SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – When Suntex Marinas announced its purchase of the Tahoe Keys Marina on Christmas Eve, 2021, plans were in motion to update the aging property. The restaurant had already closed, retail was limited, and the property needed work.
That is about to change.
Eric Metz of Suntex was in South Lake Tahoe presently to meet with boat slip owners, vendors, and the Tahoe Keys community to advise them of plans, both in the short and long-term.
Metz said Suntex is a marina company that focuses on public access, and they bring marinas “to where they can shine.”
“We are moving forward in a meaningful way,” Metz told the crowd.
In the short term, the boat docks will be replaced this summer, starting in July. That job will be completed before the end of the year. Suntex will also be dredging with a goal of being completed by Oct. 15. The channels will be open for most of the time as they’ll work on one side before moving to the opposite side. The channel will be closed for a few days while they dredge the middle.
Plans have been submitted for the rest of the property that will include four places for dining – fine dining, a second restaurant, a coffee shop, and a hamburger spot. There will be a promenade, more retail, gathering spots, and a true dock-and-dine experience. There will be valet parking only, with 268 parking spots compared to the current 160 usable spots. The ambitious project will also relocate the boat ramp to the south end of the property. Adjacent to that will be offices and some employee housing.
The parking in front of the old Fresh Ketch will be eliminated for a public plaza. With the boat launch moved, that area will be a promenade and drop-off area.
“Our goal is a welcoming experience,” said Metz. “This is a four-season opportunity.”
The Suntex goal is to get the project done as fast as possible, but Metz estimates the permitting process could take about 28 months. The plans have just been submitted to the City of South Lake Tahoe and the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency. He is optimistic they can start building in 2027.
