Lake Leelanau

 

Lake Leelanau - Classic Northern Michigan living with village charm

Overview

Centrally located in Leelanau County within an easy drive of Traverse City, Lake Leelanau offers a rare blend of recreational lake living and everyday convenience.

Lake Leelanau is a large inland lake divided into North Lake Leelanau and South Lake Leelanau, connected by a narrow channel near the village. The lake provides a mix of open water frontage and more protected shoreline areas, supporting a wide range of lakefront lifestyles.

Lakefront homes range from traditional cottages to well-appointed year-round residences, making Lake Leelanau appealing to both full-time residents and second-home owners.

Lake Character & Lifestyle

Lake Leelanau supports a versatile, approachable lakefront lifestyle.

The lake is well suited for boating, swimming, fishing, and casual cruising. Activity levels vary by location, allowing buyers to prioritize either a quieter residential setting or a more active recreational environment depending on where a property is situated.

Lake Leelanau attracts buyers seeking balance—lake access paired with village proximity and year-round livability.

Shoreline & Water Considerations

Shoreline characteristics on Lake Leelanau vary throughout the lake.

Water depth, frontage width, bottom composition, and exposure differ by location, influencing dock placement, shoreline usability, and long-term maintenance. Understanding these nuances is an important part of selecting the right property.

Location & Nearby Amenities

Lake Leelanau offers exceptional convenience within Leelanau County.

Residents enjoy: • Walkable access to the Village of Lake Leelanau • Nearby wineries, dining, and local shops • Proximity to Leland, Suttons Bay, and surrounding communities • Easy access to Traverse City for expanded services

This central location enhances both everyday living and long-term desirability.

Zoning, Preservation & Long-Term Value

Lake Leelanau spans multiple townships, each with its own zoning and shoreline regulations.

Setbacks, dock allowances, and development potential vary by location, making informed property selection important for protecting long-term enjoyment and value.

Is Lake Leelanau Right for You?

Lake Leelanau is best suited for buyers who: • Value village proximity and convenience • Seek a balanced recreational lake • Appreciate year-round livability • Want central access within Leelanau County

For buyers looking for a well-rounded Northern Michigan lakefront experience, Lake Leelanau remains a cornerstone destination.

Lake Size & Key Facts

• Surface area: approximately 8,600 acres (North & South combined) • Shoreline: approximately 40 miles • Maximum depth: approximately 120 feet • Water type: clear inland lake with channel connection • Drive time to Traverse City: approximately 30 minutes

Lake Leelanau’s size, central location, and village access make it one of the most versatile and livable lakefront real estate markets in Leelanau County.

Explore Lake Leelanau Lakefront Homes

Current lakefront and waterfront homes on Lake Leelanau are featured below. Availability changes frequently, and not all opportunities are publicly marketed.

Private conversations often uncover additional opportunities.

 

$4,100,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 1950151 MLS ⋅ N/A BLDG.
A truly rare opportunity to own a generational estate on the coveted west shore of North Lake Leelanau, just north of Leland. Encompassing two tax parcels, this exceptional offering represents the deepest property extending from the lake all the way to M-22, creating a unique combination of expansive waterfront and acreage that is seldom available. The home offers comfortable lakeside living with hardwood floors throughout the living room, dining room, and three bedrooms, a spacious multi-level deck overlooking spacious lawn & lakefront, a 2-car attached garage, and an additional 1-car detached garage. Additional amenities include a whole-house generator, underground irrigation system, private dock, and beautifully maintained grounds. Whether you envision enjoying the property for generations to come or creating your own North Lake Leelanau legacy, opportunities to acquire a property of this size, depth, and location are exceptionally rare. The waterfront parcel features 150 feet of private frontage, there will be deed restricted to prohibit a walking easement benefiting the western parcel (Tax ID 009-003-019-50), preserving the privacy and exclusivity of the shoreline. Also see MLS#1949023 for the house offered with 175 ft of waterfront.

3706 N Manitou Trail, Leland
$995,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1949956 MLS ⋅ N/A BLDG.
Welcome to this stunning 3 Bed/2 Bath Retreat on the south end of Lake Leelanau, offering the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and Northern Michigan lifestyle. Just 4 years old and meticulously maintained, this home is truly move-in ready. Enjoy breathtaking sunrise and sunset views from your beautiful lakeside deck, or take advantage of the large, low-maintenance dock that stays in year-round—no hauling in and out each season. Inside, the open layout is bright and inviting with a versatile den for extra living or office space. The property includes a 2-car garage with large attic storage above. New well and septic being installed prior to closing. Whether you’re cruising by boat to Leland for a day of shopping and dining or making the quick 15-minute drive to downtown Traverse City, this location offers the best of both worlds. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a slice of paradise on one of Northern Michigan’s most desirable all-sports lakes.

