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Okiwayway's Bungalow [formerly Betula Cabin] renovated waterfront rustic cabin

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Aerial view
Miscellaneous
Exterior
Interior
Miscellaneous

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 7111.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi
    Free WiFi
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
East Jordan, MI
  • Lake Charlevoix
    1 min walk
  • East Jordan City Marina
    7 min drive
  • Jordan River Sedge Marsh Nature Preserve
    7 min drive
  • Gaylord, MI (GLR-Gaylord Regional)
    50 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 7)

Bunk room

2 Single Bunk Beds

Living room

1 Double Futon

Master Bedroom

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Kitchen
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Okiwayway's Bungalow [formerly Betula Cabin] renovated waterfront rustic cabin

Thank you for considering Okiwayway's bungalow for your next vacation. This home has been a labor of love and a dream come true for us and we are happy to share it with you.

A few things to consider before reading further.
- this cabin does not have air conditioning but we do provide several fans
- this cabin does not have a TV but does have wifi.
plenty of board and card games though
- The deck was lost in the renovation but we have put down grass.
- There are two cameras on property facing the parking area.

Okiwayway's bungalow was formerly known as Betula Cabin. The cabin (built in 1941 using cedar and field stones on the property) remains largely intact offering a genuine log cabin experience.

What we have updated the bedrooms, kitchen, and bathrooms. See below:

The master bedroom and bunk rooms are now on opposite sides of the cabin for greater privacy and easier access from both rooms to the water. Both rooms have closets with shelves, and luggage racks to settle in and feel at home and curtains for privacy. The masterbedroom room includes a loft offering a wonderful view of the lake and dock. The master bedroom has dimmable lights inside and dimmable remote lights outside. The bunks room has a modern chandelier and dimmable remote lights outside.

The bathroom has been split into separate toilet, shower, and vanity rooms allowing flexibility for guests. The shower room and toilet room heated floors (do not set above 75oF) to keep your feet warm on the cooler days. There is a storage closest in the vanity room where towels, first aid, toilet paper, extra bed sheets, vacuums, and cleaning supplies are stored.

The kitchen has been expanded and the mini electric range replaced with full sized four burner induction cooktop with induction compatible pots and pans. Please note then oven has been replaced with a combo microwave/oven/airfryer We have added pull out racks making it easier to access cookware from the shelves below the counter. And open shelving above the counter for easier access to dishes. Coffee machine, french press, and pour over are included and a coffee bean grinder for those who prefer fresh ground beans. A new sink has been installed with extendable faucet and glass rinser (like the ones you see at a bar!). The dining table is now in the kitchen (formerly in the living room)

Okiwayway Bungalow is connected via Google home and can be accessed via the ipad provided.

In the living room is an stereo with indoor and outdoor speaker sets. Music can be played either indoor or outdoor or both by selecting/deselecting the A and B areas on the unit. the stereo is connected to a Bluetooth receiver to play music from you smartphone.


Water proof blue tooth speaker with LED lights is included as well as bug spray and sun tan lotion. There is a small tool ikea tool kit provided for any quick fixes.

Washer and Dryer are in the shed as before. With Tide pods and fabric softener provided.

Seasoned firewood is provided.

A 6000lbs electric boat hoist is available (not for pontoons). For boats that will not fit poles are available on the opposite side to tie up to.

The dock has two sets of steps to enter/exit the water and a bench to enjoy the sunsets from.


Property manager

Lou Gavino
Premier Host

Languages

English, Japanese, Korean

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

East Jordan

Located in East Jordan, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and Torch Lake, while Elm Pointe Historical Museum and North Seas Gallery are cultural highlights. Castle Farms and Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
East Jordan, MI

