Where winter mornings start with coffee, pastries, and a Lake Huron sunrise.

When the snow begins to fall on Michigan’s Sunrise Side, Lake Life Cottages in East Tawas transforms into a cozy winter retreat on the shores of Lake Huron. Nestled just minutes from downtown, our boutique cottages offer modern luxury with the charm of “Up North” living—perfect for romantic weekends, family getaways, or a quiet reset surrounded by nature’s calm.

Step outside your door and explore a winter wonderland. Snowshoe along the Sandy Hook Trail at Tawas Point State Park, where the iconic lighthouse stands watch over a frozen bay. Glide through miles of groomed Corsair Ski Trails, or wander the Ausable River footpaths, where snow-covered pines line the winding waterway. Thrill-seekers will love the snowmobile trails stretching from Tawas to Oscoda through the heart of the Huron National Forest, with plenty of space to park trailers in our overflow parking. For gear, Nordic Sports—the area’s go-to for outdoor adventure—offers cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals, perfect for exploring the Sunrise Side in style.

After a day outdoors, warm up in town with a meal at local favorites like Boathouse Beer Co. & Boozery, Northwoods Steakhouse, Mango’s Mexican Cuisine, Tawas Bay Pizza Co., or G’s Pizzeria—a longtime local tradition. Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at Downtown Diner, and don’t leave without a sweet stop at Village Chocolatier—home to hand-dipped chocolates worth the trip alone.

If you prefer a laid-back day of unwinding, visit and shop some of the local favorites—O’Connor’s, Windjammer Gifts, Blue Bear Jewelry, Ben Franklin, Brew Krew, and Chick’n Dots—each offering unique finds and friendly faces that make the Sunrise Side so special.

And on Saturday mornings, you don’t even have to leave the property—get your fix at The Beach Barn, where Proof Bakehouse, our local micro-bakery, serves up homemade awesomeness that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee and a Lake Huron sunrise.

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“Winter by the water—where the view is as beautiful in January as it is in July.”

Lake Life Cottages always offers 15% off multi-night stays. During the off-season (November–April), use promo code WINTER15 and receive an additional 15% off your stay—the perfect reason to escape to Michigan’s Sunrise Side this winter.

Plan your getaway at lakelifecottages.com