This cabin places you next to Douglas Lake and within a 5-minute walk of University of Michigan Biological Station. The cabin includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio.
INVISIBLE Check in & Check out for your convenience
Welcome to the Cheery yellow cabin on Douglas Lake
We are proud to Maintain and Clean the Beach Bucket ourselves. Saturday to Saturday visits.
‘the beach bucket' is a family friendly cabin for up north getaways.
SANDY SHORE, SANDY BOTTOM, GENTLE SLOPE-NO DROP OFF pristine Douglas Lake, just east of Pellston, close to attractions, dining
This is an UNPLUGGED COTTAGE: no WiFi . Bring dvds, books, or your favorite games or puzzles
GOT FISH? Yes, fish are here Got A VIEW? Yes, panoramic view of lake is awesome Got A Shallow shore? visit here to make a splash, kid friendly GOT TIME? we do---Come for a week
THIS IS THE PLACE for happy getaways
This classic cabin has a wonderful shore and beautiful views; very comfortable inside with 2 bedrooms in a great location Get away to nature, relaxation and family memories.
Douglas lake is scenic, quiet, great for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, water skiing, hiking, biking, napping. (we offer a free canoe and paddleboat for your usage) Full sports lake, very large but undeveloped, Lovely Loons and eagles live on this large, scenic lake.
Come enjoy the cedar dock. (bring your boat or rent a pontoon nearby) read a book Take out the paddleboat or 2 canoes grill dinner overlooking the lake make smores over our campfire area, wood provided
This is a kid friendly cottage: From the yard, take two steps down to the dock.... From the dock, take two steps down to the sand.... --children love to play in the sand here:)
The fully equipped cabin offers 2 bedrooms plus large sunny porch, and spacious full bath with shower, fireplace, deck, scenic panoramic view of lake, gorgeous view of nearby Pells Island. Close to walking trails, steps to the boat launch, a top restaurant is only 4 cabins away, quick drive to all conveniences.
**need more space? add a LITTLE RED CABIN: available for families wishing for additional accommodations, we offer this charmer directly across the gravel drive, within view of the beach bucket Details--The little red cabin is set up nicely with a kitchen, small dining table and living area. It has a separate bedroom with queen (12" high density foam comfort) bed, and small bath with shower. It is charming and comfortable We have an additional twin bed off the living area too, so children can sleep separately. *the Little Red Cabin is priced at half the rate of the beach bucket. This cabin is intended an add-on for the main cabin. First priority is for renters at main cabin. Weeks open to others thereafter.
OUTDOOR FUN: Watch (& hear) the Loons from your deck overlooking the lake; go fishing off a new dock, launch the 2 person paddle boat; canoe too.....or just lounge on the front deck
Beach Bucket--INTERIOR COMFORT: The cottage has an open floor plan for socializing and features 2 bedrooms and generous size bath with shower. The entire cabin is lined with traditional knotty pine walls, comfortable seating. Full stone fireplace has an insert for coziness! Large windows frame a wonderful view of the serene lake and sandy shore. Note: We sleep 6 in provided bedding — including a pullout couch and two beds. We accept 7 if you want to bring a crib or air mattress. EASY CENTRAL LOCATION: Only 5 miles west of I-75 assures access to all of northern Michigan!... Lunch in Petoskey, shop in Harbor Springs, dinner in Cross Village... or catch a ferry to Mackinac Island. We are close to Mackinaw City, Cheboygan, Indian River, Petoskey, or Cross village for day trips or any meals. Nearby are vegetable stands, video rentals, restaurants, convenience stores, & gas stops---just a few minutes away
Classic fun in a classic cabin, close to everything.
Michigan sales tax is 6%
*** We fill up preferred weeks quickly, so book soon.
We make vacations easy, and welcome our repeat guests
The cabin is heated and features a kitchen and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find a TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a fireplace, a sofa bed, and a coffee maker.
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
General
Garden
Unit size: 1,000 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out
Check-out before 10:30 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:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Children and extra beds
Note from host: Kid friendly beach and lake frontage, gentle slope
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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
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: 10:30 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.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to do within easy reach of this cabin?
This cabin in Pellston is within a 10-minute walk of Douglas Lake and University of Michigan Biological Station. Burt Lake is also within a driving distance of 4 mi.
Will I be able to park at this cabin?
No, there isn't parking available at the cabin.
Is this cabin associated with a casino?
No, this cabin is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this cabin?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cabin.
What do couples enjoy most about Gorgeous Lakeside- BeachBucket-sandy kid friendly, happy spot+add Lil’Red Cabin ?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this beachfront cabin include a fireplace and a kitchen in each cabin with some featuring lake views.
Are there hot tubs at Gorgeous Lakeside- BeachBucket-sandy kid friendly, happy spot+add Lil’Red Cabin ?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this cabin.
Does this cabin offer breakfast?
No, this cabin doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this cabin allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this cabin.
Does this cabin have connecting rooms?
No, this cabin doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
How far is the airport from this cabin?
The closest major airport to this cabin is Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional), which is 3.7 mi away (12 minutes by car). Another top airport is Mackinac Island, MI (MCD), which is located 29.8 mi away (39-minute drive).
Are there rooms with balconies at Gorgeous Lakeside- BeachBucket-sandy kid friendly, happy spot+add Lil’Red Cabin ?
Yes, every cabin at Gorgeous Lakeside- BeachBucket-sandy kid friendly, happy spot+add Lil’Red Cabin comes with a deck 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. 38 out of 44 reviews
10 - Excellent
38
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 44 reviews
8 - Good
5
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 44 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 44 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 44 reviews
2 - Terrible
1
9.6/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
John F.
Jun 22, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Family vacation
New beach toys for the kids. Property in excellent shape.Family has stayed here for last 5 years and to this area off and on for 65 years.
John F.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
claire d.
Aug 25, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy cabin
The rental process was easy and clear. Beautiful dock and view. Old school cabin feel.
claire d.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
8/10 Good
John F.
Jul 31, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
John F.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Vincent M.
Jul 30, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful
Beautiful Lake and cottage
Vincent M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Robin C.
Sep 6, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Great place to get away from the world!
My husband and I had a wonderful stay at the "Yellow Bucket". Indeed, the cottage was charming. This place had everything we needed. Loved the lake view and the sandy beach was awesome. We couldn't of asked for anything better. We loved the walks down the street and just taking in all the up north feelings we could get in. We had a wonderful time and we will be back soon. Thank you...
Robin C.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
10/10 Excellent
Michael K.
Aug 21, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Paradise Up North
Great week at the Beach Bucket:
SUP around Pell’s Island at dawn and dusk
Trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes
Bike ride to Petoskey
Lazy days swimming in the crystal clear waters of Douglas Lake
Dinner at the DLB
Great neighbors
Counting down the days until we return!
Michael K.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
10/10 Excellent
Janice E.
Aug 14, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing setting, beautiful view
We just left a week that was just what our family needed! Time together on our favorite lake, a great little beach and clean water for our 2 year old granddaughter, pontoon rides, hummingbirds, Eagles, and more. This home, combined with the little red cottage we also rented, gave us a cozy place to stay and relax. The owners were accessible, friendly, and helpful. Beds and furniture were comfortable and clean. The bathrooms are small and night time sleeping was tough several days due to hot conditions and rain. But fans were available and things improved throughout the week. I would recommend this little gem for a relaxing getaway. We plan to return.
Janice E.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
10/10 Excellent
Lorraine M., Taylor, MI
Jul 10, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect location
What a wonderful week! Despite bad weather for a few days we enjoyed the cabin. The lake was clean with a sandy bittom. The cabin was rustic chic and have everything we needed. Beds were comfortable. Plenty of dishes. Bring a HDMI cable if you want to watch Netflix on a rainy day. Large fire pit. Nice neighbors. If you go check out Douglas Lake Bar. Great food but you n you s a reservation. This cabin is close to many activities including miles and miles of bike trails. 1/2 he drive from Perosky, Maxkinaw City, Indian River, Chenoygan. Also close to Charlie pix and Harnor Springs. Owners were very responsive. Will defiantly stay here again!
Lorraine M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Janet P., Michigan
Jul 4, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Would definitely stay here again
We had not stayed on Douglas Lake before. Loved the lake and this cottage was perfect, both for the location and the condition. Super clean and cozy, well stocked with everything we needed. Loved being able to just step out the door to sit by the lake and enjoy the views. Clear water, sandy bottom and shallow water were really enjoyed by our grandchildren when they dropped by from their nearby cottage. We have rented cottages in Michigan many times and Douglas Lake has been the best!
Janet P.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
10/10 Excellent
Amy B.
Jun 29, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Beach Bucket checks all boxes!
Our family had a great visit at the Beach Bucket! The description of the cabin was accurate, very clean and well maintained. The kitchen is well stocked. Two things I would caution are 1) shower is very small but definitely useable and 2) sofa bed needs a better mattress. We had one very light weight adult use it for a night and she couldn’t sleep at all. I’d recommend an air mattress over using it. We enjoyed the view of the lake, fire pit, very nice dock, and paddle boat. We didn’t try the kayaks mostly due to weather conditions. Be sure to read up on the Douglas lake ahead of the trip. The location is prime with easy access to other major cities. Be sure to make reservations at the Douglas Lake Bar which is three doors down- great steaks! Would visit again!
Amy B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
10/10 Excellent
Bret R., Rochester Hills
Sep 25, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Great time had by all!
The home is very clean and is larger than expected. Really enjoyed the lake, kayaks and long dock. Setting and neighbors very quiet and pleasant. Close to the bridge and other UP attractions. Heads-up: don't miss the Amish baked goods nearby on Thursdays.
Bret R.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020
8/10 Good
Grant M., Michigan
Sep 22, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Great property but needs some updates
For context we were staying with our kids and another couple, 6 in total.
The property itself is terrific, you have abeautiful scenic waterfront property. The lake is clean and clear with a sandy bottom. Every morning was an exceptional sunrise and every evening we watched the moon come up. Very low light pollution so the night sky was very visible.
Overall I’d stay here again but there are a few items that are worth mentioning.
1) beds need updating. In the bedroom behind the kitchen the springs squeak in the mattress. The bedroom with the bathroom the floor slants as does the angle of the bed
2) the pictures show an en-suite bathroom but i don’t recall the description or pictures mentioning that the bedroom was thru the bathroom via the door in the living room. Worth noting as could be an inconvenience or uncomfortable for others. Overall not a huge deal to us just had to check before using the bathroom or going to your bedroom.
3) the wall heater in the living room wasn’t working. We plugged it in and turned it on via the wall but no heat came out made for a cold evening(s). In fairness we didn’t contact the owner to solve but just made do.
Grant M.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2020
10/10 Excellent
Michael K.
Sep 4, 2020
Douglas Lake Beauty
The cottage and the lake were both amazing. DL is quiet and super clean, with a sandy bottom. The few homes on the lake are well-cared for and the DL Bar & Steakhouse is right out of the 1950’s (In a good way). The cottage is very quaint and well-maintained. Had everything we needed, with great neighbors as well. The location is perfect too; close to Petoskey, Harbor Springs, and Mackinaw. Can’t wait to return!
Michael K.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020
10/10 Excellent
Roger P.
Sep 1, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Great property
Clean and nice
Roger P.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020
10/10 Excellent
Steven W.
Aug 16, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect "Up North" stay
Stayed here with my two sons (12/7) and it was a perfect place to escape for a week. Great communication from the hosts, perfect location on the "gold coast" of Douglas Lake. Enjoyed the use of the kayaks (one single, one double), canoe (three seats), and pedal pontoon (four seats). My youngest called it "the best week of the year" when I asked for feedback as we were driving home.
A few things to share:
- The life jackets provided kid-sized (7yo was comfortable in the largest); for adults the only option is floating cushions (which meet the requirement for the pedal boat). Worked out for us, but be aware if you have folks needing life jackets
- If you're trying to figure out where the "Gorge" is for hiking, take Bryant back to Riggsville and take a Left. Just East of W Burt Lake Road you'll see a split-rail fence off to your right. The trailhead/parking lot is right there. This is also a great place to park if you're wanting to ride your bikes along the new paved bike trail in the area. The entrance to the trail is at the back of the parking lot. If you want a quick Gorge experience, walk back to the road and go down the 100+ stairs to the bottom.
- The cottage does get bright EARLY in the morning. You may want to bring some black-out material if you're wanting to sleep late and struggle with lights.
Steven W.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
10/10 Excellent
Maria S.
Jul 29, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful stay!
Quaint little home on the lake. Sandy bottom and clear water makes swimming enjoyable. Lie on a raft and soak up the sun while the kiddos splash around you. Petoskey and Cheboygan only 20min drive away if you wanna explore in the afternoon after enjoying the lake. Bring your own disposable cups, plates, etc. Sink and shower water have strong smell due to well water which is expected. No A/C... weather was high 80s low 90s when we were there. 3 fans on site to help at night when sleeping otherwise we were outside most of the day. Overall very nice getaway. Thank you!
Maria S.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2020
10/10 Excellent
Christopher W.
Jul 20, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Great family getaway
Charming little house with a gorgeous view of the lake. Loved the many places to sit and rear. Kids loved taking out the boats and swimming in the lake. Big great room to relax in after a long day. Comfortable bedrooms. Close to Mackinac Island, Petoskey and Cheboygan. A great week, and we hope to be back!
Christopher W.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2020
10/10 Excellent
Rebecca N.
Jul 12, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Just what we were looking for
This sweet cabin is steps away from the lake. It’s beautiful and quiet. We often felt like we had the entire lake to ourselves. The dock has 4 different boats and a raft that are setup to easily get in and out of the water. The lake is shallow for a while at the edge so my young boys were able to wade and play in the water for hours every day. 20 minutes to Mackinac Island Ferry, short drive to Harbor Springs, and an even shorter drive to a hike that leads to the Gorge. We had an amazing time here.
The cabin was clean. The owner answered my many questions promptly and when there was a small issue at the cabin he took care of it right away.
Rebecca N.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2020
8/10 Good
Tim W.
Sep 9, 2019
Douglas Lake get-away
good
Tim W.
10/10 Excellent
Eileen N.
Aug 11, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous Cottage
Great location and very clean. The sunrises are gorgeous. The water level and condition are perfect for swimming, relaxing and boating. Lots of amenities for all to enjoy. Would say more but don’t want to create such a high demand that there isn’t availability for us to return!!
Eileen N.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2019
10/10 Excellent
Sandi S., Pickerington, OH
Jul 16, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness
Put the Beach Bucket on your bucket list!
We loved staying at the Beach Bucket! The cabin is comfortable and just right for a family of four. The neighbors were friendly and helpful, and the view is simply amazing. We loved sitting outside at night around the fire pit. The canoe and paddle boat were especially big hits with the kids. We will definitely plan on returning!
Sandi S.
8/10 Good
Kimberly G.
Jul 10, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing lake and location!
We loved this cute spot on the lake! The lake is calm and relaxing! The cabin was fully stocked and ready for us! Nice fire pit, paddle boat, and canoes. Fun for all!!!
The tap/shower water was very smelly like fishy iron. It was unpleasant while showering. It was hot inside the cabin and it only sleeps 6. The sofa bed mattress is very old and uncomfortable. We had to layer blankets and quilts to make it work.
Kimberly G.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019
10/10 Excellent
Alicia F.
Sep 20, 2018
Lovely lakeside spot
This was the perfect place for my parents to stay while visiting the area. It was clean, cozy, and quiet, with a beautiful view across the lake. The sandy bottom made wading/swimming easy. Our son enjoyed the paddleboat and kayak. My mother grilled several times -- a nice amenity.
Alicia F.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2018
10/10 Excellent
Peter D.
Sep 6, 2018
Would love to stay again
We really enjoyed our week at Douglas Lake. Thank you, Matt, for a great accommodation and flexibility so we could bring our entire family. Your upgrades are well done. Great location and very pleasant neighbors. Tell Fred hello for us! We would rent again in a heartbeat. Put best by a local we ran into picking up a pizza at the BP in Pellston on our first night...”everything you need, and nothing you don’t!” Even caught 3 good size fish off the end of the dock; a 16” pike and 2 small mouth. Sweet! Hope to see you again someday.
Pete and the gang
Peter D.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2018
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer W., Duluth, MN
Sep 3, 2018
Wonderful lake and lovely cabin!
The Beach bucket is a wonderful place to spend a week. The kitchen has everything you need including all new appliances. We especially enjoyed hanging out on the porch and playing in the lake. The paddle boat was a family favorite.