Private Beach Rentals in Door County: 65+ Properties

Door County's 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and Green Bay offer families something truly rare: the chance to wake up steps from the water without fighting for towel space on a crowded public beach. Whether you dream of building sandcastles on a private sandy stretch in Jacksonport or watching your kids splash in the calm, shallow waters of Ephraim, this peninsula has a waterfront rental waiting for your family.

This guide covers every corner of Door County, organized from south to north to help you navigate the peninsula's unique geography. The western shore along Green Bay offers calmer waters, warmer temperatures, and spectacular sunsets—ideal for families with young children. The eastern "Quiet Side" along Lake Michigan features bigger waves, stunning sunrises, and some of the county's most pristine sandy beaches. By the time you reach Washington Island at the peninsula's tip, you'll find a remote island escape unlike anywhere else in the Midwest.

We've researched more than 65 specific properties and every major rental company, gathering addresses, phone numbers, websites, pricing, and the family-friendly features that matter most. Book early for summer—the best beachfront properties fill up six to twelve months in advance.

Southern Door County

The southern portion of Door County stretches from Sturgeon Bay through Carlsville to Jacksonport, placing you closest to Green Bay and Milwaukee while offering some of the peninsula's finest Lake Michigan beaches. Jacksonport in particular has earned a reputation as the "waterfront jewel" of the Quiet Side, with miles of sandy shoreline perfect for families.

Glidden Lodge Beach Resort stands out as southern Door County's premier beachfront destination. Located at 4676 Glidden Drive in Sturgeon Bay, this resort earned recognition from Architectural Digest as one of eight luxurious hotels on the world's most tranquil lakes. The property features a 700-foot private sand beach—one of the largest privately owned beaches in Door County—along with 31 waterfront condos ranging from one to three bedrooms. Families love the indoor heated pool, beach volleyball court, and the fact that every suite faces the water with sunrise views. Rates run $165 to $415 per night with a two-night minimum. Contact them at 866-454-3336, email frontdesk@gliddenlodge.com, or visit gliddenlodge.com.

Sand Bay Lodge and Cottages at 7696 Haines Road in Sturgeon Bay works beautifully for larger family gatherings, with a main lodge accommodating up to 20 guests plus two separate two-bedroom cottages sleeping six each. The property includes 200 feet of private Sand Bay shoreline, a game room, basketball court, boat dock, complimentary bikes, and fire pit. Weekly rates range from $850 to $4,200, with daily rates starting at $150. Reach them at 920-621-7439.

For something more intimate, the Gold Coast Waterfront Cottage offers a charming 1930s experience on Sturgeon Bay's prestigious "Gold Coast" among luxury homes. This renovated two-bedroom, one-bath cottage sits steps from the bay with private beach access. It's available through Airbnb—search "Sturgeon Bay Waterfront Cottage, Private beach" for current rates.

Jacksonport: The Quiet Side's sandy beaches

Jacksonport consistently ranks among Door County's best destinations for beach-loving families, with miles of Lake Michigan sandy shoreline and a peaceful atmosphere that draws visitors back generation after generation.

Square Rigger Lodge at 6332 WI-57 in Jacksonport offers the rare combination of beachfront lodging and Door County's only beachfront coffee shop. The property includes 286 feet of private sandy Lake Michigan shoreline, motel rooms, a suite, five cottages (cottages 5 and 8 sit directly on the sand), and a four-bedroom rental house with three full baths. Their on-site coffee shop serves Door County coffee, smoothies, and homemade quiche while you watch the sunrise over Lake Michigan. Contact them at 920-823-2404, email rooms@squareriggerlodge.com, or visit squareriggerlodge.com.

Sunrise Shores Condominiums at 6348 and 6352 State Highway 57 provides 190 feet of private sand beach where the shoreline continues for miles in either direction. The three condos (built between 2007 and 2013) offer two and four-bedroom configurations with equipped kitchens, gas fireplaces, fire pits, and free WiFi. Guests describe this owner-operated property as "a hidden gem they don't want anyone to know about." Contact owners at 404-797-2410, email doorcountybeachrentals@yahoo.com, or visit doorcountybeachrentals.com.

