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Whaleback Inn

Property class: 2.5

Photo gallery for Whaleback Inn

A clear lake with kayaks and a dock with chairs.
A cozy living room with a stone fireplace, wooden shelves, a large plant, and a patterned rug.
A wooden deck with a bench and chairs overlooking a lake.
A bedroom with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a lamp, and a view of a lake through a sliding door.
A wooden cabin with large windows, a covered porch, and a stone foundation.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Housekeeping
The current price is NZ$406
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct

Explore the area

View map
1757 N Manitou Trail, Leland, MI, 49654
  • Place, Lake Leelanau
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Historic Fishtown
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Van's Beach
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪43 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Lake View

A hotel room with two beds, wooden headboards, a ceiling fan, and a wooden desk with a lamp.

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Lake View

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(11 reviews)
  • Lake view
  • 22 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

A bedroom with a skylight, a wooden bed, a chair, a desk, and a bathroom with a shower.

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Lake view
  • 42 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Traditional Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

A bedroom with a wooden bed, two bedside lamps, a window, and a mirror above the desk.

Traditional Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • Lake view
  • 22 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking

A bedroom with a bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a lamp, a mirror, and a window with blinds.

Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • 22 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Apartment (Cottage Suite)

A compact living space with a kitchenette, a green sofa, a wooden coffee table, and patterned armchairs.

Apartment (Cottage Suite)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • 46 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

View all photos for Single Room, 1 Queen Bed, Lakeview with Loveseat

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, two chairs, a window with a view, and two wall lamps.

Single Room, 1 Queen Bed, Lakeview with Loveseat

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(9 reviews)
  • Lake view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the area

Leland

At Whaleback Inn you'll be within a 30-minute stroll of Van's Beach and Historic Fishtown. Highlights at this hotel include free in-room WiFi. .This smoke-free hotel offers free WiFi in public areas, a terrace and a garden. Plus you'll find a picnic area. There's also the convenience of free self parking. .Sights within a 10-minute drive of this Leland hotel include Manitou Island Transit and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

What's nearby

  • Lake Leelanau - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Historic Fishtown - 2 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Van's Beach - 2 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - 6 min drive - 8.6 km
  • Leelanau Sands Casino - 15 min drive - 24.2 km

Getting around

  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Village Cheese Shanty - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪VI Grill - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪The Cove - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Roman Wheel Pizza & Subs - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Fiddleheads - ‬6 min drive

About this property

Whaleback Inn

As a guest of Whaleback Inn, you'll find a terrace, a garden, and a picnic area. WiFi is free in public spaces. Free self parking is available.

This Leland hotel is smoke free.

  • 18 guestrooms or units
  • 5 buildings
  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Terrace
  • Garden
  • Outdoor picnic space
  • No smoking on site
Whaleback Inn offers 18 air-conditioned accommodations with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Guests can surf the web using complimentary wireless Internet access.

Bathrooms include a shower. Business-friendly amenities include desks and telephones; free local calls are provided (restrictions may apply). Housekeeping is provided on a daily basis.

Similar properties

A house with a white door marked with the number 5, a dark blue exterior, and a white porch with a wicker chair.
Empire Lakeshore Inn
Downtown Empire
  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Housekeeping
4.4 out of 5, Excellent, 1,015 reviews
The price is NZ$208
includes taxes & fees
5 Nov - 6 Nov
Empire Lakeshore Inn

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Free self parking on site
  • Limited on-site self parking

Family friendly

  • In-room refrigerator

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Outdoors

  • Dock
  • Garden
  • On a lake
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • No lift

More

  • 5 buildings
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • TV

Food and drink

  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: 6:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Late check-out subject to availability

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 8:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Renovations and closures

The property is closed between 27 October and 15 April.

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cots (infant beds) are not available.

Payment types

  • American Express
  • Mastercard
  • Visa

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children. If you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard and American Express. Cash is not accepted. 

Property is also known as

Whaleback Inn Leland
Whaleback Leland
Whaleback Inn Hotel
Whaleback Inn Leland
Whaleback Inn Hotel Leland

Frequently asked questions

Is parking available at Whaleback Inn?

Yep, Whaleback Inn has a free self car park.

How much does it cost to stay at Whaleback Inn?

As of 28 Oct 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Whaleback Inn on 29 Oct 2026 start from NZ$406, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Are there any beaches close to Whaleback Inn?

The closest beach to Whaleback Inn is Van's Beach (1.9 km).

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Whaleback Inn?

No, Whaleback Inn does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Whaleback Inn?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.

Are pets allowed at Whaleback Inn?

No, pets are not allowed.

Whaleback Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 175 out of 202 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 17 out of 202 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 10 out of 202 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 202 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 202 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location - beautiful views, very relaxing
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location. Peaceful and well maintained
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The place was nice. Staff very friendly. The location is great. Would definitely stay again
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Inn keeper was amazing. She was always around if you needed anything and made amazing coffee and muffins which we enjoyed every morning. Super clean and inviting resort.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was our first time staying at the Whaleback in June and it was such an amazing experience! Everything was clean and the Inn was so well taken care of! You could tell how much love goes into the property and the thoughtful details that are in the rooms and public areas. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Nice room, great location, welcoming staff.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful place with a nice view. Great inn keeping couple. The lakeview room had a small bathroom but a sitting area with a couch and a sitting area.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice stay
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Such a beautiful place, great staff, perfect location, I will stay there again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
So clean and quiet. Room had a water view and patio. Could also sit in large yard and enjoy nature and a beautiful view.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The views of the lake and set up of the property was well thought out. Very welcoming and helpful innkeepers! Cabin was clean and well maintained. The location of the cabin was close to restaurants, the beach, but quiet and secluded just outside of town. Highly recommend! Will definitely be back to stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice view of Lake and Rachel the Innkeeper was most attentive.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The facilities and staff were first rate.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Water view…homey…great location to town..quiet…lots of area to sit and relax…would highly recommend
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Adorable place with exceptional hospitality!

What an adorable place with impeccable service and hospitality! Can’t wait to go back!!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Fanadtic place lovely owners. Clean ...beautiful gardens
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

The Best of Rustic and Amenities

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.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My husband and I both said we would love to revisit this resort.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Whaleback Inn Is Lovely

I would stay at the Whaleback Inn again in a minute. The staff was wonderful and helpful, the location beautiful and the rooms great. Loved the view!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Cleanest, friendliest place we’ve ever stayed. Will definitely go back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Everything was wonderful! A super fun weekend. Will definitely come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean, quiet and close to everything
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice wooded area with comfortable housing and convenient amenities.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024