Smiths Bay: Lake Minnetonka Real Estate™

Smiths Bay is a unique and desirable part of Lake Minnetonka, situated in the city of Orono and surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Arcola Bridge, Minnetonka Beach, Bracketts Point, and Lower Lake North. With 266 acres of water and 2.10 miles of shoreline, this bay offers a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and convenient access to nearby communities. Named after early settler Elliot Smith, who made his home along its shores, Smiths Bay carries a rich history while serving as a sought-after location for lakefront living. Homebuyers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike are drawn to its picturesque surroundings and vibrant community.  

Why Choose Smiths Bay?

Smiths Bay is known for its stunning waterfront views, deep water access, and prime location. Its tranquil waters provide an excellent setting for boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The bay is well-suited for a variety of recreational activities, with low to moderate boat traffic making it a peaceful escape for those seeking a balance between relaxation and adventure.  

The bay’s location offers excellent accessibility, with major roadways such as Shoreline Drive and Orono’s city streets providing easy connections to Wayzata, Spring Park, and other key areas around the lake. Just minutes away, the charming town of Wayzata features boutique shopping, fine dining, and entertainment options, while Minnetonka Beach adds a touch of exclusivity with its lakeside elegance.  

Smiths Bay is also conveniently located near some of Lake Minnetonka’s most notable landmarks. Bracketts Point, home to some of the most prestigious estates in the area, borders the bay to the east, while Lower Lake North opens up a vast stretch of the lake for endless boating and recreation.  

Water Quality & Clarity  

Smiths Bay is known for its good water quality, offering clear waters suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing. Seasonal variations can impact water clarity, but overall, the bay remains a well-maintained and healthy part of Lake Minnetonka. Regular environmental monitoring and conservation efforts contribute to the bay’s water quality, ensuring a desirable living environment for residents. Occasional algae blooms and aquatic vegetation are managed through local conservation initiatives, keeping the bay’s ecosystem in balance.  

Real Estate on Smiths Bay – What to Expect  

Smiths Bay offers a mix of luxury estates, modern lakefront homes, and historic cottages, making it a diverse and sought-after real estate market. Many homes feature private docks, expansive lakefront patios, and wooded lots, providing homeowners with both privacy and stunning lake views.  

With its prime location and access to some of the best recreational areas on Lake Minnetonka, real estate in Smiths Bay is in high demand. Limited inventory and strong interest from buyers looking for waterfront property make this a competitive market. Whether you’re seeking a classic lakefront home or a newly built estate with modern amenities, Smiths Bay offers a variety of options for discerning buyers.  

Schools and School District  

Homes in the Smiths Bay area are served by the highly rated Orono School District, known for its strong academic programs, small class sizes, and excellent extracurricular activities. Families in this area have access to some of the best schools in the region, making it a great place for those looking to settle in a high-quality school district.  

Buying or Selling on Smiths Bay  

If you’re considering buying or selling a home on Smiths Bay, now is the perfect time to explore the opportunities available in this coveted lakeside community. Whether you’re looking for a luxury estate, a charming lakefront home, or a peaceful retreat on the water, Smiths Bay offers something for everyone.   

With its combination of breathtaking scenery, prime real estate opportunities, and exceptional recreational access, Smiths Bay remains one of the most desirable destinations on Lake Minnetonka. Whether you’re looking for a lakeside retreat or a year-round home, this bay offers the best of Minnesota lake living.

Latest listings on Smiths Bay:

$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.

$4,895,000
ACTIVE Status ⋅ 7 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 7090325 MLS ⋅ 10,032 SqFt.
Luxury Lake Minnetonka Custom Home Nestled on 1.75 private acres with breathtaking lake views, this extraordinary custom-built residence by Smuckler Architectural Custom Homes offers over 10,000 finish square feet of timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. A dramatic grand foyer welcomes you with soaring ceilings, a sweeping staircase, and stunning architectural details throughout. Expansive walls of windows flood the home with natural light while showcasing spectacular lake views. Designed for both everyday living and exceptional entertaining, the gourmet chef's kitchen features premium finishes and flows seamlessly into spacious gathering areas and a formal dining room. The luxurious main-level owner’s suite offers a private retreat, while main-level laundry and in-floor heating provide everyday comfort and convenience. Featuring 7 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, this home provides abundant space for family and guests. The upper level includes five generously sized bedrooms, while the lower level is built for entertaining with a billiards area, full wet bar, fitness room, sauna, hot tub, and additional guest accommodations. Additional highlights include private lakeshore and dock in Smith Bay, a whole-home surround sound system, an automatic whole-house backup generator for peace of mind, an impressive heated 6-car garage, including a dedicated vehicle lift for additional car storage, and new roof in 2026. This exceptional property combines luxury, comfort, and convenience in a premier location just minutes from downtown Wayzata.

