Beautiful Waterfront Cottage

Photo gallery for Beautiful Waterfront Cottage

A room with a large window overlooking a lake, a wooden bench, a sofa, and a wooden chest.
A sign for Schwandt Cottage, a vacation rental, with contact information and logos for VRBO and Airbnb.
A two-story house with a green roof, surrounded by trees and a grassy yard.
A living room with a red leather chair, a grey sofa, a wooden dining table with chairs, a wooden door, and a floor lamp.
Two Adirondack chairs facing a lake with a forested island in the background.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • On the beach
    A rare beachfront property in the area - enjoy direct access to the beach and sea.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Lake Michigan

Popular amenities

  • On beach
  • Patio
  • Barbecue
  • Refrigerator
  • Internet
  • Onsite parking available

Explore the area

View map
Ellison Bay, WI
  • Place, Sister Bay Beach
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Place, Peninsula State Park
    ‪24 min drive‬
  • Place, Cana Island Lighthouse
    ‪34 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bed

Convertible bed(s)

1 Double Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

Add dates for prices

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About the area

Ellison Bay

Located in Ellison Bay, this cottage is on the beach. Linden Gallery and Frykman Studio Gallery are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Deer Run Golf Course and Sister Bay Marina. Trueblood Performing Arts Center and Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and cycling.
View more Cottages in Ellison BayOpens in a new window
Map
Ellison Bay, WI

What's nearby

  • Newport State Park - 8 min drive - 10.8 km
  • Sister Bay Marina - 14 min drive - 19.8 km
  • Sister Bay Beach - 14 min drive - 20.1 km
  • Peninsula State Park - 24 min drive - 29.1 km
  • Cana Island Lighthouse - 34 min drive - 40.7 km

Getting around

  • Green Bay, WI (GRB-Austin Straubel Intl.) - 117 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cuesta Coffee - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Uncle Tom's Candies - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Mink River Basin - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Blue Bear Ellison Bay - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Shoreline Restaurant - ‬3 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautiful Waterfront Cottage pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Beautiful Waterfront Cottage?

As of 28 October 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautiful Waterfront Cottage on 25 April 2027 start from NZ$2,310, 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 Beautiful Waterfront Cottage?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Beautiful Waterfront Cottage?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Beautiful Waterfront Cottage?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Beautiful Waterfront Cottage located?

Nestled on the beach, this Ellison Bay cottage is within 3 mi (5 km) of Lake Michigan, Europe Lake and Northport Pier. Newport State Park and Ellison Bluff State Natural Area are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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. 62 out of 64 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 64 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 64 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 64 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 64 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay was just what we needed! It was restful, quiet and the lake view ever changing. The cottage was charming and comfortable.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 October 2026
Nancy....we are glad you found us! Our sweet cottage on the bay is a peaceful, tranquil place. We hope you decide to return someday.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sweet cottage on the bay. Beautiful views. Comfortable bed. Walk to gift shops. I loved my stay. Thank you.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect cottage in a wonderful setting by the lake.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 5 September 2026
Thank you, Aaron. We hope you will visit us at some point in the future!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Cosy Home Right on Lake Michigan. Secluded but near places to eat, boat tours & plenty of things to do. Host was very helpful with suggestions. Beds comfortable & well stocked amenities. Wonderful outside seating with wood available for a fire to enjoy the beautiful sunsets. We can’t wait to return.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This charming cottage gave us a lovely getaway. It's right on the water with plenty of seating, a hammock for 2, and a fire pit. We started each day with coffee by the lake and made a fire every night using the wood pile provided. It's a beautiful, peaceful place we hope to return to!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 5 September 2026
Jennifer! We are glad you found us. We would welcome you back when it works for you to visit northern Door!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Charming, well-appointed waterfront cottage located in the quieter part of Door County away from the crowds. Start your day with coffee on the back porch and then end your day with a bonfire while watching the sun set over the bay. Excellent communication with the host from start to finish. I’d happily rent this property again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 29 July 2026
Good morning, Karen....we are thankful that you enjoyed your stay at our cottage. Hopefully, you were able rest and relax while you were there. It is a place of peace. Enjoy the fleeting days of summer!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect, just wonderful!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 29 July 2026
Billie...somehow, I missed your comments until now. We are thankful for you returning multiple times to our sweet cottage on the bay. Enjoy the fleeting days of summer!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Perfect cozy getaway

Amazing views, with everything we needed for a weekend away. We were delighted to stay at Schwandt Cottage and hope to be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay at our cottage in Gills Rock. And...you had the bonus of great leaf color! We welcome your return....
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Getaway

The place was perfect for a lovely getaway. Enjoyed swimming and lounging on the shore.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 August 2025
Thank you for selecting our cottage for your Door County visit. We hope you return!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The location of this cottage is absolutely amazing and the property itself is a well maintained cozy space. Georgi was very communicative and everything was convenient and clear. Would absolutely come back and stay here!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 October 2025
Thank you for the kind review. We are so glad you found us! It has been a special place for our family and our guests since 1998. We would welcome your return!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect Quiet Getaway

Very cozy cottage in a stunning environment, peaceful and beautiful.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 July 2023
Thank you for selecting our cottage for your Door County visit! We hope you return someday. May the memories that you created last for years to come!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Another great stay.

