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Windhaven on Lake Michigan

Photo gallery for Windhaven on Lake Michigan

The front of Windhaven facing Lake Michigan.
High water levels have caused severe beach erosion 5/2020
High water levels have caused severe beach erosion 5/2020
The best times of your life
High water levels have caused severe beach erosion 5/2020

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 10

Popular amenities

  • Beach view
  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Fireplace
  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer

Explore the area

Map
Muskegon, MI
  • Muskegon State Park
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Michigan's Adventure
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Lake Express Ferry Terminal
    ‪26 min drive‬
  • Muskegon, MI (MKG-Muskegon County)
    ‪31 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

4 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Windhaven on Lake Michigan

As you turn off the main road onto the 500 foot long winding wooded lane, your anticipation grows. When you pull up to the back of the house, you can already smell the fresh, clean breeze coming off of Lake Michigan. And, when you open the car door, you can hear the waves. You rush toward the front yard and as you walk to the edge of the 50 foot bluff, overlooking your private beach, you are overwhelmed by the beauty of this place. You don’t wait to unpack the car. You rush down the 60 steps to the beach. You kick off your shoes and run to the waters edge. You only intend to test the water but, before you know it you’re in up to your knees, your pants are wet and you don’t even care. And, so begins one of the most memorable vacations you’ll ever experience.

A note from the owner: Historically high water levels on Lake Michigan have caused severe erosion of the beaches in most areas beginning in 2019. The water level has gone down by a couple of feet by late 2021, early 2022 leaving about 40 to 50 feet of beach. I have tried to post more recent photos of the beach but the amount of beach and access varies widely depending on the time of year, wind and wave conditions, etc. Please request current photos and ask questions. The owner makes no guarantees as to lake level or access beyond what is known at the current time.
Also, be advised, for your security and the security of the property, there is video surveillance on the grounds of the property (outside only) to monitor authorized and unauthorized visitors in the parking area and at access points to the home. By renting this property you are acknowledging and agreeing that your image and the images of anyone in your party may be recorded.

Property manager

James Johnstone

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Home has not been child proofed. Parents are resp.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Contact owner for exception requests.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Muskegon

Located in Muskegon, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the beach. Lake Michigan and Muskegon State Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Michigan's Adventure and Muskegon Winter Sports Complex. USS LST 393 and Jumpin' Jupiter Skate & Fun Center are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and cycling nearby.
Map
Muskegon, MI

What's nearby

  • Muskegon State Park - 6 min drive - 5.3 km
  • Michigan's Adventure - 22 min drive - 17.8 km
  • Lake Express Ferry Terminal - 26 min drive - 23.1 km
  • Pere Marquette Park Beach - 32 min drive - 27.2 km
  • USS Silversides - 33 min drive - 27.9 km

Getting around

  • Muskegon, MI (MKG-Muskegon County) - 31 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Deck BBQ & Beer - ‬29 min drive
  • ‪Thrasher's Bear Lake Tavern - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Ruth Ann's Ice Cream - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Dockers Fish House - ‬30 min drive
  • ‪Red Rooster Tavern - ‬11 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Windhaven on Lake Michigan pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

How much does it cost to stay at Windhaven on Lake Michigan?

As of 16 April 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Windhaven on Lake Michigan on 21 April 2025 start from NZ$708.58, 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.

What time is check-in at Windhaven on Lake Michigan?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Windhaven on Lake Michigan?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Windhaven on Lake Michigan located?

Nestled on the beach, this Muskegon holiday home is 0.2 mi (0.3 km) from Lake Michigan and 3 mi (4.8 km) from Duck Lake Outlet. Duck Lake State Park Beach and Muskegon State Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 96 out of 115 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 17 out of 115 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 115 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 115 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 115 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Maria B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy stay, excellent location!
We truly enjoyed our stay. We especially enjoyed being able to visit 2 state parks that we could access quickly. Jim was a very responsive host. Thank you for a warm and welcoming stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A perfect getaway
This was our 4th stay at this cottage and we've already booked for next year. It is in a beautiful location with great views of Lake Michigan. The lake level was lower this year so lots of beach to walk on although there are plenty of steps back up the bluff so save some energy for the climb. We love the Muskegon area, enjoying the excellent food, beverage, and recreation options. The cottage is "well-loved" which is a euphonism for a little worn - but this "lived in" condition is one of the things we like about it - we feel immediately comfortable when we walk in the door and while we take care to treat it with care and respect, it doesn't feel like to have to coddle it - it's been perfect for us and our friends. There is also an emergency generator which we appreciated this year when we came back from dinner one night and the power was out in the neighborhood but the cottage was fully powered until the utility power came back on.
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

