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Walk to Lake Michigan Beach from Cottage in the Woods - *Seaside Fired Smores*

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A small, dark wooden cabin with a chimney, surrounded by a gravel path and lush greenery.
A compact kitchen with white cabinets, a microwave, stove, and a refrigerator.
A wooden deck with outdoor furniture, a hanging flower basket, and a grill.
A room with a wooden floor, a green chair, a bed with plaid bedding, a colorful sofa with a 'Life is Beautiful' pillow, and a wall decorated with photos.
A cozy room with a wooden table, a bench, and a couch. A sign above the table reads "WELCOME TO OUR COTTAGE."

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Highlights

  • Family fun awaits
    Top-rated for families.
  • Beach equipment
    A rare find — beach equipment ready to go for your days by the sea.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Michiana Beach
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 10

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio

Explore the area

View map
Michigan City, IN
  • Place, Lyon Oaks Golf Course
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Duneland Beach
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Place, Michiana Beach
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Airport, South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.)
    ‪39 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Livingroom

1 Single Bed

Lower Level Sleeping Area

1 Double Futon and 1 Queen Bed

Main

1 Queen Bed

Sitting Room

1 Single Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Outdoor shower

Main Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Walk to Lake Michigan Beach from Cottage in the Woods - *Seaside Fired Smores*

So close to Chicago and yet in a world of its own! Adorable two bedroom cottage is located on a quiet wooded lane about a half-mile walking distance to the world class beach on Lake Michigan. Enjoy nearby park with playground, basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts, performing arts theatre, horseback riding stables, golf course, and more - all within a block or two of the cottage. We have hosted guests at the cottage for over 10 years and everyone loves it.

Relax in simple comfort — you made a great choice to stay at the cottage.

The space

Adorable Beach Area Cottage for a Perfect Vacation Getaway.

With so many things virtually at your doorstep, this cottage is the Perfect Getaway any time of year. A quiet cozy cottage in a unique area within a short relaxing walk to clean, sandy, and quiet Lake Michigan Beach. Sleeps 6-8 people comfortably. The open, bright, and pleasing feel inside the cottage is enriched with elements to tie it in with the surrounding woods and coastal atmosphere. When the air conditioning is not desired, the large opened windows let in the light as well as the soothing roar of the waves over the dunes on the lakeshore and the seabreezes wafting through the trees. During the Autumn and Winter seasons, a roaring fire in the fireplace completes the ambience of the wooded wonderland.

WHAT'S PROVIDED

The entire cottage space is included for our guests' use. Bed, bath, and kitchen linens are provided as well as kitchen dinnerware, cookware, silverware, coffee maker, toaster, and microwave oven. The only items guests really need to bring are their clothes, swimming and other sporting gear, and any food items they wish to consume during their stay. In addition to the newly remodeled bathroom inside, the outside shower provides guests the chance to rinse off al fresco upon returning from the beach. Speaking of the beach, this property comes with beach rights, so you will have access to the exclusive, beautiful beach that only neighborhood residents and guests enjoy. This beach also offers the option of having a beach fire to roast hot dogs and smores and enjoy a flickering flame under the twinkling stars at night (we will provide you with the simple directions to get a fire permit).
Other things to note

Rates vary depending on week, weekend, or week-night stay and holidays. You can enjoy discounts for various lengths of stay starting with 3-night stay discount, week stay discount, and month-long (28-day) stay discount, which are included automatically at booking. All rates are subject to change at any time without notice. The required local taxes (7% sales tax and 5% accommodation tax) are added at final check out. After a reservation is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation with check in details and specific driving directions.

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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

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

Property # 9292768
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 and a first aid kit
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

Michigan City

Located in Michigan City, this cottage is in the city centre and on a lake. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and New Buffalo Public Beach. Travelling with kids? Consider Minden Bog and Friendship Botanic Gardens. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing, and don't miss out on the sledging.
Map
Michigan City, IN

What's nearby

  • Lyon Oaks Golf Course - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Duneland Beach - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Michiana Beach - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Four Winds Casino New Buffalo - 11 min drive - 15.2 km
  • Indiana Dunes National Park - 14 min drive - 14.4 km

Getting around

  • New Buffalo Station - 10 min drive
  • Michigan City-11th Street Tram Stop - 14 min drive
  • South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.) - 49 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪The Stray Dog Bar & Grill - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Hacienda Mexican Restaurant - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Redamak's Tavern - ‬8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Walk to Lake Michigan Beach from Cottage in the Woods - *Seaside Fired Smores* pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Walk to Lake Michigan Beach from Cottage in the Woods - *Seaside Fired Smores*?

As of 10 Aug 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Walk to Lake Michigan Beach from Cottage in the Woods - *Seaside Fired Smores* on 3 Nov 2026 start from AU$817, 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 Walk to Lake Michigan Beach from Cottage in the Woods - *Seaside Fired Smores*?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Walk to Lake Michigan Beach from Cottage in the Woods - *Seaside Fired Smores*?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Walk to Lake Michigan Beach from Cottage in the Woods - *Seaside Fired Smores*?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Walk to Lake Michigan Beach from Cottage in the Woods - *Seaside Fired Smores* located?

