This vacation home places you next to Lake Michigan and within 2 miles (3 km) of Thorne Swift Nature Preserve. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a balcony.
The Tree House – A Private Lake Michigan Retreat Welcome to The Tree House, an exclusive sanctuary nestled in its own private forest along the pristine shores of Lake Michigan. Designed for those who seek seclusion, luxury, and unparalleled natural beauty, this retreat offers an exquisite balance of tranquility and adventure.
Unmatched Privacy & Panoramic Views The Tree House is set approximately 120 feet from the water’s edge and boasts 168 feet of private beachfront, ensuring an intimate and peaceful lakeside experience. With panoramic views of Petoskey, Charlevoix, Beaver Island, and—on the clearest days—the Fox Islands, guests are treated to a breathtaking display of Michigan’s natural splendor.
We are the second house north of 5 Mile Creek, an ideal location that minimizes foot traffic on the beach from the south. This makes the beachfront feel exceptionally private and serene, perfect for uninterrupted relaxation, quiet morning strolls, and evening bonfires under a canopy of stars.
Endless Activities at Your Doorstep While The Tree House offers ultimate seclusion, it is also conveniently located near some of Northern Michigan’s most sought-after activities:
Beachfront Luxury – Enjoy sun-soaked days on your private stretch of shoreline, swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan, or unwind with a glass of wine as you watch the magnificent sunsets.
Biking & Scenic Drives – Explore the world-famous Tunnel of Trees, a breathtakingly scenic route that is especially beautiful in the fall.
Water Adventures – Kayak or paddleboard along the coastline, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. Fine Dining & Shopping – Just a 5-minute drive from exceptional restaurants, charming boutiques, and the historic ambiance of downtown Harbor Springs.
World-Class Skiing & Golfing – Only 11 miles from Boyne Highlands and Nub’s Nob, two of the Midwest’s premier ski resorts. In the summer, these same resorts offer championship golf courses, ziplining, and hiking.
Luxurious Day Trips – Venture 19 miles to Bay Harbor, known for its upscale marina, restaurants, and golf courses, or take a 38.9-mile drive to Mackinaw City, where you can board a ferry to Mackinac Island—a timeless retreat with horse-drawn carriages, historic sites, and world-famous fudge.
A Place You Won’t Want to Leave The Tree House is more than just a vacation rental—it’s a sanctuary that invites you to unwind, reconnect with nature, and indulge in the best that Northern Michigan has to offer. Whether you’re looking for adventure, romance, or peaceful solitude, this is a place that will linger in your heart long after your stay. Beware—it’s a tough place to leave!
Exclusive Rental Terms We offer flexible rental options, including monthly and full-season stays, with rates negotiable based on length of stay and time of year. Reservations are confirmed on a first paid, first confirmed basis. A 50% deposit of the total rental fee is required to secure your booking. Deposits must be received within one week of a verbal or written commitment, or the space may be released to other renters. The remaining balance must be paid 45 days prior to your arrival date.
Peak Season (June – September) During the summer months, we only offer Saturday-to-Saturday rentals to ensure that all guests have the opportunity to experience a full week of relaxation and adventure.
Keywords Luxury Cottage | Private Beachfront | Secluded Forest | Lake Michigan Views | Skiing at Nub’s Nob & Boyne Highlands | Tunnel of Trees | Harbor Springs | Bay Harbor | Mackinac Island | Cross-Country Skiing | Snowshoeing | Golfing | Kayaking | Hiking | Fine Dining | Boutique Shopping
We look forward to hosting you at The Tree House, where luxury meets nature in the most breathtaking way.
The vacation home is heated and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and return the keys
Make sure all fires in the fireplace or firepit have been full extinguished before leaving.
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Children and extra beds
Note from host: Note: we have high balconies.
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 25
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
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.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to see around this vacation home?
This vacation home is located in Harbor Springs, just steps from Lake Michigan. You'll also find Tunnel of Trees and Thorne Swift Nature Preserve within a short drive.
Is parking available on site at this vacation home?
Yes, there is a garage.
Is this vacation home next to a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.
