Sunset Key’s official name is Tank Island. The United States Navy constructed Tank Island to serve as a fuel tank depot during the Cold War. Dredging began in 1965 to form the island as well as to build passageways for submarines and other large vessels. However, the Navy’s plans changed and the island saw little military action. Only two of the twelve planned fuel tanks were constructed, and although the fuel lines were run, the tanks were never filled.

In 1986, the Government sold off Tank Island and other anchorages in Key West in an auction. In 1988, the tanks were dismantled while the remaining fuel lines served as conduits for water, sewage, and utility. Power cables were later laid alongside the existing fuel pipes.

In 1994, the island was re-purchased and renamed to Sunset Key.

Today Sunset Key is a 27-acre resort island. It is located about 500 yards off the coast of the island of Key West directly across from Mallory Square. The island consists of water front real estate made up of 48 single-family homes and 21 vacant lots, all of which are valued at over $1.5 million. It is a truly unique island consisting of some of the most valuable water front real estate in Key West. The island is privately held among its residents and real estate developer Tom Walsh, who also owns the Westin Key West Resort & Marina. The island is only accessible by a shuttle boat that runs from the Westin Marina out to the island. Only those who own real estate on the Island or those who have reservations at the island’s exclusive restaurant (Latitudes) are permitted on the Island.

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