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Lakefront Cottage on South Lake Leelanau, Dock, Pontoon Available, Dog Friendly

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Outdoor dining
Outdoor dining
Exterior
Property grounds
Outdoor dining

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 9

Popular amenities

  • Balcony or patio
  • On beach
  • Dog-friendly
  • Barbecue
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Kitchen

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 9)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Double Bed and 1 Crib

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Lakefront Cottage on South Lake Leelanau, Dock, Pontoon Available, Dog Friendly

Come unwind at our relaxing lakefront cottage! Beautiful Lake Leelanau views from living room, kitchen, and upstairs bedroom/balcony. The summer sunsets over the water are truly unforgettable.

Located just 20 minutes north of downtown Traverse City and 12 minutes from charming Suttons Bay, our cottage offers the perfect balance of quiet lake life and easy access to restaurants, wineries, and shopping. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is an easy 40-minute drive. We provide a detailed local guidebook to help you explore the best of the area and are always happy to share recommendations.

Step outside to a spacious deck with a gas grill and outdoor dining table-ideal for morning coffee or sunset dinners. The lake is approximately 50 feet from the deck, with a small sandy beach area, fire pit, dock, and easy water access for swimming and boating. Two kayaks are available for guest use-perfect for peaceful morning paddles or exploring the shoreline at sunset.

A docked pontoon (20 ft 2006 Bennington with 50hp) is available for weekly rent ($1000/week) with proof of a valid boater's license. A signed waiver is required. (No daily rentals.)

We want you to feel completely at home during your stay. Bed linens and bath towels are provided (please bring your own beach towels). While our cottage does not have air conditioning, the cool northern Michigan evenings and lake breezes typically keep the home comfortable.

This is a non-smoking property.

We are pet friendly and welcome well-behaved dogs to vacation with you!

Guests enjoy full private access to the entire cottage and property. Please note a portion of the upstairs is locked and not accessible during guest stays.

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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

Great for kids & families.

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Events

No events allowed

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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)

Dogs are allowed with a limit of (2).

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Property is NON-smoking.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 66137vb
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

Traverse City

Located in Traverse City, this cottage is near a water park and on the beach. Shoppers can check out Front Street, while everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Michigan and Traverse City Beach. Jacob's Corn Maze and Great Lakes Children's Museum are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and cycling nearby.
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Map
Traverse City, MI

What's nearby

  • Lake Leelanau - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Front Street - 15 min drive - 21.2 km
  • Traverse City Beach - 23 min drive - 28.9 km
  • Chateau Chantal - 37 min drive - 49.3 km
  • Torch Lake - 50 min drive - 70.3 km

Getting around

  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Brengman Brothers - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Cedar Sol Taco Stand - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Cedar Tavern - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Farm Club - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Cedar Sol Hydro Farm - ‬19 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Lakefront Cottage on South Lake Leelanau, Dock, Pontoon Available, Dog Friendly pet-friendly?

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

How much is parking at Lakefront Cottage on South Lake Leelanau, Dock, Pontoon Available, Dog Friendly?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Lakefront Cottage on South Lake Leelanau, Dock, Pontoon Available, Dog Friendly?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lakefront Cottage on South Lake Leelanau, Dock, Pontoon Available, Dog Friendly?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Lakefront Cottage on South Lake Leelanau, Dock, Pontoon Available, Dog Friendly located?

Nestled on the beach, this Traverse City cottage is 0.1 mi (0.2 km) from Lake Leelanau and 3 mi (4.9 km) from Lake Michigan. The Leelanau Club at Bahle Farms and Brengman Brothers are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.4

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. 40 out of 48 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 48 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 48 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 48 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 48 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.2/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Adorable up north cottage with a beautiful lake front yard. Home is clean and well maintained. Would stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lynn L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hosts were easy to contact and responded promptly. Well stocked kitchen. Especially appreciated the variety of spices provided. Water front provided plenty of play space for the kids and adults.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael K.

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

Annual Summer rendezvous

Very clean cute home right on Lake Leelanau, near to many many fun venues. We totally enjoyed our stay. We are annual VRBO renters and we highly recommend this property!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Taryn L.

