These are 12 of the Best Resorts in Michigan for Empty Nesters in 2025

Michigan’s resorts offer the perfect getaway for empty nesters looking to relax and enjoy their newfound freedom. From lakeside retreats to luxury accommodations, the Great Lakes State provides numerous options for couples seeking peace, adventure, or a bit of both.

You’ll find Michigan’s best resorts for empty nesters combine premium amenities with beautiful natural surroundings, creating ideal environments for reconnecting with your partner or simply unwinding after years of raising children. Whether you’re drawn to the shores of Mackinac Island or the championship golf courses of Southwest Michigan, these destinations provide the perfect balance of activities and relaxation without the chaos of family-oriented resorts.

1. Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa offers a perfect retreat for empty nesters seeking both relaxation and activity in Northern Michigan. Located in Acme, this expansive resort features diverse accommodation options including hotel rooms, tower suites, and spacious condominiums.

The resort boasts three championship golf courses, including The Bear, a legendary Jack Nicklaus-designed course celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2025. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the challenge and beauty of these well-maintained courses.

Beyond golf, you’ll find multiple dining options with six restaurants and bars on property. The premier spa provides rejuvenating treatments, while both indoor and outdoor pools offer relaxation year-round. The 100,000-square-foot health club features fitness facilities and tennis courts to maintain your active lifestyle.

The resort’s proximity to Traverse City’s attractions enhances its appeal. You can easily explore local wineries, visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, or enjoy tall ship excursions and catamaran cruises for day trips away from the resort.

Rating: 4.2 (4039 reviews)
Location: 100 Grand Traverse Village Blvd, Acme, MI 49610
Contact: (231) 534-6000
Website: Visit Website

2. Boyne Mountain Resort

Boyne Mountain Resort offers year-round activities perfect for empty nesters looking to relax or stay active. Located in Boyne Falls, this versatile resort spans 415 skiable acres and provides numerous recreational options regardless of the season.

During winter months, you can enjoy skiing and other winter sports on the mountain. When warmer weather arrives, the resort transforms into a haven for golf enthusiasts with beautifully maintained courses. You’ll also find opportunities for biking, pickleball, and ziplining throughout the property.

One of the resort’s standout features is Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark, Avalanche Bay, where you can enjoy 88,000 square feet of water attractions maintained at a comfortable 84 degrees. For a truly unique experience, take a stroll across SkyBridge Michigan, the world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge.

After an active day, you can unwind at The Spa or explore the various dining options available throughout the resort. With such diverse amenities, Boyne Mountain Resort provides the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation for empty nesters.

Rating: 4.5 (6319 reviews)
Location: 1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713
Contact: (855) 688-7024
Website: Visit Website

3. Mission Point Resort

Nestled on the sunrise side of Mackinac Island, Mission Point Resort offers a nostalgic escape where no cars are allowed. You’ll be greeted by the glistening waters of Lake Huron and friendly staff as soon as you step off the ferry.

This lakeside resort is perfect for empty nesters seeking tranquility with a touch of adventure. The property features golf, swimming, tennis, and bike rentals, along with four different eateries serving regionally inspired cuisine.

Dog lovers rejoice – Mission Point is Mackinac Island’s only dog-friendly resort, welcoming your furry companions with special accommodations and even welcome bags. After a day of exploration, you can indulge at Lakeside Spa & Salon, the island’s largest Aveda spa.

The location is ideal for exploring Michigan’s Crown Jewel. You’re just a short walk from attractions like Fort Mackinac, Arch Rock, and the Mackinac Island Butterfly House, making it easy to experience all the island has to offer.

Rating: 4.4 (2357 reviews)
Location: One Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, MI 49757
Contact: (906) 847-3000
Website: Visit Website

4. Oak Cove Resort

Oak Cove Resort offers a perfect retreat for empty nesters on the shores of Lake Cora in Southwest Michigan. This historic resort spans 16 wooded acres with accommodations ranging from lodge rooms to private cottages and homes.

Your stay includes unlimited access to water activities with complimentary rowboats, canoes, paddle boats, and kayaks. The resort features 500 feet of lake frontage, a heated in-ground pool, and a mile of nature trails for peaceful walks.

A standout perk is the free daily golf at Lake Cora Hills Golf Club. When you’re not relaxing at the resort, you can explore nearby attractions including wineries, antique shops, and U-Pick farms. Lake Michigan beaches are just 35 minutes away for day trips.

