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Macatawa Waterfront by 'Big Red' / Cottage Living for 2

Photo gallery for Macatawa Waterfront by 'Big Red' / Cottage Living for 2

Ariel photo: Pilot House/Corner lot at Lake Macatawa and SE side of channel.
Pilot House exterior
View from upper porch.
Living room
Bedroom #1

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Holland, MI
  • Place, Holland State Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Ottawa Beach
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Airport, Muskegon, MI (MKG-Muskegon County)
    ‪44 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Macatawa Waterfront by 'Big Red' / Cottage Living for 2

Park Township in Ottawa County has banned all short term rentals (STR) in Park Township, including our historic, resort community. Currently, we can only offer 28 day rentals.

The Pilot House is a clean, charming, vintage style cottage condo, attached to a private residence. This second floor unit is perfect for a working professional, couple on a get-a-way, or small family. With two bedrooms, one with a queen bed and one double bed (linens provided), a large bathroom with a separate stackable Maytag washer & dryer, a well-equipped kitchen with stove and microwave, and a private, upper outdoor porch with vaulted ceilings right off a cozy, light filled living room. ROKU TV, DVD, and WiFi are provided. Yet, stepping into this Macatawa beach community is a bit like venturing into the past. This historic community is located on a jewel of a peninsula surrounded by the majestic waters of Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa. In the north and central sections, cottagers park in nearby private parking lots, keeping the association's walks and beach front serene and safe for young children, adults and kids pulling wagons (with groceries) to their cottage, and strolling down the many walks.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
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 first aid kit

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Macatawa

Located in Macatawa, this condo is near theme parks and on a lake. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and Oval Beach. DePree Art Center and Gallery and Holland Area Arts Council are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and hiking/biking trails.
Map
Holland, MI

What's nearby

  • Holland State Park - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Ottawa Beach - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk - 10 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Sanctuary Woods Preserve - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Dutch Village - 13 min drive - 14.6 km

Getting around

  • Holland Station - 15 min drive
  • Muskegon, MI (MKG-Muskegon County) - 51 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Biggby Coffee - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Deboer Bakkerij South - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Domino's Pizza - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Macatawa Waterfront by 'Big Red' / Cottage Living for 2 pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Macatawa Waterfront by 'Big Red' / Cottage Living for 2?

As of 1 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Macatawa Waterfront by 'Big Red' / Cottage Living for 2 on 2 Apr 2026 start from AU$290, 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 Macatawa Waterfront by 'Big Red' / Cottage Living for 2?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Macatawa Waterfront by 'Big Red' / Cottage Living for 2?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Macatawa Waterfront by 'Big Red' / Cottage Living for 2?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Macatawa Waterfront by 'Big Red' / Cottage Living for 2 located?

Situated on a lake, this condo building is within a 10-minute walk of Holland State Park and Lake Michigan. Ottawa Beach and Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk are also within 15 minutes.

Reviews

10

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. 84 out of 88 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 88 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 88 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 88 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 88 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lois A.

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

Great location

We loved our stay. The location was great. It was quiet and relaxing.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joan K.

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

Great location

Charming apartment!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea B.

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

Fabulous Stay Once Again!

Each and every stay just keeps getting better! This time we took advantage of all the kitchen has to offer for cooking and serving really good meals.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barb D.

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

Annual trip to Macatawa

Perfect! Weather was great! And always a great stay at Pilot House!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea B.

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

Our Favorite!

The cottage is so well decorated and offers everything you need to enjoy the beautiful area. We absolutely love the balcony over the channel!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bradley H.

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

24th Anniversary

Wonderful vacation spot! Private and on the water. Beautiful sunrises and quick/easy access to the lighthouse and the beach. Our host was very detailed and decorated beautifully.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marge L.

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

Perfect Apartment

The apartment was exactly as described. Location is perfect. Sunsets are the best I have ever witnessed.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea B.

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

Always a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Experience!

This beautiful cottage is located in a special place and Judy makes each and every stay exceptional! We will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Billie & Bill G.

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

Pilot House

Perfect Location!! Darling up stair’s appointment!! Very comfortable beds!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

TROY D.

