Airbnb Sleeping Bear Dunes: 12 best places to stay

Are you on the hunt for some of the best 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 Airbnb choices for you to stay and experience the picturesque views at any time of the year. 

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

• Best Sleeping Bear Dunes Airbnb in Empire: Colorful cottage
• Best Sleeping Bear Dunes Airbnb in Glen Arbor: The Round haven
• Best Airbnb Sleeping Bear Dunes lakeshore: Lakefront Cabin
• Best Sleeping Bear Dunes cabin: Grandpa’s little cabin
• Best dog-friendly Airbnb near Sleeping Bear Dunes: The Granary
• 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

Colorful Cottage in Empire, MI Sleeping Bear Dunes

Entire cottage hosted by Todd – Superhost

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

This Airbnb in Empire, MI, is conveniently located right near the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore and all the peacefulness it has to offer. The developing neighborhood is full of uniquely decorated homes and friendly neighbors.

Guests love to enjoy their morning coffee while relaxing on the front porch and listening to the sounds of nature.

The cottage is fully equipped with all the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen essentials a group of up to four may need. The cottage’s charm speaks for itself.

There are plenty of adventurous activities nearby including kayaking, hiking, biking, skiing, and more. If that doesn’t sound like you, wineries and picnicking grounds are just around the corner.

Empire is well-located for many trails in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It is also just a short drive to many of the popular surrounding towns including Glen Arbor, Leland, Northport, and Frankfort.

Todd is a super host who cares a lot about the property and is there to answer any questions you may have.

Rating: 4.93

Extra Amenities:

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

Nancy’s Garden Vacation home

Entire house hosted by Nancy – Superhost

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

This pet-friendly Airbnb is just a short drive from Sleeping Bear Lakeshore. It’s also closely located to Lake Michigan and Glen Lake.

The spacious 3-bedroom home feels like a cozy log cabin tucked away in nature. The beautiful wrap-around deck is reason in itself to stay.

It’s the perfect Airbnb in Empire, MI, for families or larger groups to relax at after a day of adventuring. Grill out in the yard or take a stroll through the nearby gardens.

Inside the home is uniquely decorated with art and sculptural work selected by the super host, Nancy.

The Airbnb is fully equipped with the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen essentials. Guests rave about the cleanliness and thoughtful touches around the home.

Nancy is a responsive super host opening her home to fellow nature lovers and those looking for a quaint getaway. It has select availability, so take a look at the listing before planning.

Rating: 4.91

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Free parking
• TV
• Indoor fireplace
• Washer & dryer
• BBQ
• Outdoor firepit

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- Superhost

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

This newly built Airbnb 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.

Rating: 4.97

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

Lone Pine Cottage on Little Glen Lake

Entire house hosted by Joe – Superhost

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

This Airbnb in Glen Arbor, MI, is located on beautiful Little Glen Lake. It’s conveniently located right across the street from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and a number of nature trails.

The newly renovated home features a beachfront dock and patio seating to enjoy the fresh air.

Gather the family and sit down by the fire pit near the shore after a fun day of adventure. Roast a marshmallow and toast to the outdoors.

There are complimentary kayaks and a canoe for guests to use.

Even in the winter guests enjoy looking out onto the frozen lake among the winter wonderland. Grab a warm cup of hot cocoa while you’re at it.

Joe is a very responsive superhost and willing to help with any questions about the area you have.

Rating: 4.88

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Free parking
• Patio
• BBQ Grill
• Lake access
• Self-check-in with lockbox
• Children’s essentials (pack ’n play, baby monitor, books and toys)

Lakefront Cabin Near the Dunes

Entire cottage hosted by Renee and David – Superhosts

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

This Airbnb on the edge of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a relaxing cottage for couples and families looking to escape the commotion of everyday life. All the nature and technology-free fun is waiting for you. Lake Michigan is only a short drive away.

The cottage has a beautiful lakefront view and is a peaceful stay no matter the season.

It’s fully equipped with all the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen essentials guests need.

It also includes plenty of board games, magazines, and books for you to enjoy.

There are also some outdoor games, so kids are bound to be entertained, the old fashion way!

Guests wanting to make their own food have access to a gas range in the kitchen or they are free to use the charcoal barbecue. If they want they can even use the firepit down near the lake for an old-fashioned meal.

Winter guests should know that there are occasional power outages in that season. The house has no generator so the furnace and pump will not work during an outage. Since prolonged blackouts are very rare, there shouldn’t be too much discomfort.

Renee and David are responsive superhosts, ready to facilitate a seamless check-in and a great stay.

Rating: 4.90

Extra Amenities:

• Wi-Fi
• Air conditioning
• Free parking
• Self-check-in with keypad
• Patio
• BBQ
• Outdoor firepit
• Lake access

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 Airbnb 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 Airbnb 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 superhost quick to respond to guest needs and inquires. Guests love her personal touches like the cut firewood to help guests have a cozy stay.

Rating: 4.91

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 – Superhost

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

This Glen Arbor Airbnb near Sleeping Bear 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 Airbnb.

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

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

Rating: 4.95

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.

The Granary/ country setting

Entire cabin hosted by Bonnie – Superhost

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

This charming Sleeping Bear Dunes Airbnb cabin is pet-friendly. Grab your furry friends and make a trip to the beautiful outdoors. It’s conveniently located just 10-minutes from Sleeping Dunes and a 20-minute drive to downtown Traverse.

It comfortably fits a small family or group of 4. The open floor design lets in plenty of natural light through the many windows. It has a fully equipped kitchen and outdoor fire pit.

This Airbnb is low tech and a great place to disconnect from the everyday grind.

While bed linens and kitchen towels are provided, the host kindly asks you to bring your own bath towels.

Bonnie is a warm, friendly superhost who many of the guests exclaim make you feel welcomed in the new town. It’s a peaceful and relaxing destination for you and your pets.

Rating: 4.95

Extra Amenities:

• Free parking
• Heating
• Patio
• Outdoor firepit

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.