9850 S Perrins Landing Drive, Traverse City
$689,900
1949948 MLS ⋅ N/A BLDG.
Discover a rare opportunity to build your dream lake house on 2.53 acres with 264 feet of private frontage on South Lake Leelanau. Enjoy the unique ability to walk to nearby restaurants, wineries, coffee shop, grocery store, and post office, making everyday conveniences and local amenities just minutes from your doorstep. A protected wetland area lies between the proposed building site and the waterfront, creating a beautiful natural buffer, preserving the peaceful character of the property, and providing private bird sanctuary. A future boardwalk will provide convenient access across the wetlands to the water, offering a scenic connection to the shoreline while maintaining the integrity of the natural landscape. The seller has one potential home design drawn up, providing a great starting point for the next owner, while still allowing the flexibility to explore other building options. Whether you're envisioning a year-round residence or a Northern Michigan getaway, this property offers an incredible opportunity to create something truly special on South Lake Leelanau. Perc test completed.

509 S Lake Shore Drive, Lake Leelanau
$4,500,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 1949023 MLS ⋅ N/A BLDG.
A truly rare opportunity to own a generational estate on the coveted west shore of North Lake Leelanau, just north of Leland. Encompassing two tax parcels, this exceptional offering represents the deepest property extending from the lake all the way to M-22, creating a unique combination of expansive waterfront and acreage that is seldom available. The home offers comfortable lakeside living with hardwood floors throughout the living room, dining room, and three bedrooms, a spacious multi-level deck overlooking spacious lawn & lakefront, a 2-car attached garage, and an additional 1-car detached garage. Additional amenities include a whole-house generator, underground irrigation system, private dock, and beautifully maintained grounds. Whether you envision enjoying the property for generations to come or creating your own North Lake Leelanau legacy, opportunities to acquire a property of this size, depth, and location are exceptionally rare. The waterfront parcel currently features 150 feet of private frontage, with an additional 25 feet of frontage being added from the neighboring property to the south, resulting in approximately 175 feet of pristine North Lake Leelanau frontage. The 175-foot waterfront parcel (Tax ID 009-003-019-00), where the home is situated, will be deed restricted to prohibit a walking easement benefiting the western parcel (Tax ID 009-003-019-50), preserving the privacy and exclusivity of the shoreline. Also see MLS#1950151 for the house offered with 150 ft of waterfront.

3706a N Manitou Trail, Leland
$679,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 1948274 MLS ⋅ M&B BLDG.
Classic American Foursquare with Timeless Character Rich in historic charm and timeless craftsmanship, this classic 4 Bedroom 3.5 bath, American Foursquare, showcases the enduring appeal of one of America's most beloved architectural styles. From its balanced proportions to its inviting interior, every space reflects the quality and character of a bygone era. Inside, beautifully preserved original hardwood floors and rich wood trim create warmth and authenticity throughout the home. A stunning built-in China cabinet serves as both a functional centerpiece and a testament to the home's original craftsmanship, while the butler's pantry offers vintage charm that is increasingly rare in today's homes. The spacious floor plan provides comfortable living with generously sized rooms, abundant natural light, and thoughtful details at every turn. For those who appreciate classic architecture, original millwork, and homes with genuine character, this American Foursquare is a rare opportunity to own a beautiful piece of history. Optional shared Lk Leelanau waterfront see associated docs for details.

7651 Timberwoods Drive, Traverse City
$880,000
1948037 MLS ⋅ Sunset Shores Subdivision BLDG.
Create your dream home on this exceptional 0.70-acre waterfront parcel offering 100 feet of private frontage on the crystal-clear waters of North Lake Leelanau. Perfectly positioned to capture breathtaking westerly sunset views, the property features a cleared building envelope, allowing you to begin planning your new home immediately. A septic approval for a pump-and-haul system is already in place and plans for a community septic system are in the works, see associated documents for details and timing. Seller has pre paid $40,000 to be included in the system when operational. Enjoy the tranquility of lakefront living while being just minutes from the charming villages, wineries, restaurants, and recreational opportunities that make Leelanau County one of Northern Michigan's most sought-after destinations. Whether you're envisioning a year-round residence or a seasonal retreat, this is a rare opportunity to build on one of the region's most desirable inland lakes.

