Entire home

Sunbeam Cottage - charming 2-bed lakefront house minutes from Big Bay

Family-friendly holiday home in Big Bay

Photo gallery for Sunbeam Cottage - charming 2-bed lakefront house minutes from Big Bay

Dining
Living area
Living area
Property grounds
Dining

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Barbecue grill
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Northern Michigan University
  • Place, Superior Dome
  • Place, Presque Isle Park

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Sunbeam Cottage - charming 2-bed lakefront house minutes from Big Bay

Welcome to Sunbeam Cottage, a charming 2-bedroom house on Lake Independence, less than two miles from shops and restaurants in Big Bay. Original hardwood flooring, multi-paned windows, antique hardware, and vintage shutter blinds bring out the 1920s character of the cottage, while the sparkling lake views, welcoming sunroom, outdoor seating, and spacious deck create a picturesque and comfortable surrounding to relax and enjoy time away on your vacation. The property's 300 feet of lake frontage and private dock make the space is ideal for those looking for a peaceful getaway. While the U.P. boasts many lakes, Lake Independence's unique features include its stone-and-sand bottom, warm temperature, and shallow depth. No freezing limbs, no water shoes required, and no drop off after 20 feet! In summer, walk down the stairs at the end of the dock into the water and play in the lake all day, venture out onto the lake in the rowboat or kayak available for guest use, or relax in the hammock as the breeze blows. Open the windows in the sunroom to enjoy the feel of being outside, but without the bugs! And if fishing is on your to-do list, Lake Independence is an ideal place to catch jumbo perch, walleye, bass, and more. When hunger calls, the easy-to-use pellet grill is perfect for cooking for the whole family, or visit Big Bay's historic Thunder Bay Inn and then stop for ice cream afterward. While you're in town, enquire at Huron Mountain Outfitters about kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and motor boats available for rent!

Although there is not a private boat launch on the property, boat launch for Lake Independence is available at Perkins Park.

Looking for a place to stay during your winter snowmobiling adventure? Sunbeam Cottage is available for rental year-round. Stay cozy inside while enjoying the view of the frozen lake, or make the house your base for ice fishing on Lake Independence.

Pets welcome! Pet fee is $50 per stay.

Pack and play and booster seat/high chair are available upon request. Families with toddlers may wish to note that there is no fence to keep children from the steeply pitched hill down to the lake.

Occupancy is limited to five people (six with an infant): due to the size of the bedrooms, there is not space for air mattresses or additional sleeping options.

The second cottage on this property is undergoing renovations and will be ready to rent soon. Rest assured, no work will take place during guest stays. We can't wait to share this exciting expansion with you!

Seasonal Items:
The following are available for use from late May to mid-October and are removed for storage during the colder months:
- Metal dock
- Rowboat
- 1 kayak
- 2 paddle boards

Tap Water:
The home’s water is tested regularly and is safe to drink. From roughly mid-October through mid-May, you may notice a mild sulfur or mineral odor due to seasonal water conditions. During this time, we provide gallons of purified drinking water for your convenience.

Accessibility:
Entry via back deck uses stairs
Entry via front (lake side) of house has no stairs but does require walking across lawn and up one step to enter house

Security:
Security camera faces away from house toward back deck and driveway
No cameras inside house

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 22
Check out before 11:00 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: limit 2 total
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please put garbage in trash cans; no need to take out the trash
We ask that you please wash any dirty dishes We do not require you to strip beds
If you have a dog, please check the yard well for messes; if any remain, the fee is $45
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Pet fee is $50 per stay. If pet waste is left in the yard, guest pays additional cleaning fee of $45.

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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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

Big Bay

Big Bay is home to this holiday home. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Superior and Little Presque Isle Recreation Area.
Map
Marquette, MI

What's nearby

  • Sugarloaf Mountain - 33 min drive - 46.7 km
  • Northern Michigan University - 40 min drive - 55.7 km
  • Superior Dome - 41 min drive - 56.9 km
  • UP Health System - Marquette - 44 min drive - 58.6 km
  • Presque Isle Park - 48 min drive - 59.0 km

Getting around

  • Marquette, MI (MQT-Sawyer Intl.) - 69 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Thunder Bay Inn - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Lumberjack Tavern - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Hungry Hollow - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Sunbeam Cottage - charming 2-bed lakefront house minutes from Big Bay pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Sunbeam Cottage - charming 2-bed lakefront house minutes from Big Bay?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Sunbeam Cottage - charming 2-bed lakefront house minutes from Big Bay?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Sunbeam Cottage - charming 2-bed lakefront house minutes from Big Bay located?

