East Bay

 

 

East Bay Waterfront (Old Mission Peninsula & Kewadin)

Refined bay frontage with a quieter Lake Michigan experience


Overview

Located along the eastern arm of Grand Traverse Bay within close proximity to Traverse City, East Bay offers a more tranquil alternative to west-facing Lake Michigan waterfront while remaining well connected to everyday amenities.

East Bay waterfront includes the eastern shoreline of Old Mission Peninsula and the northern stretch through Kewadin. Properties range from legacy estates and architecturally refined residences to classic cottages and thoughtfully updated homes. Lower development density and preserved landscapes contribute to East Bay’s long-term appeal.


Waterfront Character & Lifestyle

East Bay supports a calm, residential waterfront lifestyle.

The bay is well suited for swimming, paddling, cruising, and daily boating enjoyment, particularly during morning hours when conditions are often calmer. Activity levels remain more measured than on west-facing bays, creating a peaceful environment that appeals to both seasonal and year-round owners.

East Bay attracts buyers seeking balance — Lake Michigan frontage without constant congestion, and a setting that feels refined rather than social-driven.


Shoreline & Water Considerations

Shoreline characteristics along East Bay vary by location.

Water depth, frontage width, bottom composition, and exposure differ between Old Mission Peninsula and Kewadin properties. Buyers should consider prevailing winds, wave patterns, shoreline protection, and dock placement carefully, as these factors influence usability and long-term maintenance.

Understanding micro-locations along East Bay is particularly important when evaluating waterfront properties.


Location & Nearby Amenities

East Bay offers exceptional access to Traverse City while maintaining a quieter shoreline presence.

Residents enjoy:
• Immediate proximity to downtown Traverse City
• Access to wineries, farmland, and scenic drives on Old Mission Peninsula
• Nearby dining, recreation, and everyday services
• Convenient boating access to Grand Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan

This combination of calm waterfront living and practical proximity defines East Bay’s appeal.


Zoning, Preservation & Long-Term Value

East Bay waterfront is governed by a combination of township, county, and environmental regulations that support shoreline preservation and controlled development.

Limited inventory, strong preservation standards, and sustained buyer demand contribute to stable long-term value, particularly for buyers prioritizing quality, privacy, and legacy ownership.


Is East Bay Waterfront Right for You?

East Bay waterfront is best suited for buyers who:
• Prefer sunrise views and quieter morning conditions
• Value privacy and a more residential shoreline feel
• Seek Lake Michigan frontage without village congestion
• Appreciate long-term ownership and preserved surroundings

For buyers looking for a refined and peaceful Lake Michigan waterfront experience, East Bay offers enduring appeal.


Waterfront Size & Key Facts

• Waterfront type: East Bay frontage (Grand Traverse Bay / Lake Michigan)
• Shoreline character: mixed sand, stone, and natural shoreline
• Water type: open bay, deep and clear
• Orientation: primarily sunrise views
• Drive time to Traverse City: approximately 5–20 minutes

 

East Bay’s protected orientation, limited availability, and proximity to Traverse City make it one of the most compelling Lake Michigan waterfront options in Northern Michigan.

East Bay

$1,725,000
3 Beds 4 Baths 1949038 MLS Sunset Shores BLDG.
Discover the best of Northern Michigan lake living in this private, two-story waterfront home on East Bay. Set on a beautifully wooded lot, the property features a pristine sandy shoreline, beach area, and dramatic sunset views with an elevated homesite offering peace of mind for years to come. The thoughtfully updated home offers three generously sized bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths, with improvements throughout including wood flooring, updated kitchen and bathrooms, exterior siding, and more. The open kitchen features stainless steel appliances and flows into the inviting great room, while the bayside primary suite provides a peaceful retreat with beautiful water views. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living from the bayside covered porch. The lower level includes a comfortable family room, natural fireplace, and abundant storage. A beautiful lakeside flagstone patio is perfectly positioned at the edge of the bluff, creating an exceptional setting for relaxing, entertaining, and taking in the panoramic sunset views of the bay. The detached two-car garage includes additional heated living space above, complete with a partially finished bathroom - ideal for guests, a studio, home office, or recreational space. Located just south of beautiful Elk Rapids and approximately 15 minutes from downtown Traverse City, this property offers both privacy and convenient access to dining, shopping, boating, and all that Northern Michigan has to offer. Offered fully furnished, this exceptional waterfront retreat is ready for you to immediately begin enjoying the lake life!