Little White Cottage on the Lake through Simple Life Rentals offers an authentically charming experience—originally built in 1952 and fully updated in 2022. This two-bedroom cottage shares private lake access with just four other cottages along a 1.5-mile sandy beach. Kids love the bunk beds, and the sand bar creates perfect shallow wading for young children. The property sits walking distance from Jacksonport's farmers market, bakery, and restaurants. Book through simpleliferentals.com.

Olson Cottages at 6852 Highway 57 represent one of Door County's most treasured family traditions—owned by the same family for over 80 years. Their four cottages along a mile-long private Lake Michigan beach (Elmira Beach) sleep six each, featuring stone fireplaces, lakeside decks, and central heat. Grandma's Cottage, built in 1922, is a century-old log cabin with two-story-high ceilings and tamarack-log walls. Note that reservations for the following summer begin the previous fall, with preference given to returning guests. Weekly rentals only from June through October. Visit olsoncottages.com or contact them directly.

Door County Premium Rentals manages several luxury waterfront homes in the Jacksonport area, all directly on Lake Michigan. Their Cave Point Retreat sleeps eight across three bedrooms with 200 feet of shoreline and a wood-burning fireplace. A Shoreline Retreat offers stunning sand beach access for six adults. Lake House on Glidden provides 4,200 square feet with four bedrooms for larger families. Extended stay discounts apply for two to four-week reservations, and stays over 30 days are tax-free. Contact them at 847-308-8019, email shorelineventuresinc@gmail.com, or visit doorcountypremiumrentals.com.

Egg Harbor: Heart of Door County's bay side

Moving north along the Green Bay shoreline, Egg Harbor offers the calmer waters families with young children appreciate, along with easy access to attractions throughout the peninsula.

The Shallows Resort at 7353 Horseshoe Bay Road has welcomed families since 1968 and remains family-owned through three generations. Their 400 feet of pristine Green Bay shoreline includes a heated outdoor pool, complimentary kayaks, canoes, and bikes, a swing set, fire pits, and beach bonfire area. Accommodation options range from shoreside motel rooms to the four-bedroom Shallows House sleeping eight. Rates run $155 to $750 daily depending on season and unit. The resort earned TripAdvisor's #1 specialty lodging ranking in Egg Harbor. Contact them at 920-868-3458, email vacation@shallows.com, or visit shallows.com.

Landmark Resort at 4929 Landmark Drive offers Door County's largest resort experience on 40 wooded acres atop the Niagara Escarpment bluff. While not directly beachfront, the resort provides excellent bay views and beach access via nearby Frank E. Murphy Park. The 294 one to three-bedroom suites all include full kitchens. Families appreciate the three outdoor heated pools (plus one indoor pool open 24/7), four hot tubs, playground, tennis courts, and on-site restaurant. A daily $10 resort fee applies beyond room rates. Contact them at 920-868-3205, email stay@thelandmarkresort.com, or visit thelandmarkresort.com.

Door County Cottage Retreat through DoCo Vacations offers brand-new 2024 construction with modern farmhouse style on 1.5 private acres. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom home sleeps 14 with bunk beds perfect for kids. Families gather around the massive covered patio with outdoor stone fireplace. An eight to ten-minute walk brings you to Egg Harbor Beach. The satellite internet makes it ideal for parents working remotely while on vacation. Book through docovacations.com.

Fish Creek and Peninsula State Park

Fish Creek sits at the doorstep of Peninsula State Park, offering families immediate access to Nicolet Beach while maintaining a charming village atmosphere perfect for evening strolls after beach days.

Edgewater Cottages Fish Creek at 4144 Main Street represents third-generation family ownership at its finest. These seven immaculately maintained two-bedroom cottages sit directly on Green Bay harbor with a private dock just two blocks from Peninsula State Park and the public beach. Peak weekly rates run $1,650 to $1,750 (Saturday to Saturday), with nightly rates from $195 to $280. Each cottage includes a full kitchen, Roku Smart TV, free WiFi, Weber grill, and air conditioning. Contact them at 920-973-5839, email jkorte.edgewater@gmail.com, or visit edgewatercottagesfishcreek.com.

Fish Creek Beach House through Rent Door County offers spacious waterfront accommodations for larger families. This five-bedroom home (sleeping 12) features a private dock, fire pit near the water, screen porch, and outdoor shower. The property welcomes up to two dogs—a rarity for waterfront Door County rentals. Visit rentdoorcounty.com for current rates and availability.

Ephraim offers historic waterfront charm

Ephraim consistently ranks among Door County's most picturesque villages, with its white clapboard buildings reflected in the still waters of Eagle Harbor. The calm, shallow bay makes this an ideal swimming destination for families with young children.

Edgewater Resort at 10040 North Water Street has operated as a lodge since 1900, offering 400 feet of private shorefront on Eagle Harbor with a private dock. Accommodation ranges from hotel rooms and studios to two-bedroom condos and private cottages, with rates from $125 to $425 daily. The resort features an outdoor heated pool, hot tub, on-site restaurant with traditional fish boils, and dog-friendly units. Year-round operation means families can experience Ephraim in every season. Contact them at 920-854-2734 or visit edge-waterresort.com.

Ephraim Village Cottages spreads 12 charming cottages across three shaded acres just a two-minute walk from Ephraim beach. The third-generation owners provide one, two, and three-bedroom options with fireplaces, full kitchens, and outdoor grills. Kids love the playground, large firepit, hammocks, cornhole, and badminton. Most cottages allow one to two dogs. A 50% deposit holds your reservation. Contact them at 920-559-2565, email cottages@ephraimvillagecottages.com, or visit ephraimvillagecottages.com.

Hillside Waterfront Hotel at 9980 Water Street combines luxury boutique accommodations with family-friendly cottages. The property's five suites cater to adults only (21+) with rates from $467 to $597 per night including breakfast. However, the North Cottage (three bedrooms, sleeping six-plus) and South Cottage (two bedrooms plus loft, waterfront with porch swing) welcome families at rates starting from $757 per night. Both cottages feature full kitchens, gas fireplaces, and Eagle Harbor views. Contact them at 920-854-7666, email hillsideofdoorcounty@gmail.com, or visit hillsideofdoorcounty.com.

Baileys Harbor: Lake Michigan and lighthouses

Baileys Harbor anchors Door County's eastern shore, placing families on the Lake Michigan side with its bigger waves, stunning sandy beaches, and proximity to natural attractions like The Ridges Sanctuary and iconic Cana Island Lighthouse.

Gordon Lodge at 1420 Pine Drive has welcomed guests for over 80 years across 130 acres with a 300-foot private sandy beach on North Bay. The property includes 40-plus guest rooms ranging from standard to premier, along with cottages and houses. Rates start from approximately $142 per night. Families appreciate the five miles of private hiking trails, heated outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, free bikes, and kayak rentals. The resort recently added Wisconsin's only floating sauna. Note that Gordon Lodge operates seasonally and reopens in May. Contact them at 920-839-2331 or 800-830-6235, email glodge@gordonlodge.com, or visit gordonlodge.com.

Beachfront Inn at 8040 Highway 57 earned TripAdvisor's #1 hotel ranking in Baileys Harbor with its 150-plus feet of private sandy beach directly on Lake Michigan. The 20-21 unique rooms include comfort options and luxury suites, with off-season rates from $79 to $215 and peak season rates from $153 to $325. Families love the heated outdoor pool, nightly beach campfires, complimentary continental breakfast, and dog-friendly rooms (from $80 per night). The downtown location puts restaurants and shops within walking distance. Contact them at 920-839-2345, email stay@beachfrontinn.net, or visit beachfrontinn.net.

Baileys Harbor Yacht Club Resort at 8151 Ridges Road sits steps from Baileys Harbor Beach and adjacent to Toft Point State Natural Area. One and two-bedroom suites feature fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and full kitchens, with rates from $112 to $399 per night and a special offering the third night free when staying three-plus nights. Year-round operation, indoor and outdoor pools, free bicycles, playground, and gas grills make this a comprehensive family destination. Contact them at 800-927-2492 or visit bhycr.com.

