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Sanctuary by the Shore, Unique Stay W/ Hot Tub by Lake MI

Photo gallery for Sanctuary by the Shore, Unique Stay W/ Hot Tub by Lake MI

Exterior
Exterior
Exterior
Living area
Interior

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 10

Popular amenities

  • Spa pool on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View map
Benton Harbor, MI
  • Place, Harbor Shores Golf Club
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, White Pine Winery
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Silver Beach
    ‪8 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 1

1 Double Bed and 2 Single Beds

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 King Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Sanctuary by the Shore, Unique Stay W/ Hot Tub by Lake MI

Welcome to a truly unique vacation experience in this stunning, turn-of-the-century church, renovated into a modern and stylish retreat! With its grand architecture, this property offers a one-of-a-kind stay that will leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated. SW Michigan's most beautiful beaches are located 5-10min away and downtown St. Joseph is only a quick 7-min drive! The house offers a quiet retreat while remaining close to wineries/breweries, wedding venues, restaurants & golf courses! Inside, the main hall has been transformed into a spacious and welcoming living area, complete with comfortable seating, a large projector TV, a bar, a pool table, a poker table, and many other board games for endless entertainment. The fully equipped kitchen boasts all the amenities you’ll need to whip up a delicious meal — and don’t forget about the grill outside for warm summer evenings.

The BellTower accommodates comfortable sleeping for up to 12 guest. Which includes four separate bedroom and sleeper sofa in the main living room. With 7 beds total, which include, 1 king bed, 3 queen beds, 1 full size and 2 twin XL.

Step outside to enjoy a large outdoor deck, perfect for soaking in the beautiful Michigan weather and hosting memorable gatherings. Relax and unwind in the private hot tub, or gather around the large fire pit for cozy nights under the stars — perfect for making s’mores with family and friends.

Please note, on the property is a smaller guest house situated nearby the main home. While close in proximity, it remains fully private, with no shared access between the two buildings. All windows on that side are frosted to ensure comfort and privacy for both spaces.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled getaway, this unique church-turned-vacation rental has everything you need for an unforgettable stay. Come experience the magic of this special place and create memories that will last a lifetime!


Guests will be able to access the property anytime after check-in with a code.

We are dog-friendly, please no cats. We do require a $100 per stay fee (max 2 pets.) You are welcome to include your dog(s) in the booking or we can send a separate invoice. If you choose to bring your pet please remember to keep them in the designated areas outside and clean up after them

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 3 pets total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2315339vb
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

About the area

Benton Harbor

Located in Benton Harbor, this holiday home is in the city centre and on a lake. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and Silver Beach. Travelling with kids? Consider Margaret B. Upton Arboretum and FuzzyButz Pet Bakery.
View more Holiday homes in Benton HarborOpens in a new window
Map
Benton Harbor, MI

What's nearby

  • Harbor Shores Golf Club - 6 min drive - 9.2 km
  • Lake Bluff Park - 7 min drive - 10.5 km
  • White Pine Winery - 8 min drive - 10.9 km
  • Silver Beach - 8 min drive - 11.3 km
  • 12 Corners Vineyards - 9 min drive - 11.7 km

Getting around

  • St. Joseph-Benton Harbor Station - 11 min drive
  • South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.) - 47 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Grand Crossing Bar & Grill - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪La Perla Produce - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Riverside Tavern - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Vineyard 2121 - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪North Pier Brewing Company - ‬8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Sanctuary by the Shore, Unique Stay W/ Hot Tub by Lake MI pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Sanctuary by the Shore, Unique Stay W/ Hot Tub by Lake MI?

As of 8 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sanctuary by the Shore, Unique Stay W/ Hot Tub by Lake MI on 18 May 2026 start from NZ$403, 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 Sanctuary by the Shore, Unique Stay W/ Hot Tub by Lake MI?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Sanctuary by the Shore, Unique Stay W/ Hot Tub by Lake MI?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Sanctuary by the Shore, Unique Stay W/ Hot Tub by Lake MI?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Sanctuary by the Shore, Unique Stay W/ Hot Tub by Lake MI located?

This family-friendly Benton Harbor holiday home is located on a lake, 1.2 mi (2 km) from Lake Michigan, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Silver Beach and Margaret B. Upton Arboretum. FuzzyButz Pet Bakery and Box Factory for the Arts are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 27 out of 32 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 32 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 32 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 32 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Very fun house! Bonfire, hot tub, pool table are all great. One of the most unique stays we have given that it was previously a church. Would be super cool to have a book or some photos / info in the house that informed guests about the previous church and the buildings history. Would stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steven M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very unique place to stay! Incredibly roomy and the kids enjoyed the ping pong table and pool table, especially since it was cold and windy outside!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Martha S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
The place is really nice and well equipped. Unfortunately the hot tub wasn’t working properly and although I communicated that to the host, she never responded. Also we purchased steaks and planned on grilling them but the both propane tanks were empty. We improvised and enjoyed our dinner.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 3 May 2026
Hi Martha, Thank you for your feedback—we’re really glad to hear you enjoyed the home and found it well equipped. We’re sorry to hear about the issues you mentioned with the hot tub and propane. We take concerns like this very seriously and always aim to resolve them as quickly as possible. However, we did not receive any communication during your stay regarding these items, and we would have absolutely addressed them right away had we known. We’ll be double-checking both the hot tub and propane supply to ensure everything is in perfect working order for future guests. We appreciate you staying with us and are glad to hear you were still able to enjoy your visit overall.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was one of the most well stocked houses we’ve ever stayed in. I feel like I didn’t even need to use the items I brought with me (shampoo, body wash, body spray, lotions, blow dryer and even feminine products (which was a LIFESAVER). We had 2 teenage girls with us and they were delighted by the vanity with the makeup tools. They also had a blast with the pool table and hot tub. It was super clean, the beds were comfy, and the house itself was beautiful. We would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Sonya R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We really enjoyed our stay! I would rent this place again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Courtney R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a beautiful home with lots of space! We really enjoyed the hot tub and fire pit and loved that there were some nice beaches nearby. We look forward to staying again in the future!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristine W.

