..your private beachfront oasis away from it all...on the IN Dunes National Park
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..your private beachfront oasis away from it all...on the IN Dunes National Park
Pro-Chef's, Gourmet Kitchen: 4 ovens, red & white wine cellars-LOADED!
1200 Sq Ft Master Suite-Rivals the Ritz! Steam Shower, Huge Jacuzzi, Skylights
Trail Head strolls to the BEST Semi-Private, Sugar Sand Beach!
View from Pro-Chef's double kitchen island w/ prep sink
Custom-Designed, Soaring 28' Wood & Timber Ceilings &
Loft & Master Suite's Juliette Balcony above Dining Area
Master suite's Huge Peninsula Jacuzzi, separate, dual vanities, Steam Shower
Master Suite's Wrap-Around Deck: Lake Michigan, Dunes, & Chicago Skyline Views!
Master Suite Commercial 2-person Steam Room w/ rainfall & massage showers
Chicago Skyline at Dusk from Semi-Private, Sugar-Sand Beach & Nat'l Lakeshore
Rec. Room: Walk-in Wet-Bar, Game Table & Home Theater w Dual Recliner
Large, Private Outdoor Space: Relax/Entertain: Jacuzzi, grill, sound system
Pamper yourself in luxury with custom claw-foot vanity & Italian marble floors
Loft perfect for lounging, TV, Movies, Reading--table flips over for poker table
Large leather sectional & game table provide ample seating for all
Great Room walks out to Huge 1200 sq ft Decks--Jacuzzi, Volley Ball, Shower
Wintertime Loft Christmas tree & Master Suite's Juliette balcony
Sunset walk on the semi-private, sugar sand beach
Shower outdoors (Peak Season) in the private spendor of the Dunes Nat'l Park
1200 sq ft of multi-tiered decks as viewed from top level Master Suite
Rec. Room walk-in wet bar complete with sink, fridge, seating, knives, etc.
Bedroom w/ private Juliette balcony overlooks Dunes National Park
Lower Level Bedroom w/ private bath, dresser, TV, DVD, separate heat/AC controls
- Bedrooms6
- Sleeps26
- 4 Bathrooms,
- 1 Half Bath
19 Reviews of Property 181281 in Miller Beach, Indiana
Ultra Luxury Beachfront - Lake, Dunes near Chicago & Michigan City!
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Ultra Luxury Beachfront - Lake, Dunes near Chicago & Michigan City!
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p181281
+1 773-264-1000
Miller Beach
Indiana
Great Times!
Submitted: March 19, 2013
Stayed: February 2013
My family and close friends rented out the Miller Beach Dream Retreat a few weeks ago to celebrate several birthdays. We had 4 couples and 7 kids and there was plenty of space for all of us. We had a great time playing poker (love the game tables and supplied chips/cards) and taking full advantage of the dual wine cellars! We also held our annual chili cook-off in the huge kitchens. The kids actually went sledding on the huge sand dunes in the back yard. Each night we relaxed under the stars with jumbo snow flakes falling on us in the outdoor Jacuzzi. One night we hired a baby sitter and won some money at Horse Shoe Casino (about 10 minute away). Everyone had a great time and we’ve already booked the same time next winter. We have finally found THE place for our annual get-together! Thank you very much to Jim and staff!
John W.
John W.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Pet-friendly,
Adventure Seekers,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: see you same time next year, John!
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Ultra Luxury Beachfront - Lake, Dunes near Chicago & Michigan City!
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p181281
+1 773-264-1000
Miller Beach
Indiana
Girl's Weedend Getaway
Girl's Weedend Getaway
Submitted: March 1, 2013
Stayed: February 2013
In searching for the perfect getaway for a “girl’s weekend” near Chicago, I was pleasantly surprised to find the Dream Retreat in the charming and quaint town of Miller Beach, only 45 minutes away!
The detailed description and abundance of photos were a wonderful bonus, as I was able to get a good feel of the layout and spaciousness of the home. Even so, the photos don’t do the home justice, and it appears the furniture has been recently updated. I also noticed more accessories and artwork on the walls.
