Sunset Bay Park on Grassy Key

Overview

A tiny bayside pocket park at Morton Street and Kyle Avenue, this spot is all about calm water, mangroves, and a front-row seat to the sun dropping into the Gulf. Operated by the City of Marathon, it’s low-key and local—more quiet overlook than developed beach.

What You’ll See

Expect mangrove-lined shoreline and upland hammock with gumbo limbo, sea grape, mahogany, and several palm species. It’s a classic Keys scene: ospreys calling overhead, crabs skittering along roots, and—if you’re lucky—a nurse shark cruising under the little dock. Views west are unobstructed, which is why people come.

Activities and Vibe

Come to sit, watch, and breathe. Sunset viewing is the main event. Casual photos, light nature-watching, and a short wander are the play here. Light fishing from the dock/shore happens; follow local regs. You can wade, but seaweed is common and there are no lifeguards—swimming isn’t the draw.

Amenities and What to Expect

Infrastructure is minimal: think a small shoreline/dock and native vegetation. No entry fee noted. Don’t count on restrooms, pavilions, rentals, or a proper picnic area. Parking is limited to a small roadside pull-off style near the corner.

Wildlife Notes

Birders get a nice mix: white-crowned pigeons in season, ospreys, hawks and vultures on patrol, plus woodpeckers, mockingbirds, cardinals, and hummingbirds working the vines. Around the water, look for crabs and occasional nurse sharks under the dock.

Best Time to Visit

Sunset hour is the sweet spot, with Saturdays drawing the most folks. Aim to arrive 20–30 minutes before sunset to snag a pull-off and settle in. Breezier, cooler months can feel less buggy, but bring repellent year-round.

Photography Tips

Stay a few minutes after the sun dips—twilight color can be the keeper. A low vantage near the mangroves adds foreground texture; a small zoom helps compress sky color over the water.

Good to Know

• Bugs: no-see-ums and mosquitoes can be brutal at dusk—spray and long sleeves help.
• Pets: dogs are allowed on leash; keep them out of the water.
• Pack in/pack out: with minimal facilities, leave no trace and respect the mangroves.
• Hurricanes have reshaped the Keys before (notably Irma); expect a simple, natural shoreline rather than manicured “park” amenities.