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Whaleback Inn

2.5 star property

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Photo gallery for Whaleback Inn

Sundeck
Reception
Exterior
Point of interest
Traditional Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

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)
    ‪42 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)
  • Lake view
  • 237 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

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)
  • Lake view
  • 450 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

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
(3 reviews)
  • Lake view
  • 237 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

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
(2 reviews)
  • 237 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

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
  • Free WiFi

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

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(6 reviews)
  • Lake view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

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 - 5 min drive - 5.4 miles
  • Traverse City Beach - 40 min drive - 35.6 miles

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪VI Grill - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Fiddleheads - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Leelanau Pie & Pastry - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Roman Wheel Pizza & Subs - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Streetside Grille - ‬15 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.

Similar properties

Front of property
Leland Lodge
Leland
  • Breakfast included
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, 534 reviews
$351 nightly
The price is $372
Jun 30 - Jul 1
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

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.

How much does it cost to stay at Whaleback Inn?

As of Jun 29, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Whaleback Inn on Jun 30, 2026 start from $396, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

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 garden 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. 150 out of 175 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 175 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 9 out of 175 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 175 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 175 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.2/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

John

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

10/10 Excellent

steve

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

8/10 Good

Timothy

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

10/10 Excellent

Vicki

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

10/10 Excellent

Paige

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

10/10 Excellent

Cumbee

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

10/10 Excellent

Julie

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

10/10 Excellent

Steve

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Everything was wonderful! A super fun weekend. Will definitely come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

KatieLynn

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
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carlina

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

10/10 Excellent

Evelyn

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

10/10 Excellent

Nicole

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

10/10 Excellent

Sandra

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

10/10 Excellent

Melanie

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

10/10 Excellent

Julie

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

10/10 Excellent

Benjamin

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

MARCIA

Love the simplicity and uniqueness! No boxy holiday inn!!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jorge

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

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
Verified

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
Verified

6/10 Okay

Bruce

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott

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

Book it!

It was amazing! Great location, the inn keepers were great, room clean.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marianne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Third year that we’ve enjoyed the world back in. Perfect setting, beautiful place, and the staff was wonderful
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

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