Cedar Coast Cottage through Rent Door County provides one of Baileys Harbor's most private experiences: 200 feet of pristine Lake Michigan shoreline on two acres surrounded by majestic cedars, hemlocks, and maples. This three-bedroom Cape Cod-style home sleeps six with peak season rates at $2,750 weekly or $375 to $450 nightly. The shoreline fire pit, wrap-around cedar deck, and proximity to Heins Creek Nature Preserve create memories that last. Contact Door County Property Management at 920-854-4865, email reservations@rentdoorcounty.com, or visit rentdoorcounty.com.

Mary's Beach House at 8006 Highway 57 accommodates large family reunions with six bedrooms, four bathrooms, and space for 14-18 guests in downtown Baileys Harbor. The beachfront property features a stairway to the beach, multiple balconies and porches designed for lake views, five adult bikes plus one child's bike, croquet, and a sprinkler for kids. Starting at approximately $275 per night with 50% off Monday through Thursday from September through May. Contact them at 920-559-1877 or email marysbeachhouse@hotmail.com.

Herewego North Bay Rentals between Baileys Harbor and Sister Bay offers a wheelchair-accessible lakefront home that's been in the same family since the 1930s. Four bedrooms sleep up to 10 guests with sandy beach and dock access, kayak and paddleboard launching, and a safe fenced yard for pets and children. The property name came from the family's mom saying "Heeere We Gooo!" on trips up north. Visit herewegonorthbayrentals.com.

Sister Bay: Steps from sandy shores

Sister Bay has grown into Door County's liveliest village while maintaining excellent beach access and a walkable downtown perfect for family evenings.

Sister Bay Beach Condos at 2364-2366 Parkview Drive place you directly across from Sister Bay's public beach—a two-minute walk. Four modern, elegant two-bedroom condos feature high-end appliances, quartz countertops, and panoramic water views from private balconies. Units A and C sleep up to eight guests and welcome families; Units B and D are adults-only. The shared garage includes a ping-pong table, dart board, and bean bag toss. Contact them at 920-333-2689, email sisterbaybeachcondos@gmail.com, or visit sisterbaybeachcondos.com.

Country House Resort at 2468 Sunnyside Road offers 1,100 feet of private shoreline on 27 secluded wooded acres, with a nature trail along the water connecting to Sister Bay Marina and beach. The 46 rooms and suites start from $131 per night off-season, with options ranging from standard rooms to two-bedroom suites with fireplaces and whirlpools. Complimentary breakfast, heated outdoor pool, kayaks, and bikes enhance the experience. Note that Country House is adults-only (13 and older) and welcomes dogs at $20 per night per pet. Contact them at 800-424-0041, email frontdesk@countryhouseresort.com, or visit countryhouseresort.com.

Twin Peaks at Sand Bay through Northern Door Vacations provides a five-bedroom, three-bathroom home with private white sand beach on Lake Michigan. Starting at $572 per night, the property sleeps 10 guests just eight minutes from downtown Sister Bay. This multi-generational family property has built traditions over decades. Contact Northern Door Vacations at 920-633-3490 or visit nordoorvacations.com.

Wismar Cabin on Sand Bay offers a cozier option through the same company—a two-bedroom lakefront cabin with private soft sandy beach, stone fireplace, enclosed porch, and beach fire pit perfect for s'mores nights. Starting at $356 per night, it sleeps four to five guests and sits near Newport State Park and Rowley's Bay. The cabin is owned by retired firefighter-paramedics who understand hospitality.

Eagle Sands Beach Lodge through Rent Door County features a stunning 2,800-square-foot reclaimed log cabin with 165 feet of private waterfront and sandy shore. The floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, four-plus bedrooms, and shallow family-safe waters make this ideal for multi-generational gatherings. A footbridge through cedar trees leads to the private beach. Visit rentdoorcounty.com.

Ellison Bay and Gills Rock: Northern escapes

As you continue north past Sister Bay, the villages grow smaller and the pace slows. Ellison Bay and Gills Rock appeal to families seeking genuine quiet and proximity to Newport State Park's pristine wilderness.

Camp Door through Lundquist Realty provides a completely renovated lakehouse on Lake Michigan's waterfront in the Ellison Bay area. Sleeping six guests, the property includes paddleboards, bicycles, and private beach access. Rates run $575 per night or $3,750 weekly. One dog is welcome. Visit lundquistrealty.com.

Birch Isle Cottage through Northern Door Vacations offers three bedrooms and two bathrooms in quiet Ellison Bay, sleeping seven guests from $349 per night. The convenient location provides easy access to Newport State Park. Contact 920-633-3490 or visit nordoorvacations.com.

Shoreline Village Condominiums at 12747 Highway 42 in Gills Rock puts you at the very tip of the Door County peninsula with 175 feet of shoreline on Hedgehog Harbor. Six luxury two and three-bedroom condos (named Spinnaker, Viking, Schooner, Clipper, Anchor, and Trawler) feature king suites, gas fireplaces, full kitchens, and waterfront views from private patios. Dog-friendly units are available. The location sits adjacent to Shoreline Marina with boat slip rentals and steps from the Door County Maritime Museum. Contact them at 920-854-0195, email shorelinevillagecondominiums@gmail.com, or visit shorelinevillagecondominiums.com.

Terra Cottages near Hedgehog Harbor in Gills Rock offers four traditional two-bedroom cottages open May through October. Wisconsin Travel Green certified since 2010, these cottages provide private decks, fully equipped kitchens, and gas fireplaces (in two units), with a shared campfire circle in the cedar grove for communal evening gatherings. Visit terracottages.net.

Casa Del Lago in Gills Rock delivers 175 feet of private beach with natural stone patio and dock on a 2.5-acre wooded site. This Aspen-style private home sits on the last bay of Green Bay with some of the peninsula's finest sunsets. Contact Denise DiClementi at 847-736-3202 or email denisediclementi@gmail.com.

Rowley's Bay: Northern Door County's family resort hub

Rowleys Bay Resort at 1041 County Road ZZ operates the largest waterfront resort in northern Door County across 100 secluded acres with 700 feet of pristine Lake Michigan shoreline. Traditional rooms, suites, cottages, and vacation homes range from $79 to $399 depending on season and accommodation type. Families flock here for Grandma's Swedish Bakery, the indoor pool, game room, kayak rentals, and marina with boat launch. Cottages C, D, and E sit waterfront with grassy bay access. Visit rowleysbayresort.com.

Rowleys Bay Lakefront Home through Rent Door County offers four bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms with all-natural Lake Michigan waterfront where kids can swim directly from the backyard. Adjacent to the protected Mink River Estuary, the property provides excellent bird watching and hiking with a free boat launch and trailer parking. A winter special offers a third night free when staying two nights from February through April. Visit rentdoorcounty.com.

Washington Island delivers remote island magic

The 25-minute ferry ride from Northport transports families to a 35-square-mile island world apart from mainland Door County. Washington Island's Scandinavian heritage, famous Schoolhouse Beach with smooth limestone rocks, and genuinely peaceful atmosphere create vacation memories unlike anywhere else in the Midwest.

Sunset Resort at 889 Old West Harbor Road has operated under family ownership since 1902—now in its fifth and sixth generation. The property sits on 500 feet of natural Green Bay shoreline surrounded by 40 acres of evergreens and birches, with a private sand beach and bonfire pit. Multiple room types include the family-sized Pine Beach Suite. Continental breakfast features homemade coffee cake, Norwegian grilled toast, and Icelandic pancakes. The resort is known for having the best sunset watching on the island. Season runs May 1 through October 12. Contact them at 920-847-2531 or visit sunsetresortwi.com.

Gibson's West Harbor Resort at 2206 West Harbor Road offers one of the island's most authentic experiences, with origins as an 1870s logging camp and resort operation since 1900. The property features over 1,000 feet of gorgeous shorefront with private pebble beach, including a main lodge with nine rooms, three beach cottages overlooking Green Bay, and three harbor cottages. Complimentary canoes, kayaks, and rowboats make this perfect for adventurous families. Large yards, playground equipment, fire pits, and board games keep kids entertained. Pets are allowed in housekeeping units. Open year-round with rates described as "best prices for lodging on the island." Contact them at 920-847-2225, email info@gibsonswestharbor.com, or visit gibsonswestharbor.com.

