Perfect home for a family of 4 looking for a simple, clean, vacation spot. Harbor Haven is just a short 8 minute walk or 3 minute drive to a gorgeous beach on Lake Michigan! The home comes with wood planked ceilings, 2 bedrooms, 1 and ½ bathrooms, fully-equipped kitchen, and beautiful deck with patio furniture for guests to relax. On the back of the house is also a screened-in porch where you can enjoy nature bug-free! A washer/dryer and electric grill are also present for guests to enjoy!
Union Pier is a fabulous summer city with wineries, casinos, and great restaurants nearby. With the Michigan City Outlet Mall only 20 minutes away, and golf courses galore, mom and daughter can enjoy shopping, while father and son hit the course!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A/C: Yes
Animals: Birds and small animals like squirrels and raccoons.
ATV/Snowmobiles: Not the ideal place for snowmobiling or ATV's. Can not ride from house to trails and there is no room for parking a trailer. Best to leave those home and enjoy the amazing views of Lake Michigan!
Bathroom:
Bathroom 1= Full bath with stand up shower
Bathroom 2 = ½ bath
Beach/Swimming: Gordon Beach is a short 5 minute walk. From house, looking at road, turn right onto Lakeshore Rd. Turn right onto Town Line Ave. Take all the way to the beach stairs.
Bedroom Configuration: Bedroom 1= King
Bedroom 2= Bunk bed (twin on top, full size below)
Boat Rental: Oselka Marina in New Buffalo.
Bugs: Typical flies, mosquitoes, spiders, and ants.
Cable: Yes Living room is equipped with Xfinity Cable
Cell phone service: Great service with most carriers. AT&T may not be as good as others
Fire Pit: You are able to build bonfires on the beach, but there is not a firepit at the house. Whatever driftwood you find or purchase some firewood at the local grocer.
Fireplace: There is a wood burning fireplace in the home. Please bring your own wood.
Fishing: Bring your poles.
Fishing License: You can purchase your fishing license online
Grill: Charcoal grill-please bring your own charcoal
Handicap Accessible: If you can navigate a few stairs in/out of the house, you will be able to enjoy this one level home.
Hunting: Not Onsite
Internet: WiFi included
Linens: Yes, we provide you with basic sheets and linens. Just like a hotel, the beds will be made for you upon arrival. If you are particular about the thread count of your sheets, let us know, and we will make sure we leave a bed open for your sheets.
Outdoor Shower: YES- we have an outdoor shower for you to enjoy between June-September.
Parking: 2 cars in driveway and 2 in- front if necessary
Pets: Pets are not allowed. Enjoy this allergen-free space.
Privacy: There is a home on the one side of the home that is visible. The backyard is semi-private. With mature trees on one side of the home and white picket fence, you will enjoy the comfort of the backyard.
Security: There is a Ring Doorbell on the front door.
Space: ranch-style home
Store: 4 miles away. It is called Barney's - 10 North Thompson, New Buffalo A convenience store is within walking distance, which hosts basic supplies.
Towels: Yes, we provide towels. Please bring your own beach towels to take to the water.
TVs: 2 Smart TVs. Living room with Xfinity Cable and Xumo Box, Master bedroom has a Roku Streaming only. Feel free to bring your Hulu, Netflix, or Amazon accounts! If you don't have Netflix, we can allow you to use our account during your stay.
Washer and dryer: Yes! Laundry soap is provided.
Winter Activities: 1. Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding - Warren Dunes State Park: While primarily known for its hiking and beach access, the park may offer winter activities like snowshoeing and sledding. Distance: About 3 miles, 5-10 minutes by car. - Swiss Valley Ski Area: A small but popular ski resort in nearby Jones, Michigan. Distance: About 40 miles, approximately 1 hour drive east of Union Pier. 2. Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing - Warren Dunes State Park: The park offers scenic winter trails that are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with views of Lake Michigan. Distance: About 3 miles, 5-10 minutes by car. - Galien River County Park: A peaceful spot for hiking and snowshoeing, with trails that wind through winter landscapes. Distance: About 8 miles, 15 minutes by car. 3. Snowmobiling - Berrien County Snowmobile Trails: These trails connect with the larger Michigan snowmobile network, offering routes through the woods and along country roads. Distance: Local trails are within 10-15 miles, about 20-25 minutes by car. 4. Ice Fishing - Lake Michigan (near Union Pier): Ice fishing is popular on Lake Michigan during the coldest months. Check local conditions for safe ice. Distance: The lake is just a short walk or drive from the house, depending on where you're fishing. 5. Winter Hiking & Sledding - Warren Dunes State Park: In addition to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, this park offers scenic winter hiking trails and areas to sled. Distance: About 3 miles, 5-10 minutes by car. - Hagar Park: A local park with sledding opportunities during the winter months. Distance: About 6 miles, 10-15 minutes by car. 6. Holiday Events & Light Displays - New Buffalo Christmas Parade: During the holiday season, this festive parade features holiday lights and activities. Distance: About 8 miles, 15-20 minutes by car, in nearby New Buffalo. - St. Joseph Winter Fest: A winter festival featuring ice sculptures, snow activities, and festive events. Distance: About 30 miles, 40 minutes by car.
Wood: Wood NOT provided. Please bring your own. Can be purchased at Barneys, about 4 miles away - 10 North Thompson, New Buffalo 269-469-1210.
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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
About the area
Union Pier
Union Pier is home to this holiday home. Wilkinson Village Heritage Museum and Burnison Galleries are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Vickers Theatre and Hesston Steam Museum. Round Barn Union Pier Tasting Room and Local are also worth visiting. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including birdwatching, wildlife walks and swimming.
St. Julian Winery - Union Pier Tasting Room - 3 min drive - 2.5 km
Round Barn Union Pier Tasting Room - 3 min drive - 2.5 km
Getting around
New Buffalo Station - 7 min drive
South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.) - 46 min drive
Restaurants
The Buffet at Four Winds Casino - 13 min drive
Four Winds Sports Bar - 13 min drive
Timbers at Four Winds Casino - 14 min drive
The Stray Dog Bar & Grill - 7 min drive
White Birch Market - 14 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Harbor Haven: A Summer Getaway Just Steps from Lake Michigan pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Harbor Haven: A Summer Getaway Just Steps from Lake Michigan?
As of 14 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Harbor Haven: A Summer Getaway Just Steps from Lake Michigan on 31 Aug 2026 start from AU$482, 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 Harbor Haven: A Summer Getaway Just Steps from Lake Michigan?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Harbor Haven: A Summer Getaway Just Steps from Lake Michigan?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Harbor Haven: A Summer Getaway Just Steps from Lake Michigan?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Harbor Haven: A Summer Getaway Just Steps from Lake Michigan located?
Situated in Union Pier, this holiday home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Union Pier Beach and Lake Michigan. Gordon Beach and Wilkinson Village Heritage Museum are also within 10 minutes.
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Very clean and easy to find. Happy with the area and short walk to the Lake!
Derek G.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Nov 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're glad you enjoyed the area and the short walk to the lake. You were wonderful guests, and we’d be happy to welcome you back anytime! -Van, FVR
We loved our stay at Harbor Haven! Harbor Haven is cozy and comfortable! We have stayed at many rentals and Harbor Haven was one of the cleanest ( spotless). We enjoyed our walk to and on the beach. Convenient coffee spot to walk to in the mornings was a plus! Communication for arrival/ departure info was great ! We enjoyed a quiet, lovely getaway ! We hope to visit Harbor Haven in the future!
James M.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Nov 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed your stay at Harbor Haven and appreciated the cleanliness, location, and overall experience. You were such great guests, and we would absolutely love to welcome you back anytime for another relaxing getaway! - Van, FVR
My wife and I loved the house! Quiet neighborhoodand amenities like off street parking- great back deck area and overall cleanliness was awesome! Not to mention proximity to Lake Michigan!!We will book a stay again as well as recommend to family and friends! Price was very affordable too!
Quentin S.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Sept 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed the house and all the amenities. You were wonderful guests, and we’d be happy to welcome you back anytime. We truly appreciate your recommendation to family and friends! -Van FVR
Our stay at the house was lovely. This was a mother/daughter trip and the house was the perfect size for it. The beach was very close and the walk thete was beautiful every time. The property is very centrally located neear a lovely doughnut shop and a convenient market, which is fully stocked with everything you may need. The kitchen, however is in desperate need of new utensils of every sort. If you are a person who loves cooking, this situation will frustrate you. Specially the pots and pans are old and missing their lids. Knives also are worn out and do not cut. The stove is electric, which should be mentioned in the description. Other amenities were in working order, and as described. The fireplace was a great gathering place for the evening after a day at the beach. Overall, a lovely cottage for a small family, or couple. Will definitely recommend based on its location.
Angela M. G.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Apr 2026
Thank you for your thoughtful review! We’re so glad you enjoyed your stay, the location, and your time by the beach and fireplace. We appreciate your feedback on the kitchen items and will share this with our team for improvement, as well as update the listing regarding the electric stove. You were wonderful guests, thank you for taking great care of the home! We’d love to host you again. -Van, FVR
The home was comfortable, clean and well maintained. Really enjoyed the quiet stay.
Hilda G.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Dec 2023
Hilda, first, thank you for being such a responsible guest. We're so happy to hear that you had a very enjoyable stay, and we hope to see you back again.
-Claire, FVR
Great location. Beach is an easy walk and “downtown” Union Pier is right around the corner. House is clean and attractive, but only bare essentials provided in the kitchen. It took some digging to find the beach chairs in the backyard shed. Other than that, a great little place.
Sheryl M.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Sept 2025
We’re so glad you enjoyed the location and found the house clean and attractive. Thank you for your helpful feedback about the kitchen items and beach chairs, we’ll be sure to keep that in mind. You were wonderful guests, and we’d be happy to welcome you back anytime. -Van FVR
The property was great for a weekend getaway. Cozy, clean, quiet, and close to lots of food and fun.
John-Michael E.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Dec 2023
John-Michael, we're so glad to hear that the property was great for your weekend getaway. We appreciate what a conscientious guest you were, and we hope to work with you again.
Verified
8/10 Good
Erica
4 Aug 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The house was adorable and a perfect location do check out all that the area has to offer. Short and easy walk to the beach, and the property manager was responsive via both text and phone call with a few small issues & questions we had.
We had a wonderful time here and the bedroom bunk beds worked out perfectly for our two kids. We enjoyed the big couch and all of the outdoor seating. You can walk to shops and the beach!
Rebecca R.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct 2024
Thanks Rebecca! We absolutely love how close the shops are, you were such a wonderful guest and we look forward to having you back soon!
Jayne FVR
This was a great little house that was within walking distance to two different beach access points. It had everything we needed and communication with management was prompt when we had a small issue with checking in. Would stay here again.
Kevin S.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2022
Kevin, we're glad that you had a good stay and we'd love to have you stay again.
Comfortable & so cozy! The perfect location, walking distance to the beach & a short drive to town.
Angela C.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Nov 2023
Angela, we're glad that you found Harbor Haven to be comfortable and cozy. Being walking distance to Lake Michigan is certainly an added bonus! Thank you for being such a responsible be guest, and we hope to work with you again.
We were looking for a place walking distance to the beach. Perfect for my family of 3. We love Black Currant Bakehouse, so walking distance to this great spot is a great bonus!
Jen B.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Oct 2024
I am glad that the locatione worked out perfectly for your family Jennifer. It's great to hear that you appreciated the proximity to Black Currant Bakehouse as well. You were great guests and we'd love working with you again. - Van FVR
Tony, we love knowing that you found the property to be great and that you will rent again.
About the host
Hosted by Freshwater Vacation Rentals
Freshwater Vacation Rentals • Established in 2005 If you are looking for a vacation rental, you have come to the right spot! We offer an unparalleled selection of properties across the state-from private islands and large family lodges to peaceful Great Lakes getaways. We specialize in finding your ideal setting, whether it's a social spot where you can enjoy evening fires with neighbors, or a remote retreat where you won't see another soul. Our philosophy: We work hard so you don't have to. As both owners and property managers for nearly two decades (since our start with Republic island and the Rapid River Lodge), we offer a unique, insider perspective. Our mission is to guarantee our guests a wonderful experience and help our owners maximize their investment. Give us a call, and we'll find the right fit for you!
Languages:
English, Spanish, Danish, Croatian
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests