Gibson’s West Harbor Resort

Step back into time, no credit cards, no wifi, just 1000 feet of shore, beautiful grounds and very friendly owners (the inn is upstairs of their house). Share bathrooms, tilted floors, VERY clean and neat, no TV or frig. Very affordable and relaxing.

We’ve been going to Gibson’s for nearly 30 years and ever year it’s fantastic. The rooms are clean and large enough, but what is the best are the people, the quiet and the lake. As the name suggests it’s on the West side of the island and as such the sunsets are magnificent. The yard is quite large which makes it ideal for lounging around and enjoying the sun while still being very kid friendly. For those who need to stay connected the island library does have a Wi-​Fi network but I recommend taking the time to enjoy the place, it is fantastic and I can’t say enough about it.

Gibson’s Resort was like a summer house to me for the first 10 years of my life! We would come up here every summer for about a week and spend time out on the Island. If you have never been to Washington Island, it is a real treat. It is totally different from the hustle and bustle that city live requires.
I don’t remember ever staying anywhere else besides Gibson’s since we have been coming up here. Herb and his family have always been extremely nice to my family in welcoming us into their home. Essentially, that is what Gibson’s is. There home. The resort used to be an old loggers house. About 20 rooms fill the top of the house, all complete with the exactly what you need for your stay — a bed and a dresser. No bathroom you say? Correct! That’s what the outdoors are for.
Just kidding. There is a bathroom, but it is located towards the end of the hall. There is a men’s washroom and a women’s washroom, complete with a stand up shower and sink (and toilet).
If you are looking for the following:
*Luxury
*Air conditioned splendor
*Suites or executive style beds
*Continental Breakfast
You will not find those here. What you will find is peace, quiet and one of the most beautiful views of Lake Michigan you have ever seen, at an affordable price. As well as the rooms, Gibson’s offers several cabins to rent as well, however, if you are looking to book a cabin, you better know you need one about a year and a half in advance because that’s how far out the bookings are!
If you just want to enjoy the beauty of Washington Island without breaking your bank, Gibson’s is the way to go. It’s old fashioned, it’s beat up, but it feels like home.