Last Updated on May 2, 2026 by Katrina
There’s plenty of dramatic scenery to soak up at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This 35-mile stretch of the Lake Michigan shoreline features some of the tallest freshwater dunes in the world—some reaching 450 feet above the lake. Whether you come to hike or lounge on the shore, you’ll find beachfront resorts and chain hotels a few miles away in the town of Leland—or, a little farther away, in the larger Traverse City. Here are the best hotels near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
The Leland Lodge (565 Pearl St.; 231-256-9848) Leland
“Such a relaxing and beautiful stay! If you are looking for a low key but brilliant base to explore, you have found it at the Leland Lodge,” writes a Tripadvisor user of this waterfront Lake Michigan property that’s five miles from the dunes. Another writes, “The dog-friendly room was perfect, clean and situated so we had our own entrance and exit. Breakfast is free. Nothing at all to complain about and we will be back.” There are 18 rooms and three cottages. Amenities include yoga classes, bike rentals and a playground for kids. >> Book this hotel for less
Tamarack Lodge of Traverse City (2035 US-31; 231-938-9744) Traverse City
This 160-room resort, set along the lake’s East Grand Traverse Bay, has Craftsman-style coziness, a game room, and a private beach with a dock and fire pits. “Every room faces the bay,” writes a Google reviewer. “My family enjoyed playing games by the fireplace in the lobby. You can also borrow puzzles, games, or books to enjoy in your room. Our room had washer-dryer, which was a godsend.” A Tripadvisor reviewer writes that it is “right on the water and worth the money! At night they make cookies and they have a free coffee and tea bar. They also have cabinets full of movies you can bring to your room and watch along with popcorn.” >> Book this hotel for less
Hotel Indigo Traverse City by IHG (263 W Grandview Pkwy; 231-932-0500) Traverse City
“Set in the buzzing warehouse district across the parkway from the water, this Hotel Indigo is a perfect spot for exploring Traverse City or enjoying a day at the beach,” writes U.S. News & World Report. Onsite you can enjoy a fitness center and a rooftop lounge with views of the bay. “Sleeping Bear Dunes is just a half hour drive from the hotel,” writes a Google reviewer, and “there is a beach right across the street and a convenient crosswalk to get there.” >> Book this hotel for less
Delamar Traverse City (615 E Front St.; 231-947-3700) Traverse City
Stay at this 179-room resort if you want a full resort experience plus the option for day trips to the dunes. “As the only four-season, full-service resort on the bay in Traverse City,” this hotel “is the type of place where it’s hard to get bored,” writes U.S. News & World Report. “The property features a nightclub with a deejay—a major draw for some, but certainly not for everyone.” Sleeping Dunes is about 30 minutes away, and onsite there are two pools and three restaurants. “The outdoor bar had wonderful views of Lake Michigan,” writes a Google reviewer. “The vibe was fun. Drinks were creative and tasty. The Delamar even has beach access to Lake Michigan.” >> Book this hotel for less
Cambria Hotel Traverse City (55 Munson Ave. US-31; 231-778-9000) Traverse City
U.S. News & World Report describes this 92-room Choice hotel as a “modern and unique twist on the cookie-cutter style hotel, and it’s just steps from attractions like the Dennos Museum.” Take a shuttle to explore Traverse City or drive the half hour to Sleeping Bear Dunes. “Not too far from the beaches,” writes a Tripadvisor user. “We had a two-bedroom king suite. Space for adults, three kids, and plenty of fun. It is a short drive to wineries, breweries, beaches, and downtown.” >> Book this hotel for less
Related:
Social Media