The Bunkalow: A Lakefront Compound with Lifts for your Speed Boat & Pontoon Boat
4.8
Outstanding(101 Reviews)Cottage in Hamlin Lake, MI
13 guests · 5 bedrooms · 3 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Includes essentialsGarden, Pool, Kitchen or Kitchenette and more
About this cottage rental
BUNKALOW.NET
The Bunkalow Compound is arguably located at the most prime location on all of Hamlin Lake, on the point jutting into Upper Hamlin along it's south shore at the mouth of Indian Pete's Bayou. Only a 4-minute drive to Barnharts Resort & Marina (2 minutes by boat!), 7-minutes drive to Hamlin Grocery (a classic little country store), and only a 17-minute drive to House of Flavors in Downtown Ludington.
We continue to improve the property. In 2021 we completely remodeled the primary bathroom in the main Bungalow cottage, and we added a sink to the kitchenette counter in the Bunkhouse. In 2019 we added air conditioning units in the main cottage and the bunkhouse. And in the two years prior we added 1) the Boathouse Suite, which can double as a bedroom/sleeping quarters, 2) all new deck furniture, including a lounge setting with couch, love seat, chair and tables, 3) 10 new Adirondack Chairs surrounding the fire-pit, 4) four new chaise lounges for sun worshipers, 5) bar level seating with a view over the lake from the main deck, 6) and attractive new metal roofs to all three buildings.
THE MAIN BUNGALOW COTTAGE: Sleeps up to 5 with two on a queen size bed on the lake side, and three on a full/single bunk bed in the back room. It has two bathrooms with a shower in one and a washer/dryer in the other. The kitchen has been recently upgraded. It also has a 48-inch TV with Charter Cable and all channels, plus a landline phone for free calling within the U.S.
THE BUNKHOUSE: Sleeps up to 8 persons with 2 on a queen size bed on the loft, 4 on single bunks on the ground floor, and 2 on a full size pullout sofa. Please note that the max number of persons allowed sleeping on the property is 13. It has one bathroom (no shower) on the ground floor. We have also added a private deck shower that I personally use every time I shower at the property! (Check our reviews - everyone seems to love the deck shower). It has a 60-inch TV with Charter Cable and all channels and surround sound.
THE BOATHOUSE SUITE: New in 2017, and configured with a large deck and 4 chaise lounges just off the lawn, it includes a 9-piece, cushy sectional lounge and a Smart TV with WIFI, perfect for teens to hang out. It can even double as a sleeping room, though it is not provided with linens. We recommend you bring sleeping bags and arrange the sectionals into a big square bed! A very fun new room!
BOAT LIFT, PONTOON LIFT, & SEAWALL W CLEATS FOR YOUR WATERCRAFT: Don't bother to trailer your watercraft each day. Feel free to use our boat lift (up to 20ft) and/or pontoon lift (up to 25 ft) and/or seawall with room and cleats and rubber bumpers for three boats.
OTHER BUNKALOW AMENITIES: The main bungalow has a roomy and open floor plan with a HUGE deck overlooking the HUGE yard and HUGE Lake. Free high speed wireless internet, unlimited long-distance phone, and top 100 channels of Charter cable TV with DVRs on each TV (except the Boathouse, which only has wifi and a smart TV - no Charter or DVR).
NEARBY AMENITIES: Barnharts Resort & Marina is 0.5 miles by boat (1.1 mile by car) includes fuel for your boat, boat rentals, and a great restaurant with an island vibe and live weekend music. Wilson Park Boat Launch is just 0.5 miles away. The Shagway Arts Barn (less than a mile) hosts regular weekend art shows combined with live music. The "Dunes" beachfront and Ludington State Park (~ 2 miles by boat) are favorite places for pontoon/boat hangout with shallow sand for sunny day water lounging. Lower Hamlin Grocery (4 miles south of cottage). Downtown Ludington (9 miles south of cottage). Excellent Mountain Biking Trails - Call the bike shops in town for details. Excellent Fishing on Hamlin Lake - Cast your reel from our swing seat!
