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Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes

Photo gallery for Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes

Sunset From Porch
Enjoy lake views while checking in to work or reading a good book on the deck
View of Cottage from the Beach
Kitchen comes fully equipped to prepare a simple meal or a fancy feast.
The one bedroom is on the 2nd floor of large beach house.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Scenic water view
    Relax and unwind with top rated water views, offering a scenic experience.
  • On the beach
    A rare beachfront property in the area - enjoy direct access to the sand and sea.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 3

Popular amenities

  • On beach
  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Porter, IN
  • Place, East Beach
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Place, Indiana Dunes State Park
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Place, Waverly Beach
    ‪3 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes

Our Duneland Rentals cottages are right on the beach in the heart of the Indiana Dunes. This charming lakefront cottage is located on three hundred feet of private beach. The gradual sandy beach is excellent for swimming and the sunsets from the south shore of Lake Michigan are incredible.

Porter Beach is a small beach community located on the borders of the Indiana Dunes State Park and the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and just one hour from downtown Chicago. The beautiful beach stretches in either direction for miles and within minutes you can get to wonderful nature trails, excellent restaurants, quaint shops and many interesting cultural attractions.

The trails vary in length and difficulty but are all wonderful for both hiking and cross country skiing. There are also some excellent sledding hills nearby. Other close by sights include historic Chelberg Farm, Westchester Township History Museum, Zao Island Amusement Park, Taltree Arboretum, Calumet Bike Trail, Imagination Glen with a BMX race track and a 10 mile Outback Mountain Bike Trail and Broken Wagon Bison Farm and many more wonderful places to explore and activities to delight.


Keywords: Beach Front Bungalow Beach House Beach Cottage Indiana Dunes House Indiana Dunes Cabin Weekend Getaway Spot Vacation Rental Summer House Winter Cabin

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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
A child of any age is considered a guest.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Additional day or overnight guests are NOT permitted. If you have additional guests you will be asked to leave and you will not be issued a refund.
All guests 18 years and older must sign a Waiver and Release of Liability Agreement prior to arrival.

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number no
Property # 331446vb
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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Chesterton

Located in Porter Beach, a neighbourhood in Chesterton, this cottage is near theme parks and on the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Indiana Dunes National Park and Lake Michigan. Beverly Shores Depot Museum and Art Gallery and Lubeznik Center for the Arts are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging.
View more Cottages in ChestertonOpens in a new window
Map
Porter, IN

What's nearby

  • East Beach - 11 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Ridge Beach - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Indiana Dunes State Park - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Waverly Beach - 3 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Indiana Dunes National Park - 5 min drive - 4.6 km

Getting around

  • Portage - Ogden Dunes Train to Chicago - 15 min drive
  • Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) - 76 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪TravelCenters of America - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Leroy's "Hot Stuff - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes?

As of 14 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes on 11 September 2026 start from NZ$554, 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 Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes located?

Located in Porter Beach, this cottage is within 1 mi (2 km) of East Beach and Lake Michigan. Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana Dunes State 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.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 65 out of 73 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 73 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 73 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 73 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 73 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karin G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wow! This 1-bedroom rental on the beach was amazing!!!! Wonderful hosts, clean house, and spectacular lake view...it was the best family vacation ever for our family of four! We stayed in the 'off' season at the end of May but for us it was the 'perfect' season - kids played on the beach and took the kayaks out on the water, we walked to the state park pavilion for ice cream, and had a campfire with marshmallows on the beach every night. Due to family dietary restrictions, we made all of our meals ahead of time and brought them with us - this was great because we never had to leave! Oops, only once because we didn't know to bring our own shampoo and soap! No worries! Dollar general is nearby for anything you forgot! Also remember to bring your own firewood and coal for the grill. Can't go wrong with this property - come for a quiet retreat or fun family getaway! Love this slice of Indiana Heaven!!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marcia C.

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

beautiful location

Great spot for exploring Indiana Dunes - we went on lots of hikes and enjoyed the beach seclusion of the cabin.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary M.

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

Wonderful beach property

Great mother daughter get a way Enjoyed walking on the beach Hiking Indiana Dunes National Park
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jerry G.

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

WONDERFUL LOCATION

Within walking distance of state park. Beautiful views. We love the location.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

R Chris R.

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

Amazing place to stay at the Dunes

We loved every moment of our time here. We couldn't believe how close we were to the beach. Our kids were running in the waves and collecting rocks and playing in the sand within moments of our arrival. Highly recommended. Would absolutely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jillian J.

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

location was incredible

what else do you need???? you are literally on the beach! so beautiful. highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Mary Ann M.

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

Happiness comes in Waves. Beach was perfect!