BillCMarlin

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Classic Lake Michigan Beach Cottage
As others have mentioned, this is a classic Lake Michigan beach cottage. My family actually rented this same cottage 20 or so years ago when our kids were little kids. I don't think it has changed much since then. But, that's not a bad thing. Nothing fancy, just an old fashioned cottage sitting on the dunes above Lake Michigan. The shoreline is constantly changing, but when we there, it had lots of beach. My wife's parents have lived down the road for 40 plus years. This is not near a beach town like South Haven or Saugatuck. But, if you want a remote, quiet home on the beach to build family memories, this could be your place!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The BEACH
Sandy shore and lake bottom was just beautiful. We looked forward to every sunset. The house was roomy and homey. I appreciated the screened in porch for housing sandy shoes and totes with extra towels and food items. The house was stocked with virtually everything needed. The linens and blankets were adequate, but not abundant. Be prepared to either bring extra, or do a bit of laundry. We were pleased to have beach chairs for us old folks and sand toys for the littles. The grill is a charcoal one, but we found charcoal stocked and brought our own lighter fluid. There is good parking space (we had 3 vehicles) and a nice sized backyard for games or our dog to fetch her stick. There is a Dollar General Market, a sustainable farm with fresh produce and raw milk and a blueberry farm within 6 miles. We wished we had
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robert G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pleasant family get together
Jim's house was a pleasant, convenient place to meet with our family from St. Louis, for US from Ontario. The beaches are reasonably close and lovely. The beach by the house is gorgeous, but a bit of a steep climb up the stairs. Jim's home was well equipped and very suitable for meals, games and just reading.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sharon S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Gorgeous beach
Thanks Jim we had a wonderful family week at your family cottage! Weather was perfect most days and the beach was beautiful and watching the gorgeous sunsets at the fire pit on the beach was a highlight.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Vicky M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxed
Enjoyed the beach and family friendly cottage.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Heather C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great cabin-like stay on the beach
This house was perfect for our family vacation on lake Michigan! Three generations had space to both be together & have some of their own space when needed. The property owner was very easy to communicate with and made sure we were well accommodated.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

bill b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent Vacation
Jim was very helpful. The property was as advertised. It was very clean and well-stocked with cooking supplies etc. The location was convenient, had great views and a very nice sandy beach.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Della S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sisters Vacation
Cozy old cabin with a quiet beach for walking or just enjoying the water. Peaceful county setting with dining and entertainment options north to Whitehall or south to Muskegon. Or just stay at the cabin on the water.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Heather S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family day trip
Brought the family out for a daycation and eveyone enjoyed the property. The property was easy to find and was accurate with the description. The owner was very pleasnt and the check in process was easy. The family had a great time and look forward to booking this property in the future
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

6/10 Okay

Phil L.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness
Not company ready
We have rented a few VRBO’s in the last few years and this one was not ready for guests. The cleaning was basic we had to wash dishes before we could use them , we had to find the grill no chairs on deck , we were also suppose to find these things and place them and if we didn’t put back was going to be charged 100$ per item . Not including the 6 pages of rules . Think these owners should just use it for their family and not charge people to rent it . And the 10 plus remotes to figure out TV was ridiculous.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christianna R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Spring at Windhaven
Very nice location for a family vacation. Location is convenient and the property is well maintained. Overall a relaxing stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to spend a week
This was our third stay here and we've already booked it for next year. It is a perfect place for hanging with friends and family. We highly recommend it to anyone seeking a comfortable vacation home in the Muskegon area.
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Matt H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lake Michigan Getaway
We had a great week. Accommodations worked well for our family. The beach was awesome even though there are a few steps to get down. We appreciated special touches like tissues in every room, bandages, lots of movies for rainy days, beach toys and chairs, and lots of cooking spices.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Jennifer K.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Windhaven
We had a spectacular week at Windhaven. Weather was blue skis every day, and the beach was almost tropical. The cabin was very true to the listing, with plenty of videos, kitchen fully stocked, and rustic feel. Sunsets every night even with the Canadian wildfires were beautiful. Only suggestions would be a gas grill, and picnic table with some additional outside seating would be nice. We will definitely stay here again! ❤️
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelli R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Property
The house is cozy and has absolutely everything you need for a comfortable vacation. It’s nothing fancy, but the real draw is obviously what’s out back! Even from the back patio, the views of Lake Michigan are stunning. Once you get down the steep stairs to the beach, you know why this house is such a gem. A beautiful, pristine, almost completely empty beach! The beach was wonderful, and we enjoyed many afternoons watching the sailboats and jet skis go by while listening to the waves. And many evenings were spent enjoying the most beautiful Lake Michigan sunsets while making s’mores in the beach fire pit. The house is also a good jumping off point to other fun Michigan activities, and not too far from town, which makes it easy to run out for groceries or anything you need. The owner was also wonderful and easy to get ahold of with questions. I would recommend this property to anyone who isn’t fussy, and is looking for a laid back beach experience!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Vicky M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A real cottage
Not new but felt homey. The cottage has well functioning appliances. Has a large porch children can spread their toys and play. There is a large table in kitchen next to a window where there is another large table on enclosed porch. There are tvs in every room, if you choose, but has a large living room for gathering. Matresses in bedrooms on main floor are firm. There is a clean, tidy basement bunk room…kids loved being together. We spent most of our time on large beautuful beach. Fifteen minutes away community for grocery shopping and things forgotten.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert S., Geneva il