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

Beautiful property

Ryan and his family were great hosts!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Michael S.

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

Beautiful lake

Clean and well maintained cottage with a great location on a beautiful lake.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Curt & Deb W.

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

A fun a cottage right on Lake Leelanau!

Clean cottage on the water, fun pontoon boat to use, nice we could take our little dog, very personable owners. Thanks for renting your cottage to us. We had a great time!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 3 April 2020
Curt & Deb - glad you had a great time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Meta S.

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

Wonderful house and location

This cottage was comfortable, spacious and exceptionally well-stocked! We loved being right on the water and having access to the pontoon and kayaks was so fun. Quick drives to TC and Sutton's Bay. Ryan and Annie were helpful and quick to respond.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda B.

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

Year after year....it’s always a wonderful stay!! We’ll be back!

We love coming here each year!! I’ve been coming since i was a young girl and have always loved it but these owners have updated so much that, by far, this is our best experience yet! The pontoon is a fabulous bonus! I would highly recommend this lovely rental!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica W.

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

Lakeside fun

The house and property were outstanding. We had lots of fun playing in the lake and fishing on the boat. The house is close to lots of wineries and also close to Traverse City. We had an amazing time!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara C.

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

Lovely place in a great location

The cottage and grounds were very nice. Everything worked fine. The only minor flaw was that the house was listed as 5 bedrooms but is really 4 plus the sofa bed in the living room. The owners are great folks, very helpful!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eric K.

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

Amazing!!

Can’t say enough good things about this property. House was awesome. The lake was beautiful. We had the best family vacation here. Communication couldn’t have been better from the owners. Looking forward to staying here again in the future!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

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

Beautiful Sunsets and a gorgeous lake!

Great location with sunset over the lake whole eating dinner on the deck. 1 mile ride to the bile trail that will take you to Traverse city or Suttons Bay. Nice sandbar across the lake. Restaurants you can take the pontoon to. Great week. Plenty of space and the hosts are very accommodating.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda B.

Perfect place for the up North experience!

We have stayed in this cabin since I was a girl...I think what keeps us coming back (besides amazing owners) is the view...it is breathtaking!! This cottage is a perfect place to relax and rejuvinate...the cottage is well kept and clean. The pontoon is an amazing perk! I highly recommend this vacation spot =) You will NOT be disappointed
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 3 April 2020
Thank you Amanda for such a positive review! We are glad to hear you enjoyed your stay and hope to have you again in the future! Thanks again, Ryan
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul S.

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

Last week before school

We had a great week in Carols Cottage! Everything was as advertised! We had great outdoor space for the grandkids to play around, and lots of included toys. Sand toys to mess around with and kayaks to paddle in the lake! The Cottage was clean and well equipped, giving us a lot of space live. All of it was very comfortable. Lovely patio furniture to enjoy the weather, as well as a great grill for cooking. Very close to town and many restaurants! Great place to take the family!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janet L.

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

Leelanau

This cottage is located on the southeast end of Lake Leelanau. The cottage was clean and had everything we needed for a week including gas grill, beautiful deck, well stocked kitchen, fans in upper bedrooms, wifi, television, fire pit, kayaks, pontoon boat (extra charge). The location is great being about 10 minutes from Suttons Bay, 20 minutes to Traverse City, excellent access to Leelanau Trail bike paths, and many lovely wineries. We had a great time! Hosts are very good about answering text messages and e-mails promptly.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Archival

8/10 Good

extended family vacation

Thank you Carole for sharing your cottage with us! Our family of 4 adults and 4 children (and dog porter too!) had a really enjoyable time. The cottage is very comfortable and the view is beautiful. The kids loved playing in the water and beach area. The lawn and firepit area are well maintained, as are all of your beautiful flowers. We were pleased at how clean the cottage was and we felt very welcome and at "home". Thank you for being so caring to our little ones as well. Everyone really enjoyed talking with you and getting to know you and your dog too! I believe great and lasting memories were made :) Fondly, Laurie
Response from VrboOwner on 3 April 2020
Laurie, thank you for your wonderful review. It always makes me feel good to know that you had a great time. I enjoyed meeting all of you....you're such a fun family! I quite appreciate how clean you left my cottage, even raking the sand where the kids made holes so no one would trip in one. By now, I hope Jon's thumb is fully healed. This was Pike - 1; Jon - 0. But I know there's a bigger and better fish out there just waiting for his return! Cheers, Carole
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Samantha S.

