Private Lakefront Escapes Since 1909 | South Shore R&R

Private Lakefront Escapes Since 1909
South Shore R&R

Our Story

Our Story2026-05-22T16:03:25+00:00

Western Michigan · Est. 1909

A Century of

Making Memories

For over a hundred years, South Shore Resort has been a beloved destination where families gathered, friendships deepened, and life slowed to the rhythm of the lake. Originally opened in 1909 as a simple hotel and restaurant, it welcomed travelers from Chicago seeking fresh air and the magic of Michigan summers.

In 2024, South Shore entered a new chapter when Francie S. Richards, along with heart-centered investors, purchased the property with a shared intention: to preserve its legacy while evolving it into a place for deeper rest, reconnection, and renewal.

Today, South Shore R&R welcomes guests year-round as a haven for lakefront stays and restorative retreats on the shores of Twin Lake in western Michigan.

Story of the cabins and grounds at South Shore Resort and Retreats on Twin Lake Michigan
Story of the cabins and grounds at South Shore Resort and Retreats on Twin Lake Michigan

115+

Years of Hospitality

5

Private Cabins and Lodge

52+

Total Guest Capacity

12+

Retreat Weekends Per Year

Rustic cabin exterior at South Shore Resort and Retreats Twin Lake Michigan
Group gathering at South Shore Resort and Retreats on Twin Lake Michigan
Lakefront view at South Shore Resort and Retreats Twin Lake Michigan

How We Got Here

Our

History

1909
Originally Established
South Shore opens as a simple hotel and restaurant on the shores of Twin Lake, welcoming travelers from Chicago seeking fresh air and the magic of Michigan summers.
100+
A Century of Gathering
For over a hundred years South Shore becomes a beloved destination where families return season after season, friendships deepen, and life slows to the rhythm of Twin Lake.
2024
A New Chapter Begins
Francie S. Richards and heart-centered investors purchase the property with a shared intention: preserve the legacy while evolving it into a place for deeper rest, reconnection, and renewal.
Now
South Shore R&R Today
Open year-round as a haven for lakefront stays and restorative retreats. Five private cabins and a historic lodge on Twin Lake, updated for modern comfort without losing an ounce of soul.

Rest With Purpose

Our

Mission

South Shore R&R is more than a place to stay. It is a place designed to restore you. Every cabin renovation, every retreat we host, and every gathering we welcome to the shores of Twin Lake is rooted in one shared intention: to give people the space to slow down, reconnect, and return to themselves.

Our updated lodge and cabins feature memory foam mattresses, fresh linens and towels, heat and air conditioning, hot showers, and WiFi so you can fully unwind without roughing it. Modern comfort. Historic soul.

A Ripple Effect Beyond the Lake
Dharma Collab

With every stay, guests also become part of something larger. A portion of proceeds supports Dharma Collab, the nonprofit co-founded by Francie S. Richards, which helps nonprofit leaders and public service professionals recover from burnout and restore their capacity to care for others. Here, rest has a ripple effect.

Peaceful lakefront retreat setting at South Shore Resort and Retreats Twin Lake Michigan

“Whether you arrive with flip-flops or a parka, you will find a private beach, stunning sunsets, and gathering spaces designed for relaxation, just as it has been for generations.”
South Shore R&R · Twin Lake, Michigan

Modern Comfort · Historic Soul

What to

Expect

A simple illustration of a house with smoke rising from the chimney, set beside a small pine tree, evokes a cozy winter scene, ideal for a peaceful retreat at South Shore Resort and Retreats in West Michigan.| South Shore Resort & Retreats in West Michigan

Updated Accommodations

Memory foam mattresses, fresh linens and towels, heat and air conditioning, hot showers, and WiFi throughout. The charm of a century-old lakeside resort with the comfort of a modern stay.

A stylized logo features a gold leaf within overlapping blue circles, symbolizing nature and tranquility, perfect for South Shore Resort and Retreats—a peaceful retreat offering scenic lodging and relaxing getaways near Lake Michigan.| South Shore Resort & Retreats in West Michigan

Restorative Retreats

Hosted retreats in the lodge offer peaceful respite year-round. Crackling fires, nourishing meals, and programming designed to nurture the soul. Expert facilitators, intimate groups, transformative settings.

Icon depicting a golden sun above a blue pier with waves, symbolizing a relaxing getaway at South Shore Resort and Retreats, a peaceful lakefront retreat ideal for a West Michigan vacation rental and scenic lodging experience.| South Shore Resort & Retreats in West Michigan

Private Beach and Grounds

A private beach, stunning sunsets, kayaks, paddleboards, fire pits, outdoor sauna, and hot tub. Gathering spaces designed for relaxation just as they have been for generations on Twin Lake.

Memorial Day to Labor Day

Summer at the Lake

South Shore is your home base to swim, kayak, and grill under the sun and stars on Twin Lake.

  • Private beach and swimming
  • Kayaks and paddleboards
  • Evening fire pits and grills
  • Sauna and hot tub
  • Sunsets over Twin Lake

Fall, Winter and Spring

Cooler Months

Retreats hosted in the lodge offer peaceful respite where crackling fires and restorative programming nurture the soul.

  • Hosted wellness and creative retreats
  • Community fireplace in the lodge
  • Nourishing meals and gathering spaces
  • Sauna and hot tub year-round
  • Quiet and stillness on the lake

We Are Here to Help

Got

Questions?

Whether you are planning your first visit to Twin Lake or returning for another season, our team is happy to help. Visit our FAQ page for answers to common questions, or reach out directly and we will get back to you within one business day.

What is included with every stay?2026-05-15T19:23:01+00:00

All guests have access to the private beach, sauna, hot tub, fire pits, kayaks, and paddleboards on Twin Lake regardless of which cabin or lodge they book.

How far is South Shore R&R from Grand Rapids?2026-05-15T20:18:55+00:00

The property is approximately 45 minutes from Grand Rapids, 35 minutes from Holland, and 2.5 hours from Chicago and Detroit.

Is South Shore R&R open year-round?2026-05-15T19:20:05+00:00

Yes. The property welcomes guests in all four seasons. Summer stays center on the lake and beach. Fall and winter are ideal for retreats and cozy lodge stays.

Can we book the entire resort exclusively?2026-05-15T19:19:30+00:00

Yes. All five cabins and the lodge can be reserved exclusively for your group. Exclusive use is available for family reunions, retreats, weddings, and large gatherings.

Go to Top