Sunshine Key RV Resort Review: 75 Acres in the Middle Keys

Sunshine Key RV Resort occupies the entirety of Ohio Key — a 75-acre island at Mile Marker 39 on the Overseas Highway in the Lower Florida Keys. That is the opening fact and the defining feature: this is not an RV park on a key. This is an RV park that is the key. The resort spreads across the whole island with water on every side — the Gulf of Mexico to the north, the Atlantic to the south, and the Overseas Highway slicing through the middle connecting you to Key West 30 miles southwest and Miami 130 miles northeast.

The resort is managed by Encore (a subsidiary of Sun Communities, the same company that operates Thousand Trails), and it offers full-hookup RV sites, a marina, a heated pool, and a list of amenities that positions it firmly in the resort category rather than the campground category. Nightly rates start above $200 during peak season — this is the Florida Keys, where a no-hookup state park site costs $48 and a waterfront spot at a private park starts around $100. Nothing in the Keys is cheap, and Sunshine Key’s pricing reflects both the location and the island setting.

RV LIFE rates Sunshine Key at 8.5 out of 10. Campendium reviews are generally positive with notes about the unique setting and waterfront access. TripAdvisor reviews are mixed — the resort gets praise for its grounds and location but periodic criticism for maintenance issues and the gap between pricing and some facility conditions. This review covers all of it, because $200-plus per night in the Florida Keys warrants honest scrutiny. For the full Keys camping picture, see our Florida Keys RV parks guide.

Getting There#

Sunshine Key RV Resort is located at 38801 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, on Ohio Key at Mile Marker 39. Despite the mailing address listing Big Pine Key, the resort is physically on Ohio Key — a small island immediately east of Bahia Honda Key and west of Big Pine Key.

If you are driving south from Miami, you will cross the Seven Mile Bridge (one of the iconic Keys driving experiences), pass through Marathon and the Middle Keys, and reach Mile Marker 39 about 15 miles south of Marathon. The resort entrance is directly off the Overseas Highway (US-1) and well-signed.

If you are arriving from Key West (30 miles southwest), head northeast on US-1. The resort is about 45 minutes from Key West, depending on traffic. Keys traffic can be surprisingly congested, particularly on weekends and during the winter high season (November through April) when the snowbird population swells.

Driving an RV Through the Keys#

The Overseas Highway includes 42 bridges, some narrow, and consistent traffic along most of its 113-mile length. A few realities for RV drivers:

• The Seven Mile Bridge is the longest span and has a consistent width with no pullouts. Crosswinds can push a large RV or trailer — keep both hands on the wheel and reduce speed in gusty conditions.
• Passing opportunities are limited. Much of US-1 is two lanes, and slower-moving RVs will accumulate a line of cars behind them. Use pullouts and turnouts when available.
• Bridges have weight and height limits — most accommodate standard RVs, but if you are driving an oversized rig, confirm clearances before committing to the route.
• Fuel up before entering the Keys. Gas prices in the Keys are typically $0.30 to $0.50 per gallon higher than on the mainland. Florida City and Homestead are the last mainland fuel stops.

Arrival tip: If possible, arrive during daylight. Navigating the Overseas Highway in an RV for the first time at night, with narrow bridges and unfamiliar exits, adds unnecessary stress. Time your drive to arrive before sunset, especially if you are towing.

The Campground#

Sunshine Key RV Resort spreads across the full 75-acre Ohio Key island. The resort offers RV sites, park model rentals, and cottage accommodations. The exact total site count varies by source — estimates range from 400 to over 500 total units, making it one of the largest RV operations in the Florida Keys.

Site Types and Layout#

The resort offers several categories of RV sites:

• Waterfront sites: Premium-priced sites along the island’s shoreline with direct water views. These face either the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic side and command the highest nightly rates. Waterfront sites are the reason many visitors choose Sunshine Key over other Keys parks — waking up with open ocean views on a 75-acre island is a fundamentally different experience than parking at a roadside park.
• Interior sites: Set back from the water’s edge, these sites are more affordable but trade the water views for proximity to the pool, recreation areas, and central amenities. Interior sites can feel more parking-lot-like — the vegetation is sparse, shade trees are limited, and the open, flat terrain of the island means less natural screening between sites.
• Pull-through and back-in options: Available across the resort, accommodating rigs of various sizes. The resort generally handles rigs up to 45 feet, though specific site dimensions vary.

Grounds and Atmosphere#

The island setting is Sunshine Key’s trump card. Being surrounded by water on a 75-acre key creates a sense of place that mainland parks cannot replicate. The sunrises over the Atlantic and sunsets over the Gulf are visible from much of the property, and the salt air, mangrove shoreline, and constant pelican traffic remind you that you are camping on an island in the Florida Keys.

That said, recent reviews note that the grounds can feel uneven in quality. The resort’s common areas and waterfront zones are well-maintained and attractive. Some of the interior RV sites, however, have been described as barren — gravel or crushed shell pads with minimal vegetation, little shade, and a utilitarian feel that contrasts with the island’s natural beauty. The disparity between the best waterfront sites and the most basic interior sites is significant, and your experience at Sunshine Key will depend heavily on which site you are assigned.

The resort underwent some renovation and management changes in recent years as part of the Encore/Sun Communities ownership. Improvements have been noted, but the transition from older Keys-style RV park to modern resort operation is still in progress. Some facilities show their age; others have been updated.

Sites to Request#

• Waterfront sites on the Gulf (west) side for sunset views — these are the premium experience
• Sites near the marina if you plan to fish, kayak, or use a boat during your stay
• Sites away from the highway — US-1 runs through the island, and sites closest to the road will have traffic noise

Sites to Avoid#

• Sites immediately adjacent to the Overseas Highway pick up traffic noise, especially during the morning and evening commute hours
• Interior sites in heavily developed sections where the pad density is highest and the vegetation is thinnest — these can feel like a parking lot with hookups

Hookups and Amenities#

Hookups#

Full-hookup sites include:

• Electric: 30 and 50-amp service available
• Water: Individual water connections
• Sewer: Full sewer hookups
• Cable TV: Available at many sites
• Wi-Fi: Available park-wide (quality varies — see below)

The 50-amp service is important in the Florida Keys. From May through October, you will be running your air conditioning continuously — Keys humidity is extreme, and daytime temperatures in the mid-80s to low 90s feel significantly hotter than the number suggests. Dual-AC rigs on 50-amp will be comfortable. Single-AC rigs on 30-amp will manage but may struggle during the hottest afternoons.

Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort but, like most RV park Wi-Fi systems, performance is inconsistent. Basic web browsing and email work. Streaming and video conferencing are unreliable, particularly during high occupancy. Bring a cellular hotspot — AT&T and Verizon provide reasonable coverage in the Lower Keys, though neither is as strong as on the mainland. T-Mobile coverage is spottier.

Facilities#

• Heated swimming pool: The pool is one of the resort’s central amenities. It is heated and available year-round, which matters during the relatively mild but not-always-warm Keys winter. Recent reviews have noted that pool furniture (daybeds, loungers) shows wear and some items need replacement. The pool itself functions well.
• Marina: Boat dockage and marina facilities for guests. This is a significant amenity — you can dock a boat at the resort and fish the Lower Keys waters directly from your campsite. The surrounding waters hold bonefish, tarpon, permit, snapper, and lobster (during season). If you bring a boat, the marina transforms Sunshine Key from an RV park into a fishing camp.
• Recreation: Tennis courts, basketball, shuffleboard, sand volleyball, ping-pong, and a recreation hall with planned activities.
• Kids’ play area and soccer field: Cited by recent reviewers as highlights — well-maintained and popular with families.
• Camp store/convenience store: On-site shopping for basics and supplies.
• Fishing pier: For guests who do not have a boat, the fishing pier provides access to the surrounding waters.
• Kayak and paddleboard: Rentals available, along with snorkeling opportunities.
• Laundromat: On-site laundry facilities.
• Restrooms: Available in the common areas.
• Pet-friendly: Dogs and pets are welcome.

What Is Missing#

There is no on-site restaurant or food truck — a notable absence for a resort of this size at these price points. The nearest dining options are in Big Pine Key (a few minutes east) or Marathon (15 minutes east). Key West restaurants are 30 miles and 45 minutes southwest. The camp store covers basics, but cooking at your site is the practical dining solution for most stays.