Upon contacting the owner, I was impressed with his professionalism, promptness and willingness to accommodate us in regards to check in/check out times, and that the fact that dogs are allowed too.
The home is situated right on the beach! Even though it was winter, my friends and I were able to take a walk through the dunes to the water on a particularly mild day. We also took full advantage of the luxurious outdoor hot tub (which fit all 6 of us). Throughout the weekend, we enjoyed cooking meals in the gourmet kitchen (I’m a bit of a snob when it comes to design and was not disappointed), enjoyed the wood burning fireplace and felt very comfortable lounging around, drinking our wine;) and reconnecting.
I generally try to stay at vacation rentals wherever I travel (worldwide) and must say that this was one of the best experiences I’ve had. I am already booked to come back in the summer with my family in order to truly take advantage of the Olympic sized volleyball court and of course the beach!!
It is often hard to find nice, comfortable accommodations for a large group or family with high-end amenities. And on a cost per person basis it is actually less expensive than staying at a local motel…not to mention everyone can be together under one roof!
~Jen H.
The detailed description and abundance of photos were a wonderful bonus, as I was able to get a good feel of the layout and spaciousness of the home. Even so, the photos don’t do the home justice, and it appears the furniture has been recently updated. I also noticed more accessories and artwork on the walls.
Upon contacting the owner, I was impressed with his professionalism, promptness and willingness to accommodate us in regards to check in/check out times, and that the fact that dogs are allowed too.
The home is situated right on the beach! Even though it was winter, my friends and I were able to take a walk through the dunes to the water on a particularly mild day. We also took full advantage of the luxurious outdoor hot tub (which fit all 6 of us). Throughout the weekend, we enjoyed cooking meals in the gourmet kitchen (I’m a bit of a snob when it comes to design and was not disappointed), enjoyed the wood burning fireplace and felt very comfortable lounging around, drinking our wine;) and reconnecting.
I generally try to stay at vacation rentals wherever I travel (worldwide) and must say that this was one of the best experiences I’ve had. I am already booked to come back in the summer with my family in order to truly take advantage of the Olympic sized volleyball court and of course the beach!!
It is often hard to find nice, comfortable accommodations for a large group or family with high-end amenities. And on a cost per person basis it is actually less expensive than staying at a local motel…not to mention everyone can be together under one roof!
~Jen H.
Owner's Response: Jen:
Thank you for the kind words. I am glad you had a great time with your friends. Looking forward to seeing you again this Summer!
Jim
Thank you for the kind words. I am glad you had a great time with your friends. Looking forward to seeing you again this Summer!
Jim
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Ultra Luxury Beachfront - Lake, Dunes near Chicago & Michigan City!
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p181281
+1 773-264-1000
Miller Beach
Indiana
Perfect for a large group retreat
Submitted: August 6, 2012
Stayed: August 2012
The house was wonderful! It provided plenty of space for our large family reunion (18 adults), but we maxed out every possible sleeping nook including the sofa bed and air mattresses for the kids. It could comfortably fit 12 adult couples in bedrooms. Everything is new and well-kept. The sand volleyball court is especially fun. The house is just a short 5 min. walk over a few dunes to the warm and wavy waters of Lake Michigan. There is plenty of room between the two kitchens for any food preparation imaginable. There was nothing like a dip in the jacuzzi to top off the day before watching the Summer Olympics on any one of the multiple flat screen TVs. We would definitely return in the future!
Owner's Response: Yes, I built the house in 2008 for entertaining my large extended family, parents, siblings, nephews, niece, friends, etc. That is why it works so well for large groups of people--up to 26! There is plenty of sleeping, living, and outdoor space for everyone, even during the Fall, Winter, and Spring when it may be too chilly to hang out on the many decks. However, the outdoor Jacuzzi is open year round and there is nothing better than relaxing on a crisp day or in the Winter with large snowflakes coming down.
Non-Peak season is also a great time to rent since the wood-burning stove will be in high gear and we have cords of firewood on-site. In addition to the six private queen bedrooms, there is also a queen pull-out Serta back saver mattress in the attached Guest House and high-rise, premium Aero-beds with headboards, built-in pumps, and all linens and pillows for extra guests that renters like to put wherever and whenever.
