Looking for the best Airbnb Mackinac Island vacation rentals? The entire island is a National Historic Landmark covering just over 4 square miles in Lake Huron, Michigan. So the rental attractions are ideal launch points from which to experience its preserved historic culture, combined with modern shopping and dining. And winter activity here is well worth mentioning.
How historic? There are no cars on Mackinac Island. You arrive by ferry (or small plane) and move around on foot, horse-drawn cart, or bicycle. What an amazingly quiet, stress-free idea! It definitely enhances the natural beauty of the island, even from the numerous lookout points and scenic walks.
Museums and old-time activities (knife-making, anyone?) are great pastimes for visitors. The Haunted Theatre will also offer a thrill for those seeking a mysterious edge to their tour. Take a look – literally – at the Maze of Mirrors, which is a treat for kids of all ages.
And that’s just the regular year-round attractions. Half the island is declared a cross-country ski-zone in winter. It’s a popular draw for snowshoers as well. Trails and lookout points take on an entirely new character in the snow.
And the best way to experience all this Michigan charm is by renting an Airbnb on Mackinac Island.
Quick Breakdown of Mackinac Island Vacation Rentals
In a hurry? Check out this shortlist of my top five ‘quick picks’ for Mackinac Island, MI
- Best Mackinac Island Airbnb Suite – Mackinac Island Near The Woods and Stonecliffe!!
- Airbnb Mackinac Island For Large Groups – Cross Trees Cottage – East Bluff – Mackinac Island
- Prettiest Mackinac City Rental – 02 Applewood Clean, quiet 1 bdrm condo w/kitchen
- Best St Ignace Rental with a View – Pier Harbor #2
- Best Mackinac Island Airbnb for a Group Getaway – The Jewel on Mackinac Island
I’ve included a few interesting videos throughout this post. It will give you great insight into what Mackinac Island has to offer, so take a moment to look at them.
Top Airbnbs on Mackinac Island & St. Ignace
Here are my 11 best Airbnb rentals on Mackinac Island. I’d recommend you look to book these as far in advance as possible. It’s a small island, with relatively few Airbnbs on offer. But Mackinac is a great option for those also looking for exciting winter cabins near Mackinaw City, Michigan.
To help, I’ve included one or two additional rentals across the waterway on St Ignace as well.
1) Mackinac Island Near The Woods and Stonecliffe!!
Best Mackinac Island Airbnb Suite
Location: Mackinac Island
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $164+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/14686628
A private suite in a large condo set in the woods near Stonecliffe awaits you. It’s a convenient, cozy option for those looking to be near the golf course or the lake. Once again it’s up in the hills, so you can expect lots of peace and quiet.
Ideal for the solo traveler or a young couple who don’t need all the frills and hassle of a full house on their vacation. And it’s great for walks in the Mackinac hills, too.
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Guest Review: ”Patrick’s place was a beautiful stay in a great location! The room provides all the accommodations of a hotel room and then some.”
2) Cross Trees Cottage – East Bluff – Mackinac Island
Best Airbnb Mackinac Island For Large Groups
Location: Mackinac Island
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $985+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/24249727
Both Mackinac and St Ignace offer superb options for cottages near Mackinaw City. This one boasts smashing views of the Mackinac town from an elevated position. It’s set up high on the east bluff in Mackinac Island State Park, and ideal for an 8 person getaway. Bedrooms are cozy and decorated in a homely fashion.
But the highlight of this Mackinaw cabin must surely be the beautiful, stylish dining room. It hints at a bygone era fitting for this 1891 home. And if nothing else, the view from the porch overlooking the town is utterly spectacular.
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Guest Review: “A lovely house to stay in very comfortable and nice bedrooms. You just want to sit on the terrace and take in the view which is amazing.”
3) 202 Applewood Clean, quiet 1 bdrm condo w/kitchen
Prettiest Mackinac City Rental
Location: Mackinac Island
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $219+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/46354211
The height of the ceiling in the main area is worth posting pictures about. It’s the first thing that caught my eye and is attractive enough to remember for a long time. Perhaps it also has to do with the wonderful white walls broken up by the wooden beams.
It gives the whole home a story-like feel. Especially when you consider the vast yard’s rolling hills and its view of the lake. You can play golf on that green, it’s so big!
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Guest Review: “Jason’s condo on the Island was the perfect place for some R&R. Winter on the Island is unique. If you enjoy cross country skiing or just sitting in front of the fireplace with a lovely view of the Lake (and sunset).”
4) Pier Harbor #2
Best St Ignace Rental with a View
Location: St Ignace
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $140+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13428821
While not on Mackinac Island, this gem in downtown St Ignace is close enough to be considered an option. It boasts a long, spacious living area, and a covered deck that overlooks a pretty marina. The hardwood floors and granite kitchen tops add a lot of classy elegance, too.
If you had your heart set on visiting Mackinac Island, don’t fear! You have a choice of two Mackinac ferry operators running to and from the island all day. And it only takes 15 minutes to get there.
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Guest Review: ”Great place to stay! Place is super clean and gorgeous views! Loved the fireplace, kitchen and spacious bedrooms. Great location and calm place to stay.“
5) The Jewel on Mackinac Island
Best Mackinac Island Airbnb for a Group Getaway
Location: Mackinac Island
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $150+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/43722796
This wonderful home sits on a plush golf course – the 12th hole, in fact. Hanging out by the grill on the patio will allow you to watch the golfers swing by on the course most days.
Inside, enjoy the stone fireplace in a high-ceilinged living room. It’s worth noting that it’s a relatively new building, but the styling is quaint and classic. White frames and beams are set under dark gray walls and thatching, all set in gorgeous long green grass and woodsy surroundings.
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6) Mackinac Island view apartment
Location: St Ignace
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $200+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/34439833
Back on St Ignace, you’re looking at a lovely furnished apartment, with a great view of Mackinac Island – close enough? It’s part of an inn complex, so you have the added benefits of an indoor pool, firepits, and sauna.
The view of the sunrise from the two balconies is outstanding and refreshing. When you’re feeling outdoorsy, make use of the free kayaks and get out on the water. Inside, the rooms and living area are very spacious, more than enough for 6.
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Guest Review: ”Beautiful view of Mackinac Island! Loved the sunrise. Very large apartment, perfect for bigger families. It and everything you need to Cook meals! We had a great weekend here!”
7) Heroes Retreat Mackinac Island Monthly Vaca Rental
Location: Mackinac Island
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $220+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/41288770
Although there is a minimum stay of 30 days here, it’s not hard to convince yourself to stay that long in this condo. Even from the outside, the beautiful, charming pink facade wants you to enter and stay.
Inside, the kitchen area is super attractive with its dark theme. Sitting atop a dark wood-colored floor, the dining furniture and splashes of red decor create a delightful visual aspect. The condo is on the third floor of a Main Street-facing building but set back far enough to avoid the bustle and business.
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8) 203 Applewood Private Quiet Room
Location: Mackinac Island
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $149+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/45815066
The sister apartment to the previous rental offers its own charms, despite being slightly easier on the pocket. It’s a second-floor apartment with its own view of the Straits from the deck. Compact and comfortable, it has all the basics without being sparse.
If you’re looking more for a hotel-style apartment this is the one for you. Seriously, look how fluffy that bed looks!
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9) Fully Furnished 3 Bedroom Home, Close to Ferries
Location: St Ignace
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $106+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/34854970
How pretty is this? Once again we’re in St Ignace, basking in the bright and playful reds and blues of this 3-bedroom home. Even the washer and dryer are color-coordinated!
It makes the most of the space on offer, and somehow finds room to breathe where it matters most. As small cottages go, the hosts have really made an effort to make this one feel like a place you want to kick back and relax
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Guest Review: “Perfect place to get away! The house is well equipped and easy to find/get to. It has a great layout and the rooms are perfectly sized. ”
10) Eagle’s Nest
Location: St Ignace
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $100+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/24969766
If you really want to get away, try this apartment. It keeps things simple, offering a relaxing porch view of the Strait, and access to the beach (ask the hosts how to get there quickly). It’s also just a mile to downtown (and to the ferries to Mackinac) from here.
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Guest Review: “This was our 2nd stay at Carol’s place and it keeps getting better each time! We will be back for a third and more for sure.”
11) Tiki Hut Yurt- Tapu
Location: St Ignace
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $75+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/38234836
Finally, here’s something different for those who prefer a holiday with an element of adventure. An old-style yurt allows you to rough it just a little bit. You’ll be in the woods, but within the grounds of a larger campground, with access to the ground’s facilities (showers, laundry, etc).
It’s everything you need for an excursion out into the Michigan wilds, but you’re still a stone’s throw from downtown St Ignace. If this seems like something you’d love, here are some more options for glamping in Michigan.
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Guest Review: “This place is one of the best places to go camping in the Mackinaw/St Ignace area! Sandra was so helpful and accommodating, and the stay was great!”
Am I Missing Any Other Amazing Mackinac Island, MI Airbnbs?
Am I missing any outstanding Airbnbs on Mackinac Island? If you’ve stayed here and would like to recommend an Airbnb or any other rentals near Mackinaw City, let me know. I’d love to add some Mackinaw City Airbnb options to my list.
Other Recommended Reading
Here’s a helpful list of other excellent Airbnb destinations in the US.
- The 18 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Colorado for a Rocky Mountain Getaway
- The 19 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Maine for a New England Getaway
- 17 Stunning Airbnbs in Tampa for the Ultimate Florida Getaway
- 15 Coolest & Best Airbnb Asheville Rentals in North Carolina
- The 17 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Miami for the Ultimate Beach Getaway
- Top 20 Coolest Airbnbs in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- The 20 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Michigan for an Epic Great Lakes Getaway
- The 22 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Hawaii for the Ultimate Vacation Experience
- The 17 BEST Airbnbs in Las Vegas for all Budgets & Travelers
- The 17 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Oahu for an Amazing Hawaii Vacation
- 19 Incredible Airbnbs Along the Oregon Coast: Cannon Beach & Beyond
- The 18 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Dallas, Texas – Airbnb Dallas Guide
Final Thoughts on Mackinac Island Airbnb Vacation Rentals
You’ll have some interesting accommodation options when visiting Mackinac Island. Aside from the choice of whether to go in winter or summer, there’s also the option of staying across the water in St Ignace.
Mackinac is a small island, so really good accommodation may be scarce from time to time. But St Ignace is only 15 minutes away by ferry. It’s yet another transport element to enjoy on your vacation Remember, you won’t have a car on Mackinac. It’s all part of the unique Mackinac experience.
THANKS FOR READING ABOUT MY TOP PICKS FOR VACATION RENTALS AVAILABLE ON MACKINAC ISLAND AIRBNB!
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