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Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City

Photo gallery for Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City

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
  • Fireplace
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Carp Lake, MI
  • Wilderness State Park
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Headlands International Dark Sky Park
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional)
    ‪21 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-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City

This is a cozy two bedroom cottage (sleeps 4. Note: in 2025 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, k-cup coffee machine (its not a Keurig) 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.

Property manager

Todd and Jacki VanHuis
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
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. While the natural beauty of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal. Travelling with kids? Consider Spy Quest Laser Maze and Animal Tracks Adventure Golf. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Carp Lake, MI

What's nearby

  • Wilderness State Park - 4 min drive - 2.0 km
  • Headlands International Dark Sky Park - 11 min drive - 8.0 km
  • Mackinaw City Dock - 15 min drive - 12.2 km
  • Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse - 15 min drive - 12.3 km
  • Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal - 15 min drive - 12.4 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Keyhole Bar & Grill - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Dixie Saloon - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Hook Lakeside Grill - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Darrow's Family Restaurant - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Wienerlicious - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Lake Michigan Cecil Bay-waterfront few miles outside Mackinaw City located?

This family-friendly Carp Lake cottage is located on the beach, within 1 mi (2 km) of Wilderness State Park and Lake Michigan. Lake Huron and Headlands International Dark Sky Park 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. 65 out of 72 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 72 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 72 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 72 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Bill H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Beverly H.

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

Heaven on Carp Lake

This property was fantastic! It had a great vibe and was clean, comfortable, well-maintained and clearly loved by its owners. It was cozy and well equipped and boasts an excellent location right on the water -- great for star-gazing! Our hosts were thoughtful and our stay was heavenly. We loved this place and hope to get back here again! Thanks Todd and Jacki!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

8/10 Good

Dan H., Sandpoint, Idaho

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

Our getaway

It was a perfect setting for us. It is secluded away from the busyness. The private beach was fantastic.
Stayed 14 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

David E.

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

Cozy Cottage- great view!

A lovely quiet area near Headlands Dark Sky Park. Great walking trails near by.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marsha A.

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

Beach Getaway

Beautiful property - well kept inside and outside. Appreciated the well stocked kitchen, comfy beds and furniture, spacious sunroom and dining deck. Outside was spectacular - water, sunrises and sunsets. Appreciated the kayaks/canoes/ hammock. Great vacation!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy H.

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

Relaxing and Serene

We had a wonderful stay! The property is comfortable and the views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding area (The Mackinac Bridge!) are stellar. We particularly enjoyed the fire pit and the four seasons room. It really was a relaxing and enjoyable trip. Thank-you!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Laney G., Shirley, USA

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

Amazing!

If youre looking for the perfect getaway from life....stop. you found it! This place is wonderful. The beach is private and our kids loved that the most. Everything you need is there. The trading post down the street has supplies, great pizza, and great people. The street has next to no traffic. You are a quick drive away from the bridge and mackinaw city. Communication with the host is awesome. We loved this place so much that we started discussing our next trip back.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne G., Waukesha

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

Great Location - Cozy Cottage

This cottage is in a great location for exploring Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island in addition to other areas. The cottage is small (bedrooms are very small but adequate - hard to manuever in the bedrooms) but it was great for 2 adults. The kitchen is well-stocked. The front room is very comfortable with great views of the lake. The TV room is also comfortable - we were able to use our Netflix account w/o issues. We had pretty bad weather (rain and cold) so we did not utilize any outside features but beach area is nice as well as firepit, etc. The hosts are very easy to communicate with and answer any questions promptly. Very well-kept property and clean. You feel secluded at the cottage which was nice. We would recommend and we would stay again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bill H.

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

Peacful

Owners did an outstanding remodeling project and adding a large sunroom shaded by trees. It was a very nice nice and comfortable stay. We've stayed in other vacation rentals in Michigan and Florida and found the furniture uncomfortable. Not so in this property. It was very comfortable.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Leandra S.

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

Simply perfection

Wonderful stay. Had everything we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

K S.

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

Great relaxing beach time

Beautiful location on the lakeshore. It was too cold to swim but very enjoyable relaxing in the beach chairs, enjoying the views.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jessica D.

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

Peaceful Oasis

We visited during the winter- it was a winter wonderland that was quite and peaceful. The home was comfortable and cozy and communication with the owners was exceptional! The home was decorated very beautifully and was equipped with everything you need! It was a wonderful experience and stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tonya M.

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

So peaceful!!

Beautiful property on a dead end road. Absolutely no traffic. Communication with owner was amazing. Not a single negative thing to say.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

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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