This was our third stay at the Schwandt cottage and it was as wonderful as ever. The cottage is comfortable and cozy and we never tire of the amazing view, especially the famous Door County sunsets. We have already booked next year’s visit.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing views of waterfront. Cottage property beautifully maintained inside and out. Host's were so friendly and accommodating. Loved it!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Great summer getaway

Nice, clean, cozy cottage with beautiful lake view. Enjoyed swimming out front, sunsets, and evenings by the firepit. Walkable to shops, restaurant and passenger ferry to Washington Island. We hope to stay there again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 1 August 2020
Thanks for selecting our cottage for your visit to Door County this summer. We will welcome your return....
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Amazing Sunsets

The cottage was perfect! It was delightful to enjoy the sunsets over the lake and soak in the peacefulness of the area. Highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Lake Experience

House is located in quite area with great view of lake and sunset. Nice fire pit by lake. Wish I could have stayed longer.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 4 October 2021
Thank you for selecting our cottage for your fall Door County visit. We hope that you will be able to return at some time in the future. Hopefully, you made lasting memories.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Enchanting cottage in Gills Rock

Lovely cottage by the bay with beautiful garden and welcoming vibes. I can’t say enough wonderful things about our stay at the cottage. It offers a charming and welcoming stay with views of gorgeous sunsets. The hosts thought of everything were a joy to communicate with. We loved it so much we are coming back next year.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 9 August 2024
We are so glad that you found us! Hopefully, lasting memories were made. Thank you for the kind review.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

The Cutest Cottage in Gills Rock.

The Schwandt Cottage is a great find. Gills Rock is a quiet village and the water view sunsets are spectacular. Georgi is awesome to work with very thorough and accommodating. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 27 June 2020
Thank you so much for the kind review! We are so glad you found us, too! We will welcome your return. Safe travels and be well.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful location

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at the sweet cottage in Gills Rock. The bay is just a few feet away and there are many chairs outside to relax in while one watches the sunset. The home was clean, comfortable, well decorated and stocked with everything one might need. The location provides privacy and serenity as the home is north of the Door County hustle and bustle.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 June 2024
Ammie, Thank you for the kind review. We hope you had a restful few days and are returning home rejuvenated! We hope you return sometime once again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great getaway!

We had a wonderful time celebrating our anniversary! We spent our evenings at the fire pit overlooking the gorgeous lake. Such peaceful, quiet, beautiful surroundings! The hosts were also very responsive to questions & proactively reaching out to make sure we knew about their home & the things to do in the area. Great experience all around!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 16 October 2021
We are glad that you found us! The photo that you sent of the sunset was amazing. Happy anniversary! And, cheers to many more!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Another great visit

This was our second stay at the Schwandt Cottage and we have already booked again for next year. The cottage is the perfect low-key get-away, nestled just feet from the shores of Green Bay in quiet and serene Gills Rock, away from all of the hustle and bustle of Door County. The view from the awesome new picture window is breathtaking.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 October 2022
Jon, we are glad that you found us! Thank you for being a "repeat" guest. We enjoy hosting people like you and your wife who appreciate the quietness of Gills Rock.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Gills Rock Retreat

As advertised....Beautiful view setting steps from Green Bay. Great for a couple getaway. No AC made it a bit sticky on the hottest weekend of year, but bay breezes and multiple outdoor shade options compensated. Some occasional construction noise from house being built next door.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
Thank you for selecting our cottage for your Door County get-away. The weather during the past week has been unusually warm for Door County. Typically, the two ceiling fans and open windows have been sufficient with the cooling bay breezes. The small bedroom does not have a ceiling fan. With the heat that we experienced this week, we have decided to add one in this bedroom, too. It will be installed in mid-August by a local electrician. The construction noise is temporary and will disappear as soon as the home is completed. We contacted the owner 10 days ago and requested that their contractors be respectful of the neighborhood. We are sorry for the inconvenience that you experienced. Hopefully, you created lasting memories while you were in Door County.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful and relaxing

My husband and I stayed at this lovely cottage for our 25th wedding anniversary. The cottage itself is charming with everything you need to feel right at home. The views are incredible, especially the sunsets, which we enjoyed each evening. We hiked, (we particularly recommend Peninsula State Park), took the ferry to Washington Island and enjoyed exploring the nearby towns. This was our first trip to Door County and we will definitely be back! Thank you to Mike and Georgi!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Charm and the most amazing views!

This was our second visit to Schwandt Cottage and it was like coming home again. The charming cottage has everything you need for a cozy and comfortable stay. We made most meals in the adorable kitchen, but also enjoy being close enough to walk up to the Shoreline for drinks and dinner. It’s hard to leave when you have the best view in Door County right out your back door. Evenings by the fire on the shore, watching the fabulous sunsets, cannot be beat. Our friends saw our sunset photos and said, “It’s so beautiful, it doesn’t even look real!” Communication with the owners is top notch. This sweet cottage has our hearts!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 25 October 2020
Thank you. Thank you for the kind review. We are so glad that you find our cottage a place of peace. We will welcome your return....
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Secluded getaway with great views

We had a great week in Door County. The cottage is removed enough from busy towns to create a relaxing atmosphere - and the views (and sunsets) from the back deck simply can't be beat. The property owners are friendly and responsive, even checking in on us midway through the week. The only words of caution we could offer is that the only bathroom is through one of the bedrooms, creating the potential for waking the occupant during the early morning hours. Additionally, the cottage is older and has a musty smell, which we were able to overcome with open windows and a diffuser. Overall, we had a great time staying at the cottage.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
Andy...thank you for selecting our cottage for your Door County visit. We are hopeful that you created long lasting memories.
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