- Charter Fishing on Lake Michigan
- Ludington Skate Plaza (skateboarding & inline skating)
- Silver Lake Sand Dunes (20 miles south of Ludington)
- Historic SS Badger Car Ferry (Cross Lake Michigan to Wisconsin)
- Historic White Pine Village
- Sand Castles Children's Museum
- Disc Golf
- Horseback Riding (Neigh Haven Stables (3 miles) 4716 N Beaune Rd, Ludington. Indian Ridge Riding Stables, 1525 S. Poplar Road, Custer, MI 49405, Phone: (231) 757-4514)
The Bunkalow Compound is arguably located at the most prime location on all of Hamlin Lake, on the point jutting into Upper Hamlin along it's south shore at the mouth of Indian Pete's Bayou. Only a 4-minute drive to Barnharts Resort & Marina (2 minutes by boat!), 7-minutes drive to Hamlin Grocery (a classic little country store), and only a 17-minute drive to House of Flavors in Downtown Ludington.
We continue to improve the property. In 2021 we completely remodeled the primary bathroom in the main Bungalow cottage, and we added a sink to the kitchenette counter in the Bunkhouse. In 2019 we added air conditioning units in the main cottage and the bunkhouse. And in the two years prior we added 1) the Boathouse Suite, which can double as a bedroom/sleeping quarters, 2) all new deck furniture, including a lounge setting with couch, love seat, chair and tables, 3) 10 new Adirondack Chairs surrounding the fire-pit, 4) four new chaise lounges for sun worshipers, 5) bar level seating with a view over the lake from the main deck, 6) and attractive new metal roofs to all three buildings.
THE MAIN BUNGALOW COTTAGE: Sleeps up to 5 with two on a queen size bed on the lake side, and three on a full/single bunk bed in the back room. It has two bathrooms with a shower in one and a washer/dryer in the other. The kitchen has been recently upgraded. It also has a 48-inch TV with Charter Cable and all channels, plus a landline phone for free calling within the U.S.
THE BUNKHOUSE: Sleeps up to 8 persons with 2 on a queen size bed on the loft, 4 on single bunks on the ground floor, and 2 on a full size pullout sofa. Please note that the max number of persons allowed sleeping on the property is 13. It has one bathroom (no shower) on the ground floor. We have also added a private deck shower that I personally use every time I shower at the property! (Check our reviews - everyone seems to love the deck shower). It has a 60-inch TV with Charter Cable and all channels and surround sound.
THE BOATHOUSE SUITE: New in 2017, and configured with a large deck and 4 chaise lounges just off the lawn, it includes a 9-piece, cushy sectional lounge and a Smart TV with WIFI, perfect for teens to hang out. It can even double as a sleeping room, though it is not provided with linens. We recommend you bring sleeping bags and arrange the sectionals into a big square bed! A very fun new room!
BOAT LIFT, PONTOON LIFT, & SEAWALL W CLEATS FOR YOUR WATERCRAFT: Don't bother to trailer your watercraft each day. Feel free to use our boat lift (up to 20ft) and/or pontoon lift (up to 25 ft) and/or seawall with room and cleats and rubber bumpers for three boats.
OTHER BUNKALOW AMENITIES: The main bungalow has a roomy and open floor plan with a HUGE deck overlooking the HUGE yard and HUGE Lake. Free high speed wireless internet, unlimited long-distance phone, and top 100 channels of Charter cable TV with DVRs on each TV (except the Boathouse, which only has wifi and a smart TV - no Charter or DVR).
NEARBY AMENITIES: Barnharts Resort & Marina is 0.5 miles by boat (1.1 mile by car) includes fuel for your boat, boat rentals, and a great restaurant with an island vibe and live weekend music. Wilson Park Boat Launch is just 0.5 miles away. The Shagway Arts Barn (less than a mile) hosts regular weekend art shows combined with live music. The "Dunes" beachfront and Ludington State Park (~ 2 miles by boat) are favorite places for pontoon/boat hangout with shallow sand for sunny day water lounging. Lower Hamlin Grocery (4 miles south of cottage). Downtown Ludington (9 miles south of cottage). Excellent Mountain Biking Trails - Call the bike shops in town for details. Excellent Fishing on Hamlin Lake - Cast your reel from our swing seat!
- Charter Fishing on Lake Michigan
- Ludington Skate Plaza (skateboarding & inline skating)
- Silver Lake Sand Dunes (20 miles south of Ludington)
- Historic SS Badger Car Ferry (Cross Lake Michigan to Wisconsin)
- Historic White Pine Village
- Sand Castles Children's Museum
- Disc Golf
- Horseback Riding (Neigh Haven Stables (3 miles) 4716 N Beaune Rd, Ludington. Indian Ridge Riding Stables, 1525 S. Poplar Road, Custer, MI 49405, Phone: (231) 757-4514)
Amenities
Pool
Air conditioner
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
TV
Garden
Map of Hamlin Lake, MI
Reviews
4.8
Outstanding(101 Reviews)4.8
Everything about our stay was wonderful! The location, the property both inside and out, communication with the property owner and manager. We loved it so much we already booked for next year! It was everything we needed thank you for sharing it with us!!
4.8
The Bunkalow was great. The location in the water was a big hit with our group. If you want to relax in an outdoor atmosphere, this is a terrific choice.
4.8
The various options for sleeping and activities offered at the location was exceptional. There were games, canoe, fishing boat and outdoor games offered. The lawn and lakefront footage was large and gorgeous.
The kitchen was well stocked with pans and all that was needed. There was a large gathering area with a variety of seating to allow for all to get together in and outside.
The amount of options for seating outside on the deck were amazing. The firepit had lots of chairs to enjoy conversation while relaxing.
The dock and lift were excellent and sturdy. What a gem to have at a lake!
The were a great supply of towels and a washer and dryer to accommodate any needs. Having a shower in the restroom inside and one outside allowed for options depending on the needs of those staying.
There were directions for the property on the fridge which were helpful. A book (binder) would be great to have specifics for using the TV , where to purchase firewood and any other suggestions for a wonderful stay would be a great addition.
The 2 separate buildings for sleeping arrangements were a positive addition for when you have a combination of families and bedtime routines.
Overall-a great facility for a combined family vacation!
(We were the first of the season and the owner will be doing a deep clean for future visitors).
4.8
This was our 3rd time staying here. The spacious yard and large deck is what keeps us coming back. This year they added a new large dock great for sun bathing and fishing.
4.8
Great property for our family group of 12.
4.8
Loved it! We enjoyed the house so much, and the lake is incredible! Both houses were spacious and very comfortable, and the boat house was an added bonus! We will definitely be back!
4.8
Great time, great property and great spot on the lake.
4.8
Great location. Home is in need of updating. Waterfront was not kid friendly. Good fishing. Quiet neighborhood.
4.8
The property on Hamlin lake was perfect for our family.
Everything that we could want was there and we will likely return.
Our only regret is that we chose a week early in June and the weather was horrendous.
It’s always iffy this close to Lake Michigan so we advise trying to secure a higher percentage of a sure thing and attempt, and he stays in Ludington From mid June through early August
4.8
This property has one of the best outdoor setting properties out of 200 rentals in my life time. It has really high quality outdoor furniture, two umbrellas, and plenty of room for cornhole, bocce ball or freisbe. Great outdoor lighting as well so you can find it if you do night boat cruises. His place can accommodate 5 boats as well with an electric lift for pontoons.
The best part was I asked if he had refrigerator in any houses other then the main house and he said no.... He put one in at my request great customer service. I asked if he had adequate lights on the deck and he added Edison lights. He is one of the best communicators almost instant after a text and he aims to please his clientele. One last thing never buy wood from a gas station for 5 dollars a bundle regarding bonfires. He offers a service that brings three times the wood at 1/3 the price and they put it right next to the bonfire with a cover over it in case of rain. Andrew is many cuts above as a host. Thank you Andrew for the exceptional vacation rental top notch!!!!
4.8
The house and setup was amazing! We had plenty of room for our children and grandchildren! The setting was perfect! Enjoyed morning coffee on the deck watching the sunrise over the lake! Andrew was very helpful getting us information to prepare for our vacation!
4.8
We have been looking at the property for years and finally got to try it. It is on the perfect spot on the lake and place is awesome! We will definitely be back for sure! Helpful for future visitors: if you like to be cold when you sleep bring an extra fan. Bunk house very comfortable (where we slept). Parents thought bedroom off kitchen was a little warm but again it’s a lake house and we like to be cold :). Overall amazing place though!
4.8
My immediate family and I spent 8 amazing days on this property! It was the perfect size to accommodate all 11 of us. Being right on the water is our happy place and this priority was speeder for that! Fishing and boating were amazing and we loved spending time at the sand bar by the dunes right around the corner. We will be back!
4.8
Memories made
Second time renting this property. Great yard and location on upper Hamlin. We go with a family group and everyone had a great time.
We had an issue with the boat lift and the bunkhouse water heater when we checked in after 4 PM but the owner was quick to respond and had people out to address the problems the following morning.
Looking forward to a return trip if it fits into our schedule next summer.
4.8
great family vacation
We rented this property and my sister's family rented up the road at Grace Cottages as they have a pet which can't stay at this property. The two locations were fantastic. This property was well stocked and every day was a joy!
4.8
Great stay!
Had a fantastic weekend stay! We had all of the amenities we could ask for and the boat lift was the icing on the cake. Would definitely book again!
4.8
This property has a great location. There is plenty of space for a large family and the kids to bring some friends along. If you have a boat, the is a large seawall that you can tie off to and a boat lift (I didn’t try the boat lifts). We were able to easily come and go (on the boat). There was ample parking for large vehicles and a boat trailer.
The cabin was located about a 10-15 min drive from most stores and restaurants. There is a party store that makes food and has bait only 5 mins away. (They have most everything you’ll need)
The cabin was clean and spacious. The only negative is if you are bringing a large group, there is only (1) indoor shower (there is an outdoor shower attached to exterior of garage). There are also 2 half baths. Only 1 indoor shower was not an issue for me, but could be for a large group.
I really enjoyed this home and will certainly rent it again in the future!
4.8
Great location
This property has a great location. There is plenty of space for a large family and the kids to bring some friends along. If you have a boat, the is a large seawall that you can tie off to and a boat lift (I didn’t try the boat lifts). We were able to easily come and go (on the boat). There was ample parking for large vehicles and a boat trailer.
The cabin was located about a 10-15 min drive from most stores and restaurants. There is a party store that makes food and has bait only 5 mins away. (They have most everything you’ll need)
The cabin was clean and spacious. The only negative is if you are bringing a large group, there is only (1) indoor shower (there is an outdoor shower attached to exterior of garage). There are also 2 half baths. Only 1 indoor shower was not an issue for me, but could be for a large group.
I really enjoyed this home and will certainly rent it again in the future!
4.8
Relaxing stay on Hamlin Lake
We really enjoyed our stay and the owner was very responsive.
The location is great and trips to stores in Ludington didn't take very long. Easy route to the city as well. Many nice eateries downtown and a small restaurant on the lake as well.
Lots of space overall and accommodated the 7 of us just fine.
I sent a list of a few items for recommended repairs at the end of the season as we left and he appreciated the information.
We are very likely to return. :)
4.8
Great stay and great communication
We had a wonderful family stay at this amazing property! It has a great location, large lot and a fantastic lake. The property is good for multiple families and children. We were even there during the storms that came through Michigan and the property manager was so communicative and helpful during the whole process. It was such a great vacation and we would not hesitate to stay again!
4.8
Great location, lots of fun
Great place, but needed some upkeep, upon our arrival the screen doors had holes and kept falling off the door frame. Try to contact property manager Kevin to inform him of the damaged, but never returned my call.
4.8
We had a great time and the property was so relaxing. The house was by far stocked better than anyplace we’ve ever stayed which was really nice. The location is great and near some smaller houses that allow pets. The bungalow does not and some of our family have a dog so it was nice to have them stay just down the road from us. There are a variety of these smaller rentals nearby giving a large groups a lot of options to be flexible and stay together. The water wasn’t too weedy which was also great. The teenagers lived the out buildings which were perfect for kids and teens stocked with a fridge tv and lots of games.
4.8
Amazing time
We had a great time and the property was so relaxing. The house was by far stocked better than anyplace we’ve ever stayed which was really nice. The location is great and near some smaller houses that allow pets. The bungalow does not and some of our family have a dog so it was nice to have them stay just down the road from us. There are a variety of these smaller rentals nearby giving a large groups a lot of options to be flexible and stay together. The water wasn’t too weedy which was also great. The teenagers lived the out buildings which were perfect for kids and teens stocked with a fridge tv and lots of games.
4.8
We had rented this property for 2020 but COVID gad us cancel. So I rented it again for 2021. We absolutely loved the location and the housing was great. The one bedroom in the house with the bunk was too warm, I had a little communication trouble with the property manager, however, Andy (property owner), was very helpful. Sad I needed to go that route. Everything worked out. Everyone had a great time of fun and fishing!
4.8
Family Vacation
We had rented this property for 2020 but COVID gad us cancel. So I rented it again for 2021. We absolutely loved the location and the housing was great. The one bedroom in the house with the bunk was too warm, I had a little communication trouble with the property manager, however, Andy (property owner), was very helpful. Sad I needed to go that route. Everything worked out. Everyone had a great time of fun and fishing!
4.8
Even though the weather did not cooperate, it was a good week at Bunkalow. We didn’t get to fish as much as usual, but we made up for it with fellowship. Bunkalow is well equipped for groups.
4.8
Always a pleasure
Even though the weather did not cooperate, it was a good week at Bunkalow. We didn’t get to fish as much as usual, but we made up for it with fellowship. Bunkalow is well equipped for groups.
4.8
We stayed at the Bunkalow for a long weekend. The large yard and quick access to the dunes provide plenty of options for outdoor activities.
4.8
Lake House
We stayed at the Bunkalow for a long weekend. The large yard and quick access to the dunes provide plenty of options for outdoor activities.
4.8
Great property! Our family really enjoyed our trip, so much we're looking forward to coming back in the future. Everything was spot on from the location to the friendly and inviting neighborhood. Property manager was AMAZING! Thanks Andrew! The Mayfields and The Millers are Hamlin lakes newest fans!
4.8
Family Vacation At Hamlin Lake
Great property! Our family really enjoyed our trip, so much we're looking forward to coming back in the future. Everything was spot on from the location to the friendly and inviting neighborhood. Property manager was AMAZING! Thanks Andrew! The Mayfields and The Millers are Hamlin lakes newest fans!
4.8
Family Vacation
The Bunkalow property was very accommodating for our family vacation. Waterfront yard and fire pit area was great! Enjoyed our stay!
4.8
We enjoyed our stay immensely! Everything was as expected at the property. Very well stocked home. We did a lot of cooking and had absolutely everything we needed.Towels were plentiful and the washer and dryer were a huge bonus. It really is an ideal place to gather with family or friends. Great base to see the surrounding area. Would be wonderful if you could swim on a hot day but fishing kept all ages entertained. You will not be disappointed!
4.8
Amazing place
The stay was exactly what we had hoped for. Great location on the lake with great accommodations!
4.8
A memorable family vacation
We enjoyed our stay immensely! Everything was as expected at the property. Very well stocked home. We did a lot of cooking and had absolutely everything we needed.
Towels were plentiful and the washer and dryer were a huge bonus.
It really is an ideal place to gather with family or friends. Great base to see the surrounding area. Would be wonderful if you could swim on a hot day but fishing kept all ages entertained.
You will not be disappointed!
4.8
Summer Vacation
Property is spacious and located on upper Hamlin Lake, which is beneficial if it's windy, versus lower Hamlin. View is amazing with lots of yard space. Boat lifts are a nice bonus for a pontoon or fishing boat.
Street is fairly narrow and neighbors are close, but parking can easily accommodate 3 vehicles.
Overall a great get away location on a great lake in Ludington.
4.8
Hamlin lake
Very good property. The pictures of the listing are very accurate. We were very lucky with great weather. We were able to fit the 5 cars on the property as directed by the owner. Fun place
4.8
Great experience!
The property was great for our large family. The separate hangout and sleeping spaces were great and the yard was fantastic for yard games and hanging out. we enjoyed many fires overlooking the beautiful lake. We often took our boats to the dunes as the swimming was better there and that worked well!
4.8
July 2020
Great place for a large group. Kids loved the boathouse. Lots of room in the yard to spread out. The boat lift was an added convenience. Andrew the owner and Kevin the property manager were great to work with! Was a relaxing week. Would definitely stay again.
4.8
A great week away from the rest of the world
Our time at Bunkalow was perfect. It was a much needed break from the current world turmoil. The yard and the deck are definitely highlights. The kitchen is well equipped for big meals. I would recommend Bunkalow for big family’s with children or groups of friends.
We spent a lot of time fishing, cruising on our pontoon boat, and playing cornhole in the yard. We had some nice evenings by the fire pit.
The owner is wonderful to work with....leading up to our vacation and while we were here. We can’t wait until our return visit next year. Thank you for the respite Bunkalow.
FAQs
How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Hamlin Lake?
The average price for a rental in Hamlin Lake is $318 per night. This rental is $354 above the average.
Is parking included with this cottage?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at The Bunkalow: A Lakefront Compound with Lifts for your Speed Boat & Pontoon Boat. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cottage?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at The Bunkalow: A Lakefront Compound with Lifts for your Speed Boat & Pontoon Boat. Enjoy the water!
Is The Bunkalow: A Lakefront Compound with Lifts for your Speed Boat & Pontoon Boat pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at The Bunkalow: A Lakefront Compound with Lifts for your Speed Boat & Pontoon Boat?
We found 9 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, air conditioner, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and parking.
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