Small cottage, had good assortment of kitchen utensils. Cozy, a bit rustic, not pretentious. Owners have several cottages in this area. Fortunate to meet nice folks around a campfire on the beach. Would stay again, maybe later in the season. Water was a brisk 54 degrees in May.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

jay m.

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

beach get away

Great location, great view great amenities, beach/ water view from every room . Great neighborhood. Cottage clean. It was AWSOME!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Richard A.

Great location nice cottage right on the lake

A bit of a walk down the stairs to get to the cottage, but worth the trip. Cottage was clean and had all the essentials. The beach toys (chairs umbrellas,paddle boards.kayaks,and floats) were a definite plus.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandra G.

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

Getaway

This was a nice, clean, and charming place. We enjoyed our stay on the beach. However, next time we would pack light and be prepared for about 60 stair steps from the top of the hill, where you park to the house. Check-in was quick and the host was gracious to help carry luggage to the house. I would recommend this place and hope to revisit soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandy B.

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

Outstanding Experience

I recommend this property to everyone! Delightful hosts, clean comfortable unit on the beach, and great location. Some stairs-if that is a concern. Cottage feel. Good bed. Nice little deck overlooking the beach. Great sunsets! Give them a call.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

karen m.

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

Peaceful and fabulous view

Loved our stay… the warning on steps is accurate! We were fine but could be issue for some. We had a short stay so steps were not a huge issue . They could be more lit up at night. The cottage was quaint,super clean and comfortable. We were probably off season , had the beach and the dunes to ourselves!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kirk J.

Spotless property with a very impressive view.

This cabin exceeded all my expectations. A stunning view of Lake Michigan. Just steps from the water. The property was clean and well maintained. Susan met us when we got there and walked us down to the cabin showed us around and made sure we were comfortable I look forward to renting this cabin again. I just can’t get over the view. 🤙
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2018
Verified

6/10 Okay

Scott P.

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

Expectation Management

We had expected to have fire wood available by the fire ring as other VRBO’s we have stayed at. If you want a fire, get the wood before you go down to the house, it is quit a climb. Beautiful, restful, and clean. Do the three Dune challenge, it’s great!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim G.

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

Wonderful On the Beach Location!

Stayed here for a long birthday weekend with my daughter. The view of Lake Michigan and the sunsets were amazing! This place had everything we needed. It is a peaceful private location in between 2 public beaches at the Indiana Dunes State and National Parks. The description of the stairs is accurate. The stairs are not for people with bad knees or any other physical condition that might prevent you from getting up and down them. The stairs not a problem for us. I would definitely stay here again. Susan (the owner) was helpful during check in and orienting us to the place.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joan W.

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

Great spot for staying while visiting Dunes

Next to State Park. Large beach area. Beautuful view of sunset. Very quiet. The unit had anything we needed. Full size fridge, stove, microwave. TV living area and bedroom. Comfortable bed. Ocy si temp dropped but unit remained comfortable. Have to hike up and down about 60 steps so not accessible for all. But was good earmup for the 3Dunes Challenge at park.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica M.

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

Dreamy

We visited just after the New Year. It was beautiful to see snow on the beach. The views from the cottage are amazing. We slept so well every night with the sound of the waves crashing on the beach. I had a couple of minor hiccups thay were entirely my own fault and the hosts were gracious enough to help promptly. The cottage has everything, including dishes and cookware. I really enjoyed the stove and want to replace my own now. Take heed of the reviews about the stairs, they're sturdy and in good repair but there are a lot of them. Knowing that in advance we just didn't use suitcases, we packed weekender bags/backpacks. Our hosts had great recommendations for things to see/do around the dunes and in Chicago, which is just an hour train ride away. Highly recommend, we're already talking about coming back this summer.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wendy P.

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

Fabulous location right on Lake Michigan

My husband and I stayed here for 2 nights. We really loved this spot. We had warm weather for late September and were able to leave the windows open at night and hear the sound of the waves washing onto shore. The living room windows give you a panoramic view which is fantastic. The furnishings are simple but comfortable, and we enjoyed sitting on the small deck with our morning coffee. Susan is super nice and gave us good information about the area. You can walk the beach into the state park. Wifi is a little spotty. My only suggestion is for a few additional items in the kitchen. The larger pans didn't have lids, and a couple of larger knives would be nice. We brought our own cooking oil, but that's something I always appreciate having at a rental place because it's easy to forget about that when shopping.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 29 August 2023
We are glad you enjoyed your stay. Thank you for letting us know about the missing items in the kitchen. We will make sure the large pans get reunited with their lids and put larger knives in the drawer. Thank you for the suggestions.
Verified

8/10 Good

Susie H.

