When you think of a beach vacation in the United States, most people gravitate towards the east and west coasts of the country. The Great Lakes region is an often-overlooked part of the US where you can do all of the activities you’d do at the ocean or the waters of one of the lakes! If exploring this area appeals to you, consider basing your trip in Union Pier, Michigan. This charming town is on the shores of Lake Michigan, a huge lake with sandy shores and opportunities for boating, fishing, and more. It is also close to wineries and several casinos for when you’ve had your fill of nature. For a taste of everything the Great Lakes has to offer, consider staying at one of these best vacation rentals in Union Pier, MI.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 07, 2024.
1. Cozy cottage with lots to do nearby
Just steps from the shores of Lake Michigan, this cozy cabin is conveniently located close to everything there is to do in the area. It has two bedrooms with room for up to four people, with the option to have two twin beds or one king bed in one of the bedrooms. The hosts of this property have three other cabins for rent as well, so if you’re traveling with a larger group you could book them all together if they’re available. There are tons of options right at the cottage for your downtime, like grilling outside, playing on the playground, or taking the complimentary beach towels and heading down to the water.
Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 0
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Aside from the dishes the cottage was immaculatethe heat did not need to be on in the cottage when we arrived(The Grace was occupied)I was also interested in looking at the other houses on the property to possibly rent in the future with the rest of my family & after making another call to the officeOur only complaint was that the hot water didn't last long enough to fill the bath tubHost:
She was very attentive and made sure we walked away happythey met new friends while therevery uncomfortable Mark was pleasant and helpfulPlayground set was nice to have right next doorWhen we arrived the cottage was spotlessRead more reviewsLocation:
the beach is just steps away and is lovely and cute restaurants and shops are just a mile awaythat problem was solved in no timeClose to the beach and several restaurants brewers close to 24hr Laundryso many activities just a short drive away Nice communityGreat experience from start to finish Location is ideal close to beach quiet neighborhood walk to restaurants and ice cream
2. Comfy yet spacious cottage near the beach (from USD 173)
Enjoy your own private beach as part of this charming rental. This cute little cottage is a one bedroom home that can accommodate two guests. With two floors, it is more spacious than it appears from the outside. Downstairs is the living room, kitchen and dining area, and reading nook, all of which are soaked with sunlight from the skylights. The upstairs is a cozy sleeping loft with a double bed and a futon. This rental is a great pick if you love walking to your destinations: it is just a short distance from downtown Union Pier, and also a few blocks from access to private Gordon Beach.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Ideal for two people the best part is the private beach accessJust like the description described Clean larger than expected stairs to 2nd floor a little tricky but you get used to itIt is very difficult to find a rental for a small familyHost:
The Gordon Beach access is great for those who love Lake Michigan without the crowdsOnly issue was drains in bathroom could use attention also front door closure needs attentionThe cottage is so cuteRead more reviewsLocation:
The cottage is bright and lovely nestled in a very nice community within walking distance to a beautiful sandy beachCute but needs various improvements bathroom too smallVery convenient to restaurants and beaches Nice quiet neighborhood and lovely private beach Perfect size for a small familyGable 5 is the perfect selection for a cozy quiet relaxing getawayVery clean and located close to a lot of different things to do
3. Pretty little nest with a cozy sunroom (from USD 137)
This Union Pier cottage rental is small but has lots of space to kick back and relax, making it a perfect pick for a restful vacation. It is a one-bedroom home with room for up to four guests. Inside the home, there is an open-concept kitchen and living room with high ceilings and a beautiful stone fireplace. Outside, you’ll find a lovely sunroom with a table and chairs and a sectional couch, the perfect spot to listen to the birds singing in the morning or the crickets chirping at night. The property also has a patio with its own private grill and shares a firepit with neighboring houses. There is also an outdoor shower which is an ideal spot to rinse off sand after coming home from the public beach nearby.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Location was great Place needs serious attention to clean cushions porch furniture and moldy smell and mold on living room wallRead more reviewsLocation:
Cabin was cute IKEA lay out close to beach and stores Comfy with everything you need for beach stay
4. Spacious home perfect for gathering with loved ones (from USD 305)
The perfect spot for peace and quiet and for playful adventures too! This spacious cottage accommodates up to six guests in three bedrooms, and with two full bathrooms, no one will feel too crowded. There is an open-concept kitchen as well as a grill outside to create whatever meal your heart desires. You can even get your groceries on foot, as a bakery, grocery store, and wine store are all just 10 minutes away on foot. With three different televisions and spots indoors and outdoors to relax, this is a great pick for a group who wants to spend quality time together but also enjoys their own space.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
No gate for the steep stairs or fireplaceIt was also difficult to settle in the living room without some type of coffee tableThe kitchen was very disappointingso there was plenty of room to sleep Two of my friends slept in the larger room upstairs; another friend slept in the smaller room upstairsthe cleanliness and everything that was provided within the homeCleanliness:
everything was very clean and comfortableThe bath towels were very nice quality and a lot of beach towels were availableThere were 4 of usHost:
vineyards restaurants & moreNice property clean inside very close to beachWe all would definitely book againOn the positive side the fireplace was awesomeWe were also pleased with finding many amenities we didn't expect like dish soap dish washer detergent hand soap and showerRead more reviewsLocation:
The bakery and market were a few blocks awayIt's in a great location near the lakeThe beach is really steps away(First week of April )Very comfortable cottage in a great location
5. Retro cabin with modern amenities (from USD 237)
Who says you have to rough it in a rustic cabin to enjoy the great outdoors? This two-bedroom home has décor that you’d find in the big city combined with a peaceful woodsy setting. Originally built in the 1930s, the hosts have renovated the home with modern touches but retained its retro charm. It can sleep up to four guests and has amenities like a washer and dryer, gas grill, and fast WiFi. It is also super close to the private beach, and the water is visible from the house! You’ll never have to worry about it being too crowded, so spread out your towels and soak up the sunshine at this Union Pier beach rental.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
The place is immaculate and comfortable with incredibly comfy beds and super nice sheetsright at the kitchen door NoteThe cottage is SO CUTE and stocked with everything you need including items for the beach: towels umbrella chairs etcso it was somewhat of a challenge to get down to the waterThe beds and bedding are very comfortable and we loved the charming decor and appreciated all of the natural light from the windowsCleanliness:
This property is everything as described and moreThe cottage was adorable and very cleanThe cottage was clean and very cozyThe property was great and had everything we needed for our stayOur cottage was beautiful Rosemary & Mike were wonderful from beginning to endHost:
Everyone we met on the beach was very friendlyMike and Rosemary are so welcoming helpful and kindBeing so close was a giftRosemary provided a great quick tour of the property upon arrivaland Rosemary is a gracious host and very helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
The location is very convenient to restaurants state parks for hiking and vineyards for imbibingSuch a joy to stay in this beautiful cottageJust minutes from New Buffalo local eateries nearbyEven with my severely restricted dies I found a mayo-less chicken salad at Whistledunes hikes wineries and breweries
6. Cozy den with a wood stove (from USD 157)
This rental is the perfect choice if you like the rustic charm of a cabin but still desire the amenities of modern life! The log cabin has a contemporary design and is made of both steel and pine. The interior has warm wooden walls, and high ceilings and skylights make it feel spacious. The open living space has one queen bed and one sofa bed for up to four guests. There is a wood-burning stove inside which helps make things warm and cozy on chilly nights and during a winter visit. Outside, there is a fire pit with Adirondack chairs surrounding it. Elsewhere around the cabin, you’ll find a picnic table, a makeshift bar with two stools and a barrel, and lots of other spots to relax and soak up the natural beauty.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the cabin is cozy year-round the space and grounds thoughtfully arrangedthe fireplace skylights and shower were a few of our favorite things about the cabinwe loved the sweet cozy cabin and we had a fire every nightthe cabin was super cozy and delightfully decorated - full of thoughtful and welcoming touchesthe bathroom has a rain shower and the bed is super comfortableCleanliness:
place was clean and cozythe place is clean and very cozybut again it felt very clean and we were comfortablethe place was exactly as described and extremely clean and well keptthe cabin is clean cozy and equipped with all you might need during your stayHost:
she was a most responsive and delightful hostalene is a great hostalene is a wonderful host and provided plenty of great recommendations when we checked inalene was a fantastic hostshe was a host and a concierge such a lovely personRead more reviewsLocation:
very cute cabin in a great location would definitely recommendthe location is great and close to many different wineries and incredible restaurantslocation was good driving around the region was really easyyou just can't go wrong at this locationa perfect place and location for a couple looking for a southwestern michigan getaway
Superhost
7. Funky downtown loft in a converted storefront (from USD 210)
If you want to stay in the bustling downtown of Union Pier, this loft rental is the place for you. It is a funky little-converted storefront with colorful art on the walls. Downstairs is a little living area with a couch, a counter for eating meals, and a small kitchen. Up the stairs is the cozy sleeping area, which has its own balcony where you can bask in the sun! Right out your front door, you’ll find a row of shops and eateries. Even though you’ll be staying in town, the beach only steps away so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get your nature fix.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
my wife and i always sleep with a fan so the noise wasn't an issuethe house is well-designed and super comfortable especially with the private rooftop patiothe rooftop terrace is perfect for enjoying breakfast or settling in with a good book toothe deck is a great spot for breakfast with a big umbrella for shadecomfy bed nice upstairs patioCleanliness:
very clean and comfy stayvery clean and comfortableclean clean cleanwas clean and adequately furnishedher place was clean and charmingHost:
linda was a great hostlinda was a great hostlinda was a great hostlinda was a great hostthe host was greatRead more reviewsLocation:
really cute place great locationthe location is perfectcute grocery/liquor store and a bakery right across the streetgreat location with nice touches insideit was a great location
8. Enchanting cottage with a beautiful backyard (from USD 195)
Nestled in a gorgeous outdoorsy setting, this enchanting cottage is someplace you’ll never want to leave. In the fenced-in backyard of the cottage is a beautiful garden, with a koi pond and bench where you can sit and watch the fish swim. There is also a deck with a patio that has chairs, tables, and an umbrella for shade. You can also enjoy the sounds and sights of nature from inside the sun porch, where there is a couch and bar all decked out in funky décor. Inside, the cottage can accommodate up to six guests in two bedrooms.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
tv / wifi was goodi slept on a air mattress in the living room and slept like a babyquandee's cottage is very quaint and comfortablecomfortable cheerful cottage even in winter (would love to experience the yard and sun room in summer )the heating worked like magic and we were able to stay connected with the wifiCleanliness:
everything was clean and fresheverything was cleaned and very comfortableeverything clean as a whistle and well stockedhouse was clean and had many great itemsreally clean and stocked with everything we neededHost:
quandee is a lovely hostquandee is a great host and quick to answer any questionsquandee was very responsive and quick to answer questionsquandee was very responsive via textthank you for hosting usRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was perfectwish there were more cute little shopsthe location was great toogood location to shopping very comfortable and welcomingmany good places to eat within walking distance or very short driving distance
9. A cozy welcoming home
The hosts of this cottage have been renting it out for 15 years, and it’s easy to see why there are lots of repeat renters! The cottage is well-equipped with everything you could need for a short or long stay. It has a kitchen with every piece of cookware and dishware you could need and a washer and dryer for convenience. Up to five guests can stay here in the two bedrooms or on the sofa bed. Choose from the deck off the living room or the screened-in gazebo to relax outside. If you’re looking for something a little more active, use the two complimentary bikes and helmets to take a ride around the area.
Union Pier, Michigan, United StatesAccommodates: 5
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the space was very nice and is as pictured with all the needed amenities to make it cozygood wifi and easy to use tv microwave and stovewe loved this quiet & cozy cottage for our quick weekend getawayvery sweet little cottage easy walk to beach good coffee and comfy bedslovely yard and enjoyed sitting in the screened room with my morning coffee and listening to the birdsCleanliness:
it was exceptionally clean cozy comfortable and quietthe place was great very very cleanthe cottage was clean and charmingamazing place highly recommended clean safe privateit was very very clean and stocked with kitchen needs better than most propertiesHost:
great host and responds quicklyexcellent host and incredible experiencefurther mary was responsive & very helpful throughout the experienceexcellent place and hostmary was very accommodating in arranging for our trip and a delight to communicate withRead more reviewsLocation:
wonderful location in charming little neighborhoodgreat location in the woodsy subdivision 5 min walk to the beachwe loved the locationit was also walking distance to a few cute shops and restaurantsclose to a lot of good restaurants and wineries
10. Cozy cottage with easy beach access (from USD 216)
Craving for some sun and the ocean? This cozy cottage is only five minutes away from a beautiful beach. Whether you are traveling with family or friends, this place will be the vacation home you have been longing for. The lively interiors of the house will surely refresh you. In the fully equipped kitchen, cook some delicious homemade meals. Take in the comforting feeling of being close to nature and enjoy your breakfast on the porch. Appreciate the warmth of the sun as you sip on your morning coffee. A four-person hot tub is available for use, so take advantage of it too. This welcoming place will definitely make your stay an enjoyable one.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable sleeping for four as long as no one minds sharing bedsthe tv subscriptions (netflix disney +) also made it easy to have some movie nightsgreat cozy cabin with private hot tubCleanliness:
jens cottage is clean charming clean and quite quaintit was very clean and quaint spaceit was clean comfortable and convenientthe house is clean and comfortablesmall modest but nicely decorated and very cleanHost:
such a wonderful hostthis place and host are wonderfuljen was a great host very responsivejen was such a great host and was quick to respond with any questions we hadjen’s a great host & was on top of making sure we had everything we neededRead more reviewsLocation:
first the location is amazingthe location was also amazingthe location was truly outstandinggreat location in nice quaint neighborhood and short walking distance to the beachthis house is in the most perfect location
11. One-bedroom cottage in the heart of Union Pier (from USD 250)
Where you stay plays a great role in making your vacation a great one. This cottage is only a few steps from the beach. Watch the beautiful sunset in awe as you enjoy a quiet walk by the shore. Drop by the bakery nearby and grab your favorite pastries. Bring some home to eat for breakfast while you enjoy the homey ambience of this cottage. A cozy bedroom will provide a good night’s rest while the comfortable sofa is great for lounging around on a quiet afternoon. Explore gorgeous sights nearby, such as Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, and if you’re lucky, you might even get attend seasonal art fairs. You’ll discover there are plenty of interesting things to see and do in Union Pier, so have a wonderful stay and take advantage of everything it has to offer.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great cozy cabin just a few blocks off of the beachCleanliness:
the place was great and cleanthe cottage was very cleanvery comfortable clean well-located cottage for two fussy travelers who needed to get out of townenjoyed the very clean cottage for a short summer lake michigan getaway with my wifeHost:
owners were very responsive to my questionslocal shops owners and neighbors were friendlyowner are great and leave thorough instructions for everythingRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is perfecteasy walk to the beachperfect location for walks relaxation readingperfect for what we needed relaxing and in close proximity to beach restaurants & convenience storesproperty was easy to find and literally a 5 minute walk to the beach
12. Newly built spacious cottage (from USD 275)
This newly built cottage is definitely perfect for those looking for a quiet vacation home away from the city. A five-minute walk is all it takes to get to a majestic beach. Enjoy beautiful views of the water and sunset by the beach. It has a very modern design that makes the house look extremely elegant. Have a great time with your family as you all watch movies together in the living room. There are even books by the television that you can check out. Spend some time outdoors as you cook up a storm on the outdoor barbecue.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the furnishings and beds are extremely comfortablehuge screen porch with comfortable furnitureCleanliness:
very comfortable beds and super cleanit is very clean with modern amenitiescottage was super clean one of the nicest vrbo’s we have stayed atHost:
owner were very responsive with questions and were very helpful with recommendationsloved working with the owners as well -- very kind and responsivecommunication with owners was great and they were very accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
it’s a new property in a great locationthe location is great for enjoying the beach and exploring the local wineries
13. Beautiful two-bedroom home (from USD 267)
This stylish house is near a stunning beach. It features two well-lit bedrooms that have a soft and cozy queen-size and two twin beds. The furniture definitely captures and adds to the coastal charm of this home. The garden gate leads straight to the beach, so go ahead and enjoy a great book while listening to the captivating sound of the waves. Visit local vineyards to taste Union Pier’s luscious wines. Relax as you enjoy a truly tranquil break in this home.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we loved out little retreat the fireplace made our evenings extra cozybeds very comfortable for a good night's sleepCleanliness:
the house is lovely--clean and charmingly decoratedit was very clean and had comfortable beds the fireplace added to the cozinessloved this cottage in union pier very clean nicely decorated and great use of space throughout the cottageHost:
the host joan waa kind and generous and very helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
the property is nicely maintained and is close to lake michiganand so close to the beach very happy guest herewhat a wonderful cottage great place to stay close to everythingso many great places to eatwonderful place to spend the thanksgiving holiday
A little slice of the Great Lakes region
Union Pier is the perfect little town for an introduction to the Great Lakes region. It is a relaxing spot where the pace of life is slow and easy. The town is right on the waterfront and has a sandy public beach in addition to many private beaches. It is full of delightful private rentals like those on this list, where you can escape the hustle of everyday life. From cozy Airbnbs to the best Vrbo vacation rentals in Union Pier, we’ve got you covered. Besides this charming place is just a few hours away from several big cities like Chicago and Detroit, so plan your getaway to the lake today!
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