Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes

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Entire home

Enjoy lake views while checking in to work or reading a good book on the deck

Kitchen comes fully equipped to prepare a simple meal or a fancy feast.

The one bedroom is on the 2nd floor of large beach house.

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

Dryer
Washer
Barbecue grill
Parking available
Kitchen
Outdoor space

Explore the area

Porter, IN

Indiana Dunes State Park
‪2 min drive‬
Indiana Dunes National Park
‪6 min drive‬
Lake View Beach
‪15 min drive‬
Michigan City, IN (MGC-Michigan City Municipal)
‪24 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Dining area

About this property

Our Duneland Rentals cottages are right on the beach in the heart of the Indiana Dunes. This charming lakefront cottage is located on three hundred feet of private beach. The gradual sandy beach is excellent for swimming and the sunsets from the south shore of Lake Michigan are incredible.

Porter Beach is a small beach community located on the borders of the Indiana Dunes State Park and the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and just one hour from downtown Chicago. The beautiful beach stretches in either direction for miles and within minutes you can get to wonderful nature trails, excellent restaurants, quaint shops and many interesting cultural attractions.

The trails vary in length and difficulty but are all wonderful for both hiking and cross country skiing. There are also some excellent sledding hills nearby. Other close by sights include historic Chelberg Farm, Westchester Township History Museum, Zao Island Amusement Park, Taltree Arboretum, Calumet Bike Trail, Imagination Glen with a BMX race track and a 10 mile Outback Mountain Bike Trail and Broken Wagon Bison Farm and many more wonderful places to explore and activities to delight.

Keywords: Beach Front Bungalow Beach House Beach Cottage Indiana Dunes House Indiana Dunes Cabin Weekend Getaway Spot Vacation Rental Summer House Winter Cabin

Property manager

Susan Brandstetter

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

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Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

A child of any age is considered a guest.

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Additional day or overnight guests are NOT permitted. If you have additional guests you will be asked to leave and you will not be issued a refund.

All guests 18 years and older must sign a Waiver and Release of Liability Agreement prior to arrival.

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

Property Registration Number no

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Chesterton

Located in Porter Beach, a neighbourhood in Chesterton, this cottage is near theme parks and on the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Indiana Dunes National Park and Lake Michigan. Beverly Shores Depot Museum and Art Gallery and Cleveland Park are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging.

Porter, IN

What's nearby

Indiana Dunes State Park - 2 min drive - 1.1 km
Indiana Dunes National Park - 6 min drive - 3.8 km
Indiana Dunes Visitor Center - 7 min drive - 4.5 km
Dune Acres Beach - 11 min drive - 7.1 km
Lake View Beach - 15 min drive - 12.4 km

Getting around

Portage - Ogden Dunes Train to Chicago - 15 min drive
Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) - 76 min drive

Restaurants

‪McDonald's - ‬8 min drive
‪The Original George's Gyros Spot - ‬9 min drive
‪Wendy's - ‬8 min drive
‪Sunrise Family Restaurant - ‬9 min drive
‪Taco Bell - ‬8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes located?

Located in Porter Beach, this cottage is within 1 mi (2 km) of East Beach and Lake Michigan. Indiana Dunes National Park is 2.3 mi (3.7 km) away.

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

R Chris R.

26 Mar 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing place to stay at the Dunes

We loved every moment of our time here. We couldn't believe how close we were to the beach. Our kids were running in the waves and collecting rocks and playing in the sand within moments of our arrival. Highly recommended. Would absolutely stay here again.

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica M.

14 Jan 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dreamy

We visited just after the New Year. It was beautiful to see snow on the beach. The views from the cottage are amazing. We slept so well every night with the sound of the waves crashing on the beach. I had a couple of minor hiccups thay were entirely my own fault and the hosts were gracious enough to help promptly. The cottage has everything, including dishes and cookware. I really enjoyed the stove and want to replace my own now. Take heed of the reviews about the stairs, they're sturdy and in good repair but there are a lot of them. Knowing that in advance we just didn't use suitcases, we packed weekender bags/backpacks. Our hosts had great recommendations for things to see/do around the dunes and in Chicago, which is just an hour train ride away. Highly recommend, we're already talking about coming back this summer.

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

6/10 Okay

Scott P.

20 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Expectation Management

We had expected to have fire wood available by the fire ring as other VRBO’s we have stayed at. If you want a fire, get the wood before you go down to the house, it is quit a climb. Beautiful, restful, and clean. Do the three Dune challenge, it’s great!

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mary M.

18 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful beach property

Great mother daughter get a way Enjoyed walking on the beach Hiking Indiana Dunes National Park

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joan W.

11 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot for staying while visiting Dunes

Next to State Park. Large beach area. Beautuful view of sunset. Very quiet. The unit had anything we needed. Full size fridge, stove, microwave. TV living area and bedroom. Comfortable bed. Ocy si temp dropped but unit remained comfortable. Have to hike up and down about 60 steps so not accessible for all. But was good earmup for the 3Dunes Challenge at park.

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kim G.

23 Sept 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful On the Beach Location!

Stayed here for a long birthday weekend with my daughter. The view of Lake Michigan and the sunsets were amazing! This place had everything we needed. It is a peaceful private location in between 2 public beaches at the Indiana Dunes State and National Parks. The description of the stairs is accurate. The stairs are not for people with bad knees or any other physical condition that might prevent you from getting up and down them. The stairs not a problem for us. I would definitely stay here again. Susan (the owner) was helpful during check in and orienting us to the place.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandra G.

15 Sept 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Getaway

This was a nice, clean, and charming place. We enjoyed our stay on the beach. However, next time we would pack light and be prepared for about 60 stair steps from the top of the hill, where you park to the house. Check-in was quick and the host was gracious to help carry luggage to the house. I would recommend this place and hope to revisit soon!

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandy B.

23 June 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Outstanding Experience

I recommend this property to everyone! Delightful hosts, clean comfortable unit on the beach, and great location. Some stairs-if that is a concern. Cottage feel. Good bed. Nice little deck overlooking the beach. Great sunsets! Give them a call.

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

jay m.

1 June 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

beach get away

Great location, great view great amenities, beach/ water view from every room . Great neighborhood. Cottage clean. It was AWSOME!!

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

8/10 Good

Susie H.

28 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic location!

The owners, Susan and Erica have a lovely group of VRBO's on the beach. The location could not have been better. The upstairs space was simple and clean. Furniture and kitchen was basic but they had everything you need. An actual demonstration of the european stove would have been helpful as it was difficult to light. There were little glitches (broken coffee maker, fire alarm going off) that were mostly dealt with a rapid response. The walls are thin and you hear conversations from the neighbors. The stairs are a REAL thing to deal with if you have luggage, coolers or the like. Susan was extremely kind to offer her help in bringing the cooler down. Overall it was a great place to get away for a few days and chillax. The nearby Dunes National Park is great for hiking. For the price, we felt it was a good deal.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jerry G.

7 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

WONDERFUL LOCATION

Within walking distance of state park. Beautiful views. We love the location.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marcia C.

6 Apr 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

beautiful location

Great spot for exploring Indiana Dunes - we went on lots of hikes and enjoyed the beach seclusion of the cabin.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ronald R.

1 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing vacation

Picked this cottage because of location directly on the beach and positive recommendations. Property as described, clean, slept four comfortably and nearly everything provided. OTA TV only but Roku worked great. Good wifi.Was warned about steps so did not bring any suitcases but backpacks and lightweight duffle bags. Brought bottled water but not needed as Culligan filter on faucet. I have balance issues but managed the steps. They had another handrail placed to assist me the day after we arrived. Susan and Erika were both very helpful and pleasant. Several reasonably priced restaurants and pubs within 8-10 minute drive and not much traffic. We will plan to return next if possible. Strongly recommend if able to climb several steps. Ron R

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

karen m.

8 Apr 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful and fabulous view

Loved our stay… the warning on steps is accurate! We were fine but could be issue for some. We had a short stay so steps were not a huge issue . They could be more lit up at night. The cottage was quaint,super clean and comfortable. We were probably off season , had the beach and the dunes to ourselves!

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott M., Canton, MI

1 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location

Enjoyed our couple of day stay here very much. The location right on the beach is amazing. It's very quiet and private compared to the busy section of beach down about a 1/4 mile dedicated to the national park. In May of 2022 the beach is fairly wide - nothing like the high tide they had back in 2020 so fear not. Sunsets are fantastic. The guest hosts are friendly and accommodating. The rooms are very clean and well maintained - no complaints about our visit at all and will make it a point to return in the future.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Carmen L.

30 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing, great location.

The listing was accurate except that there were additional amenities that I didn't notice in the listing such as a grill, outdoor fire pit, and beach accessories. Which was a nice bonus upon arrival! Susan is great and easy to communicate with. Cell service is spotty but who cares for relaxing for a few days. The oven is tricky and may have been user error. Loved the location. It's a fabulous getaway for staying right in the beach. You really could just stay there and not leave, but the proximity to the national and state parks makes it so you want to explore nature. Technically you can walk along the lake shore to get into the state park. We drove into Chesterton for coffee one day and then explored other sights by car. The rental is cozy and clean and perfect for two adults and two young kids. I loved that the kids could play on the beach and I could sit and relac or make meals and still watch them. Beautiful lake and sunset views. Definitely want to stay here again.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Celia G.

14 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Terrific Getaway

Perfectly tranquil! Highly recommended!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

8/10 Good

John L.

6 Apr 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great lake view!

We very much enjoyed our stay here. We were right on the beach and enjoyed the views of the lake. It was our first visit in the area and will probably be back!

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Emily M.

6 Mar 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location!

We had an absolute blast at this location! We visited in early March so obviously not beach weather but it was really cool to be right on the lake. The house was perfect for what we needed. We spent a day hiking at the Dunes state park, which was only about 5 minutes away. Chesterton IN is nearby and had some great restaurants/breweries/taprooms. We really enjoyed this trip and would definitely book here again!

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brian M.

7 Nov 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing views of the Lake

What an incredible place to stay. Right on the lake. We took advantage of the fire pit and had a fire on the beach. Clean, well stocked, close to restaurants and a gracious host! Thanks Susan!

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Robert B.

31 Oct 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Getaway

Property was right on the beach and gave us beautiful views of the sunsets.

Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Amy S.

17 Oct 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Experience

The place was very clean! Especially considering all the sand around. Had everything we needed and didn't have to leave if we didn't want to. Great view of the lake from kitchen and living room. Susan was prompt on answering any questions we had. The extras we loved was the provided firewood, access to kayak, paddle board, and Lilly pad. Although it was too chilly to get in water during our stay. Highly recommend. I'm positive we'll be back next year.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Cathie C.

14 Oct 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful beach getaway

Everything was perfect! Exactly what we were looking for… beach, sunset, beautiful lake! We found everything we needed in the cottage. It was very clean, comfortable, quiet. Only downside — the steep steps/hill between car and cottage. For someone with bad knees (like me) this could be a real problem, but I just kept my trips to a minimum and took it slowly. We loved it here and hope to book it again next year.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Brittany P.

11 Oct 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome Stay!

Amazing stay! Was looking for something more secluded and this was the perfect spot! Views were beautiful and it was awesome to walk right out to the beach! Owner even provides a fire pit for a beach fire and kayaks/boogie boards if one chooses to use! Rental was very clean and just a overall great stay!

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Bridget G.

26 Aug 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location

A+ all the way around!! Susan, Erica, Matt, Lisa, everyone was wonderful and accommodating! Any questions or concerns I had, Susan responded swiftly. The property was clean, efficient and exceeded my expectations-I hated to leave and I can’t wait to go back!! Side note: the walk from parking area to house is a bit of a hike and lots of stairs - PACK LIGHTLY!! Bottomline: HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PLACE!

Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2021

About the host

Hosted by Susan Brandstetter

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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Charming Lakefront Cottage in Indiana Dunes

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Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

About this property