Wasting away, again

Sunset Key Cottages (Sunset Key, Key West)

GETAWAYS • Key West

If a Key West vacation isn’t remote enough, Sunset Key Cottages is there for you, just a little more removed from it all. Situated on its own private island less than a mile offshore, it’s accessible by ferry from the Opal Key Marina at the foot of Mallory Square — a short ride to peace and tranquility. 

The 27-acre man-made island is home to both private residences and the 40-cottage resort. In pastel siding and tin roofs, the one- to four-bedroom layouts flaunt big wraparound porches and balconies with Adirondack rockers — some even boast their own private pools. Although each has its own unique décor, most are white-washed with bright pops of blue or yellow, featuring paintings by local artists and nautical objets d’art. With polished limestone floors, substantial wooden bed frames, and full kitchens with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, there is a home-away-from-home feel. 

There’s a central clubhouse at the foot of the dock, home to the concierge, spa, gift shop, and Latitudes restaurant and bar. An additional facility houses the fitness center and leads to a big lagoon-style pool. The overall vibe is country club residential — on a private island in the Florida Keys.  

Arguably Key West’s finest restaurant, Latitudes is favored by locals for special occasions. The menu’s constantly changing, as is the catch of the day. On my last visit, it was a dreamy saffron-encrusted black grouper with goat cheese and tomato croquettes. Time your reservation to the sunset and request a table on the outdoor patio for the most sublime views of the sky changing colors as sailboats drift along the horizon. –Shayne Benowitz

→ Sunset Key Cottages (Sunset Key, Key West) • 245 Front St. • Two-bedroom cottages from $1534/night (January weekend).