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Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee.

Photo gallery for Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee.

A marina with boats docked, a grassy area with a bench, and a sunset in the background.
A room with wooden walls, a sliding glass door with blinds, a television on a wooden stand, a sofa, and a small table.
A small house with a covered patio, a fenced yard, and a garage.
A kitchen with a granite countertop, a white sink, wooden cabinets, and a window overlooking a lake.
A cozy living room with a wooden floor, a ceiling fan, a sofa with cushions, a table, and a chair.

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Highlights

  • By the lake
    Guests love the beautiful lakefront location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Close to Silver Lake State Park
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Mears, MI
  • Place, Silver Lake
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Silver Lake State Park
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Place, Michigan's Adventure
    ‪32 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 3

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee.

Location, Location, Location one of the best property locations on the entire lake. Delightful family location on the calm side of the lake isolated from traffic both on land and water. Conveniently located in a subdivision shielding it from traffic. Shallow waterfront, ideal for swimming with young children. Sand bottom lake with tie out for boat. Ice cream parlor and dune buggy rides within walking distance. Grassy waterfront for lounging lakeside, lake is ideal for water activities like skiing, fishing, and sailing. Full view of lake and sand dunes.

Mooring for boat, shallow lake front, outdoor gas grill, lawn chairs, patio chairs and table. Lakeside of cottage has sliding glass doors and windows with an unobstructed view of the lake. Great place to enjoy coffee by the water or relax inside with great view of the water. Enjoy 60' of Silver Lake frontage with the best views in all of Silver Lake area. No dirt or paved road to cross. Option to rent a second cottage on the same property (VRBO Listing #841621). Both have views of the dunes and lake, a fire pit, and a private dock. Bring your boat and dock it here all week. (Or rent a pontoon boat / kayaks / Stand up paddle boards on the lake).

One of the best locations on Silver Lake, not Upper Silver or the creek. We're located on the quiet side of the lake away from traffic. This cottage was recently renovated with an updated bathroom, new flooring, blinds, and lighting, as well as refinished cabinets and table. We're excited to share our sweet cottage with you. This location is within walking distance to Mac Woods Dune Rides and Whippy Dip. The kids can ride their bikes safely on our neighborhood streets. Just a short drive away (about 2 miles to the downtown area) are go-karts/arcade, bumper cars/boats, and miniature golf at Craig's Cruisers, shopping at Dunetown Mall, Ice Cream, restaurants, any type of water craft rental at the Wave Club, Jeep/Quad/Buggy rentals. Also, check out Cherry Point Farm & Market for their wonderful cherry donuts (really delicious!). Additionally, a ride out to the tallest lighthouse on Lake Michigan, Little Sable Point, to catch an evening sunset is a must-do on your vacation bucket list. The Lighthouse is open for tours during summer weekends.

Come for a fun and relaxing vacation . . . and return for generations!

Please note that each year we try to make additional upgrades in an effort to make your experience even better. Just some of these updates include:
2021: small portable dishwasher for those that would like this convenience
2022: new queen-size pillowtop mattress in the primary bedroom
2023: Enlarged the patio, installed 6 new windows, new 17" comfort-height toilet, new bathroom faucet, updated bedroom furniture for Queen bed, new pots and pans, decor updates (rugs, pictures, lamps, pillows, twin coverlets, etc), and added additional shelf in cabinet above the stove for your use. Also now including sheets and some towels for your use.

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View from living area
Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee.
Mears
  • Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (26 reviews)
Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee.

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed
As long as you do not disturb neighbor’s
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Pets

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
This is a family community therefore you are expected to be respectful of all neighbors.
All renters to bring their own sheets and towels for their stay.
Please deposit household garbage in outside cans before leaving drag to street.Please leave the facilities clean for limited touch up for next guests.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 816965vb
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
Parties and events are allowed on site
Note from host: As long as you do not disturb neighbor’s
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Mears

Located in Mears, this cottage is in the city centre and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and Silver Lake State Park. Craig's Cruisers Family Fun Center and Corn Maze are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with horse riding and hiking/biking trails.
View more Cottages in MearsOpens in a new window
Map
Mears, MI

What's nearby

  • Silver Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Silver Lake State Park - 11 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Upper Silver Lake - 5 min drive - 4.7 km
  • Michigan's Adventure - 32 min drive - 64.4 km
  • S.S. Badger: Lake Michigan Carferry - 39 min drive - 58.4 km

Getting around

  • Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker) - 70 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Frickin' Chicken Shack - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Open Hearth Grille - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Golden Sands Bucket Bar - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪The Golden Eatery - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Whippy Dip - ‬6 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee. pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee.?

As of 9 Aug 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee. on 7 Sept 2026 start from AU$2,102, 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 Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee.?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee.?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Home on the lake. Walk out your door for Swimming, boating or morning coffee. located?

Located in the heart of Mears, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Silver Lake and Silver Lake State Park. Lake Michigan is 1.2 mi (1.9 km) away.

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

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. 26 out of 41 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 41 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 4 out of 41 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 41 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.4/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

8.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Katherine B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It’s the best location for a relaxing, quiet vacation. House has everything you need. Best views on the lake.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Sept 2025
Thank you for your review. It makes it worthwhile to rent our little piece of heaven when people enjoy it thank you.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dan W.

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

Lake access

Great cottage for us to stay with easy access to the lake to use our boat!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Relaxing

Perfect location between Lake Michigan and town.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ginger P.

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

Lake vacation

The property was very clean. Cozy feel. Very close to the lake. We had a great time relaxing on the dock or in the front yard. Great location!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kari N.

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

Great Cottage with a Great View!

The cottage was comfortable and had all of the amenities that we were looking for. Great location on the quiet end of the lake with a beautiful view of the dunes. The owner was extremely responsive. Planning to stay here again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Aug 2023
Thank you we love it when we share our place with people who love it.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Miriam H.

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

Small but comfortable

Great location as per the lake. Good accommodations for a couple or family with small kids. Lake front was shallow and nice for swimming. There is a fair amount of noise from dune ride business, but they close early.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liz W.

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

Easy Peasy

It was great for our small family. Prop Manager was really responsive and helpful.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2023
Thank you I’m glad you had a nice time.
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Rachel S.

Liked: Check-in, location
Disliked: Communication, listing accuracy
Let me start off by saying, I've read the constructive feedback given to the host which seems to ends in a defensive response. IMOLet me tell you our story- have nothing to gain here- PLEASE READ TO THE ENDBooked this AMAZING property for the week of fourth of July 2026. There is another single family vacation rental cottage on this same property which did result in some confusion @ check in but we figured it out swiftly.Property SPECTACULAR and cottage is cute. All we needed. Noticed a slide out camper also parked on the property. Thought nothing of it as I assumed this was for extra guests when the owner was present.On Wednesday AM of our Sat-Sat stay i noticed the camper was now occupied. The camper is approximately 5' from the front door of the cottage. What a surprise to find that the son of the owner & his young family had come up from IL to stay @ the camper! No heads up/contact from the host about these unexpected guests. Truly a nice guy/fam but not what i had signed up for...within a few hours asked to go into our rented cottage to flip the breaker for the camper. . He stated they would not be in our way/property but with 2 little kids and a dog it was surely going to happen and did.I was in utter disbelief (previous VRBO host) no communication from the owner received. I would not contact VRBO during the stay as someone i dont know has the code to where my children sleep. VRBO (Ehab) said tough luckWhat would you do?
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 8 July 2026
Yes, my son did stay in a camper that was on the same lot. He did his best to stay out of their way and did not hang out on the property at all. My sister owns the property next-door and he stayed over there and left the property for the renters to utilize. It’s very difficult to keep everybody happy truly sorry that this woman felt inconvenienced.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jessica L.

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

Location is amazing!

We enjoyed our week at Silver Lake. It was nice to park our boat out front all week and not take it in and out of the water. Swimming is right off the dock and shallow enough for kids. Excellent view of the dunes! We would book this again with the cottage up front as well with family. Thank you for a great week!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 11 July 2020
It’s nice to have people who appreciate our favorite place. Thank you
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

TANYA F.

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

Great Location, Great View of Silver Lake

Lots of close stuff nearby to do, view of the lake is beautiful, bonfire anytime, easy in/easy out, kids single beds were comfy, lots of pillows and fans. Minor Items: there is some poison ivy by the fence line, screen door for slider wasn't really working and fell off trying to open/close it.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Aug 2020
Screen door was off the track after customers stay but was easy to put back on. Suspected poison Ivy is actually raspberries. I’m glad the stay was nice we, hope to have you back again next year.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Martin K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect and quiet location. Offered the best of everything Silver Lake has to offer. The cottage had everything we needed and was well appointed for dishes, towels, and furnishings (indoors and out). Being able to bring the dogs was a great plus and did not require an additional fee. We couldn't have been happier with what this place offered. It is very close to Mac Woods Dune Rides, a quick trip over to lake Michigan and the Lighthouse, a quick trip into town for the shops and coffeehouse and a little further away was the pedestrian access to the dunes. Of course, the paddleboards were a great addition, we paddled our way across the lake to the dunes and hiked from there. If you go places for the places and require a place to rest and eat, this place was the best!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Julie H.

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

The beach is perfect.

The cabin was roomy and well stocked. The location was perfect. My two granddaughters loved swimming right in front of the house. The beach was lovely. The only negative is the old small, tiny toilet. The toilet is quite frankly miserable. If the toilet is replaced I would rent there again without hesitation.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Aug 2022
Looks like we need the new taller toilet. We will upgrade those this year. Thank you
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Erin W.

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

Amazing Vacation!

We had and amazing time staying at this location!! It was a perfect sized cabin for us and our two little boys to enjoy a week on the lake. :) The cabin is easily accessible and within walking distance to Mac Woods and The Whippy Dip, which was a wonderful vacation benefit. The cabin had all the amenities you would need for the week! If I had to put into words the minor downfalls, I would say the outlet in the bathroom did not work, and the bathroom sink is crazy small, the main screen door did not slide very easily and needs adjusted, and parking with trailers is tight, but the view and location make up for it! We will definitely be renting again! :)
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 July 2025
Thank you, I’m glad you enjoyed your stay. The outlet in the bathroom worked when I tested it. I’m not sure why it didn’t for you but thank you for the feedback. We look forward to your stay next year. My son’s family stayed there after you and arrived prior to the cleaning people and he said it was in great condition and that we really didn’t need our cleaning people to do a thing since It was so clean after your stay. Thank you for treating our cottage like your own!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Pamela B.

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

Adorable Cottage

This is located in an area of private homes - very quiet setting with a wonderful view of the lake and sand dunes. There was enough room for the 5 of us for a couple days- otherwise it was just the 2 of us. Easy to drive to the State Park or walk to the Dune Rides or Whippy Dipp ice cream! Loved the Cherry Point Market- delicious sandwiches if you order by 2:30, and the pie is so delicious! Contacted the owner once and he answered right away. Had a great time at the Lakeview Cottage!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Sheryl M.

Disliked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

For the price we paid the property was not very upscale. It was not sparkling clean and very small.

Very small and not the best for the amount of money it cost. No entry into the water for small children. 😕
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Aug 2021
Property is right on the water. Great access for kids. Not sure why this person gave a silly review like this. Does not fit with normal reviews!
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Joe C.

Liked: Check-in
Disliked: Cleanliness, communication

Silver Lake Trip 2021

Great Location. Overcrowding with furniture. Upon arrival all the rooms needed cleaning. The kitchen cabinets were overpacked with dishes, no storage for personal groceries. The dishwasher was portable not practical for a small kitchen. Very nice view of the lake.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2022
Not sure why I received this review almost a year after their stay. The portable dishwasher washer was an addition that year the listing didn’t even include a dishwasher. I guess this guest would prefer to do dishes by hand. The cabinets are stocked with nice dishes and all the things you might want to enjoy your stay. The cottage is simple and clean and the pictures depict it accurately. The lake experience is about vacationing with your family on the lake and enjoying the lake experience. If you are coming just for the accommodations, I would recommend the Four Seasons but you won’t find that anywhere near the lake. The view is awesome and the accommodations are simple but much nicer than any hotel or motel near the lake. By the way the location it arguably in the top 3 on the entire lake.
Verified review

8/10 Good

millissa g.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vacation stay

The water and dock were nice and easy to use. The back bedroom flooded and all of shoes and bags were soaked. The cover on the bed then was wet due to the water on the floor. We did not have any access to a dryer. Unfortunately i was not aware that i had to call vrbo on the day this happened and they are unable to give any type of refunds.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Scott F.

