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

$1,795,000
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

$1,275,000
3 Beds 2 Baths 1948324 MLS Metes & Bounds BLDG.
Nestled on coveted Old Mission Peninsula between the sparkling waters of East and West Grand Traverse Bays, this exceptional home offers an idyllic Northern Michigan lifestyle surrounded by award-winning wineries, abundant wildlife, scenic nature preserves, and miles of sandy shoreline. Ideally located just minutes from Bowers Harbor Park and historic Old Mission Point Park, home to its iconic 150-year-old lighthouse which is adjacent to Old Mission Point State Park. The property places some of the region's most treasured destinations at your doorstep. Spanning approximately 2,600 square feet across three thoughtfully designed levels, the home provides generous living space for family and guests alike. The main floor features a spacious primary suite, 2 closets and shared bath, while additional bedrooms on both the upper and lower levels offer privacy and flexibility for overnight visitors. Expansive bay views grace the front of the home, while tranquil garden views create a peaceful backdrop throughout the property. For added convenience, washer and dryer sets are located on both the main and lower levels. Outside, a beautiful sandy beachfront invites you to embrace waterfront living, complete with a raised deck that provides the perfect setting for cozy morning coffee and sunrise views. Sold Turn-Key including dock in water and additional extensions stacked on shore. *List of excluded art work in documents.

11541 Bluff Road, Traverse City

$3,850,000
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

$999,900
4 Beds 3 Baths 1947497 MLS
Just four scenic miles from downtown Traverse City, this exceptional Old Mission Peninsula property presents a rare opportunity to own a beautifully maintained home with 103 feet of private East Bay frontage for under $1,000,000. Offering a beautiful shoreline with both sandy and natural rocky areas, remarkably clear turquoise water, and breathtaking sunrises, this is the only active Old Mission Peninsula property with private bay frontage below the million-dollar mark at the time of listing. Meticulously maintained, the 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers more than 2,500 finished square feet designed to capture water views from nearly every room, featuring an inviting open floor plan centered around a striking walk-around fireplace, a relaxing sunroom, and thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor living spaces perfect for entertaining, enjoying your morning coffee, or simply soaking in Northern Michigan's beauty throughout all four seasons. Situated on nearly an acre, additional highlights include a main-floor primary suite with a private bath, main-floor laundry, natural gas, an attached two-car garage with a workshop, 17 sections of dock, a 6,000-pound boat lift, and numerous updates completed by the current owners, allowing you to move in and immediately enjoy the Old Mission Peninsula waterfront lifestyle. Surrounded by wineries, orchards, parks, and everything that makes Old Mission Peninsula one of Northern Michigan's most desirable destinations, this is an opportunity you won't want to miss.

8729 Center Road, Traverse City

$2,050,000
5 Beds 3 Baths 1947098 MLS Deepwater Point Sub BLDG.
Deepwater Point is home to some of the most desirable waterfront properties on East Grand Traverse Bay, and this exceptional offering captures everything that makes the location so special. Featuring 100 feet of private frontage, a 3/4 acre level lot, and breathtaking blue water views, this timeless residence is designed to embrace the very best of Northern Michigan waterfront living. Spend your days on the water, entertain on the expansive full length deck, or relax in the inviting park-like backyard with plenty of room for gatherings, yard games, and making lifelong memories. The setting is as remarkable as the home itself, offering an unmatched combination of privacy, beauty, and easy access to the shoreline. Inside, the thoughtfully designed floor plan offers five bedrooms and three full baths with generous living spaces that capture spectacular bay views throughout. The main level features a beautifully appointed kitchen, spacious dining area, inviting family room, and formal living room each with a stunning fireplace. The primary suite serves as a private retreat with panoramic water views, a walk-in closet, and a luxurious bath complete with a tub overlooking the bay and a separate shower. Two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and a spacious laundry room complete the main floor. The walkout lower level provides even more space for family and guests with a cozy family room featuring a fireplace, two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and abundant storage. An attached two car garage and dedicated workshop offer ample space for vehicles, water toys, and all of your outdoor recreational equipment. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Traverse City, this exceptional waterfront property offers the rare combination of a level lot, pristine private frontage, timeless design, and an extraordinary setting on one of East Grand Traverse Bay's most coveted shorelines.

