Located in Matecumbe, this vacation home is adjacent to Sunset Drive Beach and within a mile (2 km) of San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park. The vacation home includes a private pool, a kitchen, and a balcony.
Indian Key Historic State Park - 4 min drive - 2.9 miles
Bud n' Mary's Dive Center - 7 min drive - 5.4 miles
Getting around
Marathon, FL (MTH-Florida Keys Marathon) - 31 min drive
Restaurants
Robbie's of Islamorada - 3 min drive
Lazy Days Restaurant - 6 min drive
Islamorada Fish Company - 8 min drive
Square Grouper - 7 min drive
Green Turtle Inn - 8 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Sunset Reef - Bayside Gated Estate, Pool, Spa, Deep Water Dock, Kayaks & SUPs
Sunset Reef is professionally cleaned including all linens and towels. The owners or property manager do not do the cleaning. and laundry.
Islamorada Florida is known as the Sports Fishing Capital of the Florida Keys. Our custom designed and built 5000 square foot home, “Sunset Reef,” is half way between Key West and mainland Florida. Our home is located on the calm bayside at Mile Marker 76 on the Historic Overseas Highway. The highway follows Henry Flagler’s famous railroad to Key West that was destroyed in the deadly Labor Day hurricane of 1935. Miami International Airport is a 90 minute drive without rush hour traffic. Fort Lauderdale International Airport is a 2 hour drive without rush hour traffic. From Sunset Reef a visit to Key West is an easy 75 mile, 90 minute drive. “Downtown Islamorada” is home to a number of great restaurants for casual waterside dining or more upscale seafood, chop or steak dinners. Whether you are coming to the Keys for a restful break from cold weather, to catch lobster and stone crabs, to go scuba diving, to spend your time fishing the back country for snook, redfish, bonefish and tarpon or to go off shore fishing for dolphin, wahoo, snapper and grouper, Sunset Reef in Islamorada can be your comfortable home away from home. Our Islamorada vacation rental license number is 25-0266. Maximum of 8 adults plus children under age 7 for a maximum of 10 people for Sunset Reef rentals.
Sunset Reef is a private, gated, one and one quarter acre, bayside waterfront estate. From outside the reef scene gates on Overseas Highway, US 1, you have no idea what is located on the property. The “Keys” styled home is surrounded by manicured grounds. We are located on the calm bay side of Lower Matecumbe Key in Islamorada, Village of Islands, Florida. The property includes a pool and hot tub looking out over the bay and Matecumbe Bight. There is a 90 foot deep water dock with 50 Amp shore power and water available. The bayside deck area has Adirondack chairs and a wood burning fire pit. The pool area includes lounges, tables and umbrellas. Relax in the hammock or a lounge, read a book, snorkel and swim in the calm shallow bay water, have fun on a stand up paddle board or kayak south to the “hurricane hole” to look for Manatees. You can fish from the dock and walk into the water to snorkel for lobster. We never tire of the stunning sunset views from the bayside deck area and then enjoy an open fire sitting around the fire pit on cool evenings.
Our 4 bedroom, 4 ½ bath home is three stories with a roof top sundeck. The elevator can take you, your luggage and groceries to all indoor living levels of Sunset Reef. You will climb the spiral staircase from either the middle level or the upper level to the roof sundeck for views of not only the islands in Everglades National Park on the bayside, but of the Atlantic Ocean and the historic lighthouse on Alligator Reef. Walk the property through our shade garden, ring one of the peace bells, sit on a teak bench and relax amid the native and tropical landscaping. The spacious ground level covered patio facing the bay is perfect for entertaining and dining. The complete “outdoor kitchen” includes a large gas grill, burners and rotisserie.