1910 Shoreline Drive, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Counselor Realty, Inc.

$5,395,000
PENDING Status ⋅ 4 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 7038988 MLS ⋅ 5,659 SqFt.
Wake up to shimmering sunrise views and end each day surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Lake Minnetonka. Set on 1.1 acres, one of the bigger lots in Minnetonka Beach, with 150 feet of riprapped shoreline and sandy hard bottom. This exceptional home offers an exceptional blend of luxury, warmth, and lakeside living. Designed for family comforts, memorable gatherings and relaxed everyday moments, the home’s expansive spaces are perfect for hosting, unwinding, and celebrating life’s moments with 2 fireplaces, a wine cellar, sauna, and wet bar. Thoughtful architectural details, from the cross-gable roof with exposed rafter tails, reflects timeless craftsmanship throughout. The home seamlessly marries classic charm with modern comforts, full interior upgrade/update in 2025–26 and fully rebuilt in 2016, down to the studs. Step outside to the gorgeous patio, where manicured grounds lead to the water’s edge, offering unforgettable east-facing lake views. Steps to neighborhood parks and Dakota Trail and not a stop light to downtown Wayzata, Minneapolis and MSP airport. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy privacy, beauty, and legacy living on Lake Minnetonka.

2442 Lafayette Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

$1,049,900
CLOSED Status ⋅ 3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7034245 MLS ⋅ 2,752 SqFt.
Are you dreaming of living on Lake Minnetonka with your own shoreline and lower property taxes? This rambler sits on 0.82 acres with 110 feet of prime lakeshore and stunning views. 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 3-Car Garage, 2,752 Finished Sq Ft. Beautiful lot with room to renovate or tear down and build your dream home. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets, beautiful view of the lake and the rare chance to own a sizable lot on one of Minnesota's most desirable lakes. Don't miss this one - whether you update the current home or design new construction, the possibilities are endless!

2040 N Shore Drive, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Counselor Realty, Inc.

$4,550,000
CLOSED Status ⋅ 5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 7015578 MLS ⋅ 3,972 SqFt.
Welcome to this timeless, custom-built Lake Minnetonka residence where refined design meets effortless lakeside living. The great room is both inviting and sophisticated, centered around a stone-surround fireplace and expansive sliding doors that open to a deck and beautifully landscaped backyard, perfectly positioned for both intimate mornings and elevated entertaining. Seamlessly connected to the screened-in porch, the home offers a natural flow between indoor and outdoor living, ideal for long summer evenings by the water. A chef’s dream kitchen featuring a beverage fridge, a dedicated coffee station, and a buffet passthrough, with thoughtfully designed pantry storage. Additional features include a main-level office, a spacious mudroom with custom storage plus oversized closet and drop zone. The upper level features five well-appointed bedrooms, including a tranquil primary suite with a private covered deck overlooking the lake. The spa-inspired primary bath has been completely reimagined with sophisticated design finishes, dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a separate walk-in shower. All bedrooms feature walk-in closets, and all bathrooms throughout the home have been updated, complemented by new Restoration Hardware lighting and plush upper-level carpeting. Stepping outdoors reveals a thoughtfully transformed lakeside setting with newly designed landscaping and a new heated in-ground plunge pool. The outdoor culinary terrace is expertly equipped with a built-in grill, cooktop, and beverage cooler, offering a kitchen like setting that transforms lakeside gatherings from casual to exceptional. The unfinished lower level provides flexibility and abundant storage, ready to accommodate a future recreation room, golf simulator, additional bathroom, and more. This home also offers a heated 3 car garage. Located in the coveted Minnetonka Beach neighborhood, this home embodies a lifestyle of relaxed sophistication and timeless Lake Minnetonka living.

2412 Lafayette Road, Wayzata

Listing courtesy of Edina Realty, Inc..

$4,801,000
CLOSED Status ⋅ 4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 6686074 MLS ⋅ 4,764 SqFt.
Incredible cottage charm abounds in this remodeled Minnetonka Beach lake home. The home sits on nearly an acre with SE exposure for long, light filled days. Its 90 feet of SE facing lakeshore has sandy bottom and includes a dock with lift. The stunning remodel by PKA architects, Streeter Homes, and Linda Engler Design in 2017 has transformed the space and created breathtaking views to the lake. The Kitchen has a wall of windows to the Lake, featuring premium appliances and materials. Breakfast bar/pantry complements the space. Main open living area with 2 fireplaces. The North side offers a quiet library/study, and a wet bar room that opens to the Lake. The front porch is a gracious 12' by 36' offering multiple screening configurations. Large mudroom and laundry center includes side entry access to the ¾ bath, perfect for lakeside living. Upper-level offers 4 bedrooms including a lake-facing primary bedroom with fireplace, ensuite 3/4 bath, and a dream closet. Two other generous, lake-facing bedrooms share a hall full bath with separate tub and shower. A fourth bedroom functions as a hang-out room for these owners. The unfinished lower level offers ample storage space for lake toys, accessible from the front side of the home. There is also space for additional finishing as might be desired. A new, 2017-built 3-car garage offers additional storage. Convenient access and guest parking around a large circular driveway. Come home!

2482 Lafayette Road, Minnetonka Beach

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty - Lakes.

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