Thank you for your comments! I’m glad your family had such a great time! See you next year!
Non-Peak season is also a great time to rent since the wood-burning stove will be in high gear and we have cords of firewood on-site. In addition to the six private queen bedrooms, there is also a queen pull-out Serta back saver mattress in the attached Guest House and high-rise, premium Aero-beds with headboards, built-in pumps, and all linens and pillows for extra guests that renters like to put wherever and whenever.
Thank you for your comments! I’m glad your family had such a great time! See you next year!
Helpful votes: 6/6
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Ultra Luxury Beachfront - Lake, Dunes near Chicago & Michigan City!
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p181281
+1 773-264-1000
Miller Beach
Indiana
Horrible environment/AC units broken and interior temp in the mid 80’s to low 90’s
Submitted: July 29, 2012
Stayed: July 2012
There were 23 family members in our group and more than half had to spend 4 out of 5 days with the interior temperature in the mid 80’s to low 90's. The main part of the house was serviced by two AC units that were broken and the landlord would not repair, no offer of refund or adjustment. Only resolution the landlord offered was that he had bought a window unit at Menards about an hour away, and “we” could go and pick up and install ourselves if we wanted.
Very unhappy and would recommend that future guests check all mechanicals before staying as landlord is very unwilling to resolve by himself.
Very unhappy and would recommend that future guests check all mechanicals before staying as landlord is very unwilling to resolve by himself.
Owner's Response: I knew it would take an act of God to ruin my perfect 5 Star Rating!!
2 of my 7 AC units were low on Freon—not broken—during record breaking heat & have since been refilled; all are working perfectly & Dream Retreat is cool once again! Time spent away from family personally resolving this issue: 14+ hours.
Integrity, honesty & accountability… Here is what actually transpired.
June & July in N. Indiana have been the hottest since 1936. All 7 of my independent, remote-controlled, AC units in the 6000 Sq Ft Dream Retreat & attached Guest House blew cold air & removed humidity for all my back-to-back family vacationers non-stop all Summer until, as Murphys Law would have it, on the hottest day of the year, 103 degrees!, 2 ran low on Freon.
Perfect for sugar-sand beaches & cool dips in refreshing Lake Michigan—not for being indoors!
Despite the sophisticated AC units, there is no indicator light that says low Freon. AC can only lower outdoor temps 20 degrees; so if it is 103, expect 83 inside.
Late Saturday, I was asked to check the AC because some were not blowing cold air. I was on my way to Chicago to check on an elderly tenant whom no one had heard from in 3 days. He seemed to understand. I told him I would resolve the AC issue ASAP & that I was very concerned.
I always try to be there for any issues since I take considerable pride in my home & always want the best experiences for my guests. This is also why I personally meet each group upon check-in. I called in favors from my 5 HVAC contractors & 6 others, but they were swamped servicing homes w/o any AC at all.
7:30pm: I called 13 stores & only Menards had 1 unit left & paid for it immediately.
I explained the saga & that I could pick it up & install it ASAP. He told me he would be at a water park all day so it didn’t matter. Menards was on his way & said he didn’t mind taking care of it. He decided not to stop that night & thus went the following morning—12min drive. He didn’t act upset or inconvenienced. In fact, he inquired if we needed anything so I guess he was shopping.
That same day, my family began our annual camping trip. Once I got them settled, I drove 3 hours to the Retreat to see what I could do to improve things. I cleaned all the compressors & filters. After re-calling everyone again, at 6pm, I was finally able to get help; the units were topped off & blowing cold air. I am pleased to say, despite the record breaking heat, it is cool inside & all is great!"
2 of my 7 AC units were low on Freon—not broken—during record breaking heat & have since been refilled; all are working perfectly & Dream Retreat is cool once again! Time spent away from family personally resolving this issue: 14+ hours.
Integrity, honesty & accountability… Here is what actually transpired.
