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Whaleback Inn

2.5 star property
Lakefront hotel in Leland with free parking

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Photo gallery for Whaleback Inn

Porch
Reception
Kayaking
Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

View in a map
1757 N Manitou Trail, Leland, MI, 49654
  • Place, Lake Leelanau
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Historic Fishtown
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Manitou Island Transit
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪41 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Lake View

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Lake View | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Lake View

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(9 reviews)
  • 237 sq ft
  • Lake view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 450 sq ft
  • Lake view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Traditional Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

Traditional Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Traditional Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • 237 sq ft
  • Lake view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking

Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 237 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Apartment (Cottage Suite)

Apartment (Cottage Suite) | Living area | TV

Apartment (Cottage Suite)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 495 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

View all photos for Single Room, 1 Queen Bed, Lakeview with Loveseat

Single Room, 1 Queen Bed, Lakeview with Loveseat | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Single Room, 1 Queen Bed, Lakeview with Loveseat

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • Lake view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the neighborhood

Leland

Whaleback Inn places you within 2 miles (3 km) of popular sights like Van's Beach and Historic Fishtown. This 18-room hotel welcomes guests with conveniences like free in-room WiFi, free self parking, and a terrace.

What's nearby

  • Lake Leelanau - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Historic Fishtown - 2 min drive - 1.1 miles
  • Manitou Island Transit - 2 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Van's Beach - 2 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - 6 min drive - 5.6 miles

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪VI Grill - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Village Cheese Shanty - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Pedaling Beans Coffeehouse - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Streetside Grille - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Cove - ‬2 min drive

About this property

Whaleback Inn

Lakefront hotel in Leland with free parking
Guests staying at Whaleback Inn enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a terrace, and a picnic area. A stay here includes free parking. Staff members can help with accommodation requests, and provide front-desk service during limited hours. This smoke-free hotel also has a garden.
Guests can expect to find TVs and stay connected with free WiFi. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Refrigerators, free local calls, and desks are other standard amenities.

Similar properties

Front of property
Leland Lodge
  • Breakfast included
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, 510 reviews
$140 nightly
The price is $148
Jan 19 - Jan 20, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Leland Lodge

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • Limited onsite self parking

Family friendly

  • In-room refrigerator

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Outdoors

  • Dock
  • Garden
  • On a lake
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 5 buildings
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • TV

Food and drink

  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Late check-out subject to availability

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 8:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Renovations and closures

The property is closed between October 27 and April 15.

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Property payment types

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
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-6:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. 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.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • 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. Cash is not accepted. 

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Whaleback Inn Leland
Whaleback Leland
Whaleback Inn Hotel
Whaleback Inn Leland
Whaleback Inn Hotel Leland

Frequently asked questions

What's there to do near Whaleback Inn?

This hotel is located in Leland, just steps from Lake Leelanau. You'll also find Lake Michigan and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at Whaleback Inn?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel.

Does Whaleback Inn have a casino at the property?

No, Whaleback Inn doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Whaleback Inn?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Whaleback Inn?

At this lakeside hotel, couples will appreciate amenities like a terrace plus some guestrooms include kitchens and lake views.

Are there hot tubs at Whaleback Inn?

Yes, this hotel offers private indoor spa tubs in some guestrooms.

Does Whaleback Inn have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, Whaleback Inn doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will Whaleback Inn allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at Whaleback Inn.

Does Whaleback Inn have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

What is the closest airport to Whaleback Inn?

The closest major airport to Whaleback Inn is Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), which is 29.6 mi away (45 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Whaleback Inn?

Yes, some guestrooms at this hotel offer either a balcony or a deck where guests can enjoy lake views.

Whaleback Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 141 out of 166 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 166 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 9 out of 166 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 166 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 166 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.0/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

KatieLynn

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The entire experience at the Whaleback Inn was like stepping into a small town romance novel. Every cabin was cozy and the owners were very welcoming and hospitable. There was a great community area and ample outdoor seating on the porch, property, and pier that gave the best views. We absolutely loved our time there and will be booking again soon!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stanley

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

10/10 Excellent

Cumbee

Traveled with group
Fanadtic place lovely owners. Clean ...beautiful gardens
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie

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

The Best of Rustic and Amenities

This is a great place to stay! Rustic but with modern amenities. The Inn keepers are wonderful - helpful and friendly but not obtrusive. We will definitely stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amie

Traveled with group, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brad

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

10/10 Excellent

Erich

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amy

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very clean
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Bruce

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Location and view to water was beautiful. The rooms were very outdated and the beds not comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
We really enjoyed our stay, the owner Drew made sure we felt welcomed when we first arrived and gave us a very thorough tour of the property. Both Ty and Rachel (who were the innkeepers) were always very approachable with any of our needs throughout the trip, including with helping us get situated with the onsite kayak rentals. We definitely plan to be back, as this place had a nice remote feeling and gorgeous up close view of Lake Leelanau!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Cathy

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice stay there. The couple running the Inn are really friendly and helpfull. The only complaint I have is the smell of the water in the shower. It smells like sulfur, very stinky. But not the Inn keepers fault of course.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Barry

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Crystal

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

Great place.

Definately will stay again. Resident cat Hank is so cool. He has got it made. I can’t say enough . Relaxing. Clean. Quiet. A true get a way.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Benjamin

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was one of the most beautiful and unique inns we’ve ever stayed at. A great location with a lovely view of the water and dock for us to go out on. The staff was warm and welcoming and the grounds felt safe and homey. highly recommend!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
This amazing, cozy, cottage setting was perfect for a quiet retreat. Ty and Rachael made me feel like i was family and had all the comforts of home. The view was perfect, overlooking the lake. I highly recommend!
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ashley

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Rachel had our room ready as soon as we arrived on the property. Our room was very clean. The community room is adorable and cozy. There are some snacks using the honor system, and some complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate and oatmeal. I would highly recommend.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eric

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

Quiet weekend.

Nice and relaxing in woods and water setting. Loved the nature hike.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gene

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice wooded area with comfortable housing and convenient amenities.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
View of the lake is nice, front porch socializing very nice
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I liked the newer wood & the room was very clean !
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

SUSAN

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Excellant
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

john

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The facilities and staff were first rate.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandra, Fremont

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My husband and I both said we would love to revisit this resort.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

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