The entire home was designed to embrace the fabulous west facing bay views. The upper level contains the living/dining great room, large gourmet kitchen, powder room and master bedroom. The entertainment area has a wall mounted SMART HDTV, DVR, and a stereo system including speakers in the master bedroom, bathroom and on the outside deck. The master bedroom has a desk area, walk-in closet and bathroom with a double shower/steam room, separate jetted tub and double vanity. The entire west wall of the great room is sliding glass doors opening onto a covered deck for dining, lounging and relaxing. There is a built in gas BBQ, lounges, dining table and seating area. The all granite kitchen has an island with cook top, prep sink and eat-in area. There is a third prep/bar sink at the elevated bar/eat-in area. All of the stainless steel appliances, 48 inch refrigerator/freezer, double convection oven/microwave, warming drawer, dishwasher, ice maker and wine cooler are top of the line. The kitchen is completely stocked with all necessary small appliances including a Keurig beverage maker, drip coffee maker, electric kettle, cookware, serving pieces, platters, pizza pan, cookie sheets, cutlery, food processor, teapot, toaster, blender, waffle iron, etc.
The middle level has three bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. All bedrooms open onto outdoor covered deck areas with lounges, tables and chairs. There is another living area on this level with a desk area, wall mounted HDTV, DVD player and speakers on the outside deck and ground level outdoor kitchen area. The laundry room is also located on the middle level.
The ground level has the entry area with the elevator and stairs to the middle and top levels. The storeroom has a refrigerator/freezer, a chest freezer, coolers, paddles, USCG life jackets, bicycle helmets and pool towels. 6 Kayaks, 4 SUPs and an assortment of bicycles are included for guest usage. The garage and motorized watercraft are not included with the rental of Sunset Reef. The house has the X-1 Comcast Cable TV and fast residential Internet available. Both hardwired and passphrase secured wireless Internet access is available on both living levels.
Sunset Reef has immediate access to Everglades National Park and back country fishing. Atlantic Ocean access is 2.5 miles SW to Channel 2 and 3.5 miles to Channel 5 for larger boats. Robbie's marina and Atlantic Ocean access is 2 miles NE through a mangrove channel.
If you zoom in on the map, the icon will come down on the exact location of Sunset Reef.
Need baby gear during your stay? We have some baby gear that is available to our guests. This includes a full sized crib, high chair, and a couple of pack-n-plays. We do not have enough to supply both of our vacation rental properties in Islamorada, so check with us first We have set up an account with BabyQuip to help our guests with obtaining baby stuff to make their vacation easier and safer.
Rent cribs, car seats, strollers, toys and more from BabyQuip! As seen on Shark Tank, BabyQuip offers clean, sanitized, and safe baby gear in Islamorada. Visit Sunset Reef’s unique link https://www.babyquip.com/a/ky6u1w to make a reservation.
If you are looking for another weekly Islamorada vacation rental property, please look at our Atlantic side, beach front 3 bd, 3 full ba condo at MM 80.6, www.vrbo.com/1174114 or www.HomeAway.com/1174114. We also have a Park City/Deer Valley, Utah 4 bd, 4 1/2 ba vacation rental home. www.vrbo.com/206330 or www.HomeAway.com/206330.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 4.5 bathrooms, and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms. A Smart TV comes with cable channels and a DVD player, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. The bathroom offers a jetted tub and hair dryers. Other standard amenities include a private pool, a washing machine, and a sofa bed. Housekeeping is available on request.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Elevator
Tile flooring in public areas
Wheelchair accessibility
Smoking not allowed
Note from host: Smoking inside the home will lose security deposit
Services and conveniences
Housekeeping (on request)
Iron/ironing board
Phone
Safe
Location highlights
In a village
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near an outlet shopping mall
Near the bay
Near the marina
Near the ocean
On the waterfront
Things to do
Bicycles
Boat
Golf
Heated pool
Kayak
Water sports equipment
Birdwatching nearby
Cycling nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Sailing nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Swimming nearby
Water skiing nearby
Water tubing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Bicycles
Double-glazed windows
Garden
Housekeeping (on request)
Recycling
Unit size: 5,000 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 30
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Note from host: Discuss pets with owners, fee will apply.