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

In town for a funeral

Great location and venue!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eric L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was very smooth, house was excellent, very close to Benton harbor/st Joe/Lake Michigan.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey R.

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

Family lakeshore stay

Our family had a great time staying in this spacious and unique location. The kids loved using the ping pong and pool tables and the fire pit was enjoyed by all
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nataliya K.

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

Family reunion for July 4

The house is located in nice and quiet area. Close to the beach and restaurants. The house had everything that we needed. We enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shenel A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What an experience! Who else can say that they can ring a bell in their very own bell tower at a vrbo?!! It calls for you to be present in this sanctuary. The living space is massive and impeccably designed. Pool table, casino games, bingo, and board games make family bonding so much fun! The couch is huge and comfy for a large group to watch a movie with a projector and overhanging screen. The bedrooms are lovely. The neighborhood is quiet and we all slept well. It was perfect having 2 bathrooms with a tub and a stand-up shower for our family of 5. The kitchen space is large and ideal for cooking meals and gathering. Our host, Sara, is attentive and a clear communicator. We love the attention to details! 10/10! We plan to return! We didn’t even get a chance to use the fire pit or hot tub!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff K.

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

Boys trip

Perfect place to be for a father son fishing trip on lake Michigan. Recommend this as a must stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Grant W.

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

Great Stay

We had 5 adults and 3 young children and this house was perfect for us. Plenty of space for everyone, we all thought the layout was really cool. The house is an easy 8-10 minute drive to the downtown area, very convenient to restaurants and the beach. If we ever return to this area, I wouldn’t hesitate to stay at this property again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kelly S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a fun and unique stay for our Girls Wine Trail Getaway! We enjoyed the deck and hot tub in the evenings. It was nice to be able to prepare a quick meal and sit around the large dining table.3 beaches within 10 minutes. The beach towels were great and the washer and dryer were helpful. Parking was easy.The 4 bedrooms worked for us, just would have liked more hooks since there were no closets. The only shower worked but seemed to have low water pressure (a wand showerhead would be ideal) and only one temp (warm but not hot).We didn't even have time to use the pool or ping pong tables.Would definitely stay there, great value! Peaceful location.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa S.

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

Wedding weekend in St. Joseph

I booked this for my husband and 4 adult children and their significant others to be together for a family wedding. It was a fantastic place to stay and have family time. Pool table was a HUGE hit, as well as the ping pong table, projection TV and outdoor space for our 4 legged family members to take a break. Kitchen is big, and we also enjoyed the various tables and nooks for small conversations. And, to say we stayed in a “church” for the weekend was a big hit as well. Highly recommend for other larger groups!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Rachael K.

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

Water

Would’ve been great had there not been a mold smell the whole time. There is visible water damage on the ceiling. The lower bathroom smells of sewage. There is no central A/C and one of the units was leaking indoor. The location was great and amenities , pool table, full kitchen, etc. However we would not suggest staying if you’re sensitive to mold.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michele D.

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

Awesome vibe

We loved staying at the remodeled church. So much space, fun ping pong and pool games for the family and tons of running space for our puppy
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy M.

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

A great place with tons of room

We really enjoyed our stay here! It is very big, lots of fun things to do (projector screen for movies, pool table, ping pong) and we loved the outdoor firepit! We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sean T.

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

This place was amazing!

Massive space - such a great stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barry H.

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

Just what we needed

A fantastic spot with lots of room for kiddos to play and the adults to cook good meals and have a few drinks by the fire.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Megan R.

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

Beautiful VRBO

Loved our stay! Beautiful church made into a home. Nice area, extremely close to the beach. Would highly RECOMMEND!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thom H.

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

Great place for a Winter getaway.

This is a unique rental place as it is a repurposed church. The main common area is huge. The projector TV was great for watching sports and movies. The kitchen is large and adequately equipped. 6 adults stayed here with room for more . We enjoyed the pool table and ping pond table. I recommend it for a one-of -kind vacation experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sherry

Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort, communication

Perfect!

This property was perfect for us! Everything was clean, the place was spacious, the neighborhood was really quiet and the wineries were fun! Definitely recommend this place. We met the owner and she was very friendly. I don't think I'd rent this place for a party, neighborhood is too quiet. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beth L.

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

The Bell Tower

We had the best time celebrating New Years here! House was clean and spacious with so much character. Sleeps 7 comfortably. Host was very gracious and responsive. Our teens had a blast with the ping pong and pool table. Had a hard time regulating the electric baseboard heaters upstairs, but that is likely user error. It was definitely warm! The only thing I’d recommend is updating the listing to let everyone know how close the rental next door is. No issues with the neighbors at all, they were great- but we didn’t realize how close they would be. More worried about how loud we were cheering during the bowl games ;)
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eric S.

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

Great get away

Nice place for a getaway. Close to the beaches and restaurants in St. Joe and plenty of space to sprawl out in the house.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

About the host

Hosted by Sara A Barber

Host profile image
I’m Sara, Mom of three who loves to travel and find new adventures with my kids! I own and manage three local properties and love creating warm, comfortable spaces for guests. Always updating and adding fresh touches to make every stay special.

Why they chose this property

The neighborhood offers the best of both worlds very close to the beaches in downtown yet it feels secluded and tucked back in nature!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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