What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Beachfront Lake Michigan Retreat -Sleeps 8- Private Beach & Stunning Sunsets?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this beachfront vacation home include a fireplace and a kitchen in each accommodation with some featuring lake views.
Are there hot tubs at Beachfront Lake Michigan Retreat -Sleeps 8- Private Beach & Stunning Sunsets?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this vacation home.
Does this vacation home provide breakfast?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.
Does this vacation home have connecting rooms?
No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
How close is the airport from this vacation home?
The closest major airport to this vacation home is Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional), which is 25.9 mi away (38 minutes by car).
Are there rooms with balconies at Beachfront Lake Michigan Retreat -Sleeps 8- Private Beach & Stunning Sunsets?
Yes, every accommodation at Beachfront Lake Michigan Retreat -Sleeps 8- Private Beach & Stunning Sunsets comes with a balcony with some featuring lake views.
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 30 reviews
10 - Excellent
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Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 30 reviews
8 - Good
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Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 30 reviews
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Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 30 reviews
4 - Poor
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Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 30 reviews
2 - Terrible
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9.8/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
8/10 Good
Richard S.
Jul 13, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
It was great!
Richard S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Paul R.
Aug 6, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Getaway
Great views of Lake Michigan, the beach is lovely. Enjoyed hanging out at the beach and on the deck. Very relaxing. The whole family had a great time!
Paul R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveler
Jul 29, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Parents, Kids and Grand kids
Pops and Gigi, 3 kids, 3 spouses, 4 grand kids. Wanted a place on the beach to spend a week being together. The Tree House was perfect.
Verified traveler
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Wendy C.
Jul 15, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Lake front tree house
Wonderful week in this beautiful location! The house was clean with supplied with everything you could want for a lovely week of downtime. Spacious living and dining areas were a plus. Steps down to the beach are a bit difficult to navigate but it’s a short distance. I think it would be a struggle for an elderly visitor. We loved the kayaks - fabulous beach!
Wendy C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Elizabe B., Holland
Sep 1, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Loved this house!
Very attractive, comfortable, well stocked house, and wonderful private beach. A perfect family getaway.
Elizabe B.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Michael C.
Aug 21, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing beach property
Amazing beach property in a fantastic location. The home was perfect for our group of 6 adults and two children. Located on a beautiful sandy beach where we spent most of our time during the day and around the beach fire pit making s'mores in the evenings. Would definitely stay again.
Michael C.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Heather L., Birmingham
Aug 7, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely stunning
This property is a hidden gem! The views of Lake Michigan are unbelievable! Sunset is life changing! And the stars at night! Wow!!! Bring telescope! Quick and easy access to a full Sandy, no rocks beach with beach chairs, bomb fire pit and kayak. They also provide beach toys, umbrellas and lounge chairs. Beds are very comfortable. Fall asleep to the sound of waves! It’s like being in Caribbean! Kitchen and bathrooms were clean and updated. Family room couch was so comfortable I wanted to bring it home! Perfect family vacation spot close to downtown Harbor Springs! We will be back for sure!
Heather L.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Katherine B.
Jul 27, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Clean and Comfortable
The tastefully decorated Treehouse was exceptionally clean and comfortable. The beach was perfect—long beach walks each day and swimming. We lounged on the deck each day after enjoying the many sights in the area to enjoy the hummingbirds and soothing sound of the waves. Running on Lower Shore Drive was great—very scenic, hilly, and minimal traffic. We hope to rent it again next year!
Katherine B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Mark R., Worthington, Ohio
Jul 23, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Treehouse on the Lake
Mary Alice is a fabulous hostess and the house is just like it looks but better. The house is a destination: views of the beach from 2 porches, steps down to a semi-private beach, eagles flying overhead and a perfect setup for family gatherings in the downstairs kitchen, dining room and living room which is attached to a spacious porch balcony. Comfortable beds and a kitchen that has everything you need.
Mark R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Ann B.
Aug 14, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful time
Great home and awesome beach
Ann B.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
10/10 Excellent
susan h.
Aug 5, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Treehouse
We really liked the tree house. Loved the fact that only few steps to the beach! The beach is very nice and private. Nice and close to town. The deck is wonderful.
Definitely recommended.
susan h.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Melissa K.
Jul 17, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect spot
The beach is unbeatable. The layout of the house is perfect for a family. Absolutely loved this rental.
Melissa K.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Brad P.
Jul 12, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
So comfortable!
Everyone should learn from this house. The beds all had mattress pads on them, bedding was so comfortable! Every single detail was there from extra towels to beach towels, cleaning supplies, amazing laundry machines… full kitchen with nice appliances. Truly a very comfortable home with all of the touches of a nice hotel. We slept well and truly enjoyed your beautiful home!
-Lauren Plain (Brad Plain’s wife)
Brad P.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
kristin m., Ladue, MO
Aug 7, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Great location for peace and privacy
Loved our stay at this home. We continued with our Northern Michigan summer vacation during the pandemic but chose to do so in a private setting this year. Mary Alice was very helpful and accommodating with any questions that arose. Absolutely beautiful beach to enjoy privately. Had kayaks delivered (Outfitter in HS) and loved doing that from "home" . The home offered all the items we needed (including shampoo and conditioner which I don't usually find in rentals) in addition, to a much needed fan for the master bedroom which gets the most sun and heat. (We had a few very hot days!) We ate from home two evenings (and all breakfasts and lunches) and did takeout the other four evenings(and enjoyed at nearby parks). The home has a cottage charm but with more upgrades than a simple cottage. We were able to relax and enjoy the space as if it were our home. The living space was wonderful as well with a large sectional to accommodate our family. We had brought our bikes so we enjoyed daily bike rides and walks on beautiful, wooded Lower Shore Drive as well as in the nearby Nature Preserve. Beach time was enjoyed daily. There is just a few feet of smaller rocks to traverse before hitting all sand. Oh, and of course gorgeous sunsets in the evening. I loved the rinse off station with the hose at the door to the lower level. Stairs and walk to beach very reasonable in regards to safety and accessibility. The perfect location for relaxing and continuing our Northern Michigan tradition with our (now 17 and 20 year old) daughters. Thank you for sharing your home Mary Alice.
kristin m.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
10/10 Excellent
Rachel B.
Sep 5, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Michigan beach getaway
Very nice old school chalet type house. Ground floor is an unfinished garage and laundry with a door leading to a Rec room with a ping pong table and a door leading to steps down to the beach. Main floor has two bedrooms, bathroom, galley style kitchen and dining room/ living room with a sliding door to the main deck. Second floor has two bedrooms and bath. All bedrooms have plenty of storage. The path to the beach is not long but is a bit steep with uneven steps. We all navigated the path fine but could be an issue if anyone in your group has mobility issues. Beautiful views and a short drive to town, very nice sandy beach with fire pit. We had a plumbing issue that the owner got right back to us about and taken care of quickly. Really look forward to our next trip! The deck and beach are outstanding
Rachel B.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019
10/10 Excellent
Jim D.
Aug 22, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness
Totally relaxing!
This house was the perfect mix of relaxation and luxury, with plenty of options for activity for us and our kids (ages 2-13).
The house was stocked with everything we needed, and the furniture (beds, couch) was so comfy. We could have spent hours on the back deck watching the lake.
The drive to Harbor Springs was short enough that we went almost every night for ice cream, and the drive to the Thorne Swift Bature Preserve was just a couple minutes away, and totally worth it.
We would definitely stay again...it is a beautiful property... inside and out!
Jim D.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019
10/10 Excellent
Charlie O.
Aug 15, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Property!
Absolutely loved the house! I felt the pictures made it look a little smaller that it actually was, especially the kitchen. Loved the updated appliances and it was fully stocked with everything we needed to cook. Would absolutely rent this house again. just a beautiful property!!
Charlie O.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
10/10 Excellent
Kate H.
Aug 11, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful!
Great house and beautiful beach. Had perfect weather and a wonderful stay!
Kate H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
10/10 Excellent
Jan L.
Sep 3, 2018
Truly Amazing!
Its hard to know where to begin. This place was "TRULY AMAZING"!!! We loved everything about the home; from the ground up! First floor had a huge garage with a laundry room and completely up to date washer and dryer. Attached was another room that held a ping pong table that produced nightly ping pong championships. From that room was a door leading outside to steps that took you down to the most beautiful sandy beach and swimming in Lake Michigan. If you like to collect rocks and stones from the beach this is the place. The second story had two bedrooms a full bath, a well appointed and up to date kitchen, a huge dining table that was our gathering place for many an awesome meal. The living area was so comfy and relaxing, with a full screen TV, a stone fireplace that went up through the third level. The windows brought loads of light and sunshine into the home and of course the balcony was where we all gathered throughout the day to relax, drink our coffee and enjoy the hummingbirds. For me it was pure heaven so I could read and enjoy the view of Lake Michigan.
The third level had two bedrooms one with a king sized bed, windows facing the big lake, its own balcony and at night the sounds of the waves was all you needed to get a good nights sleep. The other bedroom and two twin beds and there was another full bath.
All of this was surrounded by loads of tree's and just nature!!
There was nothing negative about this home and location except now I'm disappointed to not have that view with my morning coffee.. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Jan L.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2018
10/10 Excellent
Angela N.
Aug 10, 2018
Tree House is a Gem!
Two families - four adults and four teens - were very comfortable here. Cottage has tons of charm yet modern conveniences (good appliances, comfortable beds and furniture). I would absolutely return to this property. We brought along an air mattress so the three teen girls could sleep together in the twin room and teen boy had his own room. It was a nice surprise that the stroll to the beach was very easy and short; path is accessible from the lower level rec room. That is hard to discern from the pictures - many properties in Harbor Springs are higher up on bluff and I was expecting a steeper and longer walk. It was a wonderful place to spend a week on my favorite lake in the world!
Angela N.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018
10/10 Excellent
M.A. B.
Jul 31, 2018
Excellent
A slice of Heaven!
M.A. B.
Stayed 18 nights in May 2018
10/10 Excellent
Jane L.
Jul 25, 2018
Great location, well appointed cottage
We loved our stay at the Treehouse. This is our favorite location to stay in Harbor Springs- close to town, nature preserve, Pond Hill Farm, golf, but also quiet and private.
The cottage has a few steps down to the beach, but our children all under 6 managed them just fine. Beach is beautiful and loved having the creek just down the beach. Cottage has plenty of space, kitchen has newer appliances and is well appointed. Bring your own plastic water bottles/glasses to bring beverages down to beach. We didn’t see any non-glass dishes. One bathroom is beautiful and new, the other one is large, functional and clean. We would love to return!
Jane L.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2018
10/10 Excellent
Linnaea T.
Jul 22, 2018
The perfect spot!
We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect place for a week on Lake Michigan with our family than the Tree House! It had everything we could think of, an ideal layout, was incredibly charming and the location! It was steps to the beach and had a spectacular view! We can’t wait to return!
Linnaea T.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2018
10/10 Excellent
Barbara S.
Aug 14, 2017
Terrific family vacation. Hope to return to the Tree House again next year.
Beautiful location. Home is well equipped, very clean and beautifully furnished. Every night we enjoyed the lake view from the decks. Loved the private beach and fire ring. Harbor Springs is a quaint, relaxing, welcoming town. Sleeping to the lapping waves is the best. Day trips to the Pond Hill Farm and Thorn Swift Nature Preserve.
Barbara S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017
10/10 Excellent
Colin K.
Mar 18, 2017
Beautiful and well appointed
The tree house is certainly an experience not to be missed. From the magnificent views to the well appointed comfortable home, our stay could not have been better. We spent time at Down town harbor springs as well as Petoskey..
Both felt like Norman Rockwell experiences.
The locals were kind and helpful. There are specialty stores and
Health food stores with a wonderful variety of food choices. Great ski and snowboard board options for all levels.
Loved Pond Hill farm and spent the day there. The kids went sledding and fed the animals. We all went for some beautiful walks on the groomed trails and topped it off with delicious food and drink. A perfect day.
We can't wait to come back. An amazing get away any season!