Hotels in Bear Lake

Unveil the Hidden Splendor of Bear Lake: Where Mountains Embrace Serenity

Nestled in the heart of northern Michigan, Bear Lake is a serene gem that beckons nature lovers and seekers of tranquility. This charming small town, bordered by the stunning Bear Lake and Portage Lake, offers a picturesque backdrop of rolling hills and lush woodlands. Enjoy sun-soaked days swimming, fishing, or kayaking in crystal-clear waters, while the nearby Bear Dunes provide breathtaking views and hiking adventures. Just a short drive away, discover the vibrant downtown of Manistee and the wine trails of Traverse City. With its idyllic landscapes and rich local culture, Bear Lake is a perfect escape for relaxation and exploration. For the best hotel rates in Bear Lake and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Bear Lake

Some of the best places to stay in Bear Lake are Manistee, Frankfort and Beulah. Bear Lake, Michigan, offers charming destinations like Manistee, Frankfort, and Beulah. Manistee is known for its historic downtown and scenic waterfront, making it great for first-time visitors. Frankfort boasts beautiful beaches and a quaint atmosphere, while Beulah offers a peaceful retreat with stunning natural views. Accommodations vary, featuring beachfront hotels, motels with queen beds, and seasonal pools, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Each location provides unique experiences, perfect for your getaway. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Bear Lake:

1. ManisteeOpens in a new window: Manistee is a charming destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring beautiful natural landscapes and a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the Little River Casino, Manistee Lake, and the historic Manistee North Pierhead Lighthouse. Accommodations in the area include The Lamplighter Bed & Breakfast of LudingtonOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast offering adventure sports and recreation activities such as motorboating and fishing. Another option is Cartier Mansion B&BOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast that welcomes pets and provides activities like swimming and hiking. Ludington House B&BOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast, offers complimentary breakfast and is conveniently located near historical sites.
2. FrankfortOpens in a new window: Frankfort is a delightful beach town that provides stunning waterfront views and a relaxed atmosphere. Key attractions include the Point Betsie Lighthouse and Frankfort Beach, making it an ideal location for beach lovers. Hotel Frankfort & RestaurantOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, features dining options and entertainment amenities. For a more laid-back experience, Harbor Lights ResortOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, offers direct access to the beach. Additionally, Bay Port LodgingOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, caters to adventure seekers with activities like rafting and windsurfing.
3. BeulahOpens in a new window: Beulah is an outdoor paradise, renowned for its picturesque lakes and recreational opportunities, including skiing at Crystal Mountain and golfing at Crystal Lake Golf Club. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Platte Lake as well. Coastal Suites ResortOpens in a new window, a cozy 2.5-star motel, offers free continental breakfast and entertainment options. Baymont by Wyndham BeulahOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, is suitable for families and business travelers, allowing pets and providing business amenities. Another option is Cedar Ridge CabinsOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star motel that features adventure activities nearby, such as kayaking and mountain biking.

Things to do in Bear Lake for first time

Three days at Bear Lake offers a perfect escape into nature's embrace, featuring stunning beaches, serene forests, and majestic mountains. Enjoy activities like boating, canoeing, and hiking, while immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of this small-town paradise. It's a rejuvenating destination for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Bear Lake:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Portage Lake, where you can enjoy the serene environment and partake in water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. After soaking in the lake's beauty, make your way to Orchard Beach State Park for a relaxing afternoon. This park boasts stunning views of Lake Michigan and offers opportunities for hiking and picnicking. As the sun sets, head to Ramsdell Theater in Manistee, where you can catch a live performance or simply admire the beautiful architecture of this historic venue.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Inspiration Point, a breathtaking lookout that provides stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding landscape. Next, visit the Arcadia Area Historical Museum to dive into the rich history of the region with engaging exhibits and artifacts. Later, enjoy some leisure time at Grebe Park, where you can walk along the trails or relax in the lush greenery, perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature.
• Day 3: Start your morning with a hike at Arcadia Dunes, where the trails wind through beautiful landscapes and provide panoramic views of the lake. Afterward, head to Manistee County Beaches for some sunbathing or swimming, soaking up the beautiful shoreline. Conclude your day at Captain John Langland Park, a wonderful spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk along the waterfront, offering a peaceful end to your Bear Lake exploration.

5 tips to find a great Bear Lake hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Bear Lake is during March, November, and December when hotel prices are more affordable. For a great value for money experience, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the area’s main attractions. Visitors can enjoy the stunning lake views, explore the surrounding mountains, and experience the charm of the small-town atmosphere.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you’re looking for last-minute deals to Bear Lake, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section to explore discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. You could find good availability and price guarantees on various accommodations. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you can stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, ensuring you maximize your chances to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Bear Lake.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, think about your location. Staying nearer to key attractions or city centers can offer convenience but usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in neighborhoods that are less central, striking a balance between cost and the ease of getting to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Bear Lake and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to Bear Lake

Bear Lake experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 23.7°F (-4.6°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.5°F (20.3°C). October is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Bear Lake, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.