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Lake Michigan Cecil Bay- November reduced rates and 2 night minimum stay!

Beachfront cottage with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for Lake Michigan Cecil Bay- November reduced rates and 2 night minimum stay!

Yes, the water is that blue
Sitting on the beachfront deck
The tops of the bridge towers are visible from our beach
What you see when you drive up- it sold us immediately!
View from water side

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 672.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
Carp Lake, MI
  • Place, Wilderness State Park
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Headlands International Dark Sky Park
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Airport, Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional)
    ‪24 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom #1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom #2

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom/laundry

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Lake Michigan Cecil Bay- November reduced rates and 2 night minimum stay!

This is a cozy two bedroom cottage (sleeps 4. Note: in 2026 the sleeper sofa will likely be replaced with a sectional, so no extra sleeping space) that has been completely renovated fall 2019/winter2020. It’s on a quiet and private wooded lot on a dead end road. The main part of the cottage is a mobile home with an attached 4 season room addition on the lake side.
The 4 season room has 2 sofas, dining area with a high chair, and a wood stove, books and games. It’s a relaxing place to read, watch the numerous ships that go by (with the telescope), play games, or nap. The view out the many windows is of the Straights of Mackinaw, including St. Helena Island, and the many pines and cedars on the property.
One bedroom has a queen bed, the other a full size bed.
The bathroom has a tub/shower and a small washer/dryer unit.
The kitchen is fully equipped with a gas range, full size fridge, microwave, coffee pot, Keurig coffee machine, and dishwasher.
The former dining area is now a pantry area with room to store and prep your food.
The “den” is the original living room with a sofa and smart TV with DVD player.
Outside is a gas grill, deck with seating, fire pit, and storage shed with 3 kayaks and a canoe for your enjoyment. The waterfront is beautiful with crystal clear shallow water with a sandy bottom. Bald eagles nest nearby and fly overhead. The towers and north causeway of the Mackinac Bridge are visible from the beachfront, which is especially beautiful at night. We have added security cameras- one is aimed at the driveway and road and 2 are aimed at the water away from our beach just so we can see the weather/water. The one near the campfire area will be removed before warm weather for the privacy our guests. The other is near the shed facing the lot/beach to the west.
We are close to Wilderness State Park and the Headlands Dark Sky Park- but the stars are just as visible right out our door. Mackinaw City is 7 miles away. For convenience, the Trading Post store is a short walk away- it sells food, souvenirs, scooped ice cream, pizza for takeout, firewood, and bike and kayak rentals. You will want to check it out.
Internet was added after the remodel so we have that available now thankfully.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
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

No pets allowed
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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

About the area

Carp Lake

Located in Carp Lake, this cottage is on the beach. Mackinaw Bridge Museum and Colonial Michilimackinac Park are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Animal Tracks Adventure Golf and Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum. Travelling with kids? Consider Murdick's Fudge - St. Ignace and Totem Village. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Cottages in Carp LakeOpens in a new window
Map
Carp Lake, MI

What's nearby

  • Wilderness State Park - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Headlands International Dark Sky Park - 8 min drive - 9.8 km
  • Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal - 12 min drive - 13.8 km
  • Mackinaw City Dock - 12 min drive - 14.9 km
  • The Jewel at the Grand Hotel - 61 min drive - 27.0 km

Getting around

  • Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Keyhole Bar & Grill - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Dixie Saloon - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Wienerlicious - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Darrow's Family Restaurant - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Lake Michigan Cecil Bay- November reduced rates and 2 night minimum stay! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Lake Michigan Cecil Bay- November reduced rates and 2 night minimum stay!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Lake Michigan Cecil Bay- November reduced rates and 2 night minimum stay!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lake Michigan Cecil Bay- November reduced rates and 2 night minimum stay!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Lake Michigan Cecil Bay- November reduced rates and 2 night minimum stay! located?

This family-friendly Carp Lake cottage is located on the beach, within 1 mi (2 km) of Wilderness State Park and Lake Michigan. Headlands International Dark Sky Park and Lake Huron are also within 6 miles (10 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. 73 out of 84 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 84 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 84 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 84 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 84 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was as described. Very clean and comfortable. Great views in a peaceful setting!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ryan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A very nice and tranquil experience! The hosts were always respectful and very responsive. A note if you have a little one looking to take a bath (we have a 20 mo)...the bathtub/shower combo does not have a tub faucet and we had an issue with keeping the drain plugged and water in the tub. Otherwise, the place is clean and we loved the 4 seasons room, the firepit, and private beach!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Holly S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage was perfect for our long weekend. Everything was well appointed and as described. The owners responded quickly with any questions I had. It is a short drive to Mackinaw City and the Trading Post being down the road was super convenient. I enjoyed my coffee in the mornings on the deck or in the sunroom. We were able to watch the sunset on the beach and a bon fire each evening. Just what we needed for a relaxing weekend to unwind. Thank you for sharing your cottage with us!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laney G.

