Browns Bay: Lake Minnetonka Real Estate™

Browns Bay spans 696 acres of open water on Lake Minnetonka and features 3.7 miles of shoreline, offering a rare combination of scale and serenity. This northern bay is bordered by Orono to the west and Wayzata to the east, with proximity to Ferndale Road, Peavey Lane, and North Shore Drive. It’s a quiet, residential bay that reflects the area’s legacy of private estates and architectural significance.

History and Early Settlers

Browns Bay is named for James B. Brown, an early settler from Kentucky who built a log home near the northeastern bend of the bay, in what is now Orono. Before the construction of the Grays Bay Dam, Browns Bay was smaller in surface area but extended farther inland. Rising water levels reshaped the shoreline, creating the contours we see today.

Not far from the main body of the bay lies Peavey Lake—a secluded, eight-acre inlet tucked off the eastern shore. Once home to the Bovey family, the inlet serves as a private extension of Browns Bay and reinforces the area's tradition of lakeside retreats.

Architectural Heritage

One of the most distinguished homes on Browns Bay is Old Oaks, a white-columned mansion designed in 1928 by architect William Channing Whitney. Located on the northern shore, the estate once operated as a dairy farm and remains a reminder of Lake Minnetonka’s agrarian and architectural past. Whitney, also known for designing the Minnesota Governor’s Residence, infused the home with refined classical elements and enduring craftsmanship.

Another is the Bellford Estate, originally part of the Harrington Farms plat established by John Harrington during Wayzata’s early settlement. Recently sold and demolished, the property is now being redeveloped into an ultra high-end luxury residence.

Bellford Estate Lake Minnetonka

Browns Bay Marina and Lake Access

Although Browns Bay is primarily residential, it is home to Browns Bay Marina, located near the eastern shoreline. This marina provides seasonal boat slips and low-traffic lake access, catering to residents who value privacy over public activity. The bay’s quiet waters, limited boat traffic, and scenic views make it a favored location for kayaking, paddleboarding, and legacy property ownership.

Natural Features

The Browns Bay Reef is marked by buoys to warn boaters of shallow spots near the southern point. These natural formations reflect the bay’s dynamic underwater terrain and underscore the need for local knowledge when navigating its waters. The surrounding shoreline blends mature trees with established homes—many of them passed down through generations.

Real Estate and Lifestyle

Homes around Browns Bay often remain off-market or trade privately within families. Lot sizes are generous, and the emphasis is on long-term stewardship rather than short-term turnover. Architectural styles vary from mid-century lake homes to legacy estates with carriage houses, tennis courts, and private docks. Proximity to Wayzata, with its restaurants, shops, and schools, adds to the appeal for those seeking both lake access and everyday convenience.

Summary

Browns Bay is more than a body of water. It’s a place where history, architecture, and quiet beauty converge. With 696 acres of navigable lake, 3.7 miles of shoreline, and a culture rooted in generational stewardship, it remains one of the most timeless and sought-after bays on Lake Minnetonka.

Latest Brown's Bay listings:

$5,395,000

ACTIVE Status ⋅ 4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 7161010 MLS ⋅ 4,054 SqFt.

Beach house on Lake Minnetonka! Timeless coastal-style home thoughtfully designed and sited on a private peninsula offering over 400 feet of shoreline with unique combination of big water lakefront of the Lower Lake and quiet water dockage of your own harbor. Light-filled spaces feature coffered ceilings, enameled woodwork and walls of glass showcase miles of lake views and spectacular sunsets from nearly every room. Main-level living includes private primary suite with spa-like bath, dual walk-in closets and stunning lake views. Inviting gathering rooms connect seamlessly with the outdoor spaces - all located just a few steps to the waters’ edge and are designed to embrace the natural surroundings. The upper level features three additional bedrooms and lounge area offering plenty of room for family, guests and entertaining. Premier Ferndale location - walk or bike to downtown Wayzata and the Dakota Trail.

1105 Ferndale Road W, Orono

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$7,895,000

ACTIVE Status ⋅ 6 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 7149399 MLS ⋅ 6,385 SqFt.

A striking expression of modern lakefront luxury, set along 120 feet of pristine, level shoreline on the coveted shores of Browns Bay. Positioned on iconic Shoreline Drive, this nearly brand-new architectural residence offers over 6,000 sqft of thoughtfully designed living space, where expansive walls of glass frame uninterrupted southern views across Lake Minnetonka and the distinction between indoors and out nearly disappears. A private, resort-like setting just minutes from downtown Wayzata, every element of this home has been intentionally designed to celebrate its extraordinary surroundings. From the moment you enter, the scale, architecture, and quality are unmistakable. Walls of glass and accordion doors bring the lake into the home, with automated drop-down screens at every accordion door offering effortless comfort without compromising the indoor-outdoor experience. An integrated whole-home Lutron system provides seamless control of lighting and automated window shades, adding another layer of sophistication to the exceptional finishes and craftsmanship throughout. Beautifully landscaped grounds enhance the home’s striking curb appeal and architectural presence from the moment you arrive. The main level combines radiant in-floor heating with expansive gathering spaces, a show stopping kitchen, and a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, creating an exceptional setting for both everyday living and entertaining. A spectacular main-level primary suite offers a private escape with a spa-caliber ensuite and custom closet, while the upper level adds an equally beautiful primary suite of its own, along with additional refined living spaces and bedrooms offering flexibility for guests and everyday living. Outside, the architecture takes full advantage of its remarkable setting. An expansive deck spans the entire south side of the home, extending the living space along the water and capturing the home’s sweeping southern exposure. Above, a private rooftop terrace offers another place to take in the setting, whether starting the morning with yoga and coffee or winding down with sunset and panoramic lake views. Walkouts from every bedroom open directly to the outdoors, while the newly redone pool decking surrounds the sparkling pool and overlooks the lake, creating a seamless connection between the home, pool, and shoreline. A statement in modern lakefront living, where exceptional design, extraordinary quality, and an unparalleled setting come together at the highest level.

1225 Shoreline Drive, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of eXp Realty.

$3,995,000

ACTIVE Status ⋅ 4 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 7127462 MLS ⋅ 7,959 SqFt.

Located on one of Minnesota's most distinguished streets, this 2005 by Jyland is tucked beautifully into its 3+ acre, resort-like setting, with 360 degrees of wooded privacy, expansive wetland views through the trees, usable yard space for outdoor activities, and deeded access to Lake Minnetonka, via a separate owned parcel across Ferndale Rd W. THE HOME: A European take on traditional architecture, the 8,000 square foot, walkout, two-story was thoughtfully designed to capture nature views from every room and is loaded with timeless finishes and features. Since acquisition in 2014, the home has been meticulously maintained and periodically updated by the current owners. 10' ceilings, extensive mill-work, natural light from panoramic windows, two fireplaces, spacious rooms, and a sumptuous library set the tone on the main floor which is ideal for entertaining. The chef's kitchen features double ovens by Thermador, an eight-top range by Thermador, an integrated Sub Zero fridge/freezer, custom cabinetry, granite tops, and a butler's pantry. The upper-level features 10' ceilings, a conveniently located laundry, and three spacious, private en-suites. The primary en-suite offers beautiful views of Ferndale Marsh, a fireplace, a 15' vault, a generous walk-in closet, and a spa-like bathroom experience with a relaxing soaking tub, heated floors, double vanities and a triple-head steam shower. The walkout lower-level is ideal for entertaining and recreation, featuring 10' ceilings, a spacious bedroom, a dedicated workout room offering flexibility, a large storage room with a second laundry setup, and a fully equipped bar centered to serve the poker room, game room, family room, and outdoor pool area. The insulated and heated 4-car garage has epoxied floors, hot and cold water, two drains, a separate workspace area. The garage walks into a spacious mudroom area with a separate half-bath, cabinets, bench seating, and a walk-in closet. THE LAKEFRONT: This offering provides deeded access to the inlet off Browns Bay via a separate, owned parcel (975 Ferndale Rd W), located just a short walk across the street. This lakeside lot features a double, 30’, floating dock system with a bench that does not need to be taken out in the winter (due to inlet). The lot is fenced off and gated with a storage shed and room to park a golf cart. The water depth at the dock as of 8/28/2026 is as follows - Front third: 24" | Middle third: 36" | Tail end: 36" | Entrance to the sub-bay: 38" in the center. Note: It is the owner's understanding that the water level on the lake is now approximately 6-12 inches below normal. THE SETTING + GROUNDS: Set amid a large lawn surrounded by hardwood forest and marsh, this 3 acre, resort-like estate offers exceptional privacy with minimal visibility of neighboring homes - ideal for spending the day outdoors on the terraces, by the pool, or in the garden. Outdoor speakers provide music on the terraces, even while grilling. Many varied, mature trees support abundant bird-life, including several snag trees that house owls and other species. Frequent visits from local wildlife, include coyotes, fox, mallards, turkey, geese, turtles, and birds such as herons, eagles, hawks, and deer. The large, adjacent Ferndale Marsh is owned by The Nature Conservancy and protected from development, with Hennepin County spraying via helicopter for mosquito control twice each summer. The resort style pool is largely sheltered from the wind. Multicolored pool lights create a vibrant ambiance for parties or family fun. A large pool storage room under the terrace allows for easy access and storage of pool equipment, furniture, garden tools, and yard games. The Ventulux grill just off the kitchen is piped into the natural gas system. THE LOCATION: This property is set in one of Minnesota's most distinguished neighborhoods, walkable to the Dakota Rail Trail and to all of the amenities that downtown Wayzata and Lake Minnetonka have to offer.

1070 Ferndale Road W, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Leyendecker Realty.

$5,475,000

ACTIVE Status ⋅ 4 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 7101751 MLS ⋅ 4,312 SqFt.

Welcome to 1397 Orono Lane, a stunning south-facing Lake Minnetonka retreat on Browns Bay, ideally located just minutes from downtown Wayzata. Extensively remodeled in 2026 by John Kraemer & Sons Inc, this thoughtfully reimagined home offers an exceptional floor plan along with beautiful lake views throughout. The redesigned main level centers around the reimagined chef's kitchen featuring a spacious center island, stainless steel appliances, a stylish walk-in pantry, and separate refrigerator and freezer. The reimagined primary suite offers the ultimate in comfort with a private laundry area, spa-like en-suite bathroom with separate soaking tub and shower, and an incredible walk-in closet with custom organizational components. Step directly from the primary bedroom onto the outdoor patio and enjoy the serene lake setting. A newly added main-level guest bedroom features a charming window seat, walk-in closet, private 3/4 bathroom, and access to the pocket office. The main level also includes a welcoming living room with gas fireplace, a screened porch with Phantom Screens, and expansive lake views from nearly every room. Upstairs, discover two additional bedrooms and a bonus room that could be used for storage, a playroom, or hobby space. The lower level adds even more functionality with a second laundry area complete with drying racks, a sauna/infrared light sauna, and another spacious bonus room perfectly suited for a home gym, hobby room, or additional flex space. Outside, enjoy beautifully manicured landscaping, a large paver patio, screened-in porch, and 116 feet of pristine Lake Minnetonka shoreline. The heated three-stall garage features epoxy flooring and a dedicated hangout area with TV, creating an ideal space for lake days, entertaining, and relaxing year-round. An exceptional opportunity to enjoy a beautifully updated home, stunning lake views, and the best of Lake Minnetonka living just minutes from Wayzata.

1397 Orono Lane, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Compass.

$6,400,000

CLOSED Status ⋅ 4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 7101515 MLS ⋅ 4,982 SqFt.

Welcome to a rare, generational offering on the highly prestigious Ferndale Road. This storybook estate flawlessly marries sophisticated elegance with state-of-the-art modern efficiency, all framed by commanding, south-facing views over Lake Minnetonka’s coveted Brown’s Bay. Having undergone a complete, immaculate transformation since 2021, the residence has been meticulously redesigned to offer an unparalleled standard of modern luxury while seamlessly preserving its timeless architectural heritage. Designed with an emphasis on space and privacy, the home features four expansive bedroom suites and four flawless bathrooms. Work from home is entirely redefined in the lake-facing executive office, where panoramic lake views provide a spectacular backdrop to your daily routine. No detail was spared in the recent renovations. Every space has been elevated with flawless design, high-end finishes, and an abundance of natural light—including a temperature-controlled, 500-bottle custom wine cellar for the ultimate enthusiast. This is where luxury meets efficiency. Enjoy radiant heated flooring throughout the entire main level and garage, backed by advanced, ultra-efficient mechanical systems that ensure peak performance and comfort year-round. Peace of mind comes standard with a discreet, top-of-the-line home security system. An oversized, fully finished two-car garage featuring custom storage integration and radiant heated floors—immaculately curated for the discerning collector. Perfectly positioned to capture breathtaking, south facing panoramic lake views from Brown's Bay, this beautifully landscaped estate offers a rare blend of natural beauty and structural permanence. From its full solid stone cladding and thick-cut cedar shake roof, the home is engineered to endure for generations, promising decades of effortless, low-maintenance living. Located on one of the area’s most prestigious and sought-after roads, this Ferndale masterpiece seamlessly pairs turn-key luxury with significant expansion potential. It is an unparalleled opportunity—offering a refined lakeside sanctuary today, with the structural and spatial freedom to evolve for tomorrow. Walkable to downtown Wayzata’s world-class dining and many boutique shops. Opportunities of this caliber on Ferndale Road are exceedingly rare. For the discerning buyer, this masterpiece represents an unparalleled offering in a highly coveted location.

520 Ferndale Road W, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty - Lakes.

$16,595,000

ACTIVE Status ⋅ 7 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 7084858 MLS ⋅ 8,636 SqFt.

1480 Bracketts Point Road is arguably the most significant lakeshore offering currently available on Lake Minnetonka. Situated on approximately 2.64 acres with roughly 450 ft of shoreline - the largest frontage among our three Bracketts Point listings - this property occupies a position on the peninsula that delivers something no other site can: both east-facing sunrise views AND west-facing sunset views across the open waters of Lower Lake Minnetonka. The existing structure, a 8,636 finished sq. ft., 7-bedroom residence built in 1915, would benefit from serious improvements and could be a candidate for a teardown. Located in the award-winning Orono School District (#278), the property is just minutes from downtown Wayzata. This property has enjoyed a rich history with its unparalleled location, scale, and dual-view orientation.

1480 Bracketts Point Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$7,450,000

ACTIVE Status ⋅ 7084862 MLS

Set on a beautiful, elevated homesite, this exceptional property offers sweeping west facing views, spectacular sunsets, and the ability to accommodate a walkout custom home construction. With 349 feet of west facing lakeshore across 2.10 acres, the site's natural topography provides an ideal setting for a custom estate with generous square footage and commanding views of Lake Minnetonka. Nestled within the prestigious Bracketts Point peninsula, this is a rare opportunity to build in one of Lake Minnetonka's most sought after neighborhoods. Known for its iconic estates, privacy and timeless appeal, Bracketts Point offers a setting that is increasingly difficult to find. Located in the award winning Orono School District (#278), the property is just minutes from downtown Wayzata.

1415 Bracketts Point Road, Orono

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$6,250,000

ACTIVE Status ⋅ 7084861 MLS

With 2.42 acres of exclusive land on Bracketts Point, this rare west-facing lakeshore site offers 335 linear feet of prime Lake Minnetonka shoreline with sweeping panoramic views and unforgettable sunset exposures. The property is ideally configured for a walk-out custom home - offering a clean canvas for a world-class estate without teardown costs or renovation constraints. Bracketts Point is among the most prestigious addresses on Lake Minnetonka, a private peninsula neighborhood historically home to landmark estates. Properties here rarely come to market, and vacant lakeshore sites of this scale are essentially irreplaceable. The site is served by the award-winning Orono School District (#278) and is conveniently located near downtown Wayzata, the Dakota Rail Trail, and all Lake Minnetonka lifestyle amenities while maintaining the seclusion and grandeur befitting a legacy lakeshore estate.

1365 Bracketts Point Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$5,500,000

CLOSED Status ⋅ 5 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 7052612 MLS ⋅ 10,130 SqFt.

Beautifully sited on 1.8 acres, this home offers a deeded boat slip on Lake Minnetonka and unparalleled privacy on one of Minnesota’s most sought-after streets! The main-level features a gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances; vaulted family room with floor-to ceiling windows showcasing stunning garden views; and sunroom with sliding doors that open to the backyard creating the perfect blend of indoor + outdoor living. The main-level primary suite offers a wall of windows; two walk-in closets, fireplace, office with custom built-ins and spa-like en suite with two vanities, soaker tub + zero-entry shower. The lower-level is ideal for entertaining with family room; billiards area; kitchenette; amusement room; three guest bedrooms and exercise room! Additional features: main-level guest bedroom; laundry on the main and lower-levels; expansive storage room and 3-car extra-deep heated garage. Meticulously landscaped setting with pool surrounded by privacy hedge. Just steps from your deeded boat slip + dock on Wayzata Bay! Quick access to the Dakota Regional Trail and within walking distance to the beach and all the shops, restaurants and amenities downtown Wayzata has to offer!

546 Harrington Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$6,800,000

CLOSED Status ⋅ 6 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 7061281 MLS ⋅ 7,396 SqFt.

Landmark lakeshore estate on prime historic Bracketts Point Road. Astonishing once in a lifetime opportunity to own this totally remodeled home. Panoramic views of main lake - both East and West on this peninsula. Privacy, sweeping views of sail boat races, sunrises, sunsets and breezes galore. Measurements are approximate and not guaranteed. All buyers must be pre-qualified.

1300 Bracketts Point Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$6,995,000

ACTIVE Status ⋅ 9 Beds ⋅ 11 Baths ⋅ 6706868 MLS ⋅ 12,524 SqFt.