The resort operates during Michigan’s summer season from early June through Labor Day. While many guests book weekly stays, shorter visits are sometimes available depending on circumstances.

Rating: 4.8 (55 reviews)
Location: 58881 46th St, Lawrence, MI 49064
Contact: (269) 674-8228
Website: Visit Website

5. Sleepy Hollow Beach Resort

Nestled along North Shore Drive in South Haven, Sleepy Hollow Beach Resort offers a tranquil retreat for empty nesters seeking both relaxation and recreation. This highly-rated resort features beautifully landscaped gardens that create a peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

You’ll appreciate the private lake beach where you can unwind with a book or take a refreshing swim on warm summer days. The heated swimming pool provides another option for enjoying the water, especially during cooler Michigan evenings when Lake Michigan might be too chilly.

The cottage accommodations at Sleepy Hollow give you that perfect balance of homey comfort with resort amenities. Each unit offers privacy while still allowing you to enjoy the social aspects of resort living that many empty nesters value during their getaways.

Various leisure activities keep you entertained throughout your stay, making it easy to fill your days with as much or as little activity as you desire. The South Haven location puts you close to local wineries, restaurants, and shops for additional exploration opportunities.

Rating: 4.7 (133 reviews)
Location: 7400 N Shore Dr, South Haven, MI 49090
Contact: (269) 637-1127
Website: Visit Website

6. White Birch Lodge

White Birch Lodge offers an ideal retreat for empty nesters seeking both relaxation and activity on Michigan’s beautiful Elk Lake. Founded in 1958 by Cliff and Ruby Conrad, this family-owned resort maintains its original charm while providing modern amenities.

The all-inclusive program is particularly appealing for those who want a hassle-free vacation. With three meals prepared daily in the lakefront dining hall, you can fully unwind without worrying about meal planning or preparation.

Accommodations range from rustic cabins to luxurious condominiums, all situated along the sandy, birch-lined shores of Elk Lake. The crystal-clear blue water provides a stunning backdrop for various activities including waterskiing, sailing, kayaking, and canoeing.

For empty nesters who appreciate a mix of recreation and tranquility, White Birch Lodge delivers both. The serene setting offers peaceful relaxation, while the variety of water sports and activities provides plenty of opportunities for adventure.

Rating: 4.8 (74 reviews)
Location: 571 Meguzee Point Rd, Elk Rapids, MI 49629
Contact: (231) 264-8271
Website: Visit Website

7. The Homestead

Nestled in Glen Arbor, The Homestead offers a refined retreat perfect for empty nesters seeking both relaxation and activity. The chic resort provides a range of accommodations to suit your preferences, whether you’re looking for a cozy room or something more spacious.

The resort’s amenities include a rejuvenating spa where you can indulge in treatments designed to melt away stress. Multiple pools offer options for both exercise and leisure, while the on-site eateries serve delicious meals in comfortable settings.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the various recreational facilities available at The Homestead. The beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline provides a stunning backdrop for your stay, with opportunities for beachcombing, swimming, and spectacular sunset views.

Located in one of Michigan’s most scenic areas near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, The Homestead gives you easy access to natural beauty while providing upscale comforts that make your getaway truly special.

Rating: 4.3 (873 reviews)
Location: 1 Woodridge Rd, Glen Arbor, MI 49636
Contact: (231) 334-5000
Website: Visit Website

8. Sleeping Bear Resort

Nestled on the shores of Herendeen Lake in Lake Ann, Michigan, Sleeping Bear Resort offers a peaceful retreat for empty nesters seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. The resort features six cozy cabins with modern amenities, a five-bedroom hand-hewn log home, and a six-bedroom remodeled farm home, all with excellent lake views.

Owned and operated by Steve and Leah Bechtol, this lakefront property serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions like Sleeping Bear Dunes, Traverse City, and the Leelanau Peninsula. You’ll appreciate the secluded setting while still having easy access to the region’s most popular destinations.

The resort stands out for its unique amenities that encourage outdoor enjoyment. You can take advantage of complimentary boat rentals, kayaking opportunities, a private beach, bonfire pits, and even a water bouncer. These thoughtful touches make it easy to embrace the natural beauty of Northern Michigan.

Lake Ann itself offers a charming small-town atmosphere where you can unwind while enjoying crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and fishing. The strategic location allows you to explore three counties in Northern Michigan, with numerous activities within a 20-minute drive in any direction.