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

Fantastic location!

The owners, Susan and Erica have a lovely group of VRBO's on the beach. The location could not have been better. The upstairs space was simple and clean. Furniture and kitchen was basic but they had everything you need. An actual demonstration of the european stove would have been helpful as it was difficult to light. There were little glitches (broken coffee maker, fire alarm going off) that were mostly dealt with a rapid response. The walls are thin and you hear conversations from the neighbors. The stairs are a REAL thing to deal with if you have luggage, coolers or the like. Susan was extremely kind to offer her help in bringing the cooler down. Overall it was a great place to get away for a few days and chillax. The nearby Dunes National Park is great for hiking. For the price, we felt it was a good deal.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ronald R.

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

Relaxing vacation

Picked this cottage because of location directly on the beach and positive recommendations. Property as described, clean, slept four comfortably and nearly everything provided. OTA TV only but Roku worked great. Good wifi.Was warned about steps so did not bring any suitcases but backpacks and lightweight duffle bags. Brought bottled water but not needed as Culligan filter on faucet. I have balance issues but managed the steps. They had another handrail placed to assist me the day after we arrived. Susan and Erika were both very helpful and pleasant. Several reasonably priced restaurants and pubs within 8-10 minute drive and not much traffic. We will plan to return next if possible. Strongly recommend if able to climb several steps. Ron R
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dakota L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a beautiful and magical family beach location. We took our 1 year old daughter to her first national park and she loved it! The view from the rooms are immaculate, the host was courteous, toured the house with us, and even helped us carry out supplies to the house! From the moment we arrived, we felt safe and welcomed and we always knew if we had a questions, our host would assist anyway possible. The house is older but we knew from the accurate photos and description. The house is fully furnished with towels, plates, running water, window AC units, a front deck with a view of Lake Michigan and so so so much more. It's all we needed and more! There is a boat house below the main living area and it was well stocked with toys, chairs, paddles, kayaks, etc. that our yours to use during the visit. Only complaint was the main bedroom had dog hair all underneath the bed and the fan was blowing it out into the main living area, minor issue but their is a cleaning crew if you have a major concern. Also, the filters are the AC units were a major fire hazard-lots of debris and lint covered the entire filters for both window units and the vent areas do have traces of black mold.LOTS of steps, do not be discoured and when the host says there is a lot of steep stairs, they mean it. If you have major health issues I would recommend avoiding this property.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 October 2025
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review! We're thrilled to hear how much your family enjoyed the peaceful, magical setting, and that your daughter’s first national park visit was a memorable one. We’re especially glad you felt welcomed and supported throughout your stay — it’s always our goal to make guests feel right at home from the moment they arrive. We appreciate your kind words about the view, amenities, and the well-stocked boathouse — it’s great to hear you took full advantage of everything the property has to offer! Regarding your concerns, thank you for bringing them to our attention. We’ve already followed up with our cleaning team to ensure future guests have an even more comfortable experience. As noted in the listing, the location does involve a number of stairs, which adds to the unique charm and stunning lake views — but it’s something we want all guests to be fully aware of. Thanks again for staying with us and sharing your experience — we hope to welcome you back again soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott M.

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

Great Location

Enjoyed our couple of day stay here very much. The location right on the beach is amazing. It's very quiet and private compared to the busy section of beach down about a 1/4 mile dedicated to the national park. In May of 2022 the beach is fairly wide - nothing like the high tide they had back in 2020 so fear not. Sunsets are fantastic. The guest hosts are friendly and accommodating. The rooms are very clean and well maintained - no complaints about our visit at all and will make it a point to return in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carmen L.

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

Relaxing, great location.

The listing was accurate except that there were additional amenities that I didn't notice in the listing such as a grill, outdoor fire pit, and beach accessories. Which was a nice bonus upon arrival! Susan is great and easy to communicate with. Cell service is spotty but who cares for relaxing for a few days. The oven is tricky and may have been user error. Loved the location. It's a fabulous getaway for staying right in the beach. You really could just stay there and not leave, but the proximity to the national and state parks makes it so you want to explore nature. Technically you can walk along the lake shore to get into the state park. We drove into Chesterton for coffee one day and then explored other sights by car. The rental is cozy and clean and perfect for two adults and two young kids. I loved that the kids could play on the beach and I could sit and relac or make meals and still watch them. Beautiful lake and sunset views. Definitely want to stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Celia G.

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

Terrific Getaway

Perfectly tranquil! Highly recommended!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

John L.

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

Great lake view!

We very much enjoyed our stay here. We were right on the beach and enjoyed the views of the lake. It was our first visit in the area and will probably be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

About the host

Hosted by Susan Brandstetter

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Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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