Tips for Working Remotely from the North Shore
August 2026
There is something refreshing about trading your home office for the shoreline of Lake Superior. The fresh air, the sound of the waves, and the slower pace of the North Shore make it surprisingly easy to stay productive while enjoying a getaway.
Planning to extend your vacation with a few workdays? Or taking a full workcation? Cliff Dweller offers the perfect balance of getting things done while making time to enjoy everything the North Shore has to offer.
Start Your Morning with the Best Office View on the North Shore
One of the best parts about staying at Cliff Dweller is that every room includes a private porch overlooking Lake Superior.
Instead of answering emails from a crowded coffee shop, settle into your porch with a cup of coffee while the sun rises over the lake. The fresh air and peaceful setting create the kind of workspace you simply can't find at home.
Need a little inspiration before your first meeting? Spend a few quiet minutes watching the waves roll in. You'll be surprised how much clearer your mind feels before diving into your day.
Rainy? Bring the Lake Inside.
North Shore weather likes to keep things interesting. On cool mornings or breezy afternoons, you don't have to give up your view.
Simply pull the small table and chair in your room directly in front of your sliding glass door. You'll still enjoy panoramic views of Lake Superior while staying warm and comfortable.
Many guests find this is the perfect setup for video meetings. The natural light makes a beautiful backdrop, and the lake view is a welcome change from the usual home office.
Settle Into the Sun Room
If you're ready for a change of scenery, spend part of your workday in Cliff Dweller's bright and welcoming sun room.
Large windows fill the space with natural light, while comfortable seating makes it easy to settle in with your laptop. It's a peaceful place to answer emails, review documents, or enjoy a quiet break between meetings.
Sometimes a new view is all it takes to spark fresh ideas.
Tips for Working Outside on the North Shore
One of the biggest perks of remote work is taking your office outdoors. A few simple tips can help you stay comfortable throughout the day.
Bring a lightweight sweatshirt or jacket. Even summer mornings along Lake Superior can be cool.
Charge your devices before heading outside.
Wear sunglasses to reduce screen glare.
Position yourself with the sun behind you for easier screen viewing.
Keep a water bottle and coffee nearby so you can stay focused without running back inside.
Take advantage of meeting breaks by stretching your legs along the shoreline.
Stay Connected While You Work
Reliable internet is essential when you're working remotely, and Cliff Dweller offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property so you can stay connected during your stay.
If you're looking for a different atmosphere for part of the day, several nearby spots make excellent places to work.
Crosby Bakery
One of the newer businesses in Grand Marais, Crosby Bakery is maybe our favorite place to work remotely, off property! It has a bright airy feeling, complemented with the smell of fresh baked goods. And if you need a break you can stroll one block to the harbor.
Java Moose
If you're spending the day in Grand Marais, Java Moose offers great coffee, pastries, Wi-Fi, and beautiful harbor views. Grab a table, enjoy the energy of downtown, and take a walk along the waterfront once you've finished your work.
Cook County Whole Foods Co-op
The Cook County Whole Foods Co-op in Grand Marais is another great option. The café seating, dependable Wi-Fi, and fresh grab-and-go meals make it easy to work through lunch without feeling rushed.
Grand Marais Public Library
If you need complete focus for a few hours, the Grand Marais Public Library is one of the quietest places on the North Shore. Reliable internet and peaceful surroundings make it a great choice for longer work sessions or important virtual meetings.
Step Away From Your Desk
One of the biggest advantages of working remotely from the North Shore is how easy it is to recharge between meetings.
Instead of scrolling through your phone during lunch, head outside for a walk on the Gitchi-Gami State Trail. The trail is directly accessible from Cliff Dweller and follows the shoreline with beautiful views of Lake Superior.
Even a twenty-minute walk can help clear your mind, reduce stress, and leave you feeling refreshed for the rest of the afternoon.
Build a Better Workday
A North Shore workday looks a little different from one at home.
Start your morning with coffee on your private porch. Take your first meeting with Lake Superior in the background. Spend your lunch break walking along the Gitchi-Gami State Trail. Finish the afternoon in the comfort of the sun room before closing your laptop and watching the sunset over the lake.
It's a rhythm that makes work feel lighter and your vacation feel longer.
Your Office Can Wait. The View Can't.
Remote work has made it easier than ever to blend productivity with travel. At Cliff Dweller, you can stay connected while enjoying one of the most beautiful stretches of Minnesota's North Shore.
Plan a long weekend, extend your vacation, or spend a few days working from the lake. You'll find peaceful places to focus, fresh air that clears your mind, and unforgettable Lake Superior views just outside your door.
Bring your laptop. We'll take care of the view.