What's nearby

  • Lake Charlevoix - 1 min walk
  • Castle Farms - 25 min drive
  • Boyne Mountain - 27 min drive
  • SkyBridge Michigan - 29 min drive
  • Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark - 29 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Marty's Cones & Carry Out - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Tapawingo - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪South Arm Cafe - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪The Landing Restaurant - ‬20 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Okiwayway's Bungalow [formerly Betula Cabin] renovated waterfront rustic cabin pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Okiwayway's Bungalow [formerly Betula Cabin] renovated waterfront rustic cabin ?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Okiwayway's Bungalow [formerly Betula Cabin] renovated waterfront rustic cabin ?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Okiwayway's Bungalow [formerly Betula Cabin] renovated waterfront rustic cabin located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is steps from Lake Charlevoix and within 3 mi (5 km) of Grand Army of the Republic Park and East Jordan City Hall. Centennial Skate Park and Sportsman's Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 36 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 36 reviews" "

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Wren H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great getaway
We have been staying here for a few years, and it never gets old. We love coming to the lake, and staying in the cabin is a bonus!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Colleen J.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful location
This was our 2nd time staying here. The renovation with the new bedrooms and expanded/separated bathroom were very comfortable. The master bedroom loft area is accessed via a spiral staircase and the bed is in the loft. For some reason I didn't realize the bed would be upstairs from the description. It was not an issue for us, and the view was amazing, but may be for some. There were some housekeeping issues during our stay and Lou was very responsive in trying to get them resolved. We had a great week enjoying the lake.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anna A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Summer retreat
Such a great stay! Already planning a trip back!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

John E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great summer getaway...............
Great location on Lake Charlevoix's southern arm, loved the nostalgic feel of the cabin and boat lift was perfect.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Wren H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just Perfect!
We have stayed here 3 times, and each time has been just wonderful! Accommodations are just right for my husband and I, with more room to invite others. Highly recommend
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ryan H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Firm retreat
This is a true cottage, what so many on Lake Charlevoix used to look like. If you are looking for an authentic Up North stay, you won't be disappointed.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Camerin B., Warsaw, IN

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lake Charlevoix Up North Paradise
The Betula cabin and its amenities were fantastic for our family of 5. We enjoyed swimming off the dock, the motorized boat lift, sandy lake bottom, sunsets, evening fires and so much more. Lou was very responsive and has a wonderful spot in paradise.
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

angela n.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect
The house came with more than you would ever expect in amenities. Privacy with lakefront is rare. Can't say enough good things. We will be returning.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Colleen J., Madison, OH

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quintessential Northern Michigan
This property was perfect for our family vacation. Everything was as described and communication with Lou was very easy. The location is perfect for a lake vacation, you can swim right off the dock and the fire pit is nice after a day on the water. As mentioned in the listing, the bedrooms are tight but it worked fine for our family. It was nice to have laundry available too.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Laura S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Stay
Betula was everything we hoped for! It was clean and so quaint! Lou was a great host and made sure we had everything we needed. Our boys loved the house and property. Thanks for a great get away!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely enjoy our stay, so relaxing and a big hit with my 7 year old.
The owner is very professional and got back with you right away. also made everything super easy for you.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

8/10 Good

Melissa Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in
Adorable cabin
Cabin is adorable. It was unseasonably hot. Could of used another fan or air condition. The lake and water is beautiful. Love the sandy bottom and swimming steps on dock. Cabin had all that you need to have a great time!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Wouter d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place
Thank Lou!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020

8/10 Good

BEth L.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness
Great cabin
We had a nice stay at the cabin, the lake was beautiful and the sunset so pretty. The furniture comfy and we really enjoyed the board games. The fire pit was great. A tad bit of trouble with the kitchen sink backing up but we were promptly refunded a nights stay and told it would be fixed. A very peaceful get away.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Cristy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pure Michigan in the fall
My husband and I were looking for a quiet place to relax and enjoy the fall colors in Upper Michigan, and this cottage was perfect for us. It’s an authentic Michigan cottage on the shore of lower Lake Charlevoix. This gave us great options for fall color tours that were very close by, Including Walloon Lake, Petosky and Bay View, the city of Charlevoix, and the Jordan River Valley. The colors were in prime condition, and we were happy to enjoy the comforts of the cottage in the morning, and well into the evenings. The stone fireplace was our favorite way to end our days. Leo was very helpful, quick to reply to our questions, and made us feel welcome. We strongly recommend this property in the fall, and can imagine the summer options also; for couples, friends, and/or families.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay D., KALAMAZOO