Children and extra beds
Note from host: Children must be pool safe and adult supervised
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: No Events are allowed. No weddings are allowed.
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 30
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Note from host: No Events are allowed. No weddings are allowed.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do near this vacation home?
This vacation home is situated in Matecumbe, just steps from Sunset Drive Beach. You'll also find Anne's Beach and Bud n' Mary's Dive Center within a short drive.
Will I be able to park at this vacation home?
No, there isn't parking at this vacation home.
Is this vacation home associated with a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, this vacation home doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are an outdoor pool and a hot tub.
Is Sunset Reef - Bayside Gated Estate, Pool, Spa, Deep Water Dock, Kayaks & SUPs a good place to stay for couples?
This waterfront vacation home offers many amenities for couples such as a private pool, private pools in some accommodations, as well as an outdoor pool.
Does Sunset Reef - Bayside Gated Estate, Pool, Spa, Deep Water Dock, Kayaks & SUPs have a hot tub?
Yes, this vacation home has a spa tub.
Does this vacation home provide breakfast?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.
Are there connecting rooms at this vacation home?
No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
How close is the airport from this vacation home?
The closest major airport to this vacation home is Marathon, FL (MTH-Florida Keys Marathon), which is 24.2 mi away (31 minutes by car).
Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Sunset Reef - Bayside Gated Estate, Pool, Spa, Deep Water Dock, Kayaks & SUPs?
Yes, every accommodation at Sunset Reef - Bayside Gated Estate, Pool, Spa, Deep Water Dock, Kayaks & SUPs comes with a balcony with some featuring ocean views.
Sunset Reef - Bayside Gated Estate, Pool, Spa, Deep Water Dock, Kayaks & SUPs Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 72 out of 73 reviews
10 - Excellent
72
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 73 reviews
8 - Good
1
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 73 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 73 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 73 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.8/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveler
May 20, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Verified traveler
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Dave
Apr 26, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great trip to Islamorada
Couldn’t have asked for a better location and house to spend a week with my family. From the moment we arrived everything was perfect
Dave
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
michael s.
Apr 26, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Sunset Reef is high quality
The location is perfect: on the bay, beautiful dock, gorgeous sunsets, Kayaking weather, and good fishing. The area is wonderful. The house amounts to a private resort. Views from each floor (and flat roof “observation” area. The owner keeps the house in great shape. PERFECT FOR FAMILY: games table & yard); pool & hot tub; privacy; lots of space. My children & grandchildren gave it 10/10
michael s.
Stayed 15 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Cindy F., South Florida
Mar 25, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Well-Appointed Home in Wonderful Location
The home was everything it was described to be, laid out perfectly for a family of 5 adults. Booking the property was a breeze, the owner was very responsive to questions and the local property manager was present to greet us upon arrival and also checked in on us during our stay. The home was very clean and comfortable and the outdoor space was very well thought-out with options for grilling, dining, boating, swimming and relaxing. Very well-appointed: every little detail was considered when it came to providing supplies for cooking, dining, laundry, swimming, boating and our general comfort. The location of the home on the bay was perfect for us since we ran a boat down for the week and the property's proximity to wonderful dining and shopping options in Islamorada added to our enjoyment. We would return to this property without hesitation.
Cindy F.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Bill G.
Sep 3, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Getaway
Clean resort style home. All the amenities you could ask for. Geared for kids to seniors.
Bill G.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Shannon C., Merritt Island, Florida
Aug 28, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Annual Family Vacay
Amazing, Amazing, Amazing!! The view, the house, the grounds were absolutely spectacular! My family and I felt right at home at Sunset Reef. All the amenities were there from the kitchen to the bathrooms and even the water toys, that my 2 year old grandson absolutely enjoyed. The grounds, both the entrance way and the bay side, were spectacular!
Shannon C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jason T.
Jun 28, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic property
Everything at this property was absolutely perfect. The stay started with a detailed tour of the property from the owner in which every detail of the property was explained. Not to mention, prior to arrival, a list of recommended restaurants , shops, and anything you would need was provided. Everything at the property was there for our use, and Steve and Kathy made us feel very welcome upon arrival.
As for the property itself, words cannot describe the breathtaking views and sunsets. Everything was very clean and user friendly. The home came with use of paddle boards, kayaks, and bikes all of which our family enjoyed. I doubt you will another property that matches everything that Sunset Reef has to offer.
Jason T.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Doreen P., Port Murray
Jun 16, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
The Perfect Property in the Keys
Everything about this property was perfect. The house is stunning, with every amenity you can think of. The master bath even has a a shower/steam room. Views are outstanding. Plenty of room for our party of eight.
The moving dock can be raised and lowered -- perfect for our small boat. We really enjoyed putting the chairs on the lowered dock and hanging out part way in the water.
The snorkeling off the dock was amazing. We had no desire to go to a beach or on a snorkeling trip. Also enjoyed fishing off the dock. Water is crystal clear even after it rained. Just about every kind of pool/water toy was available. We did not have to bring anything.
Hosts were wonderful and available. Jeff met us at the check in and showed us around. The labeling system for where everything goes was great and very helpful.
When my family goes to the keys again, this is the place.
Doreen P.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
william p.
May 20, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beyond superb!
A beautiful 4 bedroom, 4 1/2 bath bayside home, dock, pool, spa, steam shower and elevator. Beautiful landscaping and extremely well maintained. Incredible sunset views. Property manager responded immediately to one tiny issue (toilet handle) the first day. The house has everything you can think of for cooking and recreation (kayaks, bikes and paddle boards). Close to restaurants, Robbie’s Marina (feed the tarpon) and world famous Bud n Mary’s Marina. Everything is labeled so you know what light switch does what, even a “hurricane shelf” if the power goes out (it is the Keys, you know). I recommend heartily and without reservation.
william p.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Sandra B.
Apr 10, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfection in Isla Morada
The location, home, view, cleanliness-all top notch. We’ll be back next year!! And we can’t wait!
Sandra B.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Sharon N.
Jan 15, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Paradise
Our family had a great time! Couldn’t have asked for a better vacation home! Will definitely return!
Sharon N.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024
10/10 Excellent
Diane K.
Oct 4, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Spectacular home on the water
We just spent a wonderful week at this amazing home! Our family of 6 adults had a great time hanging together at the pool, on the deck, or inside the spacious house. The kitchen was extremely well stocked with dishes, cooking equipment, spices, etc. And the bedrooms/bathrooms were well appointed and also well stocked! We enjoyed snorkeling off the dock/pier and had fun using the kayaks as well! Jeff, Steve and Kathy were very helpful and Jeff was particularly attentive during the week while we were there. Location was great, right on the water near Islamorada - many shops and restaurants were nearby, yet the area where we were staying was very peaceful. We look forward to returning for another stay soon, thanks so much for your hospitality!
Diane K.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Linda M.
Jul 1, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful week
Everything about this property is 5+ from start to finish. The house, location and all amenities are all first rate. Thank you Steve and Kathy for sharing your home, allowing us to experience the beautiful bay, sunsets, pool, and water sports!
Linda M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
kim p.
Apr 11, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Celebration with friends
We had an amazing stay at Sunset Reef. The property was fantastic - everything we could have hoped for! The whole property was incredible - Sunsets, boat dock and lift, pool, kayaks, paddle boards, bikes .........
The house had everything we needed for a great stay. Interior and exterior were beautiful. The beds were very comfortable. Communication with the host and check in process was very easy. Quick to answer any questions we had before and during our stay. We would definitely return to this property.
kim p.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveler
Apr 3, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Above our Expectations
This house had everything we could possibly ask for. Spacious, Pool, Waterfront, Bikes, Kayak's, and Paddle Boards. Kept the whole family entertained all week. Will definitely keep this house on our most favorite list!