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

Love this place!

This was our second stay, and we loved it again. You just can't beat a private beach. It also has easy access to the bridge and ferries to the island. Definitely recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

greg t.

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

Nice getaway!

Nice place with plenty of amenities. It was everything me and my fishing buddies were looking for. I would go back again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brad J.

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

Fantastic Getaway

We don't have enough good things to say. This place was perfect. It was quiet, private, clean, and had everything we needed! We spent most of our time on the beach, but when we were inside it had all the comfort and amenities of home! We are so grateful for the opportunity to stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael M.

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

Great Place to stay!

The bedrooms are cozy, the back bed was super comfortable. Kitchen was well stocked and easy for a couple people to move around and prepare meals. The 4 season room, with its view, is an amazing space to sip coffee and wake up. But the BEACH, the bay, the little cove, the fire pit on the beach, the sunrises over the bridge, the sunsets over the lake!!! Amazing, AMAZING, AMAZING!!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Adrianne B., Grand Rapids, Michigan

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

Set a course for Pointe West!

Our stay at “Pointe West” was delightful. Situated on a stretch of sandy private beach with a view of the bridge, it feels remote while still being close to town and area attractions. It was easy to settle in with the clear and concise check-in directions provided by our hosts Todd & Jacki. The home is spotless, stylishly furnished, and thoughtfully appointed, inside and out. Our small family especially loved the den room that looks out onto the lake (perfect spot to read in the evening) and the assorted seating/dining areas outdoors. A lovely place to stay if you are interested in exploring Wilderness State Park, Mackinac Island/Mackinaw City, even Harbor Springs, Cross Village, or Petoskey.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Melinda C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We just returned home after staying here for 4 nights. The home, which is basically an older mobile home with a beautiful 4 seasons room addition, was immaculately clean. It was nicely decorated with Michigan pictures & decor. There were lots of throw pillows & blankets. There's even a telescope & binoculars. The kitchen has everything you could ever need to prepare a meal, even a crockpot & an air fryer! (The outdoor gas grill worked great too!) The bedrooms are SMALL. They tell you that in the listing & they're not joking...but with that said, they are comfortable. I got some great sleep! My favorite room, of course, was the 4 seasons room. I enjoyed my morning coffee there each day. You simply can't beat the views. Outdoors is a private beach sanctuary. My only complaint was the pesky midges that were swarming but that's obviously not the owner's fault. We were still able to enjoy nightly fires on the beach with amazing pink sunsets. The home is very convenient to all the touristy places, Headlands Dark Sky Park, McGulpin Lighthouse, Mackinaw City, all within 10 minutes away. The Trading Post right around the corner was super convenient too! We saw so much wildlife at the home. (Cranes, chipmunks, squirrels, deer, birds, rabbits, swans, geese & even a turtle crossing the street.) Todd & Jacki were very easy to deal with & I'd highly recommend their home if going to this area.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deb D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a great time in this peaceful and beautiful location! This is a perfect spot for seeing the Northern Lights, and we were lucky enough to see them twice!
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Monica P.

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

Stay in Cecil Bay

Great place! Clean, comfortable and beautiful views. We couldn’t have asked for anything better!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christina F.

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

Amazing beach and sunsets!

Our family of 5 had a wonderful visit. While the bedrooms are smaller, the living spaces were plenty big. We absolutely loved the large living room with windows all around, views of the lake and comfortable seating. The beach was sandy and the water was shallow and was perfect for the kids. We also had some beautiful sunsets while sitting by the fire, thank you for sharing your home with us!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Terri M.

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

Family wedding

Clean and organized. Wonderful location
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Brandi D.

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

Serene Setting

My kids and I really enjoyed our stay here. It was very peaceful and quiet. It was nice being on the water, having our own beach and fire pit.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Candice C.

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

Great stay

Beautiful location for our short get-away. Would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

cheryl b.