Old Oaks — An iconic landmark estate on Lake Minnetonka, set on 2.9 private, park-like acres with 212 feet of gently sloping, south-facing sandy beach shoreline and commanding views across Browns Bay and Lower Lake. This timeless Georgian Revival estate, inspired by classic English Country architecture and designed by renowned architect William Channing Whitney, is a solid masonry residence with a newer slate roof, showcasing elegant proportions and refined architectural detailing throughout. The exceptional grounds include a carriage house, pool, tennis court, and 12 garage stalls. Ideally located close to downtown Wayzata, directly across from the Dakota Rail Trail, and within the Orono School District. Just 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis via a direct route with no stop signs or stoplights, offering a rare combination of privacy and accessibility. A rare opportunity to enjoy the estate as-is, thoughtfully renovate to suit your vision, or create a legacy estate on one of Lake Minnetonka’s most distinguished properties.

1305 Shoreline Drive, Orono

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$4,350,000

CLOSED Status ⋅ 6 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 6690238 MLS ⋅ 8,063 SqFt.

Welcome to an unparalleled sanctuary of luxury, privacy and tranquility located in the esteemed Wayzata school district. This magnificent estate, set on a sprawling 5-acre lot, offers refined living near the pristine shores of Lake Minnetonka. Built by Keith Waters, who is well known for building luxury properties such as Minnesota Music Hall Of Fame Lorie Line's home. Step into this grand foyer that opens to spacious living areas adorned with high-end finishes. Enjoy the warmth of multiple fireplaces, perfect for cozy gatherings and elegant entertaining. The chef's kitchen is a masterpiece, featuring top-of-the-line appliances, custom cabinetry, granite counter tops and a large center island. Retreat to the serene primary suite, complete with a spa-like en-suite bathroom and his and hers walk-in closets. This home also features a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2 car garage guest house. With a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living area, it provides all the conveniences of home.

621 Ferndale Road W, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Scates Real Estate, LLC.

$8,500,000

CLOSED Status ⋅ 5 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 6705034 MLS ⋅ 6,471 SqFt.

Steeped in Wayzata history, the Harrington/Ferndale estates have been admired for generations. Built originally as a summer home in 1902, then rebuilt in 1956, this classic Lake Minnetonka estate tells a rich story. 337 feet of lakeshore projects out on a gently curving point, providing uninterrupted, spectacular lake views from a perfect elevation. Stunning 2.22-acre grounds filled with historic trees, lush gardens and stone boathouse.

547 Harrington Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$3,500,000

CLOSED Status ⋅ 5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 6722467 MLS ⋅ 3,536 SqFt.

Incredible opportunity to own a like-new John Kraemer & Sons custom built home. Current owner recently reconfigured main level primary bath, added additional bedroom and bathroom on second level, and enhanced landscaping and privacy. Enjoy main level living along with a gourmet kitchen, sun filled rooms, sauna, steam shower, and three car garage. This home has beautiful southern water views on Browns Bay with 116 feet of shoreline. Situated on 2/3 acre with a sweeping lawn, large paver patio and screened in porch. Convenient location just minutes from Downtown Wayzata and easy highway access.

1397 Orono Lane, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Lakes Sotheby's International Realty.

$3,500,000

CLOSED Status ⋅ 3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 6695378 MLS ⋅ 4,188 SqFt.

This property features every wonderful aspect of lake living that one can dream of. A short walk to the village of Wayzata, a cozy yet sophisticated cottage that has been impeccably maintained. Hidden by enchanting landscaping, stunning gardens and river rock walls, the interior spaces are relaxed, timeless and focused entirely by magical views of Peavey Pond. If you seek privacy, serenity and astounding views, all within this amazing location, this home is for you. Please note that the third bedroom doubles as a family room and the Murphy bed is easily accessible.

513 Ferndale Road W, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Lakes Sotheby's International.

$4,175,000

CLOSED Status ⋅ 3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 6269334 MLS ⋅ 3,202 SqFt.

Spectacular John Kraemer & Sons down to the studs remodel. The perfect condominium alternative with main level living with the primary suite, upstairs guest area and a lower-level fitness area with a sauna, steam shower, massage room as well as access to the 3-car garage. Great outdoor spaces with a screen porch and large paver patio to soak up the south facing lake views and the sweeping lawn to 116 feet of shoreline. Sited on 2/3 acre on Browns Bay and just minutes to Downtown Wayzata. Convenient highway access to get to the airport and Downtown Minneapolis easily.

1397 Orono Lane, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Compass.

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Browns Bay: Lake Minnetonka Real Estate™

History and Early Settlers

Architectural Heritage

Browns Bay Marina and Lake Access

Natural Features

Real Estate and Lifestyle

Summary

Latest Brown's Bay listings:

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