Located in Big Bay, this family-friendly holiday home is 3.4 mi (5.5 km) from Lake Superior, and within 25 mi (40 km) of Hidden Beach and Little Presque Isle Recreation Area. Marquette Maritime Museum and Upper Peninsula Children's Museum are also within 32 miles (52 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 33 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 33 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 33 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mike M.

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

Ice Fishing Getaway

Very nice location to walk out on the water and ice fish. Cozy cabin. Nice sunroom.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

John G.

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

Everything You Need

This place was great. Attention to detail as far as everything you might need. Great view, screened-in porch is a plus
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Autumn L.

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

Tranquil Retreat

My family had a relaxing and tranquil stay at the Sunbeam Cottage. The view of the lake was absolutely beautiful. The home was fully equipped with everything we needed to just have some quality family time. We were able to swim, kayak, fish, play board games, and sit around a campfire making s’mores.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gregg B.

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

Simply amazing & peaceful

Picture this: An exhausted husband and wife who haven't had a day off in 120+ days and a 9-year-old, 15lb pomeranian (read that as a diva, who hasn't traveled over 1hr in a car in her life), looking for the perfect peaceful getaway location to celebrate 10 years of being married AND recharge their batteries. The result? Everything about Sunbeam Cottage was PERFECT! We loved it so much, we booked another weekend in the fall! Oh, and Miss Ruby, the above-mentioned diva pomeranian, swam for the 1st time, bit the waves of Lake Superior AND slept for hours and hours!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

2/10 Terrible

Donald S.

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

Owners need to address these issues

We arrived at the property to find the deck covered in ice and snow. Had to clean the deck off before our 85 year old friends could walk on the deck..drvieway was cover with snow and icy. We could not drive all the way up the driveway. Our New Expedition in four drive was spilling pulling up our 30' enclosed trailer. Had to haul our luggage and food half up the driveway to the house. Once in the house found black ants crawling around the kitchen and bathrooms floors...On Monday my 85 year old friend fell on the driveway. Had to rush him to the Marquette Medical Urgent Care for exrays ..no bones broken but bruised his shoulder and neck. The Doctor put him in a sling. Had to cancel our snowmobiling plans for the week. Can't believe anyone with any brains would allow renters to come to this location and not have the driveway and deck cleaned and ready at 200 plus per night. At less have sanded or salted the driveway. Plus, nowhere to hang our cloths, lousy 3 hooks in the bedrooms. Are you KIDDING.. the couch in the living is a joke. Yes, you tell we are NOT HAPPY
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sara B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic place with beautiful views. The cottage had every amenity we could possibly want or need with personal touches from the host such as the hand written thank you note, to the fire starters and smores pack. Will definitely be back
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Richard K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Yes, very clean and cozy. Right from entering the cottage we knew this was going to work. Perfect for us two who are in our early 70's.Fully equipped kitchen, large bathroom, great bedding and spectacular lake view. Where else can you catch a sunrise and sunset from the same place. Shaded yard, great lawn chairs and swings, fire pit with lots of cut wood.Thanks for your attention to detail with old mixed with modern conveniences.My favorite was the wooden screen door. Memories from the past on the farm!Planning to return next Fall.Richard Koehler
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

David D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiufuyl cottage on lake. Very secluded and well kept.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Krista B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This property was fabulous for my small family of 3 and our dog! It had everything we needed to enjoy independence Lake and we were very comfortable. I highly recommend this location to anyone looking for relax and refresh in the UP!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Emily D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My family and I stayed at this wonderful cottage for an extended wedding trip. The lake was absolutely perfect! Our young kids (7 & 4) were able to walk out quite far with how shallow the lake is near the beach. They spent hours splashing around and paddling in the canoe. We ended our days with a fire and s'mores. Unfortunately, we didn't see as many stars like we hoped due to wildfire smoke. The beds were comfortable and there were plenty of towels. We used quite a few! In the mornings we enjoyed the sunroom for breakfast. We saw some hummingbirds and deer around the property! One thing that would be helpful is to have a step stool for kids. We ended up using a chair so they could wash their hands and brush teeth on their own. Overall, we had a wonderful time and made many memories here!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Nancy M.

