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The community and grounds of Sun Outdoors Sugarloaf Key.
Words by Steve Fennell
The Sunshine State is one of the top snowbird destinations in the U.S. With many areas to spend the winter, the Florida Keys is perhaps the most desirable. It has a slow pace and allows you to enjoy the ‘simple life’ all winter. Just imagine less traffic, fewer crowds, and lounging by the water in tropical weather.
Since its acquisition by Bluewater Development Co. in 2021, Sun Outdoors Sugarloaf Key (formerly Lazy Lakes RV Resort) has completed a series of upgrades among its grounds to enjoy the ‘simple life’ even more this snowbird season. This is a premiere luxury RV resort that spans several hectares, is surrounded by all-natural mangroves and with just 95 sites and cottage rentals, it has a warm, small-community atmosphere.
The all-ages pet-friendly resort is in Upper Sugarloaf Key, one of the larger islands in this region. Yet, its grounds and local area retain a quiet quality with a number of key attractions and features.
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A variety of sites are available, including waterfront and those with Cabana-style patios.
The Sites, Sounds and Social Atmosphere
During your reservation process, you’ll see a choice of new back-in or pull-through premium RV sites - either along the lakefront or further in the resort - with maintained landscaping, level concrete pads, 20-, 30-, and 50-amp power and WiFi. Spacious standard patio or island-style cabanas are other options. They are also close to the many amenities including restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and even cornhole courts and hammocks.
One of the most appealing attractions is the 3 ha (7 ac) saltwater lake and boardwalk that juts out over the water. Other prize centrepieces include the tiki bar and an inground heated pool. Rent a kayak or paddleboard, enjoy an afternoon poolside, visit the tiki bar and then round out the day with an evening floating on an Aquabana across the lake. Other social aspects for the 2023/2024 season include regular live music, games, and activities.
Upper Sugarloaf Key and Key West
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Cottage-style rentals are also available to enjoy the resort and area.
The local areas of Upper Sugarloaf Key and the active City of Key West are inviting and will enhance your winter’s stay.
To explore the immediate area by water, Sugarloaf Key Marina is a five-minute drive from the resort and the gateway to various watersports. If you’re into fishing, kayaking or recreational boating, the marina has a launch ramp and the ship’s store sells tackle, bait, and all the essentials. Fishing charters and eco-tours are found throughout this area as well.
A popular attraction is the Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge. Known as the ‘backcountry,’ it’s only accessible by boat and encompasses kilometres of open shallow saltwater with mangrove islands and is a sanctuary for great white herons and countless species of birds. Perhaps, stop by and speak to some of the local kayak outfitters or boat tours - they’ll be more than happy to teach you all about the ecology of the area.
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All sites come with 20-, 30-, and 50-amp power, water and free WiFi.
If you prefer to stay on land, Upper Sugarloaf Key has many dining and shopping options. For more variety, Key West, the largest city in the Keys, is approximately 27 km (17 mi) to the south and popular Duval St. is lined with many shops, unique restaurants, and seasonal events. It has a relaxed culture unlike anywhere in Florida.
The world-renown beaches of the Keys are to be experienced as well. A good starting point is in Big Pine Key at Bahia Honda State Park and where you can enjoy a tropical paradise, any time.
Sun Outdoors Sugarloaf Key is the ideal location where you can stay engaged all winter. With its relaxed atmosphere, you can easily spend the snowbird season at your own pace in the Sunshine State’s most southern region.