The northern state of Michigan glances over at Canada, which lies just beyond the Great Lakes. The state owes its name to the Indigenous word “mishigami” meaning “large lake”. Michigan is famous for being surrounded by vast bodies of water that it’s the only state to be formed by a lower and an upper peninsula separated by a narrow strait. Rich in vegetation, Michigan boasts nearly 80 state parks and forests as well as many rivers and lakes, making the state ideal for a relaxing holiday surrounded by nature. At Trip101, we’d like to recommend Roscommon State Forest Area which borders the dark blue water of lake Houghton. All around the lake, there are many options when it comes to finding a place to stay. But if you’re looking for a holiday with all the comforts, check out our list of the top five beachfront hotels in Houghton Lake, Michigan.
1. Beachfront Hotel Houghton Lake (from USD 99)
Located on the side of the lake, the building, at first, looks more like a mountain chalet rather than a hotel. The ample foyer with a fireplace and a chandelier made out of deer antlers can, in fact, be deceiving. But it’s what lies on the rear side of the hotel that deserves attention - the balconies look over a private beach and the calm water of the lake. Guests can also make use of the hotel’s indoor heated pool and a hot tub as well as a gym. Rooms are spacious and sport a simple decor.
Beachfront Hotel Houghton Lake
Address: 4990 West Houghton Lake Drive
2. Lakeside Resort & Conference Center (from USD 99)
This vast resort has a quaint, pastel-blue clapboard siding and whitewashed balconies facing the private, sandy beach, the lake and the wooden jetty. Guests can have plenty of fun at the indoor water park and the game room or enjoy a beer at the deck bar overlooking the lake. Before booking, check whether they are still serving breakfast as the service might be suspended due to unforeseen events.
Lakeside Resort & Conference Center
Address: 100 Clearview Drive
Nearby beachfront hotels
3. Reel Em' Inn (from USD 95)
This beachfront property that can accommodate up to seven guests is ideal for families who want to spend a week away. Carpeted throughout, this one-floor cosy cottage sits by the deck. It offers barbecue facilities, two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with a dining table, a spacious bathroom with a shower box and a flat-screen TV in the lounge area.
Reel Em' Inn
Address: 10936 West Shore Drive
4. Beautiful little cottage situated right by the lake (from USD 179)
A charming, waterfront cottage with a private dock to enjoy with family and friends. Each cottage on this property has two bedrooms - a master bedroom with a queen-sized bed and a kids bedroom with a single bed and twin bunk beds. The kitchen is small yet fully functional with a dining table, a double sink and a four-burner stove. The bathroom has a shower box and essential toiletries are provided. A cable TV and a sofa are ideal for nights in with the fam. Alternatively, you can enjoy the full lake experience by sitting around the bonfire at dusk while roasting marshmallows and admiring the sunlight dancing on the rippled surface.
The Hook-N-Ladder Lodge of Houghton Lake (Unit#1)Houghton Lake, Michigan, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
it is clean and offers a kitchen furnished with all the necessitiesHost:
tim is a great host and was available to answer all our questionstim the host is very friendly and responds to any inquiries very quicklygreat lake super host and great amenitiesRead more reviewsLocation:
it is a great location for two families to vacation together but still have privacy
5. Lakefront rental perfect for a large families (from USD 375)
An extra spacious lakefront cottage with three bedrooms and two bathrooms that’s perfect for families with young kids. With many opportunities for water sports and fishing, the property lies on the western bank of the lake, which is known as the “calm side” of Lake Houghton. The open concept living area gives off a truly homey vibe. In it, you’ll find a large and modern, stainless-steel kitchen with all the necessary equipment to cook delicious family meals along with a wooden dining table and a comfortable lounge area with sofas and armchairs placed by the brick fireplace.
Significant Discounts for Visits over 28 Days.Houghton Lake, Michigan, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 8
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the inside of the cottage was cozy and nicely decoratedCleanliness:
the beds were comfortable and the bathrooms were cleanHost:
calvin is extremely accommodating and a great hostcalvin was also very helpful since the beginning available at all times whenever we had any questionsgreat host quick with communicationRead more reviewsLocation:
there is a party store in walking distance to calvins place along with multiple pontoon rentalsgreat location and quiet neighborhood make it the perfect place to relax
Lots of family fun by the lake
Houghton Lake is the ideal location to spend your family holidays in complete relaxation. You can opt for a hotel stay with all the comforts or opt for a more homey experience in a cosy cottage. No matter what you choose, spend the day swimming or fishing and, at dusk, sit by the lake with your loved ones and let the gentle sound of the water lull your senses.
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data

Create an account to bookmark our articles, like local expert tips, receive great stories in your inbox, and follow writers and topics that you love.
Log in with Facebook Log in with Twitter Log in with Google ×