Airbnb Sleeping Bear Dunes: 12 best places to stay

Are you on the hunt for some of the best VRBOs and Airbnbs in Sleeping Bear Dunes in Michigan? Then you have come to the right place.

Sleeping Bear Dunes is the perfect destination for those yearning to hit refresh. This national park’s natural beauty features white sand beaches, lush forests, and unique wildlife.

In this post we listed some of the best VRBOs and Airbnb choices for you to stay and experience the picturesque views at any time of the year. 

Airbnb might be the most widely known website for vacation rentals but that doesn’t make it the best or the cheapest.  To help you compare we expanded our selection to also include vacation homes from other reputable and well-trusted sites such as Booking.com, Expedia, and VRBO (which is also part of the Expedia Group).  Check and compare, lower booking and cleaning fees make these other sites cheaper than Airbnb.  Enjoy your trip!

In a hurry? Our picks for the best Airbnbs in Sleeping Bear Dunes

• Best Sleeping Bear Dunes VRBO in Empire: Stonegable Unplugged
• Best Sleeping Bear Dunes Airbnb in Glen Arbor: The Round haven
• Best vacation home Sleeping Bear Dunes lakeshore: Charming cottage on Big Glen Lake
• Best Sleeping Bear Dunes cabin: Quiet up North Cabin
• Best dog-friendly VRBO near Sleeping Bear Dunes: Immaculate new build home
• Best Airbnb yurt in Sleeping Bear Dunes: The Yurt

Overview of the best Airbnbs in Sleeping Bear Dunes

Here’s a comparison table of all the Airbnbs that we cover in this post. Read on for a short description of all the properties.

Best Airbnb in Empire, MI

Stonegable Unplugged

Entire cottage hosted by Maureen – Premier host

• 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 2 beds, 2 bath

This beautiful farmhouse provides a natural, rural atmosphere on the outskirts of Empire.

Surrounded by orchards and fields, the house has beautiful views over a serene landscape.

Guests can enjoy the starry nights with an outdoor deck, outdoor furniture, and fire pit available.

The property is pet-friendly and with a large property and many outbuildings, is ideal to explore while walking the dog.

The property does have a minimum stay of 7 days. This allows visitors to truly relax and enjoy the property, as well as the nearby beaches and activities.

The house is close to a number of areas for hiking, fishing, kayaking, swimming, and more.

The host recommends the property as an inspiration getaway for artists, writers, and other creatives as well as regular holidays.

Previous guests loved staying at this house due its beautiful surroundings, well-maintained amenities and helpful host.

VRBO rating: 5

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Free parking
• Self-check-in with lockbox
• Washer & dryer
• TV with Netflix
• Patio

Quiet and charming, views of historic Leelanau county

Entire house hosted by Nate– Premier host

•  6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 4 beds, 1 bath

This lovely house is located within the Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore, just a few miles from the nearby town of Empire. This allows easy access to nearby shops, restaurants and cafes while still being perfectly located among nature.

The house is surrounded by beautiful forest and is close to a number of hiking trails and beaches.

With amazing views over Leelenau Country, this house is perfect for outdoor campfires and star-gazing. For this purpose, the house has a large front porch and an outdoor campfire with firewood provided.

There is also outdoor seating and a charcoal grill. The large master bedroom has a waterbed and the second bedroom has normal single beds.

The host does state that bed linen and pillows are not provided and guests should bring their own pillows and linens.

For entertainment, there is a basement games room with games and toys for children to enjoy, a smart TV in the living room, and a TV, DVD player, and range of DVDs in the master bedroom.

VRBO Rating: 4.9

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Air conditioning
• Satellite TV
• Children’s game room

Best Sleeping Bear Dunes Airbnbs in Glen Arbor, Michigan

The Round Haven on Big Glen Lake

Entire house hosted by Cien and Maddy – Super hosts

• 5 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 2 baths

This uniquely shaped Airbnb in Sleeping Bear Dunes is a comfortable and environmentally-friendly home tucked away in Empire, MI. The open floor plan, near floor-to-ceiling windows, and 2 acres of surrounding nature make it the ideal place to relax and restore.

There are 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and an extra room with a futon. This means it is suitable for a family or friend getaway. The house feels cozy and is invitingly decorated with unique artwork and warm wooden accents.

Guests can enjoy local coffee and snacks while relaxing on the patio or make dinner together while the essential oil diffuser fills the room in the background. The home is cleaned with natural, non-toxic cleaning supplies.

It’s just a short walk to a secluded area on Big Glen Lake and close to several other trails in Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore, including the popular Heritage trail.

The Airbnb is also a short drive into Empire and Glen Arbor.

Cien and Maddy are fantastic superhosts who care deeply about sustainability and protecting the environment that makes Sleeping Bear Dunes so lovely. They aim to make your stay as comfortable as possible and are there to answer any questions you have.

Rating: 5.0

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Free parking
• Patio
• Washer & dryer
• Outdoor firepit
• Self-check-in with lockbox
• TV with Roku
• Children’s essentials (pack ’n play, baby monitor, books and toys)

Arbor Woods Oak

Entire house hosted by Carl 6 guests- Premier host

• 6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 4 beds, 2 baths

This newly built VRBO near Sleeping Bear Dunes in Glen Arbor, MI, is an ideal summer getaway. It’s just a short walk from Cherry Republic beach.

It’s closely located to downtown but feels as if you’re tucked remotely in the woods.

Complimentary kayaks and bicycles are available for you to use. It’s fully equipped with all bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchen essentials.

Guests receive a discount when they bring their own bedsheets and bath towels. The pillows, mattress pads, etc., are provided.

Carl is a friendly and responsive superhost. Guests rave about the home’s cleanliness and its great location to nearby coffee shops and restaurants.

VRBO Rating: 5

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Air conditioning
• Free parking
• Self-check-in with keypad
• Outdoor firepit
• Washer & dryer
• Children’s books and toys
• Complimentary bicycles & kayaks

Best Airbnbs near the Sleeping Bear Dunes lakeshore

Bear Haven Cottage at Glen Lake

Entire house hosted by Cheryl – Premier host

• 7 guests, 2 bedrooms, 5 beds, 2 baths

This cottage is uniquely located on the divide between Big and Little Glen Lakes.

This means it is just a few hundred feet from the public access shoreline of Little Glen Lake and a few minute’s drive from Glen Haven Beach.

This cottage is perfect for those who enjoy the sea with easy access to a range of beaches and activities like rafting, kayaking, swimming or just relaxing on the beach.

The cottage is also close to a variety of road biking and hiking trails. The cottage is wheelchair accessible with ramps, wide doorways, and a roll-in shower in the master bedroom.

This level of accessibility can be difficult to find, making this listing a step above the rest.

The cottage has an outdoor porch that is screened in for summer and a beautiful surrounding garden.

Previous guests enjoyed the spacious house and the variety of outdoor activities that are within easy access.

VRBO Rating: 4.9

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Porch/Veranda
• Deck/Patio
• Fireplace

Charming cottage on Big Glen Lake

Entire cottage hosted by Leelenau Vacation Rentals – Premier host

• 5 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 1 bath

This lovely cottage is located right on Big Glen Lake, complete with dock and mooring.

With a lovely sunny porch overlooking the lake and comfortable outdoor furniture to enjoy the views, this cottage is perfect for a lakeside getaway.

The cottage also has a gas grill and firepit, making it ideal for outdoor dining.

There is a fireplace in the living room to keep warm on the cold winter nights.

The living room also has satellite TV available. The cottage has a well-stocked and good-sized kitchen.

Previous guests stated that they preferred to stay in and cook in the cottage kitchen in order to further enjoy the great views and relaxing atmosphere.

There is parking available for two cars.

The minimum age of the person booking this property is 25, which may be a consideration.

VRBO Rating: 5

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Lake view
• Dock
• Firepit
• Fireplace

Sleeping Bear Dunes Airbnb cabins

Grandpa’s Little Cabin

Entire cabin hosted by Heidi– Super host

• 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

This classic log cabin is an Airbnb in Glen Arbor sitting right across from Glen Lake. It’s an original from the 1940’s and a unique Airbnb to stay in.

It’s named “Grandpa’s Little Cabin” as a reminder of all the family memories it has hosted over the years.

Restaurants and shops are just around the corner. Sleeping Bear Dunes national lakeshore is closeby.