N Sunset Shores Drive, Lake Leelanau
$4,950,000
6 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 1947196 MLS ⋅ N/A BLDG.
Enjoy the best of North Lake Leelanau living with 200 feet of private frontage and breathtaking lake views from this spacious 6-bedroom, 3.5-bath home. Designed for gathering family and friends, the home features warm pine kitchen cabinetry, charming tongue-and-groove pine walls and ceilings, a cozy gas fireplace, and custom built-in cabinetry that adds character and functionality throughout. The expansive lakeside deck provides the perfect setting for outdoor entertaining, relaxing, and taking in the beauty of the lake. With six bedrooms, there's plenty of space for hosting guests or creating a year-round retreat. Property improvements include two detached garages offering exceptional storage for vehicles, boats, and recreational equipment, one measuring 1,264 sq ft and the second 576 sq ft. An added bonus is the included 4.2-acre parcel located across the road, providing additional privacy. Point of Sale inspection has been ordered.

5254 N Manitou Trail, Leland
$1,750,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 1946630 MLS ⋅ Twin Pines BLDG.
Experience lakefront living at its finest with 100 feet of frontage on the sought-after south end of North Lake Leelanau. Perfectly positioned between North and South Lake Leelanau in a peaceful no-wake zone, this property offers breathtaking western exposure and stunning sunset views over the water. Inside, warm maple flooring and knotty pine accents create an inviting Up North atmosphere. The spacious living room features soaring vaulted ceilings and a dramatic wall of windows that frames panoramic lake views and fills the home with natural light. An open loft overlooking the living area provides flexible space for a home office, additional sleeping quarters, or a cozy retreat, along with a second-floor bathroom conveniently located just off the loft space. Offering 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, the home also includes a generous 14' x 28' finished bonus room above the garage and a substantial 33' x 50' walkout lower level ready for future finishing and customization. Situated on a quiet private road with virtually no through traffic, this property is an ideal setting to enjoy the world-class boating, fishing, and recreation that make Lake Leelanau one of Northern Michigan’s premier waterfront destinations.

345 N Twin Pines Drive, Lake Leelanau
$1,800,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 1946402 MLS ⋅ Narrows BLDG.
Nestled along 100 feet of private frontage on beautiful Lake Leelanau, this exceptional waterfront property captures everything people love about life in Leelanau County. Set on a spacious lot with a sweeping lawn stretching to the water's edge, the setting invites long summer days on the lake, evening bonfires by the shore, and unforgettable gatherings with family and friends. The thoughtfully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is designed to make the most of its waterfront setting, with lake views from many of the home's primary living spaces. The main residence features three spacious bedrooms, two full baths, and a convenient powder room. A large finished guest space adjacent to the garage provides additional seasonal accommodations for visitors. The updated kitchen offers generous workspace and opens comfortably to the living and dining areas, while expansive windows frame picturesque views of Lake Leelanau. Recent improvements include a newer septic system and drain field, providing peace of mind for years to come. With over 8,500 acres of water and more than 40 miles of shoreline, Lake Leelanau is one of Northern Michigan's most treasured destinations for boating, fishing, swimming, and waterfront recreation. From this central location, you'll enjoy easy access to award-winning wineries, renowned restaurants, golf courses, and the charming towns that make Leelanau County such a special place to call home. Whether you're looking for a year-round residence or a seasonal retreat, this is a rare opportunity to own 100 feet of private frontage on one of Northern Michigan's most beloved lakes.

553 S Lake Shore Drive, Lake Leelanau
$800,000
1924689 MLS ⋅ Metes And Bounds BLDG.
Discover your dream of lakefront living on Lake Leelanau with this exceptional property boasting 203 feet of frontage. Nestled on 1.4 acres, this double lot offers ample space to create your ideal retreat. POSITIONED JUST 40 FEET FROM THE LAKE ON THE APPROVED MDEQ BUILDING SITE, THIS PRIME LOCATION FOR YOUR FUTURE HOME promises breathtaking views and easy access to the water. A gravel drive leads to the building site, where plans did include a proposed 3 car garage and attached 3 bed 2 bath 2-story home. The plans also featured a wrap-around porch that would offer sunrise views from the front, and sunset vistas from a back patio, inviting you to savor every moment of lakeside living. Enjoy the tranquility of the wooded lowland, providing a natural barrier to road noise. Located near Lake Leelanau, Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, and Traverse City. The possibilities for outdoor recreation and leisure are endless. Take the first step toward your lakeside retreat today!

1777 S Lake Shore Drive, Lake Leelanau
$250,000
1907958 MLS ⋅ Perrins Landing BLDG.
Opportunity knocks for your family retreat on 2.69 acres nestled at south Lake Leelanau's Perrins Landing community. Buildable lot with pole building for your toys and paved drive already there. Zoning is good for duplex, campground and hotel/motel with special use permit. Walk to the boat launch or grab a meal at Paradise Cove Bar & Grill. Frontage would need a boardwalk through wet area with at the water. Older mobile has been removed, but pad is there with well & Septic. Close to Traverse City and all the benefits of being in Leelanau County.

6785 Fouch Road, Traverse City
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