Things To Do
in Marathon
Marathon, FL sits in the heart of the Florida Keys along US-1, offering snorkeling access, laid-back island vibes, and easy access to reef and beach adventures. This family-friendly island community is known for its water sports, seafood traditions, and welcoming local character. It serves as a convenient base for exploring the upper and middle Keys while maintaining a quieter pace than the busier Keys to the south.
The town is linked by a scenic coastal setting with colorful sunsets and a strong sense of succession from fishing heritage to modern tourism.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a scenic drive to Key West, enjoying the ocean views and the vibrant tropical colors. Stop at Key Largo for a snorkeling adventure at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where you can explore vibrant marine life. Savor a fresh breakfast at a local café before continuing your exploration.
Upon reaching Key West, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, filled with rich history and beautiful grounds. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant, sampling fresh seafood while overlooking the water. Spend the afternoon wandering the charming streets, taking in the art galleries and unique shops.
As the sun sets, head to Mallory Square for the nightly sunset celebration, where you can enjoy street performers and local artisans. Dine at a waterfront restaurant, indulging in local cuisine and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Don't forget to try a famous Key Lime Pie to end your day on a sweet note.
Kick off your day with a visit to the Turtle Hospital, a unique facility dedicated to the rehabilitation of sea turtles. Take a guided tour to learn about turtle conservation and rehabilitation efforts while seeing the turtles up close. An engaging program will provide insight into how you can help protect these majestic creatures.
Spend the afternoon at Sombrero Beach, known for its soft sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming or a relaxing sunbathe. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, or grab a bite at a nearby beachside café. After lunch, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the waters and spot marine life.
For dinner, find a local restaurant that features a sunset view, allowing you to enjoy the spectacular colors of the sky as the sun drops into the ocean. After your meal, look for a local bar featuring live music for an authentic Florida Keys experience. Wind down your evening by taking a stroll along the beach, reflecting on the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two (mid-range) | $45-70 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-5 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) | $150-250 per night |
| 🎟️Park/attraction entry | $8-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed island vibe and family-friendly activities
- Excellent access to reefs and water sports
- Short scenic drives to other Keys and Key West
- Limited nightlife compared to Key West
- Higher prices for seafood and dining
- Smaller selection of major attractions and accommodations
Places to Visit in Marathon
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic span with dramatic horizons, ideal for sunset silhouettes and long exposure shots.
Palm-framed sandy shore with turquoise water—great for morning golden hour and family photography.
Colorful boats, docks, and fisherman scenes—perfect for candid port photography.
Scenic coastlines, old bridges, and water reflections; ideal for landscape photography.
A historic bridge with vantage points for wide-angle seascapes and sunset silhouettes.
Food in Marathon
Marathon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried conch served with a tangy dipping sauce, a quintessential Keys snack.
Must-Try!
Flaky hogfish on a bun with island flavors and citrusy toppings.
Creamy tart pie with a graham cracker crust; a Keys classic.
Fresh stone crabs during season, typically served chilled with mustard sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A famed waterfront market where you can pick fresh seafood and enjoy casual bites right on the docks.
Casual roadside stalls offering conch fritters, cracked conch, and fried fish with salty sea air.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Do not feed wildlife; maintain distance from animals and reef areas to protect ecosystems.
Use designated trash and recycling outlets; avoid leaving litter on beaches.
Be mindful of quiet hours in residential areas and respect local beach rules.
Safety
Tipping in Marathon
Ensure a smooth experience
A 15–20% tip at restaurants and bars is customary; tip housekeeping and tour guides accordingly.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is handy for small vendors; some places may require a minimum card purchase.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid, with frequent afternoon showers; water is warm for snorkeling and swimming; bring reef-safe sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Dry season; pleasant daytime temperatures in the 70s–80s F; great visibility for snorkeling and less humidity.
Milder days with occasional rain; seas calm and wildlife active—great for photography and outdoor activities.
Still warm; Hurricane season runs through November; monitor forecasts and have a plan for storms.
Marathon at Night
Hiking in Marathon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal boardwalks and nature trails with water views and wildlife.
Flat, easy trails and scenic marshland with kayak access.
Short nature trails near Big Pine Key where key deer sightings are possible.
Airports
How to reach Marathon by plane.
Nearest primary airport offering domestic flights; typically about a 1–2 hour drive from Marathon along US-1.
Major hub with extensive flight options; about 3–4 hours by car via US-1 and I-95 or The Florida Turnpike.
Another major hub with many connections; roughly 4–5 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-time residents, anglers, marina workers, and service industry staff.
Snowbirds and seasonal travelers who spend winter in the Keys.
Visitors seeking reef access, beaches, and laid-back island culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A cornerstone activity, with numerous charters operating from the Marathon Seaport.
Exploring reefs around Sombrero, Looe Key, and nearby offshore sites.
Calm lagoons and mangroves ideal for beginner-friendly paddling and wildlife viewing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Marathon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many salad bowls, veggie burgers, and vegetable-centered options exist; ask for sides like plantains, rice, and beans; request no fish stock and opt for fruit-based desserts.