Motel Bear Lake offers a cozy retreat near the bay with a firepit to warm up on chilly evenings. Enjoy the serene garden, take advantage of free in-room WiFi, and unwind by the seasonal outdoor pool or explore nearby nature reserves.
Reviews
9.49.4 out of 10
Exceptional
Popular amenities
Pet friendly
Pool
Air conditioning
Free WiFi
Free parking
Main amenities (4)
Near the beach
Seasonal outdoor pool
Garden
Picnic area
Feel at home (6)
Kitchenette
Garden
Coffee/tea maker
Pets allowed
In-room climate control (air conditioning)
Digital TV service
$208 nightly
The total price is $231
$231 total
Aug 3 - Aug 4
Total includes taxes and fees
Room options
Available filters for rooms
Showing 19 of 19 rooms
View all photos for Signature Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
Signature Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
9.49.4 out of 10
Exceptional
3 reviews
(3 reviews)
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Hair dryer
Shower/tub combination
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Signature Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
Signature Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Signature Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
Signature Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
10.010.0 out of 10
Exceptional
2 reviews
(2 reviews)
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View
Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Classic Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette
Classic Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Romantic Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
Romantic Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
8.08.0 out of 10
Very good
2 reviews
(2 reviews)
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View
Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View
8.08.0 out of 10
Very good
2 reviews
(2 reviews)
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 5
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 5
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Signature Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
Signature Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View
Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Classic Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
10.010.0 out of 10
Exceptional
3 reviews
(3 reviews)
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View
Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette, Pool View
8.08.0 out of 10
Very good
1 review
(1 review)
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 5
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Signature Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
Signature Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
8.08.0 out of 10
Very good
2 reviews
(2 reviews)
Highlights
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Hair dryer
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed
View all photos for Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
Family Studio Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette
9.09.0 out of 10
Wonderful
2 reviews
(2 reviews)
Highlights
Separate sitting area
Air conditioning
Kitchenette
Mini-fridge
Smart TV
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Shower/tub combination
Sleeps 5
2 Queen Beds
View all photos for Signature Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
Signature Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette, Pool View
Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course - 16 min drive - 14.1 km
Little River Casino - 18 min drive - 22.9 km
Crystal Mountain - 22 min drive - 24.8 km
Getting around
Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker) - 15 min drive
Restaurants
Lakeside Cafe - 8 min walk
Grille 44 - 2 min drive
The Glenwood - 10 min drive
Rosie's Place - 4 min drive
Blue Slipper Tavern - 9 min drive
About this property
Motel Bear Lake
When you stay at Motel Bear Lake, you'll be within a 15-minute drive of Lake Michigan and Little River Casino. Guests can enjoy the seasonal outdoor pool, and hiking/biking trails, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding are nearby.
Languages
English
At a glance
DONE
Hotel size
18 rooms
DONE
Arriving/Leaving
Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in available
Express check-in/out available
Minimum check-in age: 18
Check-out time is 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
DONE
Special check-in instructions
There is no front desk at this property
Guests will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and smart lock details; access will be through a private entrance
Prior to arrival, you must complete online registration via a secure link
A virtual front desk provides assistance to guests
DONE
Required at check-in
Credit card, debit card, or cash deposit required for incidental charges
Government-issued photo ID may be required
Minimum check-in age is 18
DONE
Children
No cribs (infant beds)
DONE
Pets
Pets allowed (dogs only)*
Service animals welcome
WIFI
Internet
Free WiFi in rooms
LOCAL_PARKING
Parking
Free uncovered onsite self parking
DONE
Other information
Designated smoking areas
Property amenities
What to do
Beach access
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Cross-country skiing nearby
Snowboarding nearby
Fishing nearby
Services
Virtual front desk
Facilities
Garden
Picnic area
Seasonal outdoor pool
Firepit
Outdoor furniture
Room amenities
Be entertained
Smart television
Digital TV channels
Netflix
Streaming services
Home comfort
Climate-controlled air conditioning and heating
Ceiling fan
Coffee/tea maker
Sleep well
Bed sheets provided
Freshen up
Shower/tub combination
Soap and shampoo
Hair dryer
Towels
Toilet paper
Stay connected
Free WiFi
Food and drink
Mini-fridge
Microwave
Kitchenette
More
Mobile key entry
Fees & policies
Pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Pets are allowed for an extra charge of USD 40 per pet, per stay
Pool, spa, & gym (if applicable)
The seasonal pool is open from May 27 to September 16
Policies
This property does not have elevators.
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover
Cashless transactions are available.
Also known as
Motel Bear Lake Motel
Motel Bear Lake Bear Lake
Motel Bear Lake Motel Bear Lake
Frequently asked questions
Is there a pool at Motel Bear Lake?
Yes, there's a seasonal outdoor pool.
Are pets allowed at Motel Bear Lake?
Yes, dogs are welcome. There's a charge of USD 40 per pet, per stay. Service animals are exempt from fees.
Is parking offered on site at Motel Bear Lake?
Yes, there's free self parking.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Motel Bear Lake?
Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime. Check-out time is 11:00 AM. Express check-in and check-out and contactless check-in and check-out are available.
Is there an onsite casino at Motel Bear Lake?
No, this motel doesn't have a casino, but Little River Casino (14-min drive) is nearby.
What is there to do at Motel Bear Lake and nearby?
During the winter, enjoy nearby recreation like cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and return when the snow melts for fishing and hiking. Enjoy amenities like a seasonal outdoor pool, a picnic area, and a garden.
Does Motel Bear Lake have self-catered rooms fitted with kitchens or kitchenettes?
Yes, a kitchenette is available in every room, and also includes a microwave and a coffee maker.
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Motel Bear Lake Reviews
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.More informationOpens in a new window
9.8/10
Cleanliness
9.4/10
Staff & service
9.0/10
Amenities
9.4/10
Property conditions & facilities
9.2/10
Eco-friendliness
Popular mentions
Room
Service staff
Bed
Reviews
8/10 Very good
Jul 27, 2025
Relaxing stay
Good place to stay with comfortable beds and a nice pool.
Fred
Fred, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 28, 2025
Motel Bear Lake Goes Retro
We came North for relaxation and found the Bear Lake Motel an excellent location. I also chose it because of its Retro Design. Loved it!!!!
Susan
Susan, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 26, 2025
Clean and comfortable
Very clean. Comfortable .
Heidi
Heidi, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 1, 2025
Comfy bed! Easy check in!
Hayley
Hayley, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 2, 2025
"The Groovy Motel"
Very nice place to stay. Old school vibes! Room was perfect. Pool was great and right outside your door, and Bear Lake with small swimming area within walking distance. If your a boater, I noticed, plently of lake access. 15 minutes to downtown Manistee & lake Mi.
Debra
Debra, 3-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 18, 2025
The Motel Bear Lake was all we wanted it to be My sister and I were born in the 50s and vacationed in Northern Michigan during our childhood. We met the owner during our stay and discovered that her desire to restore the motel to it's former 1960s glory is a labor of love based on her childhood memories. That brings a magic to the Motel Bear Lake! The beds were awesome and our check in was seamless with the no front desk and keypad lock. Thank you Motel Bear Lake for a wonderful 3rd annual sister weekend!!
Kathy
Kathy, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 31, 2025
First time visiting my children and grandchildren who relocated to the area 2 years ago. Great motel bed was super comfortable.
Adam
Adam, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 23, 2025
The best little place
100/10. Couldn't have asked for a better experience.
Lena
Lena, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 5, 2025
JENNIFER
JENNIFER, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Feb 23, 2025
We had a besties weekend and it was a beautiful quiet motel. Definitely going back in the summer
Kristen
Kristen, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Dec 15, 2024
Check-in was so simple, staff is fantastic! Definitely will recommend and definitely will come back.
Deb
Deb, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Nov 6, 2024
Great place and excellent experience
Anthony
Anthony, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Feb 16, 2025
The management gets 5 stars for responsiveness! Very good place to do business with!
lynne
lynne, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 16, 2024
Cool place in great location!
Andrew
Andrew, 1-night trip
6/10 Good
Jul 3, 2025
We enjoyed the quaintness of this motel. It was clean and mostly comfortable - the beds were comfortable but one arm of the couch was loose or broken. After booking but before our arrival I found additional details about the property including the fact that it was cannibas friendly. Unfortunately upon checkin we noticed a reasonably strong marijuana odor in the room, which I had hoped would not be the case. It’s possible that I missed this detail upon booking the room but I would certainly recommend that we this detail be clearly communicated when booking. We were traveling for a family trip with our teenage son and we are not a “cannibas friendly” family.
Marsha
Marsha, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Dec 11, 2024
My wife and I really enjoyed staying at Motel Bear Lake! You can immediately tell how much love and care the owners have put into the property, and it was at a reasonable rate. We now want to visit the area and stay in the motel in the summer!
Al
Al, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 24, 2024
Very nice motel. All the modern comforts with great nostalgic feel.
Ronald
Ronald, 2-night trip
8/10 Very good
Jun 2, 2024
It was a nice stay.
Derek
Derek, 1-night trip
8/10 Very good
Aug 21, 2024
Very comfy with well thought out accommodations & amenities
Joanie
Joanie, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 15, 2024
Super clean and cute updated motel
Jennifer
Jennifer, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 29, 2024
It was very cute, quiet, and clean!
Eryn
Eryn, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 11, 2024
Cute motel with nostalgic vibe. Owners are doing a great job of updating while still keeping the old charm. Would definitely stay again!!
Rebecca
Rebecca, 2-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jan 30, 2024
Great Place
Top notch for a small simple motel.
Ray
Ray, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 7, 2024
Nice
Clean nice little motel
Steve
Steve, 1-night trip
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 1, 2024
Great Motel
Great Motel that was clean and quiet even though it looked fully booked. It was our first stay at a motel over a big fancy chain and it delivered as the pictures and reviews promised.