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

Great week at Silver Lake

The cottages on this property are clean and well-maintained. There was a minor hiccup with the trash from the previous renter but I texted the owner and it was handled straight away and was not an issue. VERY responsive owner. This property is at the SW end of Silver Lake, away from the hotels resorts and sand dune rentals. So, it’s much quieter traffic-wise. Neighbors were very friendly, and the distance to food and ice cream (critical) is short. My wife, our son and his girlfriend (in their 20’s) we with us and the rear cottage was the perfect size for us. I caught numerous perch, a few bluegills, a bass, two small walleye and a large sucker with a bobber and nightcrawlers off the end of the dock. That was a nice plus. All in all, I give this a 12/10, no real down side or negatives for us at all. Very good week (Saturday to Saturday in the rear cottage).
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 July 2023
We love sharing or cottage with people like you who enjoy life and appreciate a place that we cherish. Thank you for staying with us!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

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

Nice but basic

Loved the Silver Lake area. Rented a pontoon and spent the day at the sand dunes. Shopped and ate in Pentwater, a fun little town area with cute shops. There was lots to do and everyone was friendly. About the property: It was not that clean. Cobwebs everywhere. It was very surface clean only. I wouldn’t turn on the floor fan because it was simply filthy. The sheets and towels were plentiful and clean. Bed was alright, too. We really could have used lounge chairs or at least adjustable chairs. We were the only property without lounge chairs I noticed. The small beachfront was picturesque and serine. There was supposed to be a bit of sand going down to the water but the water level was too high so we not able to go in with our pups. The tv is small although we didn’t use it much anyway. This is a tiny home but it’s adequate for two with pups.’
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2024
We try our best to make the lake front cottage neat and clean. We have cleaning staff that clean it weekly. We are sorry if it didn’t meet your expectations. Thank you for staying with us. I hope you had a wonderful time.
Verified review

2/10 Terrible

Michelle B.

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

Lakeview cottage

Major water intrusion that the host was aware of and did not warn us about. Clutter around the side and rear of building. Sliding screen door does not work well. Interior doors do not latch. 1 partial roll of toilet paper provided. Dishes and linens and outdoor furniture were adequate for needs. Ultimately we are very disappointed in this rental and in VRBO for allowing hosts like this to continue to ruin vacations for families. I will sending a longer response, but you should not allow this man to continue to rent his properties until he makes repairs. I would have give 0 stars if this platform would have allowed it.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Aug 2023
These people stayed all week and then tried to get $2000.00 back. Unfortunately as a landlord we don’t get to pick our clients but I would not rent to these people again. Most experiences renting on VRBO are pleasant and occasionally you get people who use the review process as a form extortion.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Molly K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute and comfortable
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Raymond S.

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

We were able to boat on the lake, ride on the dunes and go to a nice beach at Lake Michigan.

Cottage is fine, view is great, allowing dog's is a huge plus.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jeff P.

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

Was nice place, good location, great town

Was fine, no major issues
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Amanda C.

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

Great Silver Lake Location

My family and I enjoyed our stay in this cottage. We especially loved that we were able to bring our pups with us! It really is a great location - walking distance to Whippy Dip and Mac Dune Rides and so close to Lake Michigan and the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. It was not clear ahead of time that renters would be sharing beach/lake access with the other cottage renters, but that worked out fine for us, as the other renters were very friendly. Would definitely recommend this cottage - "pet friendly" rentals are the best!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

TIM R.

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

Great Vacation Rental

This was a great property and a great location on the Silver Lake!! Great views of the lake! Would definitely recommend to others.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 29 June 2021
I’m glad you enjoyed your stay. Thank you

About the host

Hosted by Bob Davies

Host profile image
From Chicago area and I have been enjoying Silver Lake my entire life.

Why they chose this property

We have a wonderful view of the dunes. We also are in a nice little subdivision, so it's safe for kids to ride bikes, and play.

What makes this property unique

We are in one of the best locations on the lake. There is less wind and the water is calmer than on the far side of the lake, and it's perfect for children and adults alike.

Languages:

English
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