When seeking out a truly unique vacation option, a trip to explore Mackinac Island is definitely something to consider for travelers looking for delicious dining options, great shopping, world-famous fudge, or a visit to Fort Mackinac. With a gorgeous waterfront view of sunrises and sunsets, this vacation destination isn’t accessible by any bridge — there are no cars on the island — and most visitors arrive by ferry. Charmed yet?
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If your itinerary calls for a weekend trip, you’ll find plenty to do on the island — more than enough to keep you busy — be that by taking a carriage tour, hiking, biking, or exploring downtown. Before arriving, it’s best to learn as much as you can about the island so you know what to expect.
Because you cannot drive to Mackinac Island, you will need alternate transportation to the island from any of the Vrbo vacation rentals listed. While there are a lot of places to choose from, we’ve selected some great options that are right on the water, offering great views and comfortable quarters. We hope you find the perfect spot to enjoy this beautiful Michigan getaway!
Beautiful Vacation Home On Lake Huron, St. Ignace$386/nightly avg
Just steps away from Lake Huron and the Mackinac Bridge, this beautiful vacation home features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances in the kitchen, a washer and dryer, slate flooring in the lower level, and will sleep six comfortably. Your evening beach bonfires are going to include some truly gorgeous views. Bonus: this home is pet-friendly so your pups can enjoy it with you. Check it out today!
Macatawa, Mackinaw City$181/nightly avg
Welcome to Macatawa, a bright and cheery one-bedroom cottage ideal for a couple. Renovated in 2012, the large screened-in front porch has a table and chairs, a wicker loveseat, and chair. Walking distance to downtown, this is the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing with a fully-equipped kitchen, full bathroom, cable TV, and internet included. This cottage is not on the water but is just a short walk to the Straights and a quick drive to Headlands Dark Sky Park, sandy beaches, and the Upper Peninsula. Check out the photos — this is a neat place!
Cozy Log Cabin On Lake Michigan, Mackinac County$300/nightly avg
Located in a premier Upper Peninsula location minutes from St. Ignace, this cozy log cabin on Lake Michigan sits on 2 acres of woods with lake frontage. Check out the views of Lake Michigan from the cabin, or head outside and take in the view of St. Helena Island and its lighthouse from the cabin table. If you want to swim, go kayaking, or go fishing on Lake Michigan, this is the place for you. Inside, this cabin has two bedrooms, a full kitchen, and is ready to host you!
Lake House With Mackinac Bridge Views, Cheboygan County$215/nightly avg
Traveling with a large party? This Lake House rental with a great view of Mackinac Bridge, Bois Blanc, and Mackinac Island can host up to 13 guests and has plenty of room for kids and dogs to play. This is a really well-sized option, and it even has a kids bunkhouse with water views. The upstairs bedroom has a bay window that overlooks Lake Huron, and there are three basement bedrooms including the master with a king bed. The exterior features 150 feet of private sandy beachfront — the pictures say it all!
Dutch Harbor, Mackinaw City$215/nightly avg
Dutch Harbor sits in a park-like setting with firepits, a charcoal grill, outdoor seating, and a large deck perfect for some relaxation. Totally renovated in 2013 with additional updates since, this rental has a full kitchen, a washer and dryer, and two bedrooms with queen beds. Out back, the porch has a daybed with a trundle if you feel the need for some outdoor ZZZs! Dutch Harbor is comfortable and well-suited for travelers of all types and is within walking distance to shops, restaurants, and more!
The Mackinac House, Cheboygan County$279/nightly avg
The Mackinac House is a fun lake cabin rental on Lake Huron with incredible views of Mackinac Island, Bois Blanc Island, and the Mackinac Bridge — all from the large sunroom that seats 10. Built to give guests a “welcome home” feeling, this is a great option for those interested in stargazing over Lake Huron in an area ripe with natural beauty. Hiking enthusiasts will want to visit the Headlands, Wilderness State Park, or Mill Creek — all of which are minutes away. Bikers can ride the Mackinaw to Midland bike trail, easily accessed from the cottage driveway. Bring your water shoes — the waterfront is rocky!
Quaint Cottage on Lake Michigan, Emmet County$175/nightly avg
This quaint cottage on the sandy shore of Lake Michigan includes a master bedroom with a queen bed and a second bedroom with a queen bed and a twin bed. The living room offers gorgeous water views from the sofa and side chairs, or you can step into the dining room with space for up to six. The views get even better when you step outside onto the large deck that includes a picnic table and gas grill. Step down onto the path that leads you right to the water; bring your own firewood and enjoy the fire pit! There is no air-conditioning, but there are room fans and heaters.
Lakefront Property With Lake Huron View, Hessel$200/nightly avg
You’ll love the views of Lake Huron from this lakefront property! Central to St. Ignace, Hessel, and Rudyard, this is the perfect spot for bird watchers, a relaxing retreat, a family reunion, or whatever you’re looking for. With four bedrooms and space to sleep up to eight, you’ll notice the well-equipped kitchen and you’ll love the outside sights — an amazing location right on the water! The Pine River boat launch is less than a mile away and you’re close to ATV trails. Rent this one out for lots of outdoor fun.
Sommerset Lake House, Cross Village$350/nightly avg
The Sommerset Lake House, a 1,700-square-foot cottage featuring three bedrooms and a beautiful log interior, sits on Sturgeon Bay near Wilderness State Park. Whether you want to enjoy the tasteful decor and wood-burning stove inside, or sit on the deck enjoying the view of Lake Michigan, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind. Be sure to click through the photos to get a great look at the beach!
Cedar Cottage, Mackinaw City$195/nightly avg
Cedar Cottage, completely renovated in 2012, is a two-bedroom rental with a full kitchen well-equipped for you to do all of the cooking you desire. The new screened-in porch has a dining space and lounging area. You can also head outside to sit by the firepit or relax in the hammock. Situated only a few blocks from the Straights, you’re within walking distance to the waterfront, restaurants, shopping, ferries, and more. Scroll through the photos to fully enjoy this quaint and cozy cottage — you’re sure to like it!
Mission Point Condo On Mackinac Island$250/nightly avg
Located directly adjacent to Mission Point Resort, this quaint Victorian cottage is one of a kind, taking you back in time to the island condominiums of yesteryear. Right at the southern tip of the island, this home hugs Mackinac Island State Park, and it’s just a short drive up Lake Shore Drive to Arch Rock.
With two beds and one bathroom, the island home sleeps five, offers free Wi-Fi, and even has complimentary parking for guests. Stay close to your island house and enjoy views of Lake Huron from your patio. Or, explore the downtown area of the island and take a carriage ride on Mackinac’s Main Street.
Tiffany’s Premier Studio In Downtown Mackinaw City$156/nightly avg
Just steps away from Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry dock, Tiffany’s Premier Studio is the perfect location for exploring both Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island. It has convenient access to Mackinaw City activities such as a round at The Mackinaw Club Golf Course, a ride downtown in a horse-drawn carriage, or an adventure around the straits of Mackinac at Straits State Park. Or, hit the Mackinaw City Dock and ride over to Mackinac Island. Perfect for a romantic getaway, Tiffany’s has one bedroom and one bathroom. It’s a quaint, cheap option for a group of two.
To discover more things to do while exploring Mackinac Island, check out: