Entire home

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
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome place.
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay here.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alia A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing location!!!
Everything was cozy, clean, and convenient. It was a beautiful fall weekend and perfect for beach bonfires. Would highly recommend and love to return someday.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Vacation
My family and I had another wonderful vacation here! Love the private beach and having campfires at night while watching the sunset. Truly a great place to create lasting memories! The hosts make you feel right at home.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

christine l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great weekend.
Loved the property. Clean and peaceful.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lisa A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Best family vacation!
We had an amazing time at this Lake Michigan rental. It is not fancy, but it is comfortable and clean. The beach is beautiful! The 60 steps going down to the beach are very sturdy and easy to navigate. Loved this place!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Laura M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Luge weekend
It was a delightful place to stay. The wind outside was really bad but the house was very quiet. We enjoyed our stay very much and will be looking at booking again in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Henry F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place to be
We had a wonderful week at this lovely home. Very peaceful and quiet, except the beautiful sound of the waves, which definitely enhanced the experience. I would definitely recommend it to anyone.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

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

10/10 Excellent

Tim O., Lafayette

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cool Place, Retro Furniture……and Very Clean
Great place, Jim. Thanks for your assistance. We had a good time even though the fishing was slow for our stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jon S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great relaxing place
I'm in love with lake Michigan and this was a very reasonable place to enjoy it! Comfy house large enough for 10, and very quiet area. nce you get to the top of the stairs, you look out over the lake, and they are a short trip down to a great beach! Our kids said it was the best trip of their life.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

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