There is no dedicated dog park with fenced enclosures, though the island’s size and layout provide ample walking areas for pets.

What’s Nearby#

Bahia Honda State Park#

The crown jewel of Florida Keys camping is approximately 4 miles southwest of Sunshine Key, at Mile Marker 37. Bahia Honda is the single most sought-after campsite in the state of Florida, with a genuine white sand beach — rare in the Keys — and turquoise water that makes the photos on the reservation site look undersaturated. The park has only 48 sites and a 34-foot RV length limit, and peak-season reservations sell out within minutes of the 11-month booking window opening.

If you have a spot at Sunshine Key, a day trip to Bahia Honda for the beach and snorkeling is a must. Park entry is separate from camping fees — $8 per vehicle with up to 8 people. Arrive early during winter to secure a parking spot.

National Key Deer Refuge#

Big Pine Key, immediately east of Sunshine Key, is home to the National Key Deer Refuge — the only place in the world where the endangered Key deer lives. These miniature white-tailed deer stand about 28 inches at the shoulder and wander through the residential neighborhoods of Big Pine Key. The Blue Hole — a freshwater sinkhole within the refuge — is one of the best wildlife-viewing spots in the Keys, with alligators, turtles, and wading birds in addition to the deer. Entry is free.

Key West#

Thirty miles southwest and reachable in 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Key West is the cultural and nightlife center of the Keys — Duval Street, Mallory Square sunset celebration, the Hemingway House, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park (the best beach in Key West), and a food scene that ranges from food trucks to white-tablecloth seafood restaurants.

For a day trip from Sunshine Key, leave early, spend the day on foot or by bicycle in Old Town Key West, and drive back before the evening traffic. Parking an RV in Key West is effectively impossible — drive your tow vehicle or take the Lower Keys shuttle.

Looe Key Reef#

One of the best snorkeling and diving sites in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, located about 5 nautical miles south of Ohio Key. Looe Key is a spur-and-groove reef with clear water and abundant marine life — sea fans, brain coral, parrotfish, barracuda, nurse sharks, and sea turtles are all regular sightings. Snorkeling trips depart from multiple operators in the Big Pine Key and Marathon area. If you have your own boat at the Sunshine Key marina, Looe Key is a straightforward trip.

Fishing the Lower Keys#

The waters surrounding Ohio Key and the Lower Keys are premier saltwater fishing territory. The flats hold bonefish and permit — two of the most sought-after species in saltwater fly fishing. The deeper channels produce tarpon during migration (April through June is peak), and the offshore reef edge yields snapper, grouper, and mahi-mahi. The lobster mini-season (last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July) is a Lower Keys tradition, and Sunshine Key’s marina access makes it a practical base for lobster diving.

Fishing guides operating out of Big Pine Key, Marathon, and Key West can be booked for both inshore flats fishing and offshore reef trips. Expect to pay $400 to $800 for a half-day guided trip depending on species target and number of anglers.

Marathon#

Fifteen minutes northeast, Marathon is the practical hub of the Middle Keys with full grocery stores (Publix, Winn-Dixie), hardware stores, a hospital (Fishermen’s Hospital), restaurants, and marine supply shops. If you need anything beyond what the Sunshine Key camp store provides, Marathon is your supply run.

The Honest Details#

What Works#

The island setting is unique in the Keys. Occupying an entire 75-acre island creates a sense of place that no roadside park can match. Water views, salt air, mangrove shoreline, and the feeling of being surrounded by the Gulf and Atlantic — this is what you came to the Florida Keys for. The waterfront sites deliver on the Keys dream in a way that most Keys parks, constrained by narrow lots along US-1, simply cannot.

The marina is a genuine differentiator. If you travel with a boat, Sunshine Key transforms from an RV park into a fishing-and-diving camp. Docking at the resort and accessing the Lower Keys waters — bonefish flats, Looe Key reef, tarpon channels — without trailering to a public ramp is a serious advantage. For boat-owning RVers, this alone may justify the nightly rate.

Full hookups with 50-amp service. In the Florida Keys, where many state parks offer only electric and water (no sewer) and limit rigs to 34 feet, having full hookups with 50-amp service and space for larger rigs is not trivial. Running dual air conditioners through a Keys summer is a necessity, not a luxury, and the 50-amp service makes that possible.

