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Marathon, Florida, The Heart of the Florida Keys | Discover Places to See, Eat and Stay

Things to do in Marathon Florida

Marathon Florida

Welcome to Marathon, Florida, a tropical paradise in the heart of the Florida Keys where island relaxation meets outdoor adventure. Located along the scenic Overseas Highway between Key Largo and Key West, Marathon is known for its crystal-clear waters, world-class fishing, boating, diving, and laid-back coastal atmosphere. Spanning several islands including Vaca Key, Fat Deer Key, and Grassy Key, Marathon offers visitors the perfect blend of natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, waterfront dining, and unforgettable Florida Keys experiences.

Often considered the “sweet spot” of the Florida Keys, Marathon delivers everything travelers love about the Keys without the larger crowds of Key West. Visitors can spend their days deep-sea fishing, snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, kayaking through mangroves, or relaxing on beautiful beaches while enjoying spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf waters. Marathon is also home to eco-attractions, marine wildlife encounters, waterfront marinas, and some of the freshest seafood restaurants in the Keys, making it a favorite destination for families, couples, boaters, and adventure seekers alike.

Whether you are planning a weeklong vacation in a waterfront rental or simply stopping along your Florida Keys road trip, Marathon offers a welcoming island vibe that keeps visitors coming back year after year. From reef diving and sailing excursions to dolphin encounters and scenic nature trails, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this 10-mile-long island community. With warm tropical weather year-round and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, Marathon, Florida is the ideal destination for an authentic and memorable Florida Keys getaway.

Places To Stay

Marathon, Florida offers the perfect blend of island relaxation, waterfront adventure, and laid-back Florida Keys charm. Whether you are searching for a luxury beachfront resort, a cozy vacation rental, family-friendly condo, or a private waterfront home with boat access, Marathon provides accommodations for every style of getaway. Visitors enjoy easy access to beautiful beaches, world-class fishing, Sombrero Reef snorkeling, waterfront dining, and iconic attractions like the Seven Mile Bridge and The Turtle Hospital. With stunning ocean views, tropical sunsets, and a central location in the Florida Keys, Marathon stays deliver the ideal home base for an unforgettable island vacation.

Vacation Rental Stays

Indoor Heated Pool
$745/night
Home in Marathon Florida
5 Beds • 3 Full Baths • Sleeps 12
Florida Keys Vacation Rentals
View from the backyard
$450/night
Home in Marathon Florida
4 Beds • 3 Full Baths • Sleeps 10
Florida Keys Vacation Rentals
Custom tiki hut provides plenty of shade
$420/night
Home in Sombrero Beach
3 Beds • 2 Full Baths • Sleeps 8
Coco Plum Vacation Rentals
Shared pool, heated 5 feet salt but all salt pools do have some chlorine.
$300/night
Townhouse in Marathon Florida
3 Beds • 2 Full Baths • Sleeps 8
Coco Plum Vacation Rentals
Entrance
$121/night
Home in Marathon Florida
2 Beds • 1 Full Bath • Sleeps 5
Florida Keys Vacation Rentals
Marlin Bay Resort & Marina 3829
Home in Marathon Florida
3 Beds • 3 Full Baths • Sleeps 6
Florida Keys Vacation Rentals
Gulf Vista Pool Home
$414/night
Home in Marathon Florida
3 Beds • 2 Full Baths • Sleeps 8
Florida Keys Vacation Rentals
The Sunset Cottage
$357/night
Home in Marathon Florida
2 Beds • 2 Full Baths • Sleeps 6
Florida Keys Vacation Rentals
Salty Skies
$500/night
Home in Marathon Florida
4 Beds • 3 Full Baths • Sleeps 10
Florida Keys Vacation Rentals
Stingray House on KCB
$457/night
Home in Key Colony Beach Florida
3 Beds • 3 Full Baths • Sleeps 8
Florida Keys Vacation Rentals
Lady O's Retreat
Duplex in Key Colony Beach Florida
3 Beds • 2 Full Baths • Sleeps 6
Florida Keys Vacation Rentals
Refuge on the Reef
$700/night
Home in Marathon Florida
6 Beds • 5 Full Baths • Sleeps 14
Coco Plum Vacation Rentals

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Dolphin Vacations

Dolphin Vacations

Dolphin Vacations is a family-owned vacation rental company offering properties in Marathon and Key West, Florida. Our mission is to provide..  learn more

Coco Plum Vacation Rentals

Coco Plum Vacation Rentals

Coco Plum Vacation Rentals has Florida Keys rentals for everyone, offering luxury Marathon Florida vacation rentals on the islands above as well as at..  learn more

Florida Keys Vacation Rentals

Florida Keys Vacation Rentals

Florida Keys Vacation Rentals is one of the largest and most trusted vacation rental management companies in the Florida Keys, dedicated to helping..  learn more

Marathon House Rentals in Sombrero Beach in the Florida Keys

Things to Do and Places to See

Coco Plum Beach

Coco Plum Beach is both a beach area and a residential neighborhood in Marathon. The area is located on the eastern side of Marathon in the Florida Keys and is best known for Coco Plum Beach, known for its shallow turquoise waters, soft sandy areas, sunsets, kayaking, and walking and relaxed atmosphere that perfectly captures the laid-back charm of the Middle Keys. 