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Getaway!
The place was wonderful! EXACTLY how we pictured it when looking at the listing. It was within 20 minutes of everything we wanted to do and see. We would re-book and go back in a heartbeat! Thank you for everything!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Sarah E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Betula Cabin
We enjoyed a nice long weekend at the Betula cabin. Our host Lou was very attentive and made sure everything was good. Gorgeous cabin on the lake. We will be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

dave N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Northern Michigan Cabin - exactly what we Hoped For!
We had a picture in our Dream Vacation Mind of a perfect Cozy Cabin on a beautiful piece of property on a beautiful lake in Beautiful Northern Michigan - thought Betula looked like it could be it! Betula is it!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020

8/10 Good

Robert D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relax while watching the lake, then jump in!
Spacious patio and grounds with comfortable seating or reclining options. The dock is steps away with easy access to swimming via steps off the dock. Sandy lake bottom. Floatation noodles provided. Great fire pit with fire starter nuggets (in a bowl on the mantle inside) and dry wood provided. Comfortable chairs. In town we recommend the South Arm Cafe for breakfast or lunch.

10/10 Excellent

Marcus H.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great getaway!
Our family booked this property back in February before everything transpired with COVID-19, so when the time came in late July to take this vacation, we were more than ready. We had an amazing time at the Betula Cabin! You can't beat the tranquil location right on the water. We were close enough to beaches and restaurants when we wanted to venture out. The water was incredibly warm and the sunrises and sunsets were beautiful! Lou & Ginger are great hosts and were extremely prompt with all of their communication and very responsive to our questions leading up to our vacation. I would highly recommend this property to anyone looking for a peaceful getaway!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Rocko V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy getaway
Great location, peaceful with beautiful sunsets! Cottage was well equipped and the owner was responsive. Thanks Lou for sharing your place with us!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Karen M., Northville, MI

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay!
We loved everything about our stay! Betula cabin looks just like the pictures and was perfect for us (parents and two kids ages 6 and 10). The location is lovely, cabin stocked with nice touches like games and water toys, and owner is very welcoming and helpful. We'd love to go back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020

8/10 Good

Kim F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet and rustic
Great place and location!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Tomasz L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful cabin
My family had a great time. Location is very peaceful and quiet. Cabin was clean and everything was as described. Communication with owner was great. Lou quickly responded to all of my questions and he made sure that my family enjoyed our stay.

10/10 Excellent

Matt R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pleasant stay.
All in all nice little cabin. Pretty impressed with everything available for use, from paper plates, seasonings to firewood. You really don't need to being anything. Nice job Lou.

About the host

Hosted by Lou Gavino

Host profile image
A midwest native, I have always dreamed of one day having my own slice of heaven on Lake Charlevoix. Making this dream come true with my wife has been beyond amazing. We live in Seattle (moved 2019) but with family locally we make many trips home. Having lived abroad in Asia we have applied some of that aesthetic to the bungalow. Outside of traveling we enjoy good food, good wine, and great company. And with the recent creature comfort updates we feel the bungalow is even more enjoyable!

We hope you appreciate the flair my wife and I have added to modernize the bungalow. We hope to continue updates and maintain 1940's cabin charm while bringing the comfort and amenities into a more modern ambiance.

Why they chose this property

I grew up coming here (just 2miles north) in the summers with my mothers extended family. My Uncle owned a log cabin (similar to this one) and owning a lakehouse on this lake has always been a dream of mine. This property has all the rustic charm I love when I get away with all the modern amenities (AC aside)

What makes this property unique

100ft of waterfront is not so common anymore, 1/4 mile from the road and on the sunset side of the lake. Google home mini to answer questions and turn on lights (Patio light, Parking Light, Chandelier). Simply turn things on and off by saying "Hey Google, Turn on (or off) [insert lights here]".

Languages:

English, Japanese, Korean

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