The recreation amenities serve families well. The kids’ play area, soccer field, pool, tennis courts, and planned activities make Sunshine Key a viable family Keys vacation. Most Keys camping skews toward couples and retirees — Sunshine Key is one of the few larger operations that gives families enough on-site activity to justify multiple days without leaving the resort.

Location in the Lower Keys is strategic. Mile Marker 39 puts you within day-trip range of Key West (30 miles), Marathon for supplies (15 miles), Bahia Honda State Park for the beach (4 miles), and Looe Key for snorkeling. You are in the heart of the best fishing waters in the Keys chain.

What Doesn’t Work#

The pricing is steep, even by Keys standards. Full retail rates above $200 per night put Sunshine Key in the premium tier of Keys camping, competing with Boyd’s Key West (ocean views, walking distance to Duval Street) and the Key Largo resorts (larger, closer to the mainland). At these rates, you are paying for the island concept and the marina access. If you do not use the marina or do not prioritize the waterfront, the interior sites can feel overpriced for what you get.

Interior sites can feel barren. Multiple reviewers describe interior sites as parking-lot-like — minimal vegetation, little shade, and close pad spacing. The contrast between the attractive waterfront zones and the utilitarian interior sections is notable. If you book a basic interior site at $200-plus per night and find a gravel pad in full sun next to the highway, the value proposition gets thin.

Facility maintenance is inconsistent. Pool furniture in disrepair, loungers showing their age, and periodic maintenance gaps have appeared in 2025-2026 reviews. The resort appears to be improving under ongoing renovation, but the transition between older infrastructure and new management standards creates pockets of inconsistency. At premium pricing, guests expect premium condition, and Sunshine Key does not always meet that expectation across the full property.

Traffic noise from the Overseas Highway. US-1 runs through the island, and sites near the highway pick up road noise. The Keys are busier than most people expect — US-1 is the only road, and every vehicle between Key West and the mainland passes your island. Request a site away from the highway for the quietest experience.

No on-site restaurant. At resort-level pricing on a 75-acre island, the absence of a restaurant or even a regular food truck feels like a gap. The poolside cafe is seasonal and limited. For full meals, you are cooking at your site or driving to Big Pine Key, Marathon, or Key West. This is manageable but adds friction to daily routines, especially for visitors who came to the Keys to relax rather than grocery shop and cook.

Who It’s Best For#

• Boat-owning RVers who want marina access and the Lower Keys fishing waters at their dock
• Families who want resort amenities and on-island recreation during a Keys vacation
• Snowbirds who want a full-hookup Keys base for an extended winter stay (monthly rates may be available — check directly)
• Divers and snorkelers who want proximity to Looe Key and Lower Keys reef systems
• Couples who can book a waterfront site and want the island sunset experience

Who Should Look Elsewhere#

• Budget campers — at $200-plus per night, Sunshine Key is premium Keys pricing; consider Bahia Honda State Park ($36-48/night) or Long Key State Park if you can secure a reservation
• Solitude seekers — 400-plus sites on a 75-acre island, plus highway traffic, means this is a busy resort
• RVers who prioritize site quality over location — the interior sites do not deliver the experience the waterfront sites promise
• Remote workers — Wi-Fi is unreliable and cell coverage is moderate; bring your own connectivity
• Big-rig owners over 45 feet — confirm your specific site can accommodate your length before booking

Full Specs and Booking#

Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina (Encore)

• Address: 38801 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043
• Phone: (305) 780-7087
• Website: rvonthego.com/florida/sunshine-key-rv-resort-marina
• Mile Marker: MM 39 (Ohio Key)
• Total sites: 400+ RV sites plus park models and cottages
• Max RV length: Up to 45 feet (varies by site — confirm when booking)
• Hookups: Full (water, sewer, 30/50-amp electric)
• Cable TV: Available at many sites
• Wi-Fi: Park-wide (inconsistent quality — bring cellular hotspot)
• Pool: Heated, year-round
• Marina: Boat dockage available
• Fishing pier: Yes
• Camp store: Yes (basics and supplies)
• Laundry: On-site
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Recreation: Tennis, basketball, shuffleboard, volleyball, ping-pong, playground, soccer field, recreation hall, planned activities
• Season: Year-round
• Rates: Starting above $200/night peak season (verify current pricing — rates vary significantly by site type, season, and booking window)
• Reservations: Online through Encore/RV on the Go or by phone