Coco Plum Beach is especially popular during sunrise and sunset, when the skies over Marathon light up with vibrant coastal colors. Its quiet surroundings and scenic beauty make it a favorite spot for couples, photographers, and travelers looking to experience a more peaceful side of the Florida Keys. Whether you are relaxing on the sand, launching a kayak, or simply enjoying the view, Coco Plum Beach delivers a true island escape in Marathon.

Sombrero Beach

Located at 2000 Sombrero Beach Road near Mile Marker 50, Sombrero Beach is one of the most beautiful public beaches in Marathon, Florida. Known for its soft white sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this family-friendly beach offers a true tropical escape in the heart of the Florida Keys. Unlike many beaches in the Keys, Sombrero Beach provides plenty of space to relax, swim, picnic, and enjoy the laid-back island atmosphere without feeling overcrowded.

Easily accessible from the Overseas Highway, visitors can reach the beach by turning south at Mile Marker 50 onto Sombrero Beach Road and continuing about two miles to the shoreline. The beach is open daily from sunrise to sunset with free admission and convenient parking. Amenities include restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic pavilions, barbecue grills, playgrounds, and shaded seating areas, making it an excellent destination for families, couples, and groups. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for children, swimming, floating, paddleboarding, and wading along the shoreline.

Sombrero Beach is also a favorite spot for shell collecting, kayaking, sunset watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of Marathon. During low tide, visitors may spot tiny crabs, tropical fish, and sea life along the water’s edge, while kayakers can explore nearby mangroves and coastal habitats filled with birds and marine wildlife. As the sun begins to set, the beach transforms into one of the best sunset locations in the Florida Keys, offering breathtaking ocean views and the relaxed island charm that makes Marathon such a memorable destination. Sombrero Beach is Marathon’s tropical heart is unspoiled, free, and easygoing. It’s where you’ll feel the Keys’ laid-back soul under your toes!

Sombrero Beach Marathon Florida Keys

Dolphin Research Center

Located at 58901 Overseas Highway on Grassy Key (Mile Marker 59), the Dolphin Research Center is one of Marathon’s most memorable attractions and a must-visit for animal lovers. This nonprofit marine mammal facility is home to a pod of rescued and human-care dolphins, offering a unique blend of education, conservation, and hands-on interaction. Visitors can learn about dolphin behavior, rescue efforts, and marine science while enjoying one of the most engaging wildlife experiences in the Florida Keys.

Just a short drive north of central Marathon, the Dolphin Research Center is open daily and offers a variety of experiences ranging from general admission viewing to interactive programs. Guests can watch dolphins perform playful behaviors, take part in training demonstrations, or join educational presentations held throughout the day. For a more immersive experience, activities such as dolphin swims, dorsal fin rides, and “Meet the Dolphin” encounters allow guests to interact directly with these intelligent animals under professional supervision. Many programs require advance booking, especially during peak travel seasons.

In addition to dolphin encounters, visitors can enjoy touch tanks featuring marine life like starfish and sea urchins, explore shaded viewing areas, and relax in a family-friendly splash zone. The facility also offers gift shops with conservation-focused merchandise that supports ongoing research and animal care. Whether you are planning a family outing or a once-in-a-lifetime dolphin experience, the Dolphin Research Center delivers a meaningful and unforgettable connection with marine life in the heart of the Florida Keys.

Book swims early for the Dolphin Research Center, slots sell out months ahead in winter. Arrive by 9 a.m. for general admission to beat crowds. Wear swimsuits under clothes for programs; lockers and showers are available. Bring a camera the dolphin antics are photo gold. Quiet voices keep them calm. Pair it with a Grassy Key drive which is a quaint and scenic area, just north. The Dolphin Research Center is pure Keys magic, heartwarming, interactive, and a chance to connect with these playful creatures up close!