This family-friendly Michigan City cottage is located on a lake, within a 15-minute walk of Lyon Oaks Golf Course and Lake Michigan. Duneland Beach and Michiana Beach are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

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. 19 out of 24 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 24 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 24 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 24 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.4/10

Communication

9.4/10

Location

8.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect setting! Games for the kids, quiet neighborhood! Quick walk to the beach, the kids had a blast, and the place was comfortable and fun for all of us! Definitely plenty to do!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ellen O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful peaceful home on a dead end street that over looks a harbor. There is is a bus that runs up into town
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Ka'ryn s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location
The property location was great. The home was clean and we appreciated all the games to keep the kids busy as it rained one day and we were stuck inside. However there were several things that could gave been updated. The bedroom floor upstairs was chipped and tile was missing in several places. The basement ceiling tile had a water leak stain, there were too many open areas to the crawl space that made us not use the basement bedroom or bathroom. I rehab homes. All of these things are a pretty easy inexpensive fix. Probably about a weeks rental cost. The appliances needed updates as well. The enamel was chipped on the refrigerator and the stove was a manual lighted gas ignition. Which isn't safe around kids or the elderly. We did make the best of the home but I wouldn't rent again unless it was updated.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tracy D.

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

Family Outing

The cabin was great for family. We enjoyed the outside as well as the many thoughtful items inside. Books, puzzles, and various toys were all enjoyed by our one year old. Hosts extremely attentive to our needs. Enjoyed our stay. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Chris G.

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

Nice little cottage in the woods.

It was perfect for 3 brothers and sisters. Close to the beach, quiet area.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Praxedis B.

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

Great house, great area

We very much enjoyed our stay as a family in this house! Two grandparents, two parents and an 11 months old. The house is very comfortable for a longer stay. And close to beach as well as in reasonable distance from Chicago with all there is to see.
Stayed 17 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

2/10 Terrible

Courtney R.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This property was the catfishing equivalent to VRBOs. We feel like we got duped. Sure it was the same cottage as the pictures showed, but vastly different in real life.There were many things that either weren’t there, or didn’t function properly. Most of them could be solved with a little money or a little time, but it seems like the owners only want to collect income, not provide a quality experience.We 100% will not be staying there again and we would absolutely recommend that you do not stay at this property. There are many other places nearby at similar price points that would provide you with a much nicer stay.Things to look out for:- The deadbolt on the front door is incredibly difficult to use- The key for the main door is incredibly difficult to use- The toilet on the main level needs repaired- The dryer vents inside the basement, which leads to the entire house being hot- There are only two window units, no central air- The second bedroom has no curtains at all- The main bedroom has see through curtains- The outside space is unusable because it was overgrown and unkempt- The refrigerator needed to be closed just right to close fully- The WiFi didn’t work- The tile flooring was severely chipped throughout- The wooden floor is severely slanted (not a huge deal, but not handicapped friendly)- The stairs were wobbly and need tightenedEach of these is not bad in its own, but cumulatively led to an unpleasant experience.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Paul M.

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

Everything we needed!

The house was perfect for our family of four. The beach was quiet and a very pleasant walk to and from. Lots of deer and other wildlife in the neighborhood, quiet, wooded area. A couple minutes drive to New Buffalo which was a great visit (and dinner at The Stray Dog). The house had everything that we could have needed plus a lot more. It was a great place to replenish after a day at the beach. Couldn’t recommend it more, and hope to return soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

2/10 Terrible

Helen B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Communication, location, listing accuracy

Indiana dunes

Not enough space for 6 adults and 4 kids, not near the beach but instead a mile drive to drop off party because there is no parking, no hot water,we left after one night and would not recommend these spot.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Pat R.

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

Girl fun

Cozy cottage
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Cheri W.

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

Our stay

We had a great time. Great place was very cozy. They do need a better coffee pot. Other than that it was perfect. They had everything you would need
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer f.

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

Great place

Went for a weekend with family, great little cottage in the woods. About 3/4 mi walk to an awesome private beach, wagon was great for pulling our stuff and also a fun little park nearby. House had everything we needed, bonus points for having books and toys for kids! Thanks again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Victoria K.

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

Neighborhood beach is awesome!

My family of four stayed at this property over the 4th of July holiday. This is a well kept, clean, older home with great amenities for the beach. Very quiet, wooded street- we saw deer in the neighborhood almost every day. Beach cart, wagon, boogie boards, beach chairs, toys, towels, and outdoor shower for when you get back. The neighborhood beach is about 3/4 mile away and up and down a few hills, but definitely easily walkable for my family. It was WONDERFUL to not have to fight parking at the public beaches on a busy holiday weekend. About 25 minutes to Indiana Dunes State Park; less than 10 to New Buffalo, MI. Was great to have a kitchen, dishwasher, grill, and washer/dryer to use as well. The only part not ideal was that it was hot and humid when we were there and upstairs had a window unit AC, so the bedroom and bathroom were sometimes a little warm and sticky (we turned the AC on full blast at night and kept the bedroom door open to help with this while we were sleeping). My kids loved the area downstairs. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Deb M.