June & July in N. Indiana have been the hottest since 1936. All 7 of my independent, remote-controlled, AC units in the 6000 Sq Ft Dream Retreat & attached Guest House blew cold air & removed humidity for all my back-to-back family vacationers non-stop all Summer until, as Murphys Law would have it, on the hottest day of the year, 103 degrees!, 2 ran low on Freon.
Perfect for sugar-sand beaches & cool dips in refreshing Lake Michigan—not for being indoors!
Despite the sophisticated AC units, there is no indicator light that says low Freon. AC can only lower outdoor temps 20 degrees; so if it is 103, expect 83 inside.
Late Saturday, I was asked to check the AC because some were not blowing cold air. I was on my way to Chicago to check on an elderly tenant whom no one had heard from in 3 days. He seemed to understand. I told him I would resolve the AC issue ASAP & that I was very concerned.
I always try to be there for any issues since I take considerable pride in my home & always want the best experiences for my guests. This is also why I personally meet each group upon check-in. I called in favors from my 5 HVAC contractors & 6 others, but they were swamped servicing homes w/o any AC at all.
7:30pm: I called 13 stores & only Menards had 1 unit left & paid for it immediately.
I explained the saga & that I could pick it up & install it ASAP. He told me he would be at a water park all day so it didn’t matter. Menards was on his way & said he didn’t mind taking care of it. He decided not to stop that night & thus went the following morning—12min drive. He didn’t act upset or inconvenienced. In fact, he inquired if we needed anything so I guess he was shopping.
That same day, my family began our annual camping trip. Once I got them settled, I drove 3 hours to the Retreat to see what I could do to improve things. I cleaned all the compressors & filters. After re-calling everyone again, at 6pm, I was finally able to get help; the units were topped off & blowing cold air. I am pleased to say, despite the record breaking heat, it is cool inside & all is great!"
Helpful votes: 6/9
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Ultra Luxury Beachfront - Lake, Dunes near Chicago & Michigan City!
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p181281
+1 773-264-1000
Miller Beach
Indiana
"Great Place to Celebrate Husband's Birthday"
"Great Place to Celebrate Husband's Birthday"
Submitted: May 22, 2012
Stayed: May 2012
"We really enjoyed staying at your house. The property is awesome, the scenery beautiful, and your
attention to details was amazing. We can't wait to return.
Again, I thank you for helping make my husband's birthday so great!
Mary C. Park Ridge, IL "
attention to details was amazing. We can't wait to return.
Again, I thank you for helping make my husband's birthday so great!
Mary C. Park Ridge, IL "
Owner's Response: Thank you for choosing my home for your celebration. See you next year!
Helpful votes: 10/10
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Ultra Luxury Beachfront - Lake, Dunes near Chicago & Michigan City!
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p181281
+1 773-264-1000
Miller Beach
Indiana
Dream Retreat
Submitted: March 31, 2012
Stayed: January 2012
"Our family was very pleased with being together at your home for the weekend. We hope to be able to do it again. Thanks, Anne S."
Owner's Response: Anne:
Thanks for the kind words. It was a pleasure meeting you and your family and I look forward to seeing you again real soon!
Jim Pappas
Thanks for the kind words. It was a pleasure meeting you and your family and I look forward to seeing you again real soon!
Jim Pappas
Helpful votes: 5/6
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Ultra Luxury Beachfront - Lake, Dunes near Chicago & Michigan City!
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p181281
+1 773-264-1000
Miller Beach
Indiana
Dunes Beachfront Home
Submitted: February 1, 2012
Stayed: December 2011
We really had a wonderful time! We all had plenty of space to spread out (our girls used the 2nd floor loft space as a major sewing/craft area, and were still able to feel connected to everyone else while they worked on their projects). We had unusually mild weather for December --- it made walking on the beach in the mornings so pleasant. It was a great place for an extended family group like ours --- thanks for making it available!
Owner's Response: Thanks for the kind words, Barb! Glad everything worked out so well. You're welcome back anytime...See you soon!
Helpful votes: 7/7
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Ultra Luxury Beachfront - Lake, Dunes near Chicago & Michigan City!
