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

2035 N US-31 N Unit #2502, Traverse City
$9,900
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1952161 MLS ⋅ Tamarack Lodge BLDG.
Tamarack Lodge sells their condos fractionally. This is Junior Penthouse Suite 2502 (Cedar) and is a 1,060 sq ft, 2br 2ba 5th floor penthouse unit that directly faces the water and has magnificent views of Lake Michigan's East Grand Traverse Bay. It has a private patio facing the water and the beach is as sandy as you can hope for, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Comes turn key, fully furnished (beds, couches, tables, chairs, TVs, linens, etc), gas fireplace, well appointed kitchen complete with appliances, silverware, pots & pans, etc, and it has its own washer/dryer. The purchase price is a one time fee which guarantees week 39 every year (exact dates change slightly each year) for as long as you own the unit, pay the monthly HOA fee ($51), annual property taxes ($266) and cleaning fee ($210 at the end of the 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. Basically, after you pay the one time purchase price (plus approximately $1,000 in closing costs) your out of pocket expenses going forward are then only the monthly HOA, annual property taxes and the cleaning fee. 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. This could be your "Up North" vacation destination for the years to come!”

2035 N US-31 N Unit #2502, Traverse City

2035 N US-31 N Unit #2502, Traverse City
$9,900
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1952160 MLS ⋅ Tamarack Lodge BLDG.
Tamarack Lodge sells their condos fractionally. This is Junior Penthouse Suite 2502 (Cedar) and is a 1,060 sq ft, 2br 2ba 5th floor penthouse unit that directly faces the water and has magnificent views of Lake Michigan's East Grand Traverse Bay. It has a private patio facing the water and the beach is as sandy as you can hope for, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Comes turn key, fully furnished (beds, couches, tables, chairs, TVs, linens, etc), gas fireplace, well appointed kitchen complete with appliances, silverware, pots & pans, etc, and it has its own washer/dryer. The purchase price is a one time fee which guarantees week 24 every year (exact dates change slightly each year) for as long as you own the unit, pay the monthly HOA fee ($51), annual property taxes ($351) and cleaning fee ($210 at the end of the 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. Basically, after you pay the one time purchase price (plus approximately $1,000 in closing costs) your out of pocket expenses going forward are then only the monthly HOA, annual property taxes and the cleaning fee. 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. This could be your "Up North" vacation destination for the years to come!”

2035 N US-31 N Unit #2502, Traverse City

10860 Bluff Road, Traverse City
$7,800,000
4 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 1951713 MLS
Exceptional East Bay waterfront estate with nearly 200 feet of private frontage and panoramic views from nearly every room. Elevated above the bay, this remarkable home combines sophisticated design, exceptional craftsmanship, and effortless four-season living. The custom kitchen features high-end appliances, granite countertops, convection and steam/convection ovens, warming drawer, double refrigerator and two freezer drawers integrated into the island. Multiple wet bars and four fireplaces create an ideal setting for entertaining. A spectacular covered porch overlooking East Bay features a beautiful fireplace and is piped for heaters. The living room showcases dramatic 21-foot windows and expansive water views. An exceptional private office is perched above the water with its own staircase and balcony, creating an almost lighthouse-like experience. Upstairs, three en suite bedrooms, a kitchen area and gathering room provide a private retreat for family or guests. The primary suite features a fireplace, luxurious bath with multiple shower heads and a custom walk-in closet. A large theatre room adds another inviting space for entertaining. Radiant heated floors throughout, custom wood doors, partially heated driveway and heated walkway provide exceptional comfort and easy four-season living. New AC/chiller purchased Summer 2026 and under warranty. Beautifully terraced and landscaped grounds lead to the expansive private beach, with two separate beach entrances. A rare opportunity to own one of East Bay's truly exceptional waterfront estates.