6793 Deepwater Point Road, Williamsburg

$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

$825,000
5 Beds 4 Baths 1946478 MLS Inwood Harbor BLDG.
NO MORE BOAT SLIP FEES! Bring your boat to your own dock. 120 feet of private canal frontage in Elk Rapids that connects directly to East Bay/Lake Michigan, PLUS shared Lake Michigan frontage just down the street. This is a true waterfront gem, that is not a drive-by! Featuring 3,680 sq ft of living space with 5 conforming bedrooms, 4 baths, a bonus room (perfect for an extra bedroom), and a separate office/nursery. Main Level: Primary suite with beautiful canal views with a walkout porch, huge bath, and walk-in closet. Spacious family room with water views, brick fireplace, and bar. Kitchen has generous counter space and eating area overlooking the canal, plus a formal dining room ideal for entertaining. Two-car garage enters into a convenient mudroom with full bath and laundry. Lower Level: Egress bedroom with family room with a full bath, cute wood stove, brand new carpeting, and a huge mechanical/storage area. Enjoy amazing restaurants, renowned golf courses, biking, kayaking, boating, and the chain of lakes. Short’s Brewery is just down the road — an excellent location for your family! There have been special assessments in the past for dredging, however, there is currently no active assessment for this purpose. Home is part of an Estate. The sellers have never lived in this home, which qualifies for a disclosure exemption—please review the provided documents for details. The home was built by O’Grady, and the original plans/prints are available. This house has great bones and offers plenty of bedrooms, making it ideal for a large family that wants room to spread out. The property is part of a homeowners association with annual dues of $160, which covers basic maintenance of the stairway leading down to the shared waterfront frontage. The association typically hosts a community barbecue at the end of the year. Room dimensions are approximate and should be verified by the buyer and buyer’s agent.

6869 W Harbor Drive, Elk Rapids

$699,900
4 Beds 2 Baths 1946079 MLS Lake Privileges BLDG.
BOAT SLIP IS OPEN AND AVAILABLE! Surrounded by the crystal-clear turquoise waters of East and West Grand Traverse Bay, Old Mission Peninsula remains one of the most coveted addresses in Northern Michigan. Known for its breathtaking scenery, rolling vineyards, and world-class wineries, this exceptional location offers a lifestyle that feels like a year-round retreat. Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac street, this beautifully maintained home offers privacy, comfort, and an unbeatable location. Residents enjoy access to nearly 400 feet of shared East Grand Traverse Bay frontage. Whether your vision includes morning paddleboard sessions, sunset beach visits, or securing a boat slip and spending your summers on the water, this is a rare opportunity to embrace waterfront living without the waterfront price tag. Adding even more appeal, there is no HOA and no monthly association fees—providing freedom and flexibility that is increasingly difficult to find on the Peninsula. Inside, thoughtful updates have elevated the home including new in the last 4 years - furnace, a/c, hot water heater, kitchen appliances, basement flooring/in-law apartment, leaf guard gutters, fencing and even more! A beautifully remodeled kitchen serves as the heart of the home, complemented by an open-concept floor plan designed for everyday living and effortless entertaining. The walkout lower level has also been updated, creating additional functional living space for guests, hobbies, recreation, or relaxation. Outside, the setting is equally impressive. Mature landscaping, outdoor entertainment spaces, a highly private yard, and a spacious three-car garage, provide both beauty and practicality. Enjoy effortless access to highly sought-after Eastern Elementary School, dining, shopping, healthcare, and year-round events.