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

Wonderful Vacation

The Pilot House upstairs was sincerely charming, cozy but not small, and the location was more than we expected. Judith has literally everything spelled out for the renter; again more than we expected or experienced with other rentals. It will be an easy choice to rent from Judith again.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Oct 2022
You were wonderful guests, and we would happy to have you return. We are glad we were able to make your trip most memorable.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dixie E.

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

Boat Watching

This was our fourth year to book this cozy apartment because we enjoy the deck so much. We can see all the boats, including freighters, as they go through the channel between Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan. We walk to the lighthouse and the private beach every day. Judith provides everything you need for your stay and there is a market nearby for food. The pictures are accurate. Beds are comfortable. Book it if you can!
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert S.

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

Boat Watch

Great spot for watching boat traffic in and out of the channel. 5 freighters came in and went back out during our 6 day stay. The phone app helped us be prepared. Some were during the night. More pleasure craft than expected for late May. Hard to decide between beach time and porch time. Don't think there is a better beach anywhere. Great how this historical property has been preserved. This second floor apartment is comfortable and cosy.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Candilee B.

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

Fall Viewing

This absolutely lovely property fulfills every wish . It has stunning views of the water and the sunrise. It is very close to the beach and hiking trails. And it is so comfortably furnished that it feels like home.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pierce M.

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

Pilot House - wow!

Thoughtful communication initiated by host covering all the need to know info. Clean and well-kept two bedrooms w comfortable seating area. Nicely stocked kitchen - we found everything we looked for! Our favorite - sitting outside on the covered porch watching boat traffic in and out of the harbor at sunset!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eric S.

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

Excellent

Simply loved everything!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

scott f.

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

Wonderful getaway

We had a great weekend trip to the Pilot House with private access to one of the most beautiful places in Michigan.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christopher M.

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

Wonderful!

The Pilot House has been our favorite lake cottage for many years. It’s a beautiful setting all year around.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brenda R.

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

Amazing location

Wonderful location. We all stood on the balcony at midnight one night, watching a freighter go through the channel, from Lake Macatawa out to Lake Michigan. An amazing experieince! Loved our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Peggy W.

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

Macatawa Magic!

Judith's excellently appointed getaway was nothing short of amazing! Highlights include watching the barges, sailboats and power boats entering/leaving the channel, waking up to the beautiful Lake Macatawa from the bedroom window, the short walk to the Big Red Lighthouse, the proximity to the sand and fresh water of Lake Michigan and sleeping like a log in the comfy bed! I would not hesitate to recommend this slice of peaceful paradise to anyone wanting to experience this coastal gem along the lake shore! Thanks Judith! It was a pleasure meeting you!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara R.

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

Spectacular Views

We, absolutely, loved the darling cottage overlooking Lake Macatawa and the channel out to Lake Michigan. The walks on the beach and to the "Big Red" lighthouse, bike rides, and sunsets with our dear friend were all highlights. The views from our balcony were spectacular! Thank you to owners, Jude and Safe for your hospitality and sharing your little slice of heaven with us
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wayne A.

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

Quoting my wife, "that was a perfect Christmas present!"

One of a kind
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea B.

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

Lobe, Love, Love Upper Pilot House!

What a perfect week in Macatawa! In could not have been more perfect!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barb D.

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

Fabulous!

A wonderful getaway!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dixie E.

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

A Gem

The simple joy of sitting on the balcony watching a variety of boats go by is a favorite activity here. Other pluses are the short walk to Big Red Lighthouse and a private beach. The apartment has everything you need except food. For that, there is a friendly market nearby and good restaurants in Holland and Saugatauk. Jude is very responsive and has a handy book with instructions and suggestions. We have already booked for next year!
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leah G.

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

Wonderful Spot!

We had the best time at this location. It was the perfect place to stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

About the host

Hosted by Judith Bergsma

Host profile image
We have a wonderful, extended family who loves the waters of Lake Michigan, sweet, summer breezes, biking, sailing, swimming, and making delicious meals. There is a large family cottage purchased in the 50s also located in Macatawa where my parents welcomed their daughters, son-in-laws, nieces and nephews, cousins, grandchildren and great-grandchildren along with their friends throughout the summer. The Pilot House is a leisurely walk or bike ride away from the family cottage and a welcome retreat, but also close enough to help manage the family cottage. (photo: niece, grandniece, and daughter).

Languages:

English
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