10860 Bluff Road, Traverse City

8871 Birchview Drive, Williamsburg
$3,495,000
5 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 1951175 MLS ⋅ Birchview Shores BLDG.
8871 Birchview Drive | Traverse City – Where East Grand Traverse Bay becomes your backyard. Set on a half-acre in Birchview Shores, this 2018 residence offers 100 feet of private, sandy-bottom frontage on one of Northern Michigan's most sought-after all-sports waters. Sweeping bay views greet you the moment you step inside. The story of this home begins at the upper-level foyer, where the first glimpse of the bay sets the tone for what's to come. Here, the primary suite is a private retreat, complete with a walk-in closet and en-suite bath, joined by more bedrooms and baths for family and guests. Descend to the main level and the home opens up. Vaulted ceilings rise overhead, floor-to-ceiling windows frame the bay like a living painting, and a living, dining, and kitchen space nearly 22 feet wide unfolds before you. At its heart, a large center island invites everyone to gather while the gas fireplace sets a warm glow on cool Northern Michigan evenings. Light pours in from every angle, and the entire space flows out to the patio and down to the water's edge. A flexible bonus room offers a den, media room, or quiet perch to watch the light change over the bay, while a main-level bedroom gives guests their own retreat just steps from the shoreline. With five bedrooms and five baths, including three en-suite bedrooms, this is a home made for family and friends: long summer weekends, sunset dinners on the patio, and private space for everyone to gather and stay. Spend your days minutes from the Petobego sandbar, the horse show, luxury golf, and the shops and dining of Elk Rapids. Clad in low-maintenance cement board and paired with a detached two-car garage, this is refined East Bay waterfront living, ready to welcome you home.

8871 Birchview Drive, Williamsburg

1995 US-31 N Unit #329, Traverse City
$445,000
1 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 1951014 MLS ⋅ The Beach Condominiums BLDG.
Invest in the Traverse City lifestyle while saving time on the calendar for yourself! This direct waterfront, third-floor 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo offers an exciting short-term rental opportunity paired with the flexibility to enjoy your own Northern Michigan getaway when desired. With expansive views of East Grand Traverse Bay and 300 feet of beautiful sugar-sand beach, this is the kind of location vacationers return to year after year. The private waterside deck delivers a front-row seat to sparkling blue water, passing boats and spectacular Bay views—perfect for morning coffee or evening wine. Inside, natural light fills the open-concept living space, featuring a cozy gas fireplace, fully equipped kitchen and plenty of room to relax after a day at the beach. The spacious bedroom accommodates a king-size bed, while the full bath offers a jetted tub and separate shower. In-unit laundry adds convenience for owners and guests alike. Spend summer days on the deep sugar-sand beach or enjoying the heated outdoor pool and hot tub. When it's time to explore, hop on a bike and connect to the nearby TART Trail, offering a safe, designated pedestrian and bike route into downtown Traverse City and beyond. Rent it when you're away, enjoy it when you're here! Whether you're looking to add a desirable Traverse City vacation rental to your portfolio or want a waterfront retreat that can help generate income between visits, this East Bay condo offers an appealing combination of location, amenities and pure Northern Michigan fun.

1995 US-31 N Unit #329, Traverse City

15724 Shoreline Court, Traverse City
$3,295,000
5 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 1951013 MLS ⋅ Peninsula Shores BLDG.
This extraordinary 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home sits on 85 feet of private East Bay frontage in Peninsula Shores on Old Mission Peninsula. It is one of only seven homes in the community with its own private shoreline, a rare setting where privacy, craftsmanship, and the beauty of East Bay come together, with the sun rising over the water each morning. Built in 2021, the home offers over 3,000 square feet above grade, plus a newly finished lower level with a fifth bedroom, a full bath, a recreation room, and a wet bar with Monogram wine coolers and dishwasher. Hidden rooms on that level are ready to serve as storage, a gym, or an office. The two-story great room features soaring cathedral ceilings and a gas fireplace. A kitchen with top-tier appliances, hardwood floors, a main-level primary suite, and three additional bedrooms upstairs complete the thoughtfully designed interior. The heated three-car garage passes through to the lake side and includes a car lift, making it a great fit for a collector or anyone with a boat and water toys. Outside, professionally designed hardscape and landscaping create a private, resort-like setting with mature trees, perennial gardens, and irrigation. Entertain around the built-in grill, gas fire pit, hot tub, and stand-alone pizza oven, all on wooded, peaceful grounds with no neighbor to the north. A Generac generator provides peace of mind through Michigan storms. Stairs lead down to the breakwall, a sandy-bottom shoreline, and a private dock, and the home also holds rights to a boat slip at the community dock. Residents enjoy a gated setting, a private walking trail, and approximately 1,500 feet of shared association frontage, all a short drive from Old Mission wineries and downtown Traverse City. This is a rare opportunity to own one of the few private waterfront homes in Peninsula Shores.