Verified traveler
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023
10/10 Excellent
Dan V.
Mar 27, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic home in Islamorada....
We visit Islamorada somewhat regularly, and have stayed at many rental homes and some resorts. Sunset Reef was our favorite place to stay yet. It met our family (and a few extra teens) needs perfectly. We are active and used the bikes to ride to Robbies every morning, the paddleboards as well as the Kayaks were used daily, we rented a boat so the lift was perfect for our needs. Every possible thing you could want, including seasonings and dishes for the kitchen, were provided. The property was large, and the front yard was fantastic as well as the back. The snorkeling and lobstering was fun off the end of the dock. Jeff and Steve were easy to communicate with and really helped allow us to have a wonderful vacation. We hope to come back and stay with you again! Thank you
Dan V.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023
10/10 Excellent
Bob R.
Feb 12, 2023
Disliked: Cleanliness
Quality
First class place. Represented accurately. Very clean. Well managed. Would come back.
Bob R.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth M.
Feb 8, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent
Beautiful property, thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Would definitely go back.
Elizabeth M.
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2023
10/10 Excellent
Sue H.
Jan 20, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Winter Getaway
Beautiful property, great hosts and picture perfect views.
Sue H.
Stayed 10 nights in Jan 2023
10/10 Excellent
Flossie P.
Jan 10, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Paradise
Amazing home and property. You do not need to leave unless you want to kayak or bike, which you can do right from the house! Owners were super helpful and so accommodating. We were there for Christmas and had a cold spell. We were so fortunate to have such a big house that we had enough room for everyone to "hang" out until we could get out and enjoy the sunshine. Kayaks, bikes, paddle boards, etc. And if you aren't in the mood to do any of that, just sitting on the dock or out in the courtyard is so peaceful. This house is loaded and you will not want for anything. Kitchen is well stocked with lots of silverware, cooking utensils, pots, pans, and glasses. They even provide pool towels and beach towels. Pool was nice as was the hot tub. Steve and Kathy are super hosts and we look forward to returning to their beautiful "compound" one day. We actually got to see a full rainbow from the rooftop! Awesome sunsets and sunrises to add to our enjoyable stay.
Flossie P.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Mary B.
Jan 8, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Family oriented
Perfect for activities; water- kayaking & paddleboards , (amazing launch ramp) land- walking. bikes available, sunset & sunrise watching, yard games
Great location - shopping and restaurants
Mary B.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Steven A.
Dec 15, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing!
This home and property was truly outstanding. The pictures were right on the money with how breathtaking it was. The house was spotless and extremely well-maintained. The owners were beyond nice and helpful. We had zero issues during our stay. We were allowed to bring our dogs which is very hard to find. They had the absolute best time! We can’t say enough how truly amazing this vacation was. We hope to return next year!
Steven A.
Stayed 10 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Lydia & Steve L.
Nov 30, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent house and location for our family needs.
Our family group aged 90-13. The bedrooms were set up perfectly for 8 people. You couldn’t ask for a better kitchen, all of our needs met and dinning locations everywhere. We rented a boat for the week (A1A) and used the kayaks and paddle boards supplied. Steve and Kathy are awesome.
Lydia & Steve L.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022
10/10 Excellent
Bonnie C.
Nov 20, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful comfort
The house was beautiful and clean with lots of room to spread out and have your space or gather all together and not feel crowded. You could stay on property for your whole stay and never be bored (swim, paddle board, kayak, lawn games….). If you decide to go out being in the central keys makes so much accessible (key west, marathon, key largo, the Everglades…).
We really enjoyed our stay in such a wonderful house. The host was available and friendly but not needed since the house is in such good repair.
Bonnie C.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022
10/10 Excellent
Kristy S.
Oct 23, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Love this place!
We found this house exactly as we were expecting. Kitchen was well equipped and large! The grounds are lovely and views to die for! We highly recommend- we were 8 adults and all loved it!