Above and Beyond Cottage provides 300 feet of private beachfront on Washington Island's desirable west shore across four wooded acres. This represents one of the most significant private beach frontages available on the island—perfect for swimming, beach combing, campfires, and watching the island's famous sunsets. Contact Bill Filer at 708-514-1951 or email Mcdonald2264@yahoo.com.

Cedar Point Inn at 165 Green Bay Road puts you within walking distance of the ferry with exclusive lake access for guests only. The three-bedroom, three-bathroom main house can be rented separately from the one-bedroom suite. Propane grill, fire pit, and board games keep families entertained. July and August typically require Saturday arrivals with seven-night minimums. Rates run approximately $350 per night for the full property. Book through vrbo.com listing #2886618 or visit cedarpointinn.com.

Trueblood Cottage offers a historic 1921 four-bedroom cottage directly on Detroit Harbor's shores with a private beach for watching sunsets and stargazing—guests sometimes spot Northern Lights. Available through Airbnb at approximately $240 per night under listing #6541476.

Gull Cottage on Figenschau Bay sleeps eight across three bedrooms (including fun bunk beds for kids) with newly renovated interiors, a fire pit with seating for six, and waterfront location near boat launches. Pet-friendly at $30 per day per pet. Five-night minimum stay. Find it through Airbnb listing #35580755 at approximately $373 per night.

Amazing Sunsets Cottage on Washington Island's west side provides 280 feet of private shoreline on 2.5 acres. Three spacious decks and two great rooms offer breathtaking sunset views. Available on VRBO, Airbnb, and VacationRenter at approximately $397 per night.

Door Passage Vacation Rentals managed by Michael Kickbush offers over 20 island properties featuring shore homes by week or weekend with Death's Door views, Lake Michigan or Green Bay views, and sunrise or sunset orientations. Contact them at 920-847-2870 or visit doorcountyvacationrental.com.

How to book your Door County beach rental

Securing the ideal waterfront property requires understanding how Door County's rental market works—and acting early.

Timing matters tremendously. Peak summer season runs Memorial Day through Labor Day, with late July commanding the highest prices and lowest availability. Many families book their favorite properties six to twelve months in advance, and popular weekly rentals for July fill by January. Lundquist Realty accepts bookings up to 12 months ahead. If you're flexible with dates, shoulder seasons (May, September, October) offer excellent value with fewer crowds and often spectacular weather.

Book direct to save money. Local property management companies like DoCo Vacations, Door County Premium Rentals, and Northern Door Vacations consistently offer better rates than third-party platforms like Airbnb and VRBO—sometimes 10-20% savings. You'll also get personalized service from people who actually know the properties and the area.

Door County Property Management (rentdoorcounty.com, 920-854-4865) claims the most comprehensive coverage with approximately 60 properties spanning the entire peninsula from Washington Island to Little Sturgeon. Their all-inclusive pricing covers cleaning, linens, towels, and toiletries with no hidden fees.

Lundquist Realty (lundquistrealty.com) has operated since 1966 with the largest selection of rentals in Door County, including 32 properties in Sister Bay alone, 11 in Ellison Bay, and 7 in Gills Rock. Their 24/7 on-call support proves valuable for families dealing with unexpected issues.

JR Vacation Rentals (jrvacationrentals.com, 1-888-481-1935) brings over 23 years of experience and offers something unique: access to Horseshoe Bay Golf Club's private Beach Club with swimming pool for guests at select properties. Weekly rates range from $550 to $9,600; daily rates from $100 to $1,000.

DoCo Vacations (docovacations.com, 920-695-3025) specializes in boutique designer homes and maintains Door County's highest vacation rental ratings—4.9 stars on Google and 4,700-plus reviews on Airbnb as 10-plus year Superhosts.

Northern Door Vacations (nordoorvacations.com, 920-633-3490) manages 20-plus carefully curated waterfront properties in northern Door County with a focus on personalized service from local owners rather than call centers.

Extended stays offer significant savings. Many management companies discount two to four-week reservations substantially, and stays over 30 days are often tax-free in Wisconsin.

Which Door County beach destination fits

Families with young children should focus on the Green Bay side—Egg Harbor, Fish Creek, Ephraim, and Sister Bay—where calmer waters, warmer temperatures, and shallower bays create safe swimming conditions. The Shallows Resort in Egg Harbor and Edgewater Resort in Ephraim specifically cater to families with pools, playgrounds, and gentle shorelines.