Liked: Check-in, communication
Disliked: Cleanliness
Place to sleep and fish needs central air yard nothing but sand garbage never got picked up smelled last 3 days couldn’t sit out side it’s not a 3,000 dollar rental that’s what I paid for the dam house with air dishwasher and laundry the windows had spider webs we had to clean them to have windows open needs a lot of updating and the stairs are to steep
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarah A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is an adorable, comfortable cottage with stunning views of Independence Lake. Owner Amy is responsive and lovely. We had a great time!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erica H.

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

Awesome getaway in the UP

This cottage was the perfect spot to escape and start the summer for our family. We had a wonderful week long stay with our 6 & 8 year old daughters, and our dog. Everyone loved it for different reasons, the kids loved swimming in the lake, my husband enjoyed having a fire in the evening, and I loved my morning coffee out on the screened in porch watching the birds. The host has thought of everything and all the small touches made the week easy and convenient for us. This place has a very homey and welcoming feel. We hope to be back again soon!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maureen C.

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

Lovely stay!

I had a wonderful time at this cozy cabin. The host was super - responsive and I had everything I needed for a comfortable stay. Thank you!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer K.

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

Wonderful place

This was a wonderful place for my adult daughter and I to have a getaway weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Krystin H.

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

Wonderful spot

The home was well appointed, and the owners were very responsive. Would definitely return and recommend the location.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jenna R.

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

Cozy Cottage

Perfect little retreat! All the basics for a fall weekend. Checked out the area hiking trails.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jason T.

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

Amazing stay!

We had a truly memorable visit to the Marquette/Big Bay Area. The cottage was super cute and comfortable and the view was mesmerizing! The owners went above and beyond and had all the amenities covered, plus many extras! Staying at the cottage made our long weekend truly memorable from relaxing at the cottage enjoying the views from both the cottage and the provided kayak to the numerous breathtaking hikes. In addition, downtown Marquette was easily accessible for great dinners/breweries! I highly recommend this cottage and hope to return someday! Thanks for allowing us to visit your beautiful property!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jacqueline S.

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

Beautiful spot

Great place to stay, cottage is cozy and clean, sits on a beautiful lake, very close to Lake Superior, sunrise/sunsets hard to beat! Close to hiking, city or just a quiet place away from busy life! Might even catch the northern lights!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matthew R.

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

Beautiful cottage in the U.P.

Absolutely Beautiful view, very comfortable, clean cottage. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gregg B.

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

AMAZING stay again!

This was our 2nd visit to Sunbeam Cottage and we can't wait to come back again! We love the cottage and our host is the best! This stay we were lucky enough to see the Northern Lights over Lake Superior (public beach about a mile away) and just relaxed with our great friends. Amazing place!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shirley M.

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

Refreshing Days

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this lovely cottage! Coffee in the swing each morning while listening to the loons on the lake, fishing, swimming, reconnecting…! The cottage was clean, comfortable, and had everything we needed! Loved every moment!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Troy P.

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

Wonderful Stay at Sunbeam Cottage!

We had an amazing two-week stay at this beautiful cottage in Big Bay, MI. The location right on Independence Lake made for the most relaxing getaway we could have imagined. Every day we enjoyed the serene views and peaceful surroundings, which were perfect for unwinding. The cottage was cozy, well-maintained, and had everything we needed to feel right at home. Plus, it was great that we could bring our dogs along! They absolutely loved exploring the area and spending time by the lake. If you're looking for a tranquil escape in nature with all the comforts of home, this is the perfect spot. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience and can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gavin B.

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

Cozy getaway with a good location

The cottage is a good size, it doesn't feel cramped, but it's small enough to encourage you to go outside and enjoy nature. We had a great time fishing our on the lake, and coming back to have fires each evening, overlooking the lake.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shirley M.

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

Memories Made in Abundance!

What a wonderful stay we had in the Sunbeam cottage! We loved playing games and relaxing on the sun porch! The beds were comfortable and the cottage was clean and furnished with everything we needed. We enjoyed the s’mores gift at the campfire. Swimming and fishing in the beautiful lake each day brought lots of smiles! Thanks for the memories we made in your lovely cottage!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

About the host

Hosted by Amy Manning

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Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests