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Whaleback Inn

Property class: 2.5

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Photo gallery for Whaleback Inn

A clear lake with kayaks and a dock with chairs.
A wooden deck with a bench and chairs overlooking a lake.
A wooden cabin with large windows, a covered porch, and a stone foundation.
A bedroom with a skylight, a wooden bed, a chair, a desk, and a bathroom with a shower.
A cozy living area with a fireplace, a dining table with chairs, a sofa, and a kitchen in the background.

Reviews

9.8 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, Van's Beach
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪43 min drive‬

Room options

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

A hotel room with two beds, wooden headboards, a ceiling fan, and a wooden desk with a lamp.

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Lake View

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(11 reviews)
  • Lake view
  • 237 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

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

A bedroom with a skylight, a wooden bed, a chair, a desk, and a bathroom with a shower.

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

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

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

A bedroom with a wooden bed, two bedside lamps, a window, and a mirror above the desk.

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

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

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

A bedroom with a bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a lamp, a mirror, and a window with blinds.

Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking

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

View all photos for Apartment (Cottage Suite)

A compact living space with a kitchenette, a green sofa, a wooden coffee table, and patterned armchairs.

Apartment (Cottage Suite)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • 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

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, two chairs, a window with a view, and two wall lamps.

Single Room, 1 Queen Bed, Lakeview with Loveseat

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(9 reviews)
  • Lake view
  • 1 bedroom
  • 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
  • Van's Beach - 2 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - 6 min drive - 5.4 miles
  • Grand Traverse Bay - 11 min drive - 11.0 miles

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Village Cheese Shanty - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪VI Grill - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪The Cove - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Roman Wheel Pizza & Subs - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Hive Coffee Co. - ‬13 min drive

About this property

Whaleback Inn

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.

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  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • 24/7 front desk
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The price is $179
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
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Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

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

  • Bed sheets 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

  • American Express
  • Mastercard
  • Visa

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 amenities will couples enjoy at Whaleback Inn?

At this lakeside hotel, couples will appreciate amenities like a terrace plus some guestrooms include a private indoor hot tub and a lake view.

Are there hot tubs at Whaleback Inn?

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

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.

Are there connecting rooms at Whaleback Inn?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

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 and a deck/patio where guests can enjoy lake views.

Whaleback Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 175 out of 203 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 18 out of 203 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 10 out of 203 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 203 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 203 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location - beautiful views, very relaxing
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location. Peaceful and well maintained
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The place was nice. Staff very friendly. The location is great. Would definitely stay again
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We loved it here. I wish I had the opportunity to stay longer. It was so relaxing to sit on the dock with our coffee and muffins. Hope to stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful, clean and perfect! Cant wait to come back.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Inn keeper was amazing. She was always around if you needed anything and made amazing coffee and muffins which we enjoyed every morning. Super clean and inviting resort.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything was perfect, from start to finish! we would definitely stay here again! The little lounge area with drinks and snacks, and ice, was very helpful! The staff was great, and they took care of us! Loved the views and loved the up north feel of the individual entry rooms!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Nice room, great location, welcoming staff.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was our first time staying at the Whaleback in June and it was such an amazing experience! Everything was clean and the Inn was so well taken care of! You could tell how much love goes into the property and the thoughtful details that are in the rooms and public areas. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice stay
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful place with a nice view. Great inn keeping couple. The lakeview room had a small bathroom but a sitting area with a couch and a sitting area.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Such a beautiful place, great staff, perfect location, I will stay there again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
So clean and quiet. Room had a water view and patio. Could also sit in large yard and enjoy nature and a beautiful view.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The views of the lake and set up of the property was well thought out. Very welcoming and helpful innkeepers! Cabin was clean and well maintained. The location of the cabin was close to restaurants, the beach, but quiet and secluded just outside of town. Highly recommend! Will definitely be back to stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
This place is located on the edge of Leland where it is peaceful and has a beautiful view of the lake. We were so blessed to be able to stay there. We highly recommend staying there when you are in the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice view of Lake and Rachel the Innkeeper was most attentive.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Water view…homey…great location to town..quiet…lots of area to sit and relax…would highly recommend
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Adorable place with exceptional hospitality!

What an adorable place with impeccable service and hospitality! Can’t wait to go back!!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Fanadtic place lovely owners. Clean ...beautiful gardens
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Whaleback Inn Is Lovely

I would stay at the Whaleback Inn again in a minute. The staff was wonderful and helpful, the location beautiful and the rooms great. Loved the view!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Cleanest, friendliest place we’ve ever stayed. Will definitely go back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean, quiet and close to everything
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022