Old Seven Mile Bridge & Pigeon Key

The Old Seven Mile Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Florida Keys and one of Marathon’s most unforgettable attractions. Originally built in 1912 as part of Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad, this historic bridge stretches from Mile Marker 47 in Marathon to the tiny island of Pigeon Key. Closed to vehicle traffic in 1982, the restored section now serves as a scenic pedestrian and biking path where visitors can experience breathtaking ocean views while walking through an important piece of Florida Keys history.

The flat and paved 2.2-mile bridge offers panoramic views of both the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf waters, making it a popular spot for sightseeing, photography, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Along the way, visitors often spot tarpon, rays, pelicans, ospreys, and even manatees swimming below the bridge. Sunrise and sunset are especially spectacular, with golden light reflecting off the turquoise waters surrounding the historic structure. The bridge is accessible from a free parking area near Knight’s Key, and many visitors enjoy walking or biking the route while taking in the peaceful coastal scenery.

At the end of the bridge sits Pigeon Key, a small historic island that once housed workers building the Overseas Railroad. Today, the island features preserved buildings, museum exhibits, and guided tours showcasing the engineering history of the Florida Keys. Visitors can reach Pigeon Key by walking the bridge or by ferry service offered throughout the day. Whether you are exploring the island’s history, casting a fishing line from the bridge, or simply enjoying the endless ocean views, the Old Seven Mile Bridge offers one of the most scenic and memorable experiences in Marathon.

Pigeon Key off the Old Seven Mile Bridge Marathon Florida

Crane Point Museum and Nature Center

Crane Point combines history, wildlife, and natural beauty into one unique attraction. Visitors can explore tropical hardwood hammocks, scenic walking trails, bird habitats, historic homes, and educational exhibits focused on the ecology and history of the Florida Keys.

Crane Point Museum & Nature Center (5550 Overseas Highway) spans 63 acres with trails through hardwood hammocks, a bird rescue center, and a historic 1900s home. There is a short 9 minute film in the Orientation Hall to get an overview of Crane Point’s features of  what to discover and where to walk along the many natural trails through the center. They also offer guided tours of the property on golf carts!

Curry Hammock State Park

Located near Mile Marker 56.2 in Marathon, Curry Hammock State Park is one of the Florida Keys’ most scenic natural escapes. Known for its unspoiled beauty and peaceful atmosphere, the park offers visitors a chance to experience the quieter side of the Keys surrounded by mangroves, coastal hammocks, shallow turquoise waters, and native wildlife. It is a favorite destination for nature lovers, kayakers, photographers, and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors away from busy tourist areas.

The park is especially popular for kayaking and paddleboarding through winding mangrove trails where visitors may spot sea turtles, manatees, stingrays, and a variety of tropical fish in the clear shallow waters. Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting herons, egrets, osprey, and other wading birds throughout the park’s natural habitats. In addition to water activities, Curry Hammock State Park features biking and walking trails that provide beautiful views of the surrounding wetlands and coastline.

One of the most memorable experiences at Curry Hammock State Park is watching the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. Early mornings bring calm waters, cooler temperatures, and breathtaking colors that make the park feel incredibly peaceful and untouched. Whether you are exploring the mangroves, relaxing on the quiet beach, or simply enjoying the natural scenery, Curry Hammock State Park offers a true Florida Keys eco-adventure in the heart of Marathon.

The Turtle Hospital

The Turtle Hospital is one of the most well-known and meaningful attractions in Marathon, Florida, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured sea turtles throughout the Florida Keys. Located in the heart of Marathon, this nonprofit marine hospital has cared for thousands of endangered and threatened sea turtles since opening in 1986. The facility provides medical treatment for turtles suffering from injuries caused by boat strikes, fishing line entanglement, pollution, and various marine diseases.

Visitors can take guided educational tours that offer a behind-the-scenes look at the rehabilitation process while learning about sea turtle conservation and the challenges these incredible animals face in the wild. During the tour, guests can see rehabilitation tanks filled with recovering sea turtles, learn about surgical procedures and rescue efforts, and hear inspiring stories about turtles that have been successfully returned to the ocean. The experience is both educational and interactive, making it especially popular with families, children, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Beyond being a top tourist attraction, The Turtle Hospital plays an important role in marine conservation efforts throughout the Florida Keys. The organization also participates in research, public education, and community outreach programs focused on protecting marine ecosystems and endangered sea turtles. For many visitors, a trip to The Turtle Hospital becomes one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences during their stay in Marathon.

Sombrero Reef

Sombrero Reef is one of the most popular snorkeling and scuba diving destinations in the Florida Keys, located just offshore from Marathon in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. As part of the Florida Reef Tract, the only living coral barrier reef system in the continental United States, the reef is known for its vibrant coral formations, tropical marine life, sea fans, and exceptional underwater visibility. The iconic Sombrero Key Lighthouse standing nearby adds to the scenic beauty of this world-famous reef system.