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p181281
+1 773-264-1000
Miller Beach
Indiana
Guest Comment Entered by Owner
Absolutely beautiful!!!!
Submitted: January 10, 2012
Stayed: November 2011
Met with a bunch of girls who all Scrapbook. That's what we did from Thursday until Sunday in Nov. 2011. Beautiful home, beautiful location, beautiful times!! Would I do again? In a heartbeat!! Oh and did I mention the hot tub. This would be a great place for a small family reunion or maybe a New Years Eve party. Very lovely--hoping to make plans to do it again.
Helpful votes: 8/8
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Ultra Luxury Beachfront - Lake, Dunes near Chicago & Michigan City!
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p181281
+1 773-264-1000
Miller Beach
Indiana
Found a new home for our annual family trips
Submitted: October 23, 2011
Stayed: August 2011
My family was looking for a new home to have our summer get-togethers since our previous one in WI was recently sold (bummer). Well, weve found it in Miller Beach and have already rebooked for next summer! Chicago was easy enough to get to for my spread-out family and it’s only about an hour from Ohara airport. We have never heard of Miller Beach prior to this vacation so we were naturally apprehensive at first. After checking out the website and speaking to the owner, Jim was spot on—the house had everything we need (info packet was especially good for stuff to do in the area and the personal tour at check-in was rare and helpful). It’s hard to find a beach house with no neighbors next door. We had no problems playing our music with neighbors or anything. The park trails, dunes, and beach are amazing! Also had a good run at the casino too (actually paid for the whole trip, ha!). Looking forward to next year already.
Owner's Response: Thanks Tim. Look forward to seeing you and your family this Summer!
Helpful votes: 17/17
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Ultra Luxury Beachfront - Lake, Dunes near Chicago & Michigan City!
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p181281
+1 773-264-1000
Miller Beach
Indiana
THE best of everything and something for everyone!
Submitted: October 6, 2011
Stayed: July 2011
Each year my extended family tries a new location in for our family reunion. There are 25 of us so it is difficult to find a place that can comfortable accommodate us all. We definitely found it here. With the connected guest house, there was plenty of space to spread out. The stuff in the house was surprising such as DVD’s, CD’s, blender, shampoo, body wash, beach towels, etc. Free Wi-fi was a bonus!
We had a great time. The walk to beach was beautiful and the sand was soft and white. Our kids had fun swimming on the shallow sandbar. I didn’t have to worry about undertows or rip-tides—very safe. We were initially concerned since Miller Beach is so close to Gary, but is actually 8 miles away. There is no reason to set foot in Gary unless you want to catch the semi-pro baseball game, the RailCats, which was a good time. Jim met us in person and gave us a tour of the premises and a binder with all the best of the stuff to do in the area: grocery store, casinos, outlet malls, hiking, golf, dining, etc.
We’ve been having family reunions now for about 5 years and have never had such a relaxing time. Marty (I think that’s his name) and staff truly care and make sure that everything is set up perfectly prior to arrival. The cleanliness of the house was immaculate. We have already reserved the same week next summer. I think that says it all...we will no longer be testing other locales, etc. we’ve found what we’re looking for. I highly recommend this vacation rental!
We had a great time. The walk to beach was beautiful and the sand was soft and white. Our kids had fun swimming on the shallow sandbar. I didn’t have to worry about undertows or rip-tides—very safe. We were initially concerned since Miller Beach is so close to Gary, but is actually 8 miles away. There is no reason to set foot in Gary unless you want to catch the semi-pro baseball game, the RailCats, which was a good time. Jim met us in person and gave us a tour of the premises and a binder with all the best of the stuff to do in the area: grocery store, casinos, outlet malls, hiking, golf, dining, etc.
We’ve been having family reunions now for about 5 years and have never had such a relaxing time. Marty (I think that’s his name) and staff truly care and make sure that everything is set up perfectly prior to arrival. The cleanliness of the house was immaculate. We have already reserved the same week next summer. I think that says it all...we will no longer be testing other locales, etc. we’ve found what we’re looking for. I highly recommend this vacation rental!
Helpful votes: 20/21
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