Smithtown Bay
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About Smithtown Bay
Location Highlights
Smithtown Bay is a picturesque enclave nestled in the serene southern corner of Upper Lake Minnetonka. This charming bay enjoys natural protection from the brisk winds that often sweep across the expansive waters of Lake Minnetonka. The desirable homes lining Smithtown Bay are primarily situated in the communities of Victoria and Shorewood, which fall within the acclaimed Minnetonka School District. Directly across the bay lie the scenic Wawatasso and Crane Islands. Once a heron rookery, Crane Island experienced significant tree loss due to a storm in 1906, prompting the heron population to migrate to the adjacent Wawatasso Island. Following this event, 25 Presbyterian families established summer cottages and communal facilities on Crane Island, which has now evolved into a collection of vacation homes and a designated Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Water Quality
With a maximum depth of 80 feet, Smithtown Bay boasts an A rating for water quality from the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District. This means that the waters are remarkably clear and inviting, providing residents and visitors with a perfect setting for recreational activities throughout the year.
Boating Restrictions
There are no boating restrictions in Smithtown Bay, allowing for unrestricted enjoyment of the water.
Lake Access
While Smithtown Bay does not have any boat launches or marinas directly on its shores, nearby Upper Lake features Howards Point Marina and the Upper Minnetonka Yacht Club. Howards Point Marina offers a variety of services, including boat rentals, dock slips, and off-season storage. Meanwhile, the Upper Minnetonka Yacht Club provides sailing lessons and additional dock facilities for boating enthusiasts.
Amenities
The strategic location of Smithtown Bay ensures easy access to local amenities, including Crescent Beach and Palmer Pointe on Upper Lake. Crescent Beach features a dock for swimmers and launch points for kayaks and canoes, with lifeguards on duty from noon to 5 pm daily, making it a safe spot for families. Palmer Pointe hosts the annual "Liberty on the Lake" charity event, where country music star Tim McGraw performs on Lake Minnetonka to support Helping Paws. This popular event, held near Eagle Island, attracts boaters from across the lake to witness the end-of-summer performance, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.
