Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Sunset Park Beach earns its name every evening, when the western sky ignites over shallow Gulf waters and transforms this compact shoreline into a front-row theater. You'll spread your towel on coarse coral sand beneath Australian pines, their needles crunching underfoot, while brown pelicans dive for mullet just offshore. The beach itself occupies a single city block in the quiet residential island of Key Colony Beach, tucked between Marathon and the wider archipelago. The water here runs knee-deep for dozens of yards, warm as bathwater and gentle enough that you can walk out with a sundowner in hand, feeling turtle grass brush your ankles. Mangroves frame the northern edge, their prop roots creating shadowy nurseries where juvenile snappers dart between branches. A simple pavilion, weathered picnic tables, and a short fishing pier complete the scene—no vendors, no umbrellas for rent, just locals who know where to position their folding chairs. You'll want to arrive an hour before sunset to claim your patch of sand, though even on weekends the crowd rarely exceeds a dozen couples and photographers. The horizon stays unobstructed, no condos or cruise ships to interrupt the sightline as the sun sinks into the Gulf, staining the water copper and magenta. Bring what you need—this beach trades amenities for intimacy.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Sunset Park Beach.
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Sunset Park Beach offers generally calm, shallow waters suitable for swimming, though conditions vary with weather and tides. The beach is small and primarily rocky/sandy, making it more popular for wading than extensive swimming. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk and monitor children closely. The calm Gulf waters here are typically gentle, but always check local conditions before entering. Water shoes are recommended due to occasional rocks and sea grass along the shoreline.
As the name suggests, late afternoon to sunset is the ideal time to visit Sunset Park Beach, offering spectacular Gulf of Mexico sunset views. The Florida Keys enjoy year-round warm weather, with the most pleasant conditions from November through April when humidity is lower and temperatures range from 70-80°F. Summer months (June-September) are hotter and more humid with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Arrive 30-60 minutes before sunset to secure a good viewing spot, especially during peak winter season.
Sunset Park Beach has a small public parking area located at 13th Street and West Ocean Drive in Key Colony Beach. Parking spaces are limited, typically accommodating around 10-15 vehicles, so arrive early, especially during sunset hours and peak season. The beach is accessible via the Overseas Highway (US-1); take the Key Colony Beach exit at Mile Marker 53.5. Street parking may be available on nearby residential streets, but always observe posted signs and regulations in this small island community.
Sunset Park Beach is a small, basic beach park with minimal facilities—there are no restrooms, showers, or food vendors on-site. The nearby Key Colony Beach community (within a mile) offers several casual restaurants, cafes, and a small shopping plaza along West Ocean Drive. For more extensive dining and lodging options, Marathon (just minutes away across the causeway) provides numerous hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, and grocery stores. Plan accordingly and bring your own refreshments, sunscreen, and beach supplies.
Unlike the bustling beaches of Key West or Islamorada, Sunset Park Beach remains relatively undiscovered, offering an intimate, locals-favorite atmosphere. Its small size (just a pocket beach) and location in the quiet, residential Key Colony Beach community keep crowds minimal. The beach provides unobstructed western Gulf views, making it exceptional for sunset photography without the commercialization of larger Keys beaches. Its low-key vibe appeals to couples and travelers seeking a peaceful, authentic Florida Keys beach experience away from tourist hotspots.