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

Old School Summer Fun on the Lake

I wanted a summer vacation that was not only relaxing but full of the activities I did all summer long as a kid. Fishing, swimming, roasting marshmallows, etc...and the cottage on Lake Leelanau did NOT disappoint. The fishing is great on this lake and with this being my husband's first time fishing, the sight of that alone made my whole summer! So being able to use the pontoon boat during our stay helped us create some FANTASTIC new memories. There was plenty of room for 5 adults and two dogs, It never once felt like we were stepping over each other. We had plenty of privacy from the neighbors if that's a concern and the one we met was really nice. The location of this cottage is not far from the tourist area of Traverse City but far enough away to escape all that hustle and bustle when you don't want to be bothered, so for us, it was the perfect location. Everything was in great shape so we never had to contact Ryan about any issues. It is an outstanding cottage to relax, have fun, and create GREAT memories at! You will not be disappointed!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joe K.

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

Paradise

We come from Maryland to visit family every summer and we have stayed at several nice STRs on lakes and rivers in the TC area. But this place is simply spectacular! We rented the pontoon boat and we spent hours each morning and evening putting along shorelines admiring the beauty. The south end of the lake has so much beauty with woods and marshes along the shore (so many lakes are now crowded with McMasions) and where Bear Creek feeds into the Lake - peaceful - serene- beautiful! (I messed with the fuel line on the pontoon boat and Jeff came right out and fixed it while we were having dinner at my Mom’s nearby- very responsive and attentive hosts!) my siblings have grandchildren and they swam off the dock until exhaustion and hunger drove them back up to the house! We did some fishing as well. It’s a big deep lake so if you want to fish do your homework! Best fish on the boat was about a 4lb largemouth my brother’s grandson caught on the west side using a jitterbug on the surface. Google the location of Cherry Bend Market (straight south on Cherry Bend Rd) for excellent fresh meats and your morning fresh baked goods. Just as the Sun is dropping in late afternoon it gets hot for 2-3 hours so we usually went out on the boat during this part of the day then watched a glorious sunset every evening. You won’t find a nicer lake cottage- and rent the pontoon boat!! Enjoy your stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Archival

4/10 Poor

Not what we expected, either

The previous review summed it up nicely. We, too, were VERY surprised to find that owner lives on upper level, but luckily I put the pieces together two days prior (so we were at least mentally prepared)...I called asking for directions to cottage. Realized the address was the same as the one I was told to send deposit check. I asked if owner lived next door, and then it was revealed that she actually lived in upper level. It is a duplex of sorts. I was really surprised, because during initial inquiry I asked outright (because I got the impression during conversation that owner lived on Lake Leelanau), "Oh, do you live near the rental cottage then?" and she replied simply "Yes". I wish I had inquired further :( The owner was very sweet, and it seemed she wanted to be accomodating...so I have reservations even posting this review. By the time we realized the situation, was too late to find a new vacation spot. We went, stayed, and very much enjoyed the day trips around the area. We enjoyed a couple of campfires at the cottage in the evenings, wood provided (thank you). I had to keep a very careful eye on my 3 year old, the slope is quite steep and he has no fear. We could see by the pictures, though, that it was probably pretty steep. Also one night someone was walking around upstairs-- and then going up and down the outdoor steps outside our bedroom until 2a.m. or later. It sounded like someone was packing up and leaving in the middle of the night??? We did not get very good sleep while there. One last thing...the beds appear to be full-size, not queen? minor, but still...sheets Our big problem here is that in NO PLACE in the description does it mention that the residence will be shared. It IS misleading.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 April 2020
I do not stay at the cottage every week, but there are times that I do. Unfortunately, a friend who had stayed with me had a death in the family and had to leave unexpectedly during the night and could not wait until the next morning. He did try to be very quiet. I assure you that the beds are all queen size; the pullout sofa is also queen size and queen size sheets fit all the beds. I was surprised by this review as I thought she was very satisfied with the accomodations and seemed to enjoy herself very much. I have very little contact with the people who rent. I do not use the yard or beach...I usually read or watch TV or take daytrips; I try to give my guests as much privacy as possible to ensure they have a great vacation. I have many repeat guests who find their stay here very enjoyable.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Relaxing.

