A modern vintage cottage, steps from the water in Union Pier.
Beach mornings, sauna nights, and a backyard nobody wants to leave — book direct with the people who actually own it.
Make yourself at home!
This Union Pier, Michigan vacation rental is just a short walk down the street from the McKinley Beach entrance — a modern vintage cottage that sleeps six across two queen beds and a king. New bathrooms, a new washer/dryer, and a rebuilt rear deck sit alongside the parts of the cottage that made us fall for it in the first place — the eat-in kitchen, the fire pit, the outdoor barrel sauna and hot tub tucked into a huge fenced-in backyard.
Up to five cars can park right out front. Most guests end up walking or biking everywhere — coffee, ice cream, the farmers market, and one of the best beaches in Southwest Michigan, which keeps a private feel despite being open to the public. Dogs are welcome; cats are not.
Beach mornings. Sauna nights.
A backyard the kids won't want to leave.
Stroll into town for coffee in the morning, catch a sunset from McKinley Beach, enjoy the hot tub, sauna and firepit in the evening — and let the dog run loose in a yard that spans two full lots.
This Lake Michigan vacation rental sits on Lake Ave, a two-minute walk from the McKinley Beach entrance. We'll send the exact address as soon as your booking is confirmed.
Want to see what's nearby too? Check out our local guide & area map ↓
A Union Pier cottage with hot tub, sauna, and everything else you'd want to know before booking somewhere yourself — the same working list we'd want to see.
House rules, cancellation policy, and safety details — the essentials before you request a stay.
Send a request with your dates below. We usually reply within an hour and send you a payment link — pay by card or Zelle, whichever you prefer.
Included with your stay: beach chairs, umbrella & wagon. Beach Adventure Package (+$50/day): two stand-up paddle boards, a deluxe Maui Mat, boogie boards, inflatable rafts, a cabana, life jackets, and three cruiser bikes — not included, available as an optional add-on.
If you found this site through Google rather than Airbnb, that question is a fair one to ask. Here's exactly what booking direct means.
This isn't instant booking — Ashley or Bobby will personally confirm availability and follow up with a secure payment link.
Carried down from your selections above — to change any of these, adjust them in the calendar/estimator section, not here.
Guests notice the difference between staying with a company and staying with two people who actually own the place. Here's what they said about working directly with Ashley & Bobby.
"We had a great time at Ashley and Bobby's cottage! The back yard was amazing — our dogs LOVED the space to run and explore. Lots of seating in the back yard and fantastic amenities (sauna, hot tub, fire pit). This is our second year coming to Union Pier and we plan to keep coming back each summer."
Jessica, stayed with a pet"The property was exceptional. Just steps from the beach and close to great shops and restaurants. The backyard was a highlight: fire pit, sauna, grill, hot tub, and plenty of space for the kids to run around. We would return in a heartbeat."
Hendrik, stayed with kids"Hosts were very responsive and friendly. Backyard was beautiful, very spacious. We had perfect weather which allowed us to use the backyard fire pit both nights. Outdoor shower to wash feet off after the beach was a definite plus."
Michelle, group trip"Great for our family of 6. Road was bikeable for our kiddos and us. Big yard for playing. Games were great and plenty in the kitchen. Additional beach chairs and boogie boards for the beach were great."
Hannah, stayed with kids"Booked this site specific for the back yard amenities and fully fenced yard. It did not disappoint. Literally either side of the road access to beach plus a 10 minute drive to a public park with a dog friendly beach. Would highly recommend this site."
Terri, stayed with a pet"Great spot. Already booked for next year! Easy walk to the lake and a few good food options. Close drive to lots more!"
Elinor, stayed with kidsNo property management company, no call center — when you book MI Shore Thing, you're dealing with the two people who actually own it.
We have three boys and our golden retriever, Ellie, who keep us on the move! Ashley is a Pilates studio manager and certified instructor by day and self-certified family "Super Host" 24/7. Bobby is an electrical engineering leader, self-certified "kid hauler", dedicated cyclist and occasional amateur sailboat racer.
Summers here since 2020 — first as vacationers, then as owners starting in 2024 — have turned into a real list of favorites: the beach we actually walk to, the restaurants we keep going back for, and the shops that make Harbor Country worth exploring beyond the cottage. Whether you're looking for things to do in Union Pier, the best beaches nearby, or a dog-friendly spot for dinner, here's what a good weekend around here actually looks like.
The hidden gem of Union Pier — a short walk from the cottage, nestled between private beach property. Low traffic and limited parking keep it rarely crowded, with miles of beach to explore in both directions. (Dogs are technically not allowed on the public beach, though you'll see some at quieter times.)
A large public beach and dog-friendly sand dunes about 15 minutes north in Sawyer. Drive all the way to the back parking lot where the road ends for your own semi-secret dune paradise.
A local favorite with rooftop dining right near the harbor in downtown New Buffalo.
Known for its culinary excellence, PostBoy has quickly become a go-to dining stop for visitors and locals alike.
South American cuisine — dine-in is available, but this is also the perfect spot for a quick carry-out night.
Great for takeout or dining in, with live music in the summer. Dog-friendly patio, and yes, there's a menu for dogs too.
Great sandwiches, coffee, and a unique selection of groceries and gifts. Sandwiches can be ordered ahead through their website.
Delicious baked goods and coffee, with gluten-free and vegan options. Get there 10-15 minutes before opening on summer weekends — the line gets long fast.
Artisanal gelato and sorbetto, plus smoothies, coffee, and shakes.
A one-stop sustainable shop featuring local produce, flowers, coffee, cheese, bread, wine, beer, prepared foods, home goods, and more.
A farm-to-table shop tucked just behind the Starbucks in downtown New Buffalo. The all-natural apple cider slushies are a hit with the kids.
A New Buffalo grocery store with all the basics — our go-to for the high-quality meat market on BBQ nights.
A small grocery store with a decent selection of goods, wine, liquor, and beer — good for last-minute essentials.
For all your beach and bike rental needs, including e-bikes and paddle boards. Awesome customer service.