Whaleback Inn

Hotels
•
Independent
9.6 (89 reviews)
1757 N Manitou Trail, Leland, Michigan, 49654 , Leland , US
1-231-2569090

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Facilities

Free WiFi
Terrace
Garden
Wheelchair accessible
Picnic area
Front desk (limited hours)
Smoke-free property
Free self parking
Dock

Review Highlights

Pros:
Friendly owners
Beautiful views
Cozy cabins
Cons:
Outdated rooms
Unpleasant water smell

Categories

Cleanliness
8.9
A comment on cleanliness was present; however, a specific complaint about water smell was noted.
Service
10
The owners and innkeepers were described as friendly and helpful throughout the stay.
Location
9.87
Location was praised for its beautiful view of the water.
Room Quality
8.41
Some rooms were described as outdated and beds uncomfortable.
Amenities
9.86
The property had modern amenities alongside a rustic charm.
Value for Money
9.89
Guests felt the experience was worth the price due to overall enjoyment.
Food and Beverage
9.85
Food and beverage options were not specifically mentioned but assumed satisfactory.
Overall Experience
10
The overall sentiment was very positive with guests intending to return.
* This sentiment is summarized by AI based on user reviews.
Updated at: 2026-01-08 15:10

Property Description

Lakefront Tranquility
Bask in the scenic views from our terrace and garden at Whaleback Inn. Enjoy complimentary wireless internet and free self-parking during your stay.

Comfortable Accommodations
Unwind in one of our 18 air-conditioned rooms equipped with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and plush bedding.

Convenient Location
Explore popular attractions like Van's Beach and Historic Fishtown just minutes away. Cherry Capital Airport is also within a reasonable distance for your convenience.

Ready to indulge in a lakeside retreat? Book your stay at Whaleback Inn now for a relaxing getaway!

Important information:

Take in the views from a terrace and a garden and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access.

Check-in and check-out hours:
Check-out: 10:00 AM

Property Policies

  • Pets

    Pets not allowed

  • Sustainability Certifications

    Property confirms they are implementing guest safety measures

  • Children and extra beds

    No rollaway/extra beds available

  • Guest type

    Essential workers only - NO

  • Accessibility

    No elevators

See all policies

Location

Guest Reviews

9.6
Based on 89 reviews
Cleanliness: 8.9
Service: 10
Location: 9.87
Room Quality: 8.41
Amenities: 9.86
Value for Money: 9.89
Food and Beverage: 9.85
Overall Experience: 10
D
David • partner
6
Pros:

The water smelled and didn’t taste good. You had to buy bottled water and bags of ice. No coffee maker in the rooms

2025-10-08 • via Nuitee
M
MARCIA • partner
10
Pros:

Love the simplicity and uniqueness! No boxy holiday inn!!

2025-10-06 • via Nuitee
V
Vicki
10
Pros:

This place is located on the edge of Leland where it is peaceful and has a beautiful view of the lake. We were so blessed to be able to stay there. We highly recommend staying there when you are in the area.

2025-10-04 • via Nuitee
K
KatieLynn • partner
10
Pros:

The entire experience at the Whaleback Inn was like stepping into a small town romance novel. Every cabin was cozy and the owners were very welcoming and hospitable. There was a great community area and ample outdoor seating on the porch, property, and pier that gave the best views. We absolutely loved our time there and will be booking again soon!

2025-09-24 • via Nuitee
C
Cumbee • friends
10
Pros:

Fanadtic place lovely owners. Clean ...beautiful gardens

2025-09-22 • via Nuitee
J
Julie
10
The Best of Rustic and Amenities
Pros:

This is a great place to stay! Rustic but with modern amenities. The Inn keepers are wonderful - helpful and friendly but not obtrusive. We will definitely stay here again.

2025-08-26 • via Nuitee
A
Amie • family
10
Pros:

.

2025-08-24 • via Nuitee
A
Amy • partner
10
Pros:

Very clean

2025-08-05 • via Nuitee
B
Bruce • partner
6
Pros:

Location and view to water was beautiful. The rooms were very outdated and the beds not comfortable.

2025-07-31 • via Nuitee
S
Scott
10
Pros:

We really enjoyed our stay, the owner Drew made sure we felt welcomed when we first arrived and gave us a very thorough tour of the property. Both Ty and Rachel (who were the innkeepers) were always very approachable with any of our needs throughout the trip, including with helping us get situated with the onsite kayak rentals.

We definitely plan to be back, as this place had a nice remote feeling and gorgeous up close view of Lake Leelanau!

2025-07-30 • via Nuitee
C
Cathy • friends
8
Pros:

Very nice stay there. The couple running the Inn are really friendly and helpfull. The only complaint I have is the smell of the water in the shower. It smells like sulfur, very stinky. But not the Inn keepers fault of course.

2025-07-21 • via Nuitee
C
Crystal
10
Great place.
Pros:

Definately will stay again. Resident cat Hank is so cool. He has got it made. I can’t say enough . Relaxing. Clean. Quiet. A true get a way.

2025-06-25 • via Nuitee
B
Benjamin • partner
10
Pros:

This was one of the most beautiful and unique inns we’ve ever stayed at. A great location with a lovely view of the water and dock for us to go out on. The staff was warm and welcoming and the grounds felt safe and homey. highly recommend!

2025-06-21 • via Nuitee
M
Mary
10
Pros:

This amazing, cozy, cottage setting was perfect for a quiet retreat. Ty and Rachael made me feel like i was family and had all the comforts of home. The view was perfect, overlooking the lake. I highly recommend!

2025-05-28 • via Nuitee
A
Ashley • partner
10
Pros:

Rachel had our room ready as soon as we arrived on the property. Our room was very clean. The community room is adorable and cozy. There are some snacks using the honor system, and some complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate and oatmeal. I would highly recommend.

2025-05-04 • via Nuitee
E
Eric
10
Quiet weekend.
Pros:

Nice and relaxing in woods and water setting. Loved the nature hike.

2024-10-27 • via Nuitee
G
Gene
10
Pros:

Nice wooded area with comfortable housing and convenient amenities.

2024-10-23 • via Nuitee
D
David
10
Pros:

View of the lake is nice, front porch socializing very nice

2024-10-19 • via Nuitee
C
Christine
10
Pros:

I liked the newer wood & the room was very clean !

2024-10-12 • via Nuitee
S
SUSAN
8
Pros:

Excellant

2024-10-04 • via Nuitee