Pros & cons
PROS
- Wide-open Gulf-side sunset views
- Quiet pocket park with native hammock and frequent birdlife
CONS
- Very limited roadside parking near sunset
- Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be fierce at dusk
- Minimal facilities; don’t expect restrooms or picnic setups
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.
Where it is
24.7585, -80.9665Tips for Sunset Bay Park on Grassy Key
- 01Arrive 20–30 minutes before sunset to find a pull-off spot.
- 02Bring strong bug spray and light long sleeves for dusk.
- 03Navigate to Morton St & Kyle Ave; parking is roadside and limited.
- 04There are no services—bring water and pack out all trash.
- 05Fishing is possible from the dock; follow local regulations.
Amenities
Near Sunset Bay Park on Grassy Key
All places →All trails →
1.2 mi awayGrassy Key RV Park & ResortSmall waterfront RV park with sunsets, dockage, and a chilled poolCampground · WiFi
1.4 mi awayDolphin Research CenterHands-on dolphin center with talks, encounters, and a Keys spraygroundParking · Restroom
1.5 mi awayCurry Hammock State ParkMangrove paddling and a mellow beach with epic fall raptor migrationRestroom · Parking
2.3 mi awayCurry Hammock Nature TrailShaded Keys jungle of caprock and palms with a quiet bay overlook.Easy · 1.3 mi · 1 hr
2.9 mi awayCoco Plum BeachQuiet, dog-friendly beach with shallow water and good shellingRestroom · Parking
9.9 mi awayGolden Orb Nature TrailKeys ecosystems sampler: hammock, mangroves, salt pan, and surfEasy · 1.2 mi · 1 hr
10.4 mi awayOld Seven Mile Bridge WalkwayFlat, breezy ocean walk to Pigeon Key with big sky views.Easy · 4.4 mi · 1.8 hr
15.5 mi awayAnne's Beach BoardwalkFlat mangrove boardwalk to shallow Keys water and shaded pavilionsEasy · 0.5 mi · 30 min
