Sleep on Lake Erie in a Houseboat at SōLSTAY Lodging and Marina

How does staying in a houseboat on Lake Erie sound?

When I first got the opportunity to do this at SōLSTAY Lodging & Marina in Sandusky, Ohio, I had no idea what to expect. Honestly, I envisioned tight quarters below deck, something a little dark and cramped. But nope, SōLSTAYsurprised me. Their houseboats are modern, bright, and seriously cool. Think glamping, but on the water. And let me tell you, it was way more comfortable (and fun) than I imagined.

A special thanks to SōLSTAY Lodging & Marina for hosting my trip.

What is SōLSTAY Lodging & Marina?

SōLSTAY is more than just houseboats. It’s a lakeside resort created for adventure-seekers and water lovers, with a perfect balance of fun and relaxation. You can soak in a hot tub that overlooks the lake, relax in a floating sauna, play a round of mini golf, or simply stroll along the waterside boardwalk decorated with colorful murals. There’s even a cybercafé and sundry shop if you need a coffee or a snack, and fire pits and grills make it easy to spend your evenings outdoors.

If you want to be more active, paddle boards and kayaks are available to rent, or you can bring your own boat. And yes, your pets are welcome too, which makes it even more appealing for families.

The Different Types of Houseboats

There were a variety of lodging options at SōLSTAY. There are three types of houseboats, plus cottages on land. The houseboats sleep 1-2 people.

Lux Ensuite Houseboats – The largest option, complete with a private bathroom, queen bed, heating/AC, kitchenette, TV, seating, and plenty of space.
Lux Houseboats – (My houseboat for the weekend) Includes a queen bed, mini-fridge, TV, seating, and heating/AC. No bathroom inside, but shared facilities are just a short walk away on shore.
Tiny Houseboats – Adorable and rustic with solar power, a queen bed, and modern touches. These don’t have AC, heat, or private bathrooms, so they’re best for the minimalist (or adventurous) traveler.

If you’re traveling with a group, SōLSTAY also has two- and three-bedroom cottages that sleep up to eight guests.

My Stay in a Lux Houseboat

I stayed in one of the Lux Houseboats, and it was such a unique experience!

The bed sits right against a large window overlooking the marina, so I had front-row views of both sunrise and sunset. (Lake Erie knows how to put on a show.) One evening, a quick thunderstorm rolled through, and I loved watching it from the cozy safety of my houseboat window. The boat rocked ever so slightly, but nothing that made me seasick—and I’m the type who gets carsick easily. If anything, it felt like being gently rocked to sleep.

The bathrooms are a short walk down the floating pier. There’s also a shower house on the resort with full bathrooms, so that you won’t be roughing it. That said, if you’re the type who needs a bathroom steps away at night, book the Lux Ensuite Houseboat or a cottage. (Or, if you’re traveling solo like me, you can always get creative with a portable camping toilet. Practicality is the ultimate midlife hack!)

Take a Tour of the Lux Houseboat

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jamie Ward (@fieldsandheels)

Campervans

If you have a campervan, you can reserve a parking space and have access to the SōLSTAY amenities! Whether you’re traveling via van or other vehicle, they can accommodate rigs up to 20ft in length. Save a ton by sleeping in your campervan and still have access to a bathroom, showers, Wi-Fi, a hot tub, picnic tables, trash bins, and the floating sauna.

The Fun Extras at Solstay

One of my favorite things about SōLSTAY is that you don’t need to leave the property to have a great time. Everything you need is right there. You can sip your morning coffee on the boardwalk with views of the lake, unwind in the floating sauna, or gather around a fire pit with new friends as the sun sets. If you’re feeling playful, there are outdoor games like cornhole and ping pong, plus a mini golf course. The whole place has a relaxed, summer-camp-meets-lakeside-resort vibe that makes you want to stay outside all day.

Exploring Sandusky, Ohio

Of course, SōLSTAY’s location is another perk. Sandusky has been named the “Best Coastal Small Town in the United States,” and it’s easy to see why. Cedar Point is just down the road for thrill-seekers, while downtown Sandusky offers shops, parks, and plenty of great restaurants. I picked up a pizza from a local spot one evening and brought it back to enjoy outside at SōLSTAY with the lake in view—pure perfection.

If you want to explore further, the Lake Erie islands—like Kelly’s Island and Put-in-Bay—are just a short ferry ride away. Between the islands, amusement parks, dining, and water activities, this region is brimming with things to do. But honestly, SōLSTAY is such a destination in itself that you don’t have to leave.

Would I Stay Again?

Absolutely. My first houseboat stay exceeded my expectations. Instead of cramped and uncomfortable, it was spacious and cozy. SōLSTAY Lodging & Marina blends adventure in a unique way, and it’s the kind of getaway that works whether you’re traveling solo, planning a romantic weekend, or bringing family along.