10892 Lakeshore Road, Williamsburg

$1,795,000
5 Beds 4 Baths 1948562 MLS Underwood Ridge BLDG.
Custom built in 2013 by Milward Custom Homes, this award winning Parade of Homes residence is situated in the desirable Underwood Farms community on Old Mission Peninsula. Offering five bedrooms and three and one half baths, the home captures beautiful views of East Grand Traverse Bay, surrounding orchards, and nearby vineyards. Designed for both everyday living and entertaining, the open concept main level features a custom kitchen with granite countertops, a spacious dining area overlooking the expansive back deck with a retractable awning, and a living room with soaring ceilings, custom built ins, and abundant natural light. The thoughtfully designed floor plan provides privacy and functionality, with the primary suite located on one side of the home and two additional bedrooms with a full bath on the opposite side. A spacious mudroom and laundry area, walk in pantry, and main floor half bath complete the main level. The finished walkout lower level offers a large family room, wet bar with beverage cooler, theater room, two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and plenty of storage. A finished bonus room above the garage provides flexible space for a home office, playroom, or guest area. Professionally landscaped grounds enhance the home's exceptional curb appeal, while energy efficient geothermal heating provides year round comfort. Additional features include a finished three car attached garage that is 30' deep, circular paved driveway, and access to 500 feet of shared East Grand Traverse Bay frontage, providing the perfect setting to enjoy boating, kayaking, swimming, and the Northern Michigan waterfront lifestyle.

8208 Underwood Ridge, Traverse City

$3,590,000
4 Beds 3 Baths 1947985 MLS Metes And Bounds BLDG.
RARE OPPORTUNITY to own a green certified immaculate custom-built home with 160’ of pristine private water frontage coupled with breath taking views of beautiful East Bay and only one and a half miles from the base of Old Mission Peninsula. This home was featured in 2016’s Northern Home and Cottage Tour and Traverse Magazine. Estate includes an inviting 38’ x 16’ heated inground pool and fully appointed guest house that sleeps six. Distinctive characteristics include ceiling beams, custom walnut cabinetry and shelves, walnut wood flooring, custom built in breakfast banquette, Cambria quartz tops, four season sunroom, wine cellar and a beautiful wet bar constructed of mahogany, walnut and maple. This home has met the stringent requirements of the ICC 700-2008 National Green Building Standard and 3-star energy rated. Efficient attributes include 270-watt solar panels, high performance insulation, precast insulated foundation, air source heat pump, along with natural gas, ERV 85-watt ventilation system, low e windows and an induction cooktop. The home is within walking distance to the beautiful hiking trails of Pelizzari Nature Conserve, biking distance to award winning wineries and just steps away from boating, swimming and prime fishing. All of this and only minutes to downtown Traverse City. This is more than just a home; it is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate quiet serenity.

6885 E Shore Road, Traverse City

$2,600,000
4 Beds 3 Baths 1946580 MLS Underwood Farms BLDG.
Perched on a stunning 10-acre estate with sweeping views of Grand Traverse Bay, this exceptional residence offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and thoughtful design. Meticulously maintained and extensively upgraded, the home showcases breathtaking bay views from most rooms and is located just 10 minutes from downtown Traverse City. Designed for effortless main-floor living, the home features soaring ceilings, heated limestone, wood floors, remote control blinds, integrated speakers throughout, and three fireplaces that create warm, inviting spaces. At the heart of the home is a spectacular chef's kitchen complete with a Wolf range, Sub Zero fridge, oversized island, beverage cooler, reverse osmosis system, and a cozy sitting area perfect for gathering with family and friends. The elegant primary suite serves as a private retreat, while the thoughtfully designed mudroom offers exceptional functionality with a built-in coffee station, desk area, abundant cabinetry, and pantry storage. Additional living spaces include four bedrooms, a private den, and a versatile hobby/exercise room. Entertain with ease in the remarkable wine cellar, on the multiple patios, or from the two expansive covered porches that capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape and bay views. The heated four-bay garage features in-floor heat and durable epoxy flooring, providing year-round convenience. The Generac generator ensures you won't be in the dark! Residents also enjoy shared frontage on Grand Traverse Bay with limited boat slips (currently on a waiting list), adding another layer of exclusivity to this extraordinary property.A rare offering that combines privacy, luxury amenities, spectacular views, and close proximity to all that Traverse City has to offer.

8546 East Beach Trail, Traverse City

$3,990,000
5 Beds 5 Baths 1945825 MLS Peninsula View BLDG.
Discover the pinnacle of Northern Michigan living in this stunning waterfront masterpiece. Custom-built by the renowned Whiteford and Associates, this estate harmonizes architectural precision with the serene natural beauty of the East Grand Traverse Bay shoreline. Designed for both grand-scale entertaining and quiet lakeside reflection, every inch of this home exudes quality and craftsmanship. The professional chef-style kitchen is a dream for the culinary enthusiast. Anchored by a massive center island, the space features premium professional grade appliances, including a Wolf double oven and range and a Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer. Whether hosting a summer soiree or preparing a quiet meal, this kitchen offers the perfect blend of high-end quality and coastal elegance. The main level is designed for effortless “age-in-place” luxury, featuring a sprawling primary suite complete with a spa-inspired en-suite and convenient main-floor laundry. With 5 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms in total, there is ample space for family and guests to retreat in comfort. The fully finished walk-out basement serves as the ultimate recreational hub. Sharpen your game year-round with the custom golf simulator or step directly outside to enjoy the breeze of the bay. Located above the 3 car heated garage is a well appointed apartment with separate entry for long-term guests, an au pair or a quiet home office. With a dedicated, spacious pole barn you can assure all your “toys”-from boats and jet skis to classic cars-are stored securely and ready for your next Northern Michigan adventure. Tucked away on the prestigious Kay Ray Road, this property offers the rare combination of privacy and proximity to the world-class Traverse City Horse Shows, dining and shopping of nearby Traverse City and Elk Rapids. Enjoy mesmerizing sunsets, sandy bottom frontage and the timeless allure of life on the water. Your private waterfront legacy awaits!

10249 Kay Ray Road, Williamsburg

$9,900
1 Beds 1 Baths 1943089 MLS Tamarack Lodge BLDG.
This Tamarack Lodge luxury resort fractional ownership (similar to a timeshare) condo with great amenities is available in Traverse City, Michigan on beautiful East Grand Traverse Bay. This is for week 37 of the year. Acorn waterfront condo 2400 is on the fourth floor of a five story building that has an elevator. This unit has outstanding views and the best sugar sand beach imaginable. This turn key end unit is 544 square feet with one bedroom and one bathroom and includes a king bed, sleeper sofa, and washer and dryer in-suite. Furnishings, linens, appliances, fully stocked kitchen (pots, pans, silverware etc.) are included. The purchase price is a one time fee guaranteeing you week 37 year after year (exact dates rotate slightly), as long as you pay the monthly HOA fees ($27/mth), annual property taxes ($205) and room cleaning fees are paid which are $125 per week. The HOA fee covers gas, electric, cable TV, WIFI, water, sewer, trash removal, snow removal, building insurance, content & liability insurance, outside and inside maintenance. Week 37 is perfect for couples, families or for those who already own a condo at the Tamarack and would like to purchase another one to share more space with their families and friends in the summer. Tamarack Lodge owners also have the option to use the amenities in the two adjacent hotels (one on each side of Tamarack) like the swimming pool, beaches, exercise facilities, etc at a cost of $35 per person per week. Get your piece of the North today and enjoy maintenance free vacation ownership!

