This Quaint Lakefront Home Near Cleveland Is A Beach Getaway With The Utmost Charm
Discover a luxurious Lake Erie cottage perfect for family getaways, offering easy access to a private beach and nearby attractions like Cedar Point Amusement Park.
Longing for some amazing getaways near Cleveland? Believe it or not, there are plenty of lovely places right here in Ohio that are perfect for a dreamy escape. One of the best vacation rentals near Cleveland is the Port Clinton area, which is just about an hour away from home. Like Cleveland, this community is nestled against Lake Erie. Unlike Cleveland, the community isn't quite so developed... roads are a lot more rural, people are a lot more laid back, and beach life is the name of the game.
This photo of your next vacation getaway was snapped from the beach. That's right ... it's THAT close to the house!
Located on the south side of the Marblehead Peninsula, this home has a vibe that's distinctly different from Cleveland.
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This exquisite Lake Erie cottage is offered through VRBO and is true luxury in every way.
This spot is incredible for family getaways, trips with friends, and more. It's just so charming and cozy!
While the cottage itself is lovely and charming, the yard at this spot is half the appeal.
If you have a boat or jet skis, then this spot is perfect for you. With easy access to the water, you'll feel right at home.
The private beach is mere steps away, and you can see it from both the house and patio.
Do you know what's also just a stone's throw away? Cedar Point Amusement Park! If you're a fan of rollercoasters or soaking up the sun at the beach, then you'll want to budget some time to explore the Sandusky area.
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There's also a screened patio in the yard, which is the perfect spot to enjoy drinks during mayfly season.
Mayflies, as the name implies, start to come out in May and might linger in the area through as late as September. They're a harmless part of living near Lake Erie, but they give some people the heebie-jeebies. Their peak month is in June, so expect to encounter them in the area if you're visiting during the summer.
You might also notice that there's a caboose nestled on the property... and, yes, it's open to guests, too!
This is an authentic train caboose! Today, however, it's sedentary and modernized. It has heat, air conditioning, and a high-def TV!
Like the home, the caboose has incredible views of the bay.
If you're loving this vibe, then you might also love swinging through Cedar Point's Frontier Town to add to the vacation experience!
And it's surprisingly spacious for its size!
If this is your first stay in a train caboose, you might walk away pleasantly surprised.
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If you stay in the cottage, you'll claim one of three bedrooms or a loft, and you might even enjoy that the garage has been converted into a rec room.
Each bedroom has a queen size bed and TV for total comfort.
Whichever you stay in, you'll surely feel right at home.
While splashes of color keep things modern, the colors of the home invoke the atmosphere of sitting in beachfront nature.
While there's plenty to explore around the area, there's nothing quite like the warmth of a beachfront fire.
You'll enjoy a full acre of private property during your stay. There are also plenty of places to park, so you and your crew will feel perfectly accommodated.
During the warmer months, this getaway feels miles away from the Ohio you know.
You'll feel like you're enjoying a tropical getaway!
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Adventure awaits at this charming beach house.
Book your stay on VRBO today! Clevelanders will love this getaway, as it's close enough to home for a quick trip but far enough to feel like you're in a different world.
The Port Clinton area is one of the very best getaways near Cleveland, and it offers easy access to Sandusky and the Lake Erie islands. What's your favorite attraction in the area? Doesn't this beach cottage make a great home base for your adventures on the Ohio coast? (Yes -- Ohio has a coast! This is the Third Coast, y'all.)
While you're in the area, be sure to check out Kelleys Island. There's nothing like admiring the sunset from the comfort of an island!
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Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Summer is vacation season, but it's easy to let the warmer months get away from you. Fortunately, there's plenty to do in and around Cleveland, even if you're looking for a little getaway. From farms to mansions and everything in between, there's a getaway for every type of vacationer in Northeast Ohio. And if you're looking for a last-minute Airbnb near Cleveland, you're in luck: there are some beautiful options just a short drive away from home.
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1. A Chippewa Lake retreat
Chippewa Lake is such a fun getaway, and it's one of my favorite parks to haunt in Medina County. At this Chippewa Lake Airbnb, you'll get to soak up all the quaint countryside vibes right on the water. With in-unit laundry, beach access, kayaks to take out on the water, and a firepit, hammock, and grill for outdoor enjoyment, you'll adore this cozy little getaway for up to six guests.
2. Glamping in Peninsula
If you've never gone glamping, you're in for a treat. It's like camping, but you'll enjoy glam amenities like a real cushy bed, electricity, and easy access to showers. This tent in Peninsula is a great way to experience this unique type of camping, and it's right in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It's a great place to stay if you're planning on hiking or attending a concert at Blossom Music Center, and a comfortable king size bed makes this a romantic getaway for two.
3. A cozy cabin in Hinckley
Another of my favorite Medina County parks can be found in Hinckley, which is also where this cozy cabin Airbnb is located. It can sleep around 16 guests, as it's a spacious retreat with 8 queen beds. Located right to Ledge Lake in Hinckley Reservation, you'll enjoy the quaint countryside of the area, plus amenities like a hot tub, pool table, an indoor fireplace and outdoor firepit, and a beautiful and private landscape.
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4. A treehouse in Dundee
Ever heard of Dundee Falls? Well, this dreamy treehouse Airbnb is right by it! This is truly a fairytale escape, as you walk across a 40-foot-long swinging bridge to enter the treehouse. There's a queen bed and a day bed, and you'll love sitting on the deck with a fire going as you listen to the sounds of cicadas filling the woods. This is truly a rural escape, as the winding drive back will reveal, so the treehouse is an excellent spot to take the family to reconvene with nature.
5. A yurt getaway in Thompson
Now this is one the kids are going to love! You can stay in a yurt at a 75-acre farm in Thompson, Ohio, complete with three beds, a comfy sitting area, oodles of rugs, and cute decorations. Critters like goats will be seen around the farm, and a play area makes this an ideal escape for little ones. Have you even seen the stars over the rural countryside? Well, after you do, you just might not want to return home. This dreamy getaway is a summertime favorite!
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6. A tiny home in Loudonville
I'm obsessed with tiny homes. The way designers make these things spacious and comfortable is fascinating to me, and this tiny home in Loudonville is no exception. Inside, you'll find two beds, high-speed internet, a smart TV, air conditioning, and all the amenities you'd expect from any comfortable getaway. Plus, it's just minutes from Downtown Loudonville and Mohican State Park, so you can soak up the small town or nature vibes during your stay. Grill outside and enjoy a fire under the stars to make your trip especially memorable.
7. A mansion in North Lawrence
Why not gather 16 of your closest friends and steal away to a mansion for the weekend?! This charming escape in North Lawrence is 10,000-feet of pure bliss. Nestled away on 30 acres, it's a convivial getaway complete with 11 beds, an indoor pool area, a movie theater, a home gym, and a wine cellar. There's also a sauna, hot tub, gourmet kitchen... truly, what doesn't this space have? Fish in the pond, put the tennis court to good use, or read a good book while the kids use the playground. Whatever you decide, you'll love this getaway.
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Booking a last-minute Airbnb near Cleveland just might become your new favorite vacation memory. Each of these stays has its own distinct style, so there's truly something for everyone amidst this selection.