Booking strategy: For peak Keys season (November through April), book as early as possible — 6 to 12 months ahead for waterfront sites. The best waterfront sites sell out first and may not appear in online availability even when interior sites remain. Call the reservation line to discuss specific site placement rather than accepting whatever the online system offers. Ask about monthly rates if you plan an extended stay — the per-night math improves significantly on monthly bookings. Summer (May through October) has lower occupancy, lower rates, and easier availability, but the heat and humidity are intense and hurricane season (June through November) is a real factor. If you are a Thousand Trails member, check whether membership benefits apply — Sunshine Key is part of the Encore network.

FAQ#

Is Sunshine Key actually on its own island?#

Yes. The resort occupies the entirety of Ohio Key, a 75-acre island at Mile Marker 39 on the Overseas Highway. The island is connected to the neighboring keys by the highway, but the resort’s boundaries are essentially the island’s boundaries. You are surrounded by water — Gulf of Mexico to the north, Atlantic to the south.

How far is Key West?#

Approximately 30 miles southwest, about 45 minutes to an hour by car depending on traffic. Drive your tow vehicle or a smaller car — parking in Key West is extremely difficult and expensive, and navigating Old Town streets in a large vehicle is impractical. Some guests use the Lower Keys shuttle for car-free Key West visits.

Can I bring my boat?#

Yes. The resort has a marina with boat dockage available for guests. This is one of Sunshine Key’s strongest features — you can dock a boat at the resort and access the Lower Keys fishing waters, Looe Key reef, and the backcountry flats without trailering. Contact the resort about current dock availability and pricing, as marina slips may need to be reserved separately from your campsite.

Is the pool heated year-round?#

Yes. The pool is heated and available year-round. Keys winter temperatures are mild (highs in the 70s, lows in the 60s), but the heated pool ensures comfortable swimming even on the occasional cool day. Pool furniture condition has been noted as inconsistent in recent reviews — bring your own towels and chairs if comfort matters.

How does Sunshine Key compare to Bahia Honda State Park?#

They are fundamentally different experiences. Bahia Honda is a small state park (48 sites) with a genuine white sand beach, turquoise water, and a 34-foot RV limit — it is widely considered the most beautiful campsite in Florida. Sunshine Key is a large resort (400+ sites) on its own island with full hookups, a marina, and resort amenities but no beach. Bahia Honda wins on natural beauty and price ($36-48/night vs. $200+). Sunshine Key wins on hookups, rig capacity, marina access, and amenity breadth. If you can get a Bahia Honda reservation and your rig fits under 34 feet, Bahia Honda is the Keys camping experience. If you need full hookups, bring a boat, or have a larger rig, Sunshine Key is the practical choice. For the full comparison, see our Florida Keys RV parks guide.

Are there cheaper alternatives in the Lower Keys?#

The Sugarloaf Key/Cudjoe Key KOA at Mile Marker 20 offers full hookups at $95 to $200 per night — still expensive but potentially cheaper than Sunshine Key for comparable dates. Boyd’s Key West at Mile Marker 5 puts you closest to Key West at $85 to $185 per night. For the most affordable Keys camping, the state parks (Bahia Honda, Long Key, John Pennekamp) run $36 to $48 per night, but they have limited sites, strict size limits, and extremely competitive reservation systems. For the full rundown, see our Florida Keys RV parks guide and best RV parks in Florida.

Is hurricane season a concern?#

Yes. The Florida Keys are among the most hurricane-vulnerable locations in the continental United States. Hurricane season runs June through November, with peak activity in August and September. The Keys have mandatory evacuation orders when hurricanes threaten, typically issued 24 to 48 hours before projected landfall. If you are at Sunshine Key during hurricane season, have an evacuation plan, know the evacuation route (US-1 northbound), and monitor weather forecasts daily. The resort will close and require evacuation when orders are issued. Travel insurance that covers weather-related cancellations is strongly recommended for any Keys trip during hurricane season.