2035 N US-31 N Unit #2400, Traverse City

$14,900
1 Beds 1 Baths 1932078 MLS Tamarack Lodge BLDG.
Tamarack Lodge luxury resort condo with great amenities is available in Traverse City, Michigan on beautiful East Grand Traverse Bay. Own two prime fixed weeks being sold separately ($3,900 for week 47 and $14,900 for week 31) OR if you buy week 31 for $14,900 the seller will include week 47 for free! Week 31 is in the summer and week 47 is in autumn. Deeded ownership (this is not a timeshare). Acorn waterfront condo 2400 is on the fourth floor of a five story building that has an elevator. This unit has outstanding views and the best sugar sand beach imaginable. This turn key end unit is 544 square feet with one bedroom and one bathroom and includes a king bed, sleeper sofa, and washer and dryer in-suite. Furnishings, linens, appliances, fully stocked kitchen (pots, pans, silverware etc.) are included. The purchase price is a one time fee guaranteeing you weeks 31 and/or 47 year after year (exact dates rotate slightly), as long as the monthly HOA fees ($27 for one week, $54 for both), annual property taxes ($339 total for both weeks) and room cleaning fees are paid which are $125 per week. The HOA fee covers gas, electric, cable TV, WIFI, water, sewer, trash removal, snow removal, building insurance, content & liability insurance, outside and inside maintenance. Week 31 is perfect for couples, families or for those who already own a condo at the Tamarack and would like to purchase another one to share more space with their families and friends in the summer. Week 47 is also ideal for generating revenue due to its timing with renting out nights as Thanksgiving and Black Friday typically fall in this week. Get your piece of the North today and enjoy maintenance free vacation ownership!

2035 N US-31 N Unit 2400, Traverse City

$3,900
1 Beds 1 Baths 1932077 MLS Tamarack Lodge BLDG.
Tamarack Lodge luxury resort condo with great amenities is available in Traverse City, Michigan on beautiful East Grand Traverse Bay. Own two prime fixed weeks being sold separately ($3,900 for week 47 and $14,900 for week 31) OR if you buy week 31 for $14,900 the seller will include week 47 for free! Week 31 is in the summer and week 47 is in autumn. Deeded ownership (this is not a timeshare). Acorn waterfront condo 2400 is on the fourth floor of a five story building that has an elevator. This unit has outstanding views and the best sugar sand beach imaginable. This turn key end unit is 544 square feet with one bedroom and one bathroom and includes a king bed, sleeper sofa, and washer and dryer in-suite. Furnishings, linens, appliances, fully stocked kitchen (pots, pans, silverware etc.) are included. The purchase price is a one time fee guaranteeing you weeks 31 and/or 47 year after year (exact dates rotate slightly), as long as the monthly HOA fees ($27 for one week, $54 for both), annual property taxes ($339 total for both weeks) and room cleaning fees are paid which are $125 per week. The HOA fee covers gas, electric, cable TV, WIFI, water, sewer, trash removal, snow removal, building insurance, content & liability insurance, outside and inside maintenance. Week 31 is perfect for couples, families or for those who already own a condo at the Tamarack and would like to purchase another one to share more space with their families and friends in the summer. Week 47 is also ideal for generating revenue due to its timing with renting out nights as Thanksgiving and Black Friday typically fall in this week. Get your piece of the North today and enjoy maintenance free vacation ownership!

2035 N US-31 N Unit 2400, Traverse City

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