What a relaxing week we had. Beautiful sunsets and lovely stars! The owners are very attentive.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Sarah K.

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

Family trip

Ryan and Annie were fantastic to work with. We had a little trouble with the boat and Ryan answered right away to assist us. Place was family friendly and excellent location. The beach area is not zero entry to the lake like I had thought but has steps down to the water. Just something to be aware of if you have very little ones!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

norma o.

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

Quiet and enjoyable stay.

We had a lot of family time with gatherings each evening by fire pit. Enjoyed the pontoon for fishing and some tubing when weather permitted.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emily W.

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

Beautiful view

Perfect setting Comfortable beds and linens Everything we needed
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paula M.

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

Family bonding

Our family loved sharing time together at Carole's Cottage - enjoying meals on the deck, playing games which were provided, and boating on beautiful Lake Leelanau. The proximity to Northport, Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and the many wineries and restaurants enabled us to take advantage of so many varied activities in the area.. Ryan and Annie were gracious hosts and were very prompt in addressing any concerns we had.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patti R.

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

Perfect spot in the heart of Lelenau!

Great property! Loved the lake and access to water! Sunsets were amazing. This one has everything you need for a fabulous stay in the TC area! Within easy distance of downtown TC, Glen Arbor, Leland, Sutton's Bay and Empire. Area food so tasty, especially the wraps at Fiddlehead, sandwiches at the Pour House and the chocolate at Grocer's Daughter!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

About the host

Hosted by Ryan McCarthy

Host profile image

We're Ryan and Annie, a married couple raising three young boys who love lake life as much as we do. Our cottage has been in our family for nearly three decades and holds a very special place in our hearts.

Some of our favorite memories have been made here-slow mornings on the deck, long afternoons on the water, and breathtaking Lake Leelanau sunsets. When we're not enjoying it ourselves, we love sharing it with other families so they can create memories of their own.

We're always happy to answer questions, share local recommendations, and help you plan the perfect northern Michigan getaway.

We hope you love this special place as much as we do.

-Ryan & Annie
.

Why they chose this property

South Lake Leelanau offers the perfect blend of peaceful lake living and easy access to northern Michigan's best destinations. Mornings begin quietly on the water, and by afternoon you can be exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes, strolling through Suttons Bay, or visiting one of the area's many renowned wineries.

We love that guests can enjoy both adventure and relaxation here. Spend the day swimming, fishing, or boating right from the property, then head out for a locally sourced dinner in Traverse City or a sunset tasting along the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail.

Whether you're rock hunting along the shores of Lake Michigan, browsing the charming downtown shops, or roasting s'mores by the fire as the sun sets over the lake, this area truly captures the best of northern Michigan.

Life is really better at the lake!

What makes this property unique

Our lakefront cottage sits on nearly one acre, set back approximately 200 feet from the road, offering rare privacy and a peaceful setting. The home is perched directly on South Lake Leelanau with a sandy beach area, private dock, and stairs leading down to the water for easy swimming access (water shoes are recommended).

Being located on the east side of the lake means guests enjoy breathtaking sunsets right from the property. Evenings often end with stargazing by the campfire under northern Michigan's clear night skies.

We are proudly dog-friendly and love welcoming families who want to bring their four-legged companions along to enjoy lake life too.

While the setting feels quiet and secluded, we're still conveniently close to Suttons Bay, Traverse City, and area attractions. This provides guests with the perfect balance of serenity and accessibility.

With four bedrooms and two full bathrooms, the layout comfortably accommodates families and groups looking for space to spread out while still enjoying time together.

Languages:

English

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