Surrounded by the woods, this is the perfect escape for a family or group of friends to reconnect. Guests love to relax on the porch and they can enjoy magnificent sunsets from the lakeshore.

The old settler’s park, located across the road, has a public dock and you can SUP or kayak on Big Glen lake.

Explore the outdoors during the day and enjoy each other’s company in the cabin at night.

It’s fully equipped with all the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen essentials needed for a comfortable stay.

Guests are welcome to show off their skills on the grill outside.

Heidi is a superhost who takes great care of the antique cabin. She’s responsive and very organized.

Rating: 4.83

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Free parking
• BBQ Grill
• Outdoor firepit
• Lake access

Quiet, Up North Cabin Across from Big Glen Lake

Entire cabin hosted by Heidi – Superhost

• 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 2 beds, 1 bath

This vacation home near Sleeping Bear Dunes is a great option in the winter, appearing almost as if it belongs in a Hallmark movie. It’s just across from Old Settler’s Park and a 20-minute drive from Sleeping Bear National Park.

This home comfortably fits up to 6 guests, but it can be booked in conjunction with the previous cabin if your party is larger. The two cabins are next to each other.

It comes with a fully equipped kitchen and all the bedroom and bathroom essentials. It features an outdoor grill and firepit.

The house has dock access on Big Glen Lake, great for those heading out on a boat, canoe, or kayak. SUPing on the lake is also a visitor’s favorite pastime.

Hiking, swimming, fishing, and boating are some more popular activities among guests.

Heidi is a great host quick to respond to guest needs and inquires. Guests love her personal touches like the cut firewood to help guests have a cozy stay.

Expedia Rating: 4.7

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Air conditioning
• Free parking
• Indoor fireplace
• BBQ Grill
• Outdoor firepit

Glen Arbor-theater/pool table/arcade-walk to town

Entire cabin hosted by Kevin – Premier host

•  10 guests, 4 bedrooms, 6 beds, 3 baths

This Glen Arbor VRBO is where to stay if you’re visiting the area with a bunch of friends or a large family.

The house can comfortably fit up to 10 guests, with 4 bathrooms it offers the necessary privacy for everybody who joins the trip.

It’s a few minutes away from city life including shopping and restaurants in Glen Arbor.

Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore is right around the corner and the region offers plenty of opportunities for kayaking, biking, hiking, and more.

Guests have full access to the spacious, fully equipped home. It comes with all the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom essentials. Retire after a long day of adventuring to the outside firepit to enjoy the outdoors.

On rainy days visitors can curl up in the sofa and watch a movie on the giant TV screen in the warmth of the fireplace. Friends can also challenge each other at a pool table or play old-fashioned arcade games.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy at this VRBO.

The home is beautifully decorated for a luxury stay in the woods.

Kevin is a premier host who keeps the home clean and well taken care of. He’s there to answer any questions you have.

VRBO Rating: 4.9

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Air conditioning
• Free parking
• Self-check-in with keypad
• Washer & dryer
• Family essentials
• Patio
• BBQ
• Indoor fireplace

Best dog-friendly Airbnb near Sleeping bear dunes

Nancy’s Garden Vacation Home

Entire house hosted by Nancy – Superhost

•  6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 5 beds, 2 bath

This pet-friendly Airbnb is an artsy homes, located a short drive from Sleeping Bear Lakeshore.

See the full description earlier in this post.

Immaculate, new build home

Entire house hosted by Linda and Bob – Premier hosts

• 5 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 2 baths

This large, recently-built house is located in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, directly between Empire and Glen Arbor.

This makes it approximately a 5-10 minute drive to either town, allowing easy access to restaurants, cafes, and shops. However, being on 2 acres of property also allows guests to feel secluded in nature and provides a relaxing atmosphere.

The house has a covered front porch with outdoor furniture for enjoying the views, along with an uncovered back deck to enjoy the sun.

There is also a firepit in the backyard with firewood provided, as well as outdoor furniture. It is possible to bring one pet to the house for an additional fee.

The house has entertainment covered with smart TVs located in the living rooms and main bedrooms, along with an elliptical trainer to keep up with workouts while on vacation.

VRBO Rating: 5

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Fireplace
• Deck
• Pet-friendly

Charming Farm House

Entire house hosted by Taylor – Superhost

• 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 1 bath

This Airbnb in Empire, MI is set on nine acres of beautiful land. It’s an affordable stay and located just 2 miles outside Empire, the gateway to beautiful Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

The home is on a century-old farm. It’s full of history, waiting for families and their furry friends to make more memories.

It has 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, comfortably fitting a small family or group of 4. All the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom essentials are provided.

Enjoy the expansive fields and color changing leaves depending on the season you stay.

Taylor is a responsive and attentive super host there to help with any guests’ needs for an excellent stay.

Rating: 4.64

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Air conditioning
• Free parking
• Garden

Best yurt Airbnb in Sleeping bear dunes

The Yurt at Spruce Hill Farm

Farm stay hosted by Mary – Superhost

• 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 4 beds, 1 bath

This Sleeping Bear Dunes Airbnb Yurt is just 20 minutes away from Sleeping Bear National Park by car.

This intimate stay is for nature lovers or those looking for an unplugged vacation.

This yurt is a romantic getaway for adventurous couples.

It’s conveniently located in the center of the Leelanau Peninsula close to tourist attractions.

Lay under the skylight or look out onto the Spruce Hill Farm, a working goat dairy.

Plenty of the outdoors is right at your fingertips. Private hiking trails and a cozy firepit are just outside the yurt.

A wood stove inside is perfect for cooking yummy camping meals and to keep you warm if staying in the winter.

If you’re renting in winter and don’t have a four-wheel-drive you can park at the bottom of the hill. Mary is a fantastic super host happy to pick you up.

Guests rave about their magical and cozy stay.

Rating: 4.98

Extra Amenities:

• Free parking
• Indoor fireplace
• Garden with trails
• Self-check-in with smart lock
• Intimate stay, Airbnb for nature lovers

What type of Airbnb can you find in Sleeping bear dunes?

Cabins

Wilderness cabins are a good choice for nature-lovers, especially in Sleeping bear dunes where the nature is so beautiful.

Staying in a wilderness cabin is a lot more immersive in the wilderness experience and has a great atmosphere.

Being close to nature is a beautiful experience and Sleeping Bear Dunes is the perfect place to do so.

Houses

Staying in a complete house is a great option if both privacy and comfort is an important consideration for you.

It is like a home away from home, it will have all the comfort and facilities you’re used to at your own home (or it will at least come close).

A complete house allows for regular cooking and cozy evenings with comfortable relaxation.

Top reasons to stay in an Airbnb in Sleeping Bear Dunes

Accommodation is always a huge consideration when traveling and in recent times this often comes to the Airbnb vs hotel debate.

This is no different if you’re going to Sleeping bear dunes national lakeshore. There is a variety of Airbnb options available.

There are a number of aspects to consider when looking at potential Airbnbs.

More privacy

Staying in an Airbnb often provides more privacy than a traditional hotel as Airbnb accommodation is usually separate.

This also allows for more freedom as there aren’t as many strict rules regarding house-cleaning and the like.

Rather, there are usually simple common courtesy guidelines.

This freedom also extends to having a full kitchen and separate rooms, making Airbnb a great choice for longer stays.

More unique and authentic experience

While hotels are fairly similar in most parts of the world, Airbnb can differ hugely by location.

This can provide a more unique and authentic experience of staying in a new place.

This can also allow for meeting local residents and learning local customs and recommendations.

This integration is helpful in bridging the gap between being a tourist and understanding the area, people, and culture better.

Often better value than a hotel especially when you are traveling as a family

When it comes to price, Airbnb can often work out as better value than a hotel, especially considering all the benefits that come with it.

If you are traveling as a family or in a group, it can also be significantly cheaper than a hotel.

Conclusion

If you’re an adventurous traveler or just want to escape to the great outdoors, Sleeping Bear Dunes Park in Michigan is a vacation spot to add to your list.

Airbnb’s nearby provide warm and cozy housing, many times within walking distance to hiking trails or next to beautiful lakes.

Stunning views, local history, and thrilling outdoor activities are waiting for you.

Grab the whole family for a fun retreat to the Sleeping Bear Dunes.