15724 Shoreline Court, Traverse City

14788 Mallard Drive, Traverse City
$2,599,000
5 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 1950984 MLS ⋅ Mission Hills BLDG.
Privacy, mature trees, exceptional water views, and 150 feet of private waterfront create a truly remarkable setting for this extraordinary 1.3-acre, 5,000-square-foot estate overlooking East Bay on Old Mission Peninsula. Meticulously updated to exacting standards, this distinguished five-bedroom, five-bath home blends timeless character with thoughtfully designed living spaces and breathtaking water views from every room. Beautiful hardwood floors span the main level, where a central staircase connects the home’s generous living spaces. The thoughtfully designed floor plan includes a formal dining room, inviting eat-in kitchen, private office, screened-in porch, and both formal and informal living areas. The warm and welcoming family room features a stone fireplace and views toward the bay, creating an ideal space for everyday living and gathering. A second staircase from the upper level conveniently descends directly into the kitchen. The second floor offers four bedrooms and three bathrooms, all enhanced by beautiful hardwood floors and water views. The expansive primary suite provides a serene private retreat, complete with a spacious, spa-like bathroom. A generously sized bunkroom offers additional flexible sleeping space, while panoramic water views continue throughout the level. The finished lower level adds exceptional versatility, with heated floors, a fifth bedroom and bath, game room, family room, abundant storage, and additional areas for recreation and relaxation. Surrounded by mature trees and nature and set directly along the water’s edge, this exceptional Old Mission Peninsula property offers a rare combination of privacy, acreage, substantial waterfront, timeless character, and panoramic East Bay views. The section of Bluff Road below the house has been recently decommissioned giving unimpeded access to the waterfront.

14788 Mallard Drive, Traverse City

10892 Lakeshore Road, Williamsburg
$1,650,000
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

2035 N US-31 N Unit #2502, Traverse City
$12,800
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1946156 MLS ⋅ Tamarack Lodge BLDG.
Tamarack Lodge sells their condos fractionally. This is Junior Penthouse Suite 2502 (Cedar) and is a 1,060 sq ft, 2br 2ba 5th floor penthouse unit that directly faces the water and has magnificent views of Lake Michigan's East Grand Traverse Bay. It has a private patio facing the water and the beach is as sandy as you can hope for, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Comes turn key, fully furnished (beds, couches, tables, chairs, TVs, linens, etc), gas fireplace, well appointed kitchen complete with appliances, silverware, pots & pans, etc, and it has its own washer/dryer. The purchase price is a one time fee which guarantees week 36 every year (exact dates change slightly each year) for as long as you own the unit, pay the monthly HOA fee ($51), annual property taxes ($266) and cleaning fee ($210 at the end of the 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. Basically, after you pay the one time purchase price (plus approximately $1,000 in closing costs) your out of pocket expenses going forward are then only the monthly HOA, annual property taxes and the cleaning fee. 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. This could be your "Up North" vacation destination for the years to come!”

2035 N US-31 N Unit #2502, Traverse City

10159 Council Oak Drive, Traverse City
$599,900
4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1946079 MLS ⋅ Lake Privileges BLDG.
Offering flexibility for year-round living, a Northern Michigan getaway, or something in between, this home puts one of Traverse City’s most desirable destinations within reach. Enjoy 390 feet of shared East Grand Traverse Bay frontage where kayak, paddle boarding, jet skis, boats and beach fun are all options. The thoughtfully designed split-level floor plan creates a natural separation between living spaces, offering both connection and privacy throughout the home. Spend summer days along the sandy-bottom, crystal-clear waters of East Bay, then come home to the privacy of a quiet cul-de-sac surrounded by mature trees. Evenings are made for gathering around the fire pit, soaking in the hot tub, and enjoying the peaceful setting that makes life on the Peninsula feel like a retreat. Inside, thoughtful improvements make the home easy to step into and enjoy. Within the last four years, updates include a new furnace, air conditioning, hot water heater, kitchen appliances, LeafGuard gutters, fencing, and more. Beyond the property itself, you’re surrounded by the wineries, beaches, trails, and natural beauty that define Old Mission Peninsula, while remaining convenient to Traverse City. The location also provides easy access to Old Mission Peninsula School, Eastern Elementary, Traverse City Central High School, and Northwestern Michigan College. The owners are ready to hand this special property over to its next chapter—bringing together waterfront access, privacy, location, and lifestyle in a way that’s increasingly difficult to find.

10159 Council Oak Drive, Traverse City

10249 Kay Ray Road, Williamsburg
$3,850,000
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

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

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