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beach time
Nice house, beautiful beautiful beach, the kids and adults had a great time!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

B C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beach house
Excelente stay awsome place
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Daniel B., Northville, MI

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Spring Getaway
Enjoyable time. Older cottage but fully stocked and comfortable. Beautiful beach and quiet area.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

J G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lake Michigan Trip
Some friends and I met here for a long weekend. We were quite pleased with the property and location. If anything, the accommodations were even better than described in the listing. We appreciated the beautiful view, proximity to the lake and town, and relative privacy of the home. It was a pleasant surprise to find the kitchen and home stocked with normal supplies, and odds & ends (spices, sandwich bags, Tupperware, etc.). James was a wonderful host and I won't be surprised if we end up here again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

John H., WHITMORE LAKE

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lake Michigan Get-A-Way
Everything was as described. We all enjoyed the house and property. Very homey atmosphere. The beach was awesome. We enjoyed the sunset on the beach with a fire in the firepit Jim was great host and easy to communicate with. We were here for the State bowling tournament. It was so nice not be at a hotel.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Aimee G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Girl Scouting Winter Adventure
Our Senior Girl Scout troop of 8 scouts and 2 leaders rented Windhaven for our Winter Luge Adventure Trip. We chose this property for both the cost and proximity to the Luge Adventure Park (just 7 minutes down the street). The beach access would be amazing in the summer. The house itself is small, yet 3 bedrooms had queen beds and the 2 bunks slept an additional 4 downstairs. Definitely no-frills, but a big step up from the scout cabins we usually lodge in. Most of the furnishings were older, but adequate. The second bathroom off the master bedroom has been updated. The extra seating on the screen porch wasn't available, but this was expected for the time of year. The kitchen was small, and there's no dishwasher, but well equipped for preparing basic meals. A few extra blankets for the downstairs bunks would have been great, as we forgot to pack them. The owner and housekeeper were friendly and kind. They answered all our questions before arriving and we had plenty of privacy to enjoy our weekend. They were even thoughtful enough to ship back a few forgotten items we left behind the next day. Overall, this was exactly what we were looking for, and we had a fantastic time visiting Muskegon.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Holly G., Illinois

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Classic family lake house
I’ve been visiting the shores of Lake Michigan my whole life and always had a fondness for generational family lake houses but never stayed in one before this. This house had it all! Humble and cozy, well loved, stocked with games and beach chairs; everything you need for that family lake house experience. And the beach!!! The beach is perfect, we will return for sure.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

About the host

Hosted by James Johnstone

Host profile image
I'm a retired Manufacturing Engineer for a company that made liquid filters for Caterpillar. I live in Urbana, IL and I have two grown children and five grandkids. My grandkids are now the sixth generation in our family to make Lake Michigan our vacation destination. My great grandparents had a cabin in Muskegon in the early 1900's near Mount Garfield. My father and his parents vacationed near Pentwater and, when I was growing up we rented a cabin at Scenic Lodge which was about two miles south of Windhaven, every summer. In the early sixties, my parents were fortunate enough to meet a kindly old fisherman who happened to own quite a bit of beach front property. They bought the lot from him and that was the start of their dream. They were working people so, it took them almost 20 years to scrape together the money to build the house but, in 1981 they completed Windhaven.

Why they chose this property

We always loved the Muskegon area and this has been my vacation home since I was old enough to walk. Our family has put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into this place and I can't imagine a more beautiful setting or any place I would rather be.

What makes this property unique

A beautiful beach, clean clear water, incredible sunsets, and lots of other things to do in the area make this a great vacation destination.

Languages:

English