trip. Thank-you!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

greg t.

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

Nice getaway!

Nice place with plenty of amenities. It was everything me and my fishing buddies were looking for. I would go back again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marsha A.

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

Beach Getaway

Beautiful property - well kept inside and outside. Appreciated the well stocked kitchen, comfy beds and furniture, spacious sunroom and dining deck. Outside was spectacular - water, sunrises and sunsets. Appreciated the kayaks/canoes/ hammock. Great vacation!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Beverly H.

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

Heaven on Carp Lake

This property was fantastic! It had a great vibe and was clean, comfortable, well-maintained and clearly loved by its owners. It was cozy and well equipped and boasts an excellent location right on the water -- great for star-gazing! Our hosts were thoughtful and our stay was heavenly. We loved this place and hope to get back here again! Thanks Todd and Jacki!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Doug K., Holland, MI USA

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

Breezy, beautiful Fall location

We enjoyed the sights out front of the beach and waves, along with easy access to hiking trails. Owners were great to communicate with quickly and very helpful. We had a great weekend!!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2020

8/10 Good

Paul D.

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

Carp lake

The cabin was very nice. We loved the views, and the location. Book it while it’s warm out so you can enjoy all of the amenities.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

About the host

Hosted by Todd and Jacki VanHuis

Host profile image
We are Todd and Jacki. We live downstate but have loved coming to the Straights area ever since our honeymoon over 30 years ago. Vacationing in Mackinaw City and on the Island every summer has been a family favorite since our children were very young. We’ve enjoyed fixing up other cottages beginning in 2005, and now we are loving our time spent here on the water while we make this place a little cozier and prettier.
Our kids have kept the love of the area, and we’re excited to “indoctrinate” the next generation! Our first grandchild came up last year for the first time and now we can’t wait to watch her splash in the water and play in the sand this coming summer.
We hope you enjoy your stay here as much as we do!

Why they chose this property

The first time we drove up we could see the water from the driveway and were pretty much sold. Then we walked down to the water....yep, we were sold. So beautiful, so peaceful. Exactly what we wanted for our family. Then the garage with its workbench and tools got to Todd, (sorry, not accessible to renters) while the garden shed and kayak were Jacki’s highlight. And the front room addition to the trailer with its views out all 3 sides....wow.
A bald eagle flew over us as we were about to get back in the car, and then we saw the northern lights from the beach the first time we stayed there. So we took it as a sign that it was meant to be!

What makes this property unique

This place offers peace and quiet in nature, with the water of the Straights just steps from the door. The sky is dark enough at night to see all the stars . The northern lights are visible at times. Places to swim and bike and hike are all right here. But for those who want more action, Mack City is a short drive away.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests