Motel Bear Lake

2.0 star property
Motel with free parking, in the vicinity of Pierport Beach

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Motel Bear Lake

BBQ/picnic area
Terrace/patio
Interior
Point of interest
Free WiFi, bed sheets

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
12273 West St, Bear Lake, MI, 49614
  • Place, Wolf River Golf Park
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Place, Crystal Mountain
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Airport, Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker)
    ‪16 min drive‬

Room options

Signature Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Signature Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Signature Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(7 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 5
  • 2 Queen Beds

Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette

  • Sleeps 5
  • 2 Queen Beds

Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 5
  • 2 Queen Beds

Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 5
  • 2 Queen Beds

Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Signature Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Signature Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Signature Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Romantic Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Classic Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

About the neighborhood

Bear Lake

Motel Bear Lake places you within a 15-minute drive of popular attractions such as Pierport Beach and Lake Michigan. This 18-room motel welcomes guests with in-room amenities like kitchenettes, microwaves, and coffee makers.

What's nearby

  • Wolf River Golf Park - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Pierport Beach - 12 min drive - 7.7 miles
  • Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course - 14 min drive - 8.8 miles
  • Crystal Mountain - 18 min drive - 15.2 miles
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - 38 min drive - 29.7 miles

Getting around

  • Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker) - 15 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Chestnut Hills Golf Course - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Rosie's Place - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Grille 44 - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Northern Natural Cider House & Winery - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Miller's Northwood Market - ‬11 min drive

About this property

Motel Bear Lake

Motel with free parking, in the vicinity of Pierport Beach
Guests of Motel Bear Lake enjoy features like a seasonal outdoor pool, express check-in and express check-out. There's free parking if you drive. Additional amenities include a picnic area and a garden.
Smart TVs come with digital channels and Netflix, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Kitchenettes, microwaves, and coffee makers are other standard amenities.
Recreational amenities at the motel include a seasonal outdoor pool.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • Limited onsite self parking

Things to do

  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • In-room kitchenette
  • In-room microwave
  • Mini-fridge
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Virtual front desk

Outdoors

  • Direct access to the beach
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • In a nature reserve
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Netflix
  • Smart TV with digital channels
  • Streaming services

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Kitchenette
  • Microwave
  • Mini-fridge

More

  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Ceiling fan
  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Mobile key entry

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
Guests will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and smart lock details; access will be through a private entrance
Prior to arrival, you must complete online registration via a secure link
A virtual front desk provides assistance to guests
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Private entrance, smart lock

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 40 per pet, per stay
  • Dogs only
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet fee: USD 40 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

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
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Checking in and out are easy with express services. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions and guests can access their rooms with a mobile device.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from May 27 to September 16.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Motel Bear Lake Motel
Motel Bear Lake Bear Lake
Motel Bear Lake Motel Bear Lake

Frequently asked questions

What's there to do close to Motel Bear Lake?

This motel is located in Bear Lake within a short 13-minute walk of Wolf River Golf Park. James Lake is also within a driving distance of 3.8 mi.

Will I be able to park at Motel Bear Lake?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the motel.

Does Motel Bear Lake have a casino on the premises?

No, Motel Bear Lake doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Motel Bear Lake?

No, this motel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. The seasonal pool will be open from May 27 until September 16.

Is Motel Bear Lake a good place to stay for couples?

Couples staying at this motel will appreciate amenities like a kitchenette and Netflix as well as a nature reserve.

Are there hot tubs at Motel Bear Lake?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this motel.

Does Motel Bear Lake have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, Motel Bear Lake doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will Motel Bear Lake allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, dogs are welcome at Motel Bear Lake for a fee of USD 40 per pet, per stay.

Are there connecting rooms at Motel Bear Lake?

No, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How far is the airport from Motel Bear Lake?

The closest major airport to Motel Bear Lake is Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker), which is 12.4 mi away (15 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Motel Bear Lake?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Motel Bear Lake.

Motel Bear Lake Reviews

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 134 out of 171 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 25 out of 171 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 171 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 5 out of 171 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 171 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

9.2/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
This motel has a comfortable, nostalgic vibe. The rooms are clean and spacious. We stayed in a King room, which provided plenty of space for two people to get ready for the day with two sinks available. There is an outdoor pool that appeared well-maintained, although we didn’t use it during our stay. We had recently paid significantly more for another hotel in Traverse City, which didn’t even have a pool. If we're in the area again, we would definitely consider returning to this motel.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Super comfortable room, very considerate amenities. Love that you don't NEED to check in with staff but they are available if you do want/need to interact. But having a convenience room of supplies is an amazing touch. Good strong WiFi, great water pressure in the shower, comfy bed. I wish we had stayed more than 1 night this time
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brenda, Lansing

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Clean room; very cute and comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

David A

Traveled with group, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our dog was really happy being there, so then we were to
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jason

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The motel was well taken care of and the service and cleanliness was better than other 3 star places I’ve stayed at
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Cecilia

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very welcoming of pets and children. The go above others to make safely and needs a priority. Items you wouldn't expect. The local diner didn't accept the coupon the motel offered but that wasn't the motels responsibility.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Philip

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Such a cute, comfortable motel. It was exactly what we wanted for our fall weekend getaway. The attention to detail was excellent and welcoming.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Troy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shelli

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great property - dog friendly!

Motel Bear Lake - Is a really cute property with nice, clean rooms. They are pet friendly, which is great. The property has several areas to walk your dog. There is a gas station directly across from the hotel for convenience. This is not a chain hotel - which is great. We will plan to stay here if ever in the area again.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Hannah

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Absolutely amazing restoration in progress. I loved the cute touches! We will be back
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great place, centrally located to area attractions. Very convenient check in and rooms are very nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dante

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Will definitely be staying here again!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Mary

Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Hanna

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

James

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kim

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It was a lovely room! Nice attention to detail. Very clean.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dianne

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a wonderful stay. So quaint and decorated beautifully. A big step up from staying in a hotel. The area is gorgeous. We highly recommend.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

art

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
aria outside your door so that you can sit outside and enjoy the aria
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristina

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

"A Gay Place to Stay"

Such a charming retro motel, updated with fine amenities (Hooray for good TP, soaps, tea, coffee) and renovated to maintain the original feel. This was obviously a labor of love - The Schitt's would be proud of these women entrepreneurs! We loved Motel Bear Lake, as well as the Lakeside Cafe for breakfast, and could watch the sunset across the street.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Holly

Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The shower has awesome water pressure The only down fall is the toilet is in a very tight corner Very convenient for your 4 legged animal Refrigerator had a frozen ice pack to the side that didnt allow you to use it
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tom

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
A unique motel love the retro. Neat clean and cozy. We will stay there again
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Alex

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
This motel is super cute and retro. Nearby to outdoor activities and not far from sleeping bear dunes. Overall the place is very clean and well maintained. Also has a pool. Pet friendly. I think that for the price, it was well worth it. Right across the street from bear lake. I could see myself coming back here again.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Terry

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great place with great rooms and great staff
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025