Rating: 4.9 (107 reviews)
Location: 7670 Reynolds Rd, Lake Ann, MI 49650
Contact: (231) 642-7000
Website: Visit Website

9. Sunset Resort

Sunset Resort on Houghton Lake offers a peaceful lakefront escape perfect for empty nesters seeking relaxation. The property features modern log cabins and lodge rooms with kitchenettes, providing all the comforts of home while enjoying Michigan’s largest inland lake.

The resort combines rustic charm with modern amenities, including free WiFi and parking. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed to maximize your comfort while maintaining the cozy atmosphere that makes northern Michigan getaways so special.

Located along East Houghton Lake Drive, this resort gives you easy access to water activities during summer months. The serene setting allows you to unwind and create pleasant memories, as their tagline suggests, whether you’re relaxing on the shoreline or exploring the surrounding area.

The lodge suites offer additional space for those wanting extra room to spread out. With its combination of natural beauty and comfortable accommodations, Sunset Resort provides empty nesters a tranquil base for enjoying Michigan’s outdoor recreation or simply unwinding by the water.

Rating: 4.8 (50 reviews)
Location: 3723 E Houghton Lake Dr, Houghton Lake, MI 48629
Contact: (989) 366-5512
Website: Visit Website

10. Lake Shore Resort

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Lake Shore Resort offers a tranquil retreat perfect for empty nesters seeking peace and natural beauty. Every room, deck, and pool area provides stunning lake views that create an atmosphere of serenity and relaxation.

Start your day with breakfast overlooking the water before exploring the area. The resort provides complimentary kayaks and bikes for guests, and you can hike wooded trails on the property or take a refreshing swim in Lake Michigan. Downtown Saugatuck is just three miles away when you’re ready to explore shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Evenings at Lake Shore Resort are magical. Gather around the fire pits to watch spectacular sunsets or stargaze from the lakeside deck. For culinary enthusiasts, their Full Moon Dinner Series celebrates seasonal West Michigan ingredients with special events throughout the year.

The modest but comfortable accommodations strike the perfect balance between tranquility and convenience. You’ll appreciate the resort’s thoughtful amenities including a private beach and outdoor pool, creating an ideal base for your Michigan getaway.

Rating: 4.7 (194 reviews)
Location: 2885 Lakeshore Drive, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Contact: (269) 857-7121
Website: Visit Website

11. Crystal Sands Beach Resort

Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Huron, Crystal Sands Beach Resort offers empty nesters a peaceful retreat in Northeastern Michigan. The resort underwent complete renovations in 2017, providing modern accommodations while maintaining the natural beauty of its waterfront location.

You’ll appreciate the clear waters and pure air that give this resort its name. The property is ideally situated near Saginaw Bay, offering spectacular views and access to Lake Huron’s sandy beaches that are perfect for morning walks or evening strolls.

Crystal Sands Beach Resort provides versatile spaces suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re planning a quiet getaway or meeting up with friends, the resort’s welcoming atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for empty nesters seeking both relaxation and social opportunities.

The location strikes a perfect balance between seclusion and convenience. You can enjoy the tranquility of lakeside living while still having access to the charming amenities of Tawas City just minutes away.

Rating: 4.7 (228 reviews)
Location: 1238 N Huron Rd, Tawas City, MI 48763
Contact: (989) 876-7317
Website: Visit Website

12. Sugar Beach Resort Hotel

Sugar Beach Resort Hotel offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for empty nesters seeking a peaceful getaway in Traverse City. The understated rooms and suites provide comfort without unnecessary frills, allowing you to focus on unwinding and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

The resort’s private beach is a major highlight, giving you direct access to the crystal-clear waters of Grand Traverse Bay. After a day of lakeside relaxation, you can take advantage of the indoor pool and hot tub facilities regardless of the weather outside.

Located on US-31 North, Sugar Beach places you in an ideal position to explore Traverse City’s attractions. You’ll find yourself close to local vineyards, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options that make this freshwater paradise a distinctive destination.

The resort is part of a two-property destination focused on providing beach access and serving as your base to experience everything this vibrant Michigan city has to offer. Its understated approach makes it particularly appealing for couples looking for a no-fuss retreat.

Rating: 4.4 (1066 reviews)
Location: 1773 US-31 North, Traverse City, MI 49686
Contact: (231) 938-0100
Website: Visit Website