A Private Michigan Island You Can Rent

If you truly feel like getting away, then taking a vacation to a private Michigan island could be just what the doctor ordered. The good news is that you can actually rent a private island and enjoy the serine, secluded lifestyle for a few days or weeks. One local island is even one of the best, according to travel experts. If you really want to unplug and have a getaway like you've never had before, then this might be for you.

The experts at Travel and Leisure have put together a roster of some of the best private islands that you can rent, including a Michigan island. "You can rent private islands located around the world on Airbnb, and in many cases, these exclusive stays cost less than hotel accommodations," they state. "We've rounded up 10 incredible private island rentals, including a beautiful home near Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and a mangrove island surrounded by crystal-clear blue waters in Belize."

Before we get to our state, let's look at a few other private islands that are highlighted in the feature. They mention a great, private island in Poulsbo, Washington, that's a great place to "unplug and unwind in nature. It's like a camping adventure, but with the amenities of a home. "Guests can spend their days kayaking on the lake and nights grilling and spending time by a campfire," Travel and Leisure states. "With three bedrooms and two and a half baths, this home can sleep six guests." It looks super secluded from the photographs. "Situated in the middle of peaceful Island Lake in Poulsbo, Washington sits the beautifully updated and modern Island Lake Cabin," the Airbnb.com listing states. I know that Washington is quite a trek, but it sounds worth it to experience that spot.

So, what's the private Michigan island that you can rent? It's a gorgeous log cabin in Lupton, Michigan. "Enjoy lake life on this group-friendly, eight-acre private island in Michigan," Travel and Leisure explains. "This log cabin sleeps up to 12 guests with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and it features tons of fun amenities like an outdoor kitchen and fire pit, yard games, and access to kayaks and paddleboards." That sounds like such a fun getaway, especially with friends. The property's Airbnb.com listing states, "This is the perfect getaway to unwind and enjoy the serene beauty of a private island retreat all to yourself." Also, "This private island features an off-grid A-frame log cabin powered by 32 solar panels, offering all the amenities of a luxury home within a rustic cabin setting."

Summer is here, and with it comes the opportunity to enjoy America's beautiful lakes. One of my favorite summer activities is going to a pristine lake. Whether I just hang out on the beach or take a ride in a pontoon, it's always a summer highlight. So, what are some fun things to do at the lake this summer?

Before we get to that, did you know that there's actually a Lakes Appreciation Month? It's true. The North American Lakes Management Society (NALMS) has named July the official Lakes Appreciation Month. The designation is to "focus attention on the value of lakes and reservoirs to society and the threats they face." NALMS also states that their mission is to "forge partnerships among citizens, scientists, and professionals to foster the management and protection of lakes and reservoirs...for today and tomorrow."

One fun fact about lakes is that the lowest lake in the world is the Dead Sea, on the edge of Israel and Jordan. The surface level is 418 m below sea level. That's incredible. Also, the Great Lakes, which are shared between the U.S. and Canada, contain roughly 21% of the world's freshwater supply.

So, what are some engaging activities that you can do on the lake this year? Read on for a list of 10 fun things to do on the lake this summer.

I grew up a swimmer, but some lakes are just too cold for my taste. That said, many people love a refreshing dip into crisp, cold water at their local lake. Just check temperatures before you jump in, because if it's too early in the season, those temperatures could be dangerously cold.

Water often attracts special wildlife that you won't find anywhere else. That makes camping near a lake a very special experience and different from the typical campground. When you're camping, make sure you check out the nature that blossoms around the lakes and wetlands, too.

When I was a little kid, I wanted to go fishing. My dad was not a fisherman by any means and was pretty clueless about it. So, he had a friend of his take us fishing, and it was so fun, even though I didn't catch anything. That said, fishing is a great summer activity on the lake.

If you're looking for an activity to help keep you in shape, paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing are all great exercise. All of those activities are harder than they look, too, so they can be challenging. But, in the end, you'll have a good time and get in a real workout. Many lakes have places were you can rent a paddleboat, kayak or canoe, too.

One of my cousins absolutely loves jet skiing. It's always fun to hear him talk about the experience. I'm not much of a water sports enthusiast, but I can appreciate those who do partake. You don't even have to have your own boat or jet skis, as they are often available for rent nearby.

It's always a charming activity to have a picnic by the lake. Invite some friends or family over and bring some delicious food to enjoy while looking at the water. Oh, and make sure to have ice cream. That's a must.

Hiking near a lake can be extra lovely, as the water can offer glorious scenery to really make your hike memorable. As aforementioned, lakes often attract nature that you don't find anywhere else, so hiking around the water can be a unique experience.

Parties by the lake are always fun. So, get out a grill and invite a bunch of friends down to the beach to enjoy a day or night of partying by the water. But, don't get wasted, because drinking and swimming can be a deadly combination.

Here's my top choice, even though you'll likely find me doing it in the shade: sunbathing. If the water is too cold of you're just not up to more challenging activities, you can get some sun and lay on the beach. But, remember the sunscreen.

Lakeside games are definitely a thing, and there are many quirky games that you can play by the lake. A few enjoyable lake games include water balloon fights, bean bag tosses, horseshoes and more. Pick a game and dig in.