Active families seeking adventure will love Baileys Harbor and the Lake Michigan shore, where bigger waves, sandy beaches, and proximity to kayaking, lighthouse tours, and nature preserves like The Ridges Sanctuary create endless possibilities.

Large family reunions should consider Sand Bay Lodge near Sturgeon Bay (sleeps 20+), Mary's Beach House in Baileys Harbor (sleeps 14-18), or renting multiple adjacent cottages at properties like Olson Cottages or Ephraim Village Cottages.

Families wanting genuine escape should book the ferry to Washington Island, where Gibson's West Harbor Resort and Sunset Resort offer authentic, unplugged experiences that have drawn the same families back for decades.

Budget-conscious families will find the best value in shoulder seasons, at smaller motels like Beachfront Inn in Baileys Harbor (from $79 off-season), or at traditional cottage resorts where families share waterfront access.

No matter which corner of Door County calls to your family, booking early and working with local rental companies will help you secure the waterfront vacation you're dreaming about. The peninsula's 300 miles of shoreline hold a private beach moment waiting for you—you just need to claim it.

Quick-reference contact directory for Door County beach rentals

Southern Door County

Glidden Lodge Beach Resort — 4676 Glidden Drive, Sturgeon Bay — 866-454-3336 — gliddenlodge.com

Square Rigger Lodge — 6332 WI-57, Jacksonport — 920-823-2404 — squareriggerlodge.com

Sunrise Shores Condominiums — 6348 State Highway 57, Jacksonport — 404-797-2410 — doorcountybeachrentals.com

Olson Cottages — 6852 Highway 57, Baileys Harbor — olsoncottages.com

Door County Premium Rentals — Jacksonport area — 847-308-8019 — doorcountypremiumrentals.com

Egg Harbor

The Shallows Resort — 7353 Horseshoe Bay Road — 920-868-3458 — shallows.com

Landmark Resort — 4929 Landmark Drive — 920-868-3205 — thelandmarkresort.com

Fish Creek and Ephraim

Edgewater Cottages Fish Creek — 4144 Main Street — 920-973-5839 — edgewatercottagesfishcreek.com

Edgewater Resort — 10040 North Water Street, Ephraim — 920-854-2734 — edge-waterresort.com

Ephraim Village Cottages — Ephraim — 920-559-2565 — ephraimvillagecottages.com

Hillside Waterfront Hotel — 9980 Water Street, Ephraim — 920-854-7666 — hillsideofdoorcounty.com

Baileys Harbor

Gordon Lodge — 1420 Pine Drive — 800-830-6235 — gordonlodge.com

Beachfront Inn — 8040 Highway 57 — 920-839-2345 — beachfrontinn.net

Baileys Harbor Yacht Club Resort — 8151 Ridges Road — 800-927-2492 — bhycr.com

Sister Bay and Northern Door

Sister Bay Beach Condos — 2364-2366 Parkview Drive — 920-333-2689 — sisterbaybeachcondos.com

Country House Resort — 2468 Sunnyside Road — 800-424-0041 — countryhouseresort.com

Shoreline Village Condominiums — 12747 Highway 42, Gills Rock — 920-854-0195 — shorelinevillagecondominiums.com

Rowleys Bay Resort — 1041 County Road ZZ — rowleysbayresort.com

Washington Island

Sunset Resort — 889 Old West Harbor Road — 920-847-2531 — sunsetresortwi.com

Gibson's West Harbor Resort — 2206 West Harbor Road — 920-847-2225 — gibsonswestharbor.com

Cedar Point Inn — 165 Green Bay Road — cedarpointinn.com

Property Management Companies

Door County Property Management — 920-854-4865 — rentdoorcounty.com

Lundquist Realty — lundquistrealty.com

JR Vacation Rentals — 1-888-481-1935 — jrvacationrentals.com

DoCo Vacations — 920-695-3025 — docovacations.com

Northern Door Vacations — 920-633-3490 — nordoorvacations.com

Simple Life Rentals — 1-888-980-1355 — simpleliferentals.com