Old Channel Bay | Lake Minnetonka Real Estate™

Old Channel Bay is a unique and desirable part of Lake Minnetonka, located in the eastern section of Carmans Bay, north of Tonka Bay and Excelsior in Hennepin County. This bay holds historical significance, having originally connected the Upper and Lower Lakes of Lake Minnetonka. Its rich history and serene environment make it appealing to homebuyers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The nearby cities of Tonka Bay and Excelsior provide convenient access to the bay, offering a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities.  

Why Choose Old Channel Bay?

Scenic Beauty and Lifestyle: Old Channel Bay is known for its calm waters and scenic surroundings, making it ideal for various recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. The bay's tranquil environment offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.  

Prime Location and Accessibility: The bay is easily accessible via major roadways, including nearby highways, and is in close proximity to town centers like Excelsior and Tonka Bay, which offer shopping, dining, and entertainment options.  

Notable Nearby Bays, Islands, and Points: Adjacent to Old Channel Bay are several points of interest, including Carmans Bay, Tonka Bay, and Excelsior Bay, each offering unique landscapes and recreational opportunities.  

Water Quality & Clarity  

Old Channel Bay maintains good water quality, with clarity levels that support various aquatic activities. The bay's depth and overall cleanliness make it suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing. Local environmental reports and homeowner observations indicate consistent water quality, with ongoing maintenance efforts to preserve its condition. While occasional algae blooms and aquatic plant life are natural occurrences, conservation efforts are in place to manage their impact on water conditions.  

Real Estate on Old Channel Bay – What to Expect  

The real estate landscape around Old Channel Bay features a variety of homes, including luxury estates, modern lakefront homes, and historic cabins. Desirable property features often include private docks, lakefront patios, wooded lots, and proximity to local amenities. The real estate market in this area is characterized by limited inventory and high demand, with price ranges reflecting the premium nature of lakefront living.  

Schools and School District  

The Old Channel Bay area is served by the Minnetonka School District, offering quality education to local families. Specific elementary, middle, and high schools serving the area can be identified based on property listings and district boundaries. Notable school rankings, specialized programs, and strong community involvement contribute to the area's appeal for families.  

Buying or Selling on Old Channel Bay  

If you're considering buying or selling property on Old Channel Bay, now is an excellent time to explore available listings or connect with a trusted local expert to maximize your property's value. Embrace the opportunity to enjoy a serene lakeside lifestyle or to pass on your cherished home to the next appreciative owner.  

Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat or an active lakeside lifestyle, Old Channel Bay offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a welcoming community.

Latest listings on Old Channel Bay:

$1,799,000
ACTIVE Status ⋅ 7115014 MLS
Exceptional Lake Minnetonka homesite offering 410 feet of prime shoreline on East Upper Lake. Ideally positioned in a quiet harbor in Orono, this 1.45-acre setting provides a rare blend of tranquility, privacy, and a central lake location. An older home is located on the property, but the value is in the land. Open to all builders! Enjoy access to the lifestyle and amenities of both downtown Excelsior and Wayzata. Located in the Westonka School District. The Dakota and Minnetonka regional trails are just minutes away. Please do not enter the property without an appointment.

2685 Shadywood Road, Excelsior

Listing courtesy of Lakes Sotheby's International.

$1,799,000
ACTIVE Status ⋅ 3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7115008 MLS ⋅ 4,269 SqFt.
Exceptional Lake Minnetonka homesite offering 410 feet of prime shoreline on East Upper Lake. Ideally positioned in a quiet harbor in Orono, this 1.45-acre setting provides a rare blend of tranquility, privacy, and a central lake location. Remodel this older three bedroom, three-bathroom one story home and boat house, or build new. Open to all builders! Enjoy access to the lifestyle and amenities of both downtown Excelsior and Wayzata. Located in the Westonka School District. The Dakota and Minnetonka regional trails are just minutes away. Please do not enter the property without an appointment.

2685 Shadywood Road, Excelsior

Listing courtesy of Lakes Sotheby's International.

$4,995,000
ACTIVE Status ⋅ 4 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 7065021 MLS ⋅ 4,664 SqFt.
Experience lakeside living at its finest with this to-be-built home on the shores of beautiful Lake Minnetonka. Perfectly positioned on a west-facing lot, enjoy stunning sunset views over sparkling waters every evening. The level lot provides effortless access to a sandy lake bottom—ideal for swimming, boating, and relaxing by the shore. Designed for comfort and convenience, the main floor features an open-concept layout with the primary bedroom suite and all essential living spaces on one level. Large lakeside windows and outdoor living areas take full advantage of the views. Upstairs offers three additional bedrooms plus a spacious bonus room—perfect for guests, a home office, or recreation space. This is a rare opportunity to create your dream lake home with the perfect blend of thoughtful design, modern amenities, and natural beauty on one of Minnesota’s most sought-after lakes. The plan that is attached could be built by one of the most reputable custom homebuilders in this market. The lot can be purchased for $2,590,000 and you could choose your own builder.

4410 Manitou Road, Excelsior

Listing courtesy of Gatehouse Properties LTD.

$2,590,000
ACTIVE Status ⋅ 7057352 MLS
Experience lakeside living at its finest on this exceptional Lake Minnetonka lot, featuring 140 feet of level, A-rated sandy lakeshore on East Upper Lake. Nearly half an acre of southwest-facing shoreline offers miles of panoramic views and breathtaking sunsets over the water. This prime location combines peace and privacy with incredible convenience—just minutes from downtown Excelsior, scenic trails, and beautiful parks. Situated within the award-winning Minnetonka School District, this is a rare opportunity to build your dream home on one of the area’s most sought-after settings. Picture yourself enjoying life on this extraordinary lot—your piece of beautiful Lake Minnetonka. The house plan attached is available to be built. The total land and build cost would be $4,995,000

4410 Manitou Road, Tonka Bay

Listing courtesy of Gatehouse Properties LTD.