Visitors exploring Sombrero Reef often encounter colorful tropical fish, parrotfish, angelfish, rays, sea turtles, and a wide variety of coral species while snorkeling or diving through the shallow reef environment. The calm waters and abundant marine life make it ideal for both beginners and experienced divers alike. Many snorkeling and diving charters depart directly from Marathon marinas, offering guided reef excursions that provide one of the best underwater experiences in the Florida Keys.

Sombrero Reef & Lighthouse in the Florida Keys

Keys Cable Park

Keys Cable Park in Marathon delivers a fun and unique watersports experience for all ages and skill levels. This popular attraction features a cable wakeboarding system that allows riders to glide across the water without the need for a boat, making it an exciting option for beginners and experienced riders alike. In addition to wakeboarding, guests can enjoy obstacle courses, kneeboarding, and waterfront relaxation in a family-friendly atmosphere. Keys Cable Park has become a favorite stop for families, teens, and adventure seekers searching for something beyond traditional boating and beach activities in the Florida Keys.

Marathon Community Park

Marathon Community Park is a popular outdoor gathering place in the heart of Marathon, Florida, offering a wide variety of recreational activities for visitors and locals of all ages. The park features scenic walking paths, playgrounds for children, basketball and tennis courts, open green spaces, a skate park, and multiple sports facilities that make it ideal for family outings and active afternoons. Whether you are looking to enjoy a relaxing walk, let the kids burn off energy, or take a break from the beaches and boating excursions, Marathon Community Park provides a fun and convenient destination for outdoor recreation in the Florida Keys.

Marathon City Marina

Marathon City Marina is one of the largest marinas in the Florida Keys, serving as a central hub for boating, fishing, and waterfront activities in Marathon. Conveniently located near Boot Key Harbor, the marina offers direct access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, making it a favorite destination for anglers, boaters, and visitors exploring the Middle Keys. The marina is known for its protected harbor, full-service facilities, and easy access to some of the best fishing, snorkeling, and diving waters in the region.

Visitors staying in Marathon often use the marina as a departure point for deep-sea fishing charters, reef snorkeling tours, sunset cruises, eco-tours, and island-hopping adventures throughout the Florida Keys. Marathon itself is widely recognized as one of the top boating and sportfishing destinations in the Keys, attracting travelers from around the world looking to experience offshore fishing, backcountry waters, and world-class marine life. Whether you are launching your own boat or booking a guided excursion, Marathon City Marina is at the center of the area’s vibrant boating lifestyle.

Grassy Key Marina

Located on Grassy Key, this marina offers convenient water access, boat storage, and services for anglers and boaters exploring the surrounding waters of the Middle Keys. Grassy Key Marina is a convenient boating destination in the heart of the Florida Keys on scenic Grassy Key. Known for its easy access to the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, the marina is a popular choice for anglers, boaters, and visitors looking to experience the natural beauty of the Middle Keys. With nearby flats, channels, and offshore fishing areas, Grassy Key Marina provides an ideal launch point for fishing charters, snorkeling trips, eco tours, and relaxing days on the water.

In addition to its prime waterfront location, Grassy Key Marina offers a variety of services designed to make boating in the Florida Keys simple and enjoyable. Visitors can find boat storage, docking facilities, and convenient access for exploring nearby islands, sandbars, and popular boating destinations throughout Marathon and the surrounding Keys. Whether you are planning a fishing adventure, a family boating excursion, or a long-term stay in the Middle Keys, Grassy Key Marina provides a peaceful and accessible home base for enjoying the laid-back Florida Keys lifestyle.

EAA Air Museum

The EAA Air Museum near Marathon International Airport offers a unique look into the aviation history of the Florida Keys and the evolution of flight in the region. Operated by the Experimental Aircraft Association, the museum features a collection of historic aircraft, aviation memorabilia, photographs, and exhibits that highlight the important role aviation has played throughout the Keys. Aviation enthusiasts and history lovers alike can explore displays showcasing vintage planes and learn about the pilots and aircraft connected to South Florida’s rich aviation heritage.

Although smaller than many major aviation museums, the EAA Air Museum provides an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Its convenient location near the airport makes it an easy stop while exploring Marathon and the Middle Keys. Guests can enjoy up-close views of restored aircraft while discovering stories about military aviation, private pilots, and early flight operations in the Florida Keys. The museum serves as a hidden gem for travelers looking to experience a different side of Marathon beyond its beaches and outdoor attractions.

Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters in Marathon offers an unforgettable hands-on marine experience for visitors of all ages. This interactive aquarium allows guests to get up close with a variety of marine life native to the Florida Keys, including tropical fish, sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and colorful coral reef species. Feed the stingrays, snorkel in marine tanks, and learn about local ocean life through hands-on exhibits and educational encounters. It is an excellent attraction for both children and adults interested in marine wildlife. The guided snorkeling experiences inside large marine habitats, create an exciting and educational adventure for families, couples, and ocean enthusiasts making this a very special place to experience.

In addition to its interactive exhibits, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters focuses heavily on marine conservation and ocean education. Visitors can learn about the unique ecosystems of the Florida Keys through informative presentations, touch tanks, and expert-led encounters designed to inspire appreciation for local marine wildlife. Conveniently located in the heart of Marathon, this family-friendly attraction combines entertainment and education, making it one of the top things to do in the Florida Keys for children and adults interested in ocean life and marine conservation.

Seafood Dishes Marathon Florida Keys

Places to Eat

Marathon, Florida offers an incredible mix of waterfront seafood restaurants, local island favorites, casual tiki bars, and upscale dining experiences. Located in the heart of the Florida Keys, Marathon is known for fresh seafood, dockside dining, tropical cocktails, and laid-back island hospitality. Whether you are looking for fresh lobster, fish tacos, sushi, steaks, or Key lime pie, Marathon has something for every taste and travel style.

Keys Fisheries (3502 Gulfview Avenue)

One of the most famous seafood restaurants in the Florida Keys, Keys Fisheries is a must-visit for fresh local seafood and authentic dockside dining. Located on a working marina, this casual waterfront spot is best known for its legendary lobster Reuben sandwich, stone crab claws, shrimp baskets, and fresh catch specials. Guests can enjoy outdoor seating while watching fishing boats come and go throughout the harbor.

Lazy Days South (79867 Overseas Highway)

Lazy Days South offers classic waterfront dining with beautiful ocean views and fresh local seafood. The restaurant is especially known for its “Lazy Days Style” fish topped with tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and a light cream sauce. With indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the water, it is a popular location for sunset dinners and relaxed island meals.

Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House (3660 Overseas Highway)

For upscale dining in Marathon, Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House is a longtime local favorite. The menu features premium steaks, lobster tails, seafood pasta, fresh fish, and an extensive wine selection served in an elegant yet comfortable Keys atmosphere. It is a popular choice for date nights and special occasions.

Burdines Waterfront (1200 Oceanview Avenue)

Burdines Waterfront is a casual marina restaurant overlooking Boot Key Harbor. Known for its burgers, mahi sandwiches, fish tacos, and tropical drinks, the restaurant features rooftop seating with some of the best sunset views in Marathon. The relaxed atmosphere and waterfront location make it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar (1406 Oceanview Avenue)

Castaway combines fresh Florida Keys seafood with high-quality sushi in a unique waterfront setting. The restaurant is popular for sushi rolls, yellowtail snapper, fresh tuna dishes, and creative seafood specials. It is one of the top spots in Marathon for visitors looking for both seafood and sushi options.

Sparky’s Landing (13205 Overseas Highway)

Located in nearby Key Colony Beach, Sparky’s Landing offers waterfront dining with a fun island atmosphere. Guests enjoy seafood baskets, sandwiches, fish tacos, frozen drinks, and sunset views while dining beside the marina. The outdoor seating and tropical setting create a classic Florida Keys experience.

Sparkys Oysters Flashed Broiled with Parmesan Cheese

Herbie’s Bar & Chowder House (6350 Overseas Highway)

A longtime Marathon institution, Herbie’s Bar & Chowder House is famous for its clam chowder, conch fritters, lobster dishes, and old-school Keys charm. This casual local favorite has been serving comfort seafood dishes to generations of visitors and residents alike.

Island Fish Company (12648 Overseas Highway)

Island Fish Company offers waterfront tiki-style dining with live music, fresh seafood, and beautiful Gulf views. Guests enjoy fish tacos, coconut shrimp, blackened local catch, burgers, and tropical cocktails in a relaxed outdoor atmosphere perfect for lunch or dinner.

Sunset Grille & Raw Bar (7 Knights Key Blvd)

Located near the Old Seven Mile Bridge, Sunset Grille & Raw Bar is one of the best places in Marathon to watch the sunset. The restaurant serves oysters, seafood platters, burgers, sushi, and tropical drinks with panoramic waterfront views that make it a popular evening destination.

Wooden Spoon (7007 Overseas Highway)

The Wooden Spoon is a beloved breakfