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Unique Beach Cottage Nestled in Private Dunes

Photo gallery for Unique Beach Cottage Nestled in Private Dunes

Exterior
Aerial view
Property grounds
Outdoor dining
On the beach

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms

Popular amenities

  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Outdoor Space
    Outdoor Space
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Unique Beach Cottage Nestled in Private Dunes

Welcome to The Sandbox Beach House, an exclusive dune retreat offering solitude, adventure, and a unique experience unmatched by any other. Imagine a renovated cottage set beside 26 acres of protected dunes, reserved only for residents of this quiet subdivision.

Picture yourself journeying over the backyard dune via the house's private stairs. On the other side, you'll find an idyllic beach calling you to settle in. Or, follow the path up the tallest dune, soaring hundreds of feet over Lake Michigan, and treat yourself to the lake's most stunning sunset views.

Should tranquility be your vacation goal, envision curling up with a good book in front of our locally-sourced Michigan stone fireplace. Or perhaps unwinding on the expansive deck, enveloped by the awe-inspiring landscape of colossal dunes.

Nestled a mere 5-minute drive from the vibrant heart of South Haven, you can also reach the town by a 15-minute bike ride along the freshly paved Van Buren Trail.

Experience the majestic beauty of Michigan by strolling or swimming along our stunning shoreline at dawn or dusk. Numerous walking trails from the subdivision lead to the sprawling 400+ acre Van Buren State Park and North Point County Park. Discover additional beach access and walking trails at Pilgrim Haven Park, located less than a mile away.

While the hike to the private beach can be challenging and may not be enjoyable for all guests, nearby Van Buren State Park and Pilgrim Beach offer more easily accessible beach experiences within a mile's distance.

We kindly ask that you respect our precious dunes by keeping to the marked trails. If you encounter overgrown paths, you have likely strayed off course. Help us protect and stabilize our beautiful dunes by minimizing your impact.

This rental home requires self-reliance, from independent check-in to the use of an electronic keypad. Guests are expected to troubleshoot common technological issues, such as resetting a Wi-Fi router. If you're not comfortable with using technology or if you're seeking a property with 24-hour concierge services, our home might not be the right fit for you.

Welcome to The Sandbox Beach House: a serene, unique, and unforgettable dune getaway. Your adventure begins here
If relaxation is your goal, then bring your book to read in front of the wood fireplace, made with local Michigan stones, or sit out on the large deck surrounded by the colossal dunes.

Located only 5 minutes drive from the hustle bustle of South Haven or a 15 minute bike ride on the newly paved Van Buren Trail.

Take morning & evening strolls or swim along one of our most beautiful shorelines of Michigan. Numerous walking trails connect the subdivision to 400+ acre Van Buren State Park and North Point County Park. Additional beach access and walking trails at Pilgrim Haven Park less than 1 mile away. Dune steps behind home are seasonal from Memorial Day to September.

The hike to the private beach is difficult and may not be enjoyable for some guests. So, if you prefer a more easily accessible beach, then you will enjoy Van Buren State Park and Pilgrim Beach that are both less than 1 mile away.

Please do not stray off the dune trails. You may see old footpaths through the dune grass, but these are not the designated path. If the paths look over grown, then you are in the wrong place. Please help us protect and stabilize the dunes by limiting your impact.

Please note that guests must be able to independently check-in, use a mobile app, and operate an electronic key pad. Occasionally, guests will need to problem solve common issues we all have faced such as resetting a WiFi router. If you are not comfortable using technology or desire a 24-hour concierge service, then this home is not the right place for you.

Fee applies for additional guests. Please no parties or gatherings larger than the number of guests on reservation.

Property manager

Kimberly Hawkins

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking
  • Car not required

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Paper towels
  • Coffee grinder
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • Shower
  • Towels provided
  • Outdoor shower
  • Toilet paper

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with cable/satellite service
  • DVD player
  • Books
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • On the lake

Things to do

  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Winery tours nearby
  • Marina nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

Similar properties

Property grounds
Secluded Unique Charm on the Lake. Sunset Views. Hot Tub.
Kitchen
Air conditioning
Outdoor Space
Parking available
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (95)
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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: No parties or gatherings larger than reservation
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is not required for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

The Sandbox Beach House A Cottage in the Dunes!
Sandbox Beach House Vacation in the Shadow of a Dune
The Sandbox Beach House - A Cottage in the Dunes! South Haven

About the neighborhood

Map
South Haven, MI

What's nearby

  • Van Buren State Park - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Michigan Maritime Museum - 9 min drive - 8.5 km
  • South Beach - 10 min drive - 8.5 km
  • Kal Haven Trail - 10 min drive - 9.1 km
  • North Beach - 11 min drive - 9.5 km

Getting around

  • Bangor Station - 18 min drive
  • Kalamazoo, MI (AZO-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek Intl.) - 52 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Culver's - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Biggby Coffee - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Burger King - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Unique Beach Cottage Nestled in Private Dunes pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Unique Beach Cottage Nestled in Private Dunes?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Unique Beach Cottage Nestled in Private Dunes?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Unique Beach Cottage Nestled in Private Dunes located?

Situated on the beach, this vacation home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Porter Legacy Dunes and Lake Michigan. North Point Conservation Area and Van Buren State Park are also within 10 minutes.

Unique Beach Cottage Nestled in Private Dunes Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 81 out of 90 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 90 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 90 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 90 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 90 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
house by the dunes
The house is at the bottom of a steep climb up to the top of the dunes. It's absolutely worth the climb as the view is gorgeous. If you venture down to the beach, it is empty and beautiful. The house is clean and comfortable. Just keep in mind that the bathroom is upstairs and the bedrooms are downstairs.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeff S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cool property
Very fun property. Definitely got a workout. Great views and good times
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Avram S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anthony D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family Beach Stay
Unique family friendly location with beach access.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Incredible View, convenient & clean!
We arrived an hour earlier ahead of check in & got in right away. The place was quaint, clean & accommodated our stay for two nights! We absolutely LOVED the view at the top of our ‘mountain’ aka dune!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Courtney R., Frankenmuth, MI

Liked: Cleanliness
The Ultimate "Sandbox"
The property literally sits next to a dune with a pathway to Lake Michigan. It had every amenity we needed and very clean! We went in the winter, we would definitely come back for any other season!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amanda C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing
Perfect location. Amazing views along with privacy and quiet. Listing was accurate. Host was attentive and great communication. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Debra S.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Sandbox in South Haven
We enjoyed our stay at the Sandbox! Beautiful home, nicely decorated. Felt like home! Steep dune to beautiful lake Mi. Enjoyed walking the pier in town and the lighthouse. Great reastaurants nearby and all the amenities of home for an at home meal! Quiet setting. Comfy beds. I would stay here again! Just beutiful!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

kathy s.

Liked: Cleanliness
Private
Accurately described property. Very nice deck and fire pit area. Hill has 97 steps if we counted accurately. Two of us (both 67 and active) climbed it 3 times over two days. View from top superb. Downhill to beach a more gradual descent. 5-10 minutes to quiet lovely sandy beach... some collectable rocks.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Matt B., Fort Wayne, in

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice remote cabin
We wanted a remote stay and this cabin is very nice and provides that. We stayed for 5 days and had zero issues. In fact we only saw about 5 people in the surrounding neighborhood and beach in the entirety of our stay. The dune hike to get to the beach could be troublesome if you have problems getting around. We got a workout toting our young kids up and down the dune. The beach itself was worth it though. In our 5 days there we practically had the beach and dune trails to ourselves. In the event you couldn't traverse the trails, downtown South Haven, public beach, park, splash pad and lighthouse are approximately 10 minutes away. While being remote this cabin has all the amenities of home. WIFI, cable, washer/dryer all are in great working order. The WIFI for cell service was very useful as we didn't have cell reception otherwise. Basic condiments, plates, glasses and cooking utensils are there. As well as a grill and outdoor chairs. If you're looking for a remote location still close to South Haven and what it has to offer I highly recommend this cabin.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

indre v.

Liked: Cleanliness
Love it
Very cozy house, fun climbing on the dunes,nice beach had very nice time!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cory W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fun Place!
The Sandbox was very cute and the town was fun! The hike to the beach uphill both ways is definitely a workout!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
Sandbox
Very unique setting in the dunes. House was comfortable, clean and well organized. 10 minutes from town. Fun stay, highly recommend for those who are fit enough to navigate the dunes!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Keenan F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Love the Sandbox!
My friends and I had a great time at this little getaway. The house is nice and remote, the view from the top of the dune is gorgeous (gotta see the sunset!!), and South Haven is a perfect west MI summer getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kate H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place in a gorgeous setting!
We had a great weekend stay at the Sandbox. The home is adorable and so cozy but we spent our whole weekend outdoors exploring the beach and hiking the dune paths! A unique and enjoyable stay and the views of the lake from the top of the dune were incredible! Hope to come back late this summer for a beach weekend!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Heidi L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect little get away
We had a wonderful time celebrating my husband’s birthday weekend with friends at the sandbox. It was clean and cozy with a wood burning fireplace. The owner communicated great and check in was a breeze. So thankful for this stay and the memories we shared.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fun at the Sandbox
Very clean and relaxing property. Best of all, we made it up the dune.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anna D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Weekend stay
We had a great little weekend here. Cozy and neat location.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Work remote retreat
Property in a quiet secluded dune area. Not particularly close to the beach if that's what you're after. There's a small trail system to the south that can be reached by foot from the property, and the park beach just a couple of minutes drive away. Getting into town is best done via car or bicycle. WiFi and internet connectivity were great, more than fast enough to participate in video calls and stream HD content. Coverage through the house is good, I enjoyed many a day working from the deck. During high winds electricity to the house flickered. Only happened to me once during the day and then only briefly. Putting the WiFi access point and cable modem on a small battery backup would go a long to making those storms a non-issue, and the switched power supplies would probably appreciate it. Loads of 2-way and 3-way light switches, but they are all very well labeled. Took a few days to get know where I could turn on/off what. Kitchen is quite reasonable, more than enough to prepare real meals. Water does not taste good, I left a Britta filter there -- if it isn't there, they are in the hardware section of the nearby Meijer. Also donated a coffee grinder - the house had a drip coffee machine and something for k-cup style coffee. As others have pointed out, the bathroom on the 2nd floor and bedrooms on the 1st is a bit of a bummer. The way the bathroom is laid out you have to 'dance' around the door. I was fine for 3 weeks, but if you have mobility issues it is something to consider. Overall this was a very charming place to stay and I felt productive working there. My coworkers loved the background of the dunes!
Stayed 23 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dorrie V.

Liked: Cleanliness
"More Sandbox!"
The kids loved it and asked for "more sandbox" every morning. Very clean, which I loved! Thanks for a great stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

pam s.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful time at the Sandbox!
We had a lovely week at the Sandbox. The house was well-appointed and everything was easy to find. Just a 10-minute drive to downtown South Haven and the public beaches there. Word of warning, the hike over the dune was intense, as was the walk back. Walking sticks were provided and highly recommended!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

6/10 Okay

Tim O.

Great! Except for the water
Everything was great! Except the water was orange and smelled like iron. Nobody wanted to take a shower because it smelled bad and after a few days started to turn our toenails and skin orange! Otherwise it was great, but we probably wouldn't stay there again due to the bad water situation.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Summer South Haven Beach Getaway
We just loved this amazing, peaceful location just 10 minutes outside of town, with the large dune directly in the yard. You definitely need to be in good shape & able to climb/hike in hot sand, so this would likely not be a good fit for those with physical limitations. The views were absolutely stunning. The house was charming, extremely clean and well-stocked, easy check-in process. Our 3 kids loved the adventurous climb to the stunning beach. Highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family time
Great house! All the comforts of home. Very quiet and relaxing!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joel K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Secluded workout
Very cozy cottage nestled right up to the back of a dune… picture an almost vertical wall of sand 80 feet tall with steps on it. This is only half the battle. The trek is worth it but not for the faint of heart. Our three year old made it with a lot of complaining along the way but we all had a blast. A literal sandbox! Excellent time! Very peaceful and relaxing.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022