$3,500,000
ACTIVE Status ⋅ 4 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 7016900 MLS ⋅ 4,820 SqFt.
Architecturally pleasing with refined modern influence, this exceptional lakefront residence rests on .66 acres with 104’ of perfectly elevated shoreline on Lake Minnetonka. Tucked at the end of a long driveway, the setting offers sweeping water views and unforgettable sunsets. Designed for effortless main-level living, expansive gathering spaces feature walls of windows which frame the lake with elegance and light. The primary suite is a serene retreat featuring a spa-inspired bath, walk-through closet and access to the screen porch. An additional ensuite bedroom and office with gas fireplace complete the main level. Upstairs offers two bedrooms, a full bath and flex room, while the lower level includes a spacious rec room and unfinished space ready for future customization. Located in the Minnetonka School District. Make this extraordinary setting your everyday escape.

4770 Manitou Road, Excelsior

Listing courtesy of Edina Realty, Inc..

$6,289,600
CLOSED Status ⋅ 5 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 6803451 MLS ⋅ 8,691 SqFt.
Lake Minnetonka Lakeshore! Classic, coastal-style home with coffered ceilings, layers of enameled woodwork and walls of glass showcasing stunning views from nearly every room. Custom Stonewood build features an open concept main floor with center island kitchen and a great room opening to large, covered porch with phantom screens and outdoor cooking. Sneak away to the lakeside sunroom or the richly appointed study. Upper-level features primary suite with fireplace and luxury bath, three additional bedrooms and an exercise room. Escape to an inspirational art/crafting studio – which could also serve as a separate apartment space. Walkout lower-level features custom bar/billiard area, family room with fireplace and the fifth bedroom. Step out to the expansive screened patio with fireplace opening to the sprawling level lawn and miles of southerly views of Lake Minnetonka. Picture-perfect lakefront with crystal clear water, hard sand bottom, and charming boathouse on the shore. Long list of extra amenities including geothermal heating and cooling, large lower-level space for storage or future gym and an elevator serving all three floors. Prime location, minutes to downtown Excelsior and Wayzata, close to restaurants, shopping, multiple trails and parks.

2789 Pheasant Road, Orono

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$2,399,000
ACTIVE Status ⋅ 6796771 MLS
Breathtaking setting offering unparalleled west-facing sunset views overlooking 104' of level rip-rap shoreline. “A” grade water quality. Adjacent fire lane creates an additional buffer. Ideally located between Wayzata and Excelsior. Bring the builder of your choice!

4330 Manitou Road, Excelsior

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$4,450,000
ACTIVE Status ⋅ 3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 6792418 MLS ⋅ 3,713 SqFt.
Gorgeous to-be-built home by James McNeal Architecture and Design, and built by Water Street Homes! Enjoy this stunning condo-alternative offering one-level living and an open floorplan showcasing beautiful water views at every turn! Tranquil lakeside Primary Suite with spa-like bath; junior suite; office; and 3rd bedroom/flex room. 3-car heated garage with epoxy floor. Breathtaking west facing setting offering unparalleled sunset views overlooking 100'+ of level rip-rap shoreline. “A” grade water quality. Adjacent fire lane creates an additional buffer! Build without elapsing time for design plans! Ideally located between Wayzata and Excelsior. Lot is open to all builders.

4330 Manitou Road, Excelsior

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$2,096,500
CLOSED Status ⋅ 6653628 MLS
Sold before print.

4774 Manitou Road, Excelsior

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$2,100,000
CLOSED Status ⋅ 5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 6658360 MLS ⋅ 4,223 SqFt.
Introducing an exceptional custom-built walkout rambler on the serene shores of Lake Minnetonka, offering the ultimate lakeside lifestyle. Set on nearly an acre with 90 feet of private shoreline, a private dock, and a slip, this new construction offers an exclusive opportunity for waterfront living. Located on a quiet inlet off Carman Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, the home strikes a perfect balance of tranquility and recreational potential. Designed for seamless living and entertaining, the open-concept main level boasts a chef-inspired gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and a large island, all flowing into the vaulted living room with a gas fireplace. Stunning lake views from this space make it the ideal place to relax or host guests. The main floor also features a private office and a luxurious primary suite with panoramic views, a spa-like bath, and a walk-in closet — a true retreat. The walkout lower level offers three spacious bedrooms, each with ample closet space, plus a cozy family room with a fireplace. The wet bar adds convenience for entertaining, while the recreational space is perfect for billiards or ping pong. A fully equipped home gym and sauna create an oasis for wellness. The flat backyard extends to the water’s edge, offering direct lake access and a firepit for evening gatherings by the water. Whether launching a boat, enjoying sunset views, or relaxing lakeside, the outdoor spaces are designed to integrate seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surroundings. Carman Bay’s peaceful waters are perfect for water sports, and nearby trails and parks offer opportunities to explore nature. Just minutes from the vibrant communities of Spring Park, Wayzata, and Excelsior, this home provides easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment. This is a rare chance to own a custom-designed lakefront home on one of Minnesota’s most sought-after lakes. Experience unmatched lakeside living!

2670 Pheasant Road, Excelsior

Listing courtesy of Edina Realty, Inc..

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