10159 Council Oak Drive, Traverse City

$1,299,900
3 Beds 3 Baths 1945974 MLS Metes & Bounds BLDG.
Desirable East Bay shoreline with sunrise views! Enjoy this beautiful hard sand beach accessed via a beautiful newer stairway and deck with custom shed and newer dockage. Sold TURN-KEY including the dock and 22' pontoon boat! Low maintenance backyard with custom shed is adjacent to acreage conservancy restricted. Docs available upon request. Recently remodeled with a well-planned newer kitchen including new appliances, front living room addition, including a doorwall to the newer cement patio area. Living Room also features a vault ceiling, & a woodstove on a stone hearth to enjoy those chilly Michigan nights. Wall to wall views & with new skylights added, this house is so…light and bright! Original en-suite with vault ceiling now has a door added to a private deck. Bedroom #2 addition now features another en-suite with a tile shower & built in drawers / cabinet space, + walks out to additional decking area plumbed for a hot tub. Cozy family room features a natural gas fireplace and offers a quiet retreat to enjoy the Bay views. Oversized garage with workshop area, abundant storage, and room for hobbies. Get in for summer and enjoy the Bay life immediately! What could be easier than buying Turn-Key, including a 22' pontoon boat, high end dock, hoist, & cover! Well maintained home with 8/2025 new furnace & A/C + smart water filter system updated 6/2025, baths updated July 2026.

11537 Bluff Road, Traverse City

$4,200,000
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

$1,100,000
4 Beds 3 Baths 1945044 MLS The Cove BLDG.
TITLED SHORE STATION w/ 5,500-LB BOAT HOIST, AND SHARED EAST BAY FRONTAGE! Life at Smokey Cove means a little more breathing room, a little more privacy, and easy days on East Bay. Set on a generously sized parcel with plenty of space between neighboring homes, this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home pairs thoughtful design with the kind of layout that simply works for everyday living. Don't forget the privately owned DEEDED BOAT slip with a 5,500 lb boat hoist! Only a few homes have this privilege The main living area feels bright and welcoming with rich hardwood floors, oversized windows, coffered ceilings, and a fireplace that makes the whole space feel warm and comfortable. The kitchen was built for gathering, featuring granite countertops, stainless appliances, quality cabinetry, and an open flow into the dining and living spaces. A first-floor primary suite offers convenience and privacy, while upstairs you’ll find additional bedrooms. No worries about your electric bill! This one has solar. Outside, the setting is just as appealing. A 3-car garage provides plenty of storage, and ownership includes 192 feet of shared East Bay frontage, a private beach area and dock reserved for The Cove association members, and a dedicated boat slip that transfers with the property. Whether it’s morning coffee by the water, afternoons out on the boat, or evenings around the fire, this home was made for enjoying Northern Michigan in every season.

3833 Smokey Cove Drive, Traverse City

$999,000
2 Beds 2 Baths 1938878 MLS Peninsula Bay Resort BLDG.
Welcome to Peninsula Bay’s premier 2nd floor retreat, perched above Miracle Mile’s sandy shoreline with panoramic East Bay views. This residence blends a luxury lifestyle with the ease of a true turnkey escape. From the moment you step into this fully furnished condo, you’ll notice the thoughtful renovation throughout—every detail in the kitchen and bathrooms has been reimagined with high-end finishes, granite, and custom design touches. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with premium appliances, a gas range, double-drawer dishwasher, and generous pantry space. An open layout connects seamlessly to the living area, where a gas fireplace and expansive water views set the tone for effortless entertaining. The water-facing primary suite is a private sanctuary with a walk-in closet and spa-like shower, while the guest bedroom also features a walk-in closet and elegant finishes. In-unit laundry, and a spacious covered balcony add to the everyday comfort. Peninsula Bay itself elevates the experience: 330 feet of sandy frontage, a heated pool and hot tub, grill and gathering areas, chaise lounges on a groomed beach, a secure lobby, elevator, and even heated sidewalks for year-round ease. Whether you’re savoring a sunset from your balcony or exploring the walkable Miracle Mile, this home captures the very best of Bayfront living. Short-term rentals are allowed, offering excellent investment flexibility.

1941 US-31 Unit 24, Traverse City

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