8419 Third Street., Onekama, MI 49675
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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The owners Andrew and Ania are the best hosts. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and well stocked. There is a beautiful private beach area and dock that guests can enjoy. The staff are incredibly kind, helpful, and attentive. The lake views and lake access are outstanding. The beds are very comfortable and provide great sleep. The property is well maintained and recently updated. The location is perfect for exploring Onekama with easy access to shops and restaurants. Thoughtful touches make the stay feel like home. Hospitality is outstanding, with staff going above and beyond. The place feels like a charming, family-owned gem. Guests would highly recommend Portage Lake Motel to others.
The place was filthy, causing them to leave after only a few hours. The motel had wasps in the room and wouldn't refund the stay. The room did not include a microwave. There was no ice available despite the advertisements. The rate was a little pricey for what was offered. The staff refused to waive the cancellation fee after a death.This community is best suited for couples, small families, and solo travelers who want a genuine lakeside escape with a personal touch. Portage Lake Motel serves as an intimate base for exploring Onekama and the surrounding up-North Michigan scenery, offering a private beach area, a dock, and fire pits that transform a stay into an easygoing lakeside retreat. It works particularly well for guests who value cleanliness, comfortable beds, and a charming, nostalgic vibe over large-scale amenities. When quiet evenings and sunset views matter as much as a convenient location, this is the pick to consider.
The standout advantages are clear and substantial. Rooms are routinely described as spotless, well stocked, and thoughtfully appointed, with beds that deliver real comfort and a calming, homey feel. Lake views are consistently praised, and the private beach access across the street plus a small but inviting common area with a gas fire pit elevate the experience beyond a typical motel stay. The owners and staff - especially the family feel fostered by Andrew (and the newer iteration of owners in some reviews) - are repeatedly praised for friendliness, practical local guidance, and a genuine commitment to making guests feel at home. Proximity to a local coffee shop, good eateries, and easy access to nearby attractions further strengthens the practical appeal.
Yet several notable drawbacks temper the overall appeal. A few guests found the value not perfectly aligned with price, noting that some rooms can be pricey for what is offered. Practical frictions recur: limited office hours and after-hours check-in instructions, occasional lack of basic conveniences such as an ice machine or a microwave in some rooms, and the potential privacy concern of rooms facing sidewalks. There is also at least one notably negative incident involving pests and refund questions, which underscores the importance of tempering expectations with the understanding that service can fluctuate based on ownership transitions. A few reviews hint that crowds or seasonal demand can strain staff availability and responsiveness.
Despite these caveats, the core strengths offset most drawbacks for the target guest. The combination of a pristine, lakefront setting with dedicated beach space and a dock creates a compelling, low-stress vacation rhythm that larger hotels rarely replicate. The old-time motel charm - clean, simple rooms, tasteful decor, and a sense that hospitality comes from a family that treats guests like neighbors - builds trust quickly. Guests repeatedly highlight how the location, sunsets, and private waterfront access make a stay feel special, while practical touches - grills, fire pits, and a walkable neighborhood of cafes and shops - deliver tangible value. For travelers who want a reliable, pleasant, and memorable lake escape, the pros decisively outweigh the cons.
The intended audience should consider alternatives if a larger, service-heavy property is required. Families needing expansive common spaces, constant front-desk availability, guaranteed 24/7 staffing, or on-site amenities like full-service dining may find this setting too intimate. Those who must have immediate access to microwaves, constant ice, or guaranteed ultra-modern accommodations may also be better served elsewhere. And guests who encounter privacy or noise sensitivities may prefer a property with more extensive interior buffering. In short, this remains a strong choice for a quiet, scenic, personable stay, but not for travelers seeking a hotel-like experience with broad onsite conveniences.
Bottom line: Portage Lake Motel is a practical, high-value option for travelers who prize location, cleanliness, and a warm, family-run atmosphere over sprawling amenities. Its lakefront magic - private beach, dock, fire pits, and sunset vistas - often makes up for modest friction points, especially when guests plan ahead around check-in windows and recognize the commitment of the owners to guest experience. For those who want a cozy, romantic, or family-friendly lakeside base with easy access to Onekama's charm and Northern Michigan scenery, this destination warrants a firm yes. If those criteria aren't the priority, exploring slightly larger inns or motels with more predictable services may be prudent.
6 resident community capacity
Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.
24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones. Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life. Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults. Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.The Portage in Onekama, MI is an exceptional assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. With a commitment to providing a comfortable and enjoyable living experience, this community offers a variety of amenities such as a dining room, fully furnished accommodations, outdoor spaces, and high-speed internet access.
In terms of care services, The Portage provides assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. The dedicated staff members also coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure that residents receive the necessary medical attention. Additionally, they offer medication management services and adhere to special dietary restrictions for those with diabetes or other specific dietary needs.
Residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by the community's talented culinary team in accordance with their dietary requirements. To keep them engaged and entertained, scheduled daily activities are offered which cater to different interests and preferences.
The location of The Portage is advantageous as it is surrounded by various amenities. There are cafes, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, places of worship and hospitals conveniently located nearby. This allows for easy access to necessary services and enjoyable recreational options.
With its comprehensive array of amenities and care services combined with its convenient location, The Portage is an ideal choice for individuals seeking personalized support in a warm and welcoming environment.
Portage is located at 8419 Third Street., Onekama, MI 49675 in Manistee County, Michigan
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