About Us
Our Family settled on the island in the early 1800’s as part of the initial wave of Irish American immigration. Our income was entirely dependent on fishing the waters of Lake Michigan. Commercial fishing died out in the late 1970’s and only Native Americans ply that trade now. Of the almost five hundred year round residents on the island, a few dozen descendants are all that remain of our once immense family.
The Cottage
This property is located on a private, wooded lot. Our island cottage is located appox. 1/2 mile south of the town and harbor access. Distance is measured by time on the Island, most of the roads have not been paved… it's just another way to make you slow down!
This beautiful Beaver Island home has everything you need in this furnished home including appliances. The 1500+ square feet of living space includes three bedrooms and one bath. The cottage has a charming decor with an open kitchen/family room layout. The kitchen is supplied for all our cooking and eating needs. Abbie's has 3 bedrooms, two with a full size bed and one with a pair of twin sized beds. A laundry room, full size bath tub w/shower. An open, spacious living and kitchen area with access to the outdoor patio area.
Our cottage is kid and pet friendly, and is available Memorial weekend through October. All the amenities of home are included, you will find it has everything to offer, just bring your clothes and food. We even supply some of that, like coffee, some spices and even a few things in the pantry. The adventure of getting to Beaver Island and Abbie’s simply set the stage for the perfect "Get Away"!
The Island
The island has 7 inland lakes, two of which are very good for fishing. Beaver Island is 6 miles wide and 13 miles long encompassing 58 square miles. It is surrounded by 7 other islands of the Beaver Island Archipelago. The village of St. James on Paradise Bay has a beautiful sandy, public playground/swimming beach. A library, churches, marinas, taverns, motels and campgrounds are available. Several restaurants on the island offer a variety of experiences from family fare to fine elegant dining. The University of Michigan and Central Michigan University have summer activities on the island. You may enjoy a good book overlooking Lake Michigan, walk the shores of sandy beaches, take a swim in the clear lake water, explore the island and it's over 100 miles of roads and trails, kayak, go for a bike ride, fish on one of the 7 inland lakes, admire the vast array of stars, discover some of the other islands in the Archipelago, visit the spa for a massage, play nine at the Beaver golf course, lounge on the patio, cocktails at Nina's or Donnegal Bay to enjoy the sunset, visit the CMU Biological center, or the 2 lighthouses on the island, Little Sand Bay, Iron Ore Bay or simply do Nothing!
This is a vacation you will never forget and leave feeling truly rested Need a break from the tourist swarmed cities in the summer? Come to Historic Beaver Island , Americas Emerald Isle, located in the middle of Lake Michigan . While this island itself is laid back there is always plenty to do. The “Rock” is constantly surrounded by nature, whether it be the majestic forests or the tempting white sandy beaches. Rent kayaks and tour the inland lakes or scuba diving a try on the many ship wrecks. Get Away to an unspoiled natural environment where several eagle sightings daily are common. A place that has been virtually untouched and unspoiled, that is Beaver Island ! When you arrive on the island you will find a place that will take you back in time. Slow, patient, friendly and Beautiful! If you are looking to "Get Away" to our cottage on Beaver Island is it. Imagine a place that has been virtually untouched and unspoiled, that is Beaver Island . For a "Truly" Relaxing nature filled vacation, this is the spot. The Summer, Fall and Winter are Spectacular! When you arrive on the island you will find a place that will take you back in time. Slow, patient, friendly and Beautiful! You might want to stop at the Shamrock for a beverage after the ferry ride or take the scenic 5 minute drive straight out to the cottage.
Island Activities Include;
- Golf
- Shopping
- Sightseeing
- Restaurants
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Boating
- Jet Skiing
- Swimming
- Snorkeling/Diving
- Biking
- Cross Country Skiing
- Snowmobiling
- Sledding/Tubing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Museums
- Hunting & Fishing Guides
Other Island Activities
Some shopping, three grocery stores, Cappuccino is even available at the Dalwhinnie, Maritime and Mormon Museums. The Beaver Island Boat Company offers guided tours of the island.
Getting Here
The ferry to the island departs from Charlevoix , Michigan. Charlevoix is a Lake Michigan harbor city located approx 250 miles north of Detroit. The ferry takes two and one quarter hours both directions. Twenty minute flights are available to the mainland 7 days a week from the Charlevoix airport. There are two aviation companies; Fresh Air Aviation or Island Airways. The island has 2 airports. There are also flights available to and from Traverse City . Rental cars, taxis, electric vehicles, scooters and bicycles are available. Either way, it's an amazing adventure.

