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

Old friends' weekend

By old friends I mean seniors looking for a spot to relax with a view of Lake Michigan. The cottage provided that. Great view of the Straights of Mackinac. Equipped with everything we needed - possibly even more than needed - lots of stuff in cupboards & drawers. There were a couple issues for us - the first was accessibility. we didn’t realize it would be a problem based on the listing. one of us has mobility issues requiring the use of a wheeled walker. The hallway to the bedrooms and bathroom is narrow and the bedrooms are so small that the walker could not be used inside either bedroom or the bathroom and There were no hand rails to assist in stepping up to the decks that were at entry level. The second issue was that in the smaller bedroom there was no room for even a single small suitcase. The closet could have provided that space but it was filled with extra linens, boxes, and a vacuum cleaner. We had to put our two small carry-on size bags in the living room. If you have no mobility issues and have packed very light this cottage is wonderful. For us - not so much.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

6/10 Okay

Amber F.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Beautiful place. Needs pest control

The place was gorgeous but unfortunately the gnats and mice made it less than enjoyable at times. If hosts got pests under control it would be five stars.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stacey B.

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

Hidden Paradise

My family and I stayed at this property for four nights! It has absolutely breathtaking views. The first night was nice and clear and the stars were absolutely amazing. I have never seen stars like that. Unfortunately, the other nights were cloudy, but the beach is so nice. Crystal Clear water, kayaking was so fun and my 10 year old learned to do it on her own! We went to Mackinac Island one day and biked around it. You have to do this while you’re in the area. They also have sweet horses if you don’t want to bike. The city is fun and the food at the Key Hole was great! The house was nice and clean and I loved the wood burning fireplace. The couple that ran the trading post were very nice. They have everything you need, even amazing ice cream! The beach access is also very cool.and clean! We had such a great trip! We have already booked our next one ❤️
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura B.

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

Serene and convenient

Cute and well appointed. Very close to downtown Mackinaw City. Right by many points of interest. The time by the water was so peaceful.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rickey R.

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

Great stay

Beautiful stay
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matthew R.

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

Perfect spot

Our family (husband, wife and two 4 year old kids) stayed at Cecil Bay for our “home base” while visiting the Mackinaw area. It’s a perfect location for quick access to Mackinaw City, ferry boats to the island and the U.P. while being away from the city to have your own quiet oasis to enjoy the peace of northern Michigan. The beach area is perfect for young kids. Tons of sandy area to play in and very shallow water for 100s of feet as you walk out. We enjoyed use of the canoe and kayak as well. Would definitely stay again in a return trip to the Mackinaw area.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenny K.

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

Family Vacation

We had a great time! The cottage was clean and just what we wanted for our vacation.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Monica W.

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

The perfect getaway

This was a such a magical place!! The perfect little cottage. Beautifully updated, a great location with it only being 15 mins to Mackinaw City. The beach and the views of the lake were breathtaking. The kitchen has everything you could think of so we could prepare meals. Highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa S.

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

Beautiful View!

Sisters trip and we had a wonderful time staying in Cecil Bay at the cottage! Great location, secluded with beautiful view of Straits of Mackinaw, the bridge, Lake Michigan and close to Mackinaw City. We saw the northern lights during our visit. Also saw many species of water birds from the beach area at the cottage as well as deer and bald eagles! The owners of the Trading Post was very knowledgeable of things to do in the area. Memories made and wonderful time at The Cottage.....highly recommend this place!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Beautiful setting

We were just there for beds and bath but really enjoyed the back yard and sun room.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

About the host

Hosted by Todd and Jacki VanHuis

Host profile image
We are Todd and Jacki. We live downstate but have loved coming to the Straights area ever since our honeymoon over 30 years ago. Vacationing in Mackinaw City and on the Island every summer has been a family favorite since our children were very young. We’ve enjoyed fixing up other cottages beginning in 2005, and now we are loving our time spent here on the water while we make this place a little cozier and prettier.
Our kids have kept the love of the area, and we’re excited to “indoctrinate” the next generation! Our first grandchild came up last year for the first time and now we can’t wait to watch her splash in the water and play in the sand this coming summer.
We hope you enjoy your stay here as much as we do!

Why they chose this property

The first time we drove up we could see the water from the driveway and were pretty much sold. Then we walked down to the water....yep, we were sold. So beautiful, so peaceful. Exactly what we wanted for our family. Then the garage with its workbench and tools got to Todd, (sorry, not accessible to renters) while the garden shed and kayak were Jacki’s highlight. And the front room addition to the trailer with its views out all 3 sides....wow.
A bald eagle flew over us as we were about to get back in the car, and then we saw the northern lights from the beach the first time we stayed there. So we took it as a sign that it was meant to be!

What makes this property unique

This place offers peace and quiet in nature, with the water of the Straights just steps from the door. The sky is dark enough at night to see all the stars . The northern lights are visible at times. Places to swim and bike and hike are all right here. But for those who want more action, Mack City is a short drive away.

Languages:

English

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