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

Post-Covid Refresh

Visited for a long weekend (6/4-6/7) with a friend to hit reset. Cottage had more than we could ask for in terms of amenities-they thought of everything! This was the perfect retreat for two women looking for a change of scenery and break from being cooped up with our husbands for 15 months. Quiet, surrounded by serene nature and walking distance to the lake. The beach was amazing and we decided to pack snacks and drinks and spend the whole day there on Sunday. Paradise doesn’t have to be far away, people! Only constructive feedback for those directionally challenged with a map — consider leaving directions to the lake like “Right on x, Left on x, etc” as we did fumble our way to/from the lake. Otherwise would definitely stay again! Thank you!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Elma J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Listing accuracy

Great location, some improvements needed

The positives: owner was very responsive, answered messages quickly. Location is nice and a short walk to the beach. The house was well stocked with everything that we needed. Negatives: The property is advertised on VRBO as 1 and 1/2 bathrooms. However, the downstairs bathroom is unusable in my mind as it had a sink without the faucet in it. Instead, there was a bottle of hand sanitizer. How does that even meet city code? I understand if you are renovating the bathroom, then don't advertise it as a usable bathroom and put a sign on the door, "not in use". In addition, there were some water stained tiles in the low ceiling basement where the beds are located, just not a pleasant place to sleep, even for a child.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Roberta S.

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

Awesome cottage

Cozy cottage for excellent get away. Well stock, clean, and located near many sites.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Larry B.

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

Quiet, relaxing cottage in wooded area.

Cozy, clean cottage within 15 min walking distance to nice beach on Lake Michigan. Great for couples or small small groups. Nice deck. Owners supplied everything we needed...kitchen stuff, linens, beach chairs. Wood for fireplace. Great value for a very nice area.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jessica H.

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

Girls Weekend

We had a great weekend celebrating the upcoming wedding of one of our friends. Wish the weather was better but we still jad an amazing time.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

amy s.

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

Cozy Cottage

Clean, quiet, cozy space easily located and close to beach. We only had the most wonderful of times! Excellent VRBO
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Cara P.

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

Getaway

Great little trip
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Raymond B.

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

Weekend Getaway!

Cute cottage in beautiful wooded area. Everything we needed for our stay included with the cottage. Daily walks to the sandy beach and Lake Michigan was all the fun needed for my 3 and 5 yo grandkids! Would definitely come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Zoe R.

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

Beach and nature escape

The cottage was perfect for our family. Comfortable and had everything we needed. Lots of games and beach toys, a wagon, chairs and a set of bikes. We biked to the beach everyday. The quiet neighborhood is perfect for bike riding And a great little playground is just across the street. Tennis courts and unique playground equipment my kids enjoyed. We saw baby deers and lots of different kinds of birds at the cottage. We loved our stay and hope to be back again soon.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Joellyn C.

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

Great time!

Lovely little getaway in the woods. No crowds. Close to beach. Thanks to hosts!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Pierre F.

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

We needed a getaway from Michigan and this was the perfect place. Wonderful home and area.

Quiet. Clean. Home owners were wonderful. Everything we needed was there for us.

About the host

Hosted by Alan

Host profile image
Having lived in several locations around the United States, we both enjoy a variety of interests. I like sports cars. She likes sailing. I like sweet tea. She likes a hot cup of java. When it comes to traveling, we're open to new places, as well as the tried and true. We like visiting everywhere, whether it be Prague or Pittsburgh. We hold that the best kept secret destination in America (in the world!) is the Lake Michigan beach and the Indiana Dunes, which is why we have offered our cottage for guests to enjoy a perfect getaway from their normal everyday. Since 2008, we have enjoyed providing fun and comfortable accommodations to guests hailing from Arizona to Ohio, from Chicago to Houston, and from many places in between.

Why they chose this property

Adorable Beach Area Cottage for a Perfect Vacation Getaway.

With so many things virtually at your doorstep, this cottage is the Perfect Getaway any time of year. A quiet cozy cottage in a unique area within a short relaxing walk to clean, sandy, and quiet Lake Michigan Beach. Sleeps 6-8 people comfortably. The open, bright, and pleasing feel inside the cottage is enriched with elements to tie it in with the surrounding woods and coastal atmosphere. When the air conditioning is not desired, the large opened windows let in the light as well as the soothing roar of the waves over the dunes on the lakeshore and the seabreezes wafting through the trees. During the Autumn and Winter seasons, a roaring fire in the fireplace completes the ambience of the wooded wonderland.

What makes this property unique

So close to Chicago and yet in a world of its own! Adorable two bedroom cottage is located on a quiet wooded lane about a half-mile walking distance to the world class beach on Lake Michigan. Enjoy nearby park with playground, basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts, performing arts theatre, horseback riding stables, golf course, and more - all within a block or two of the cottage.

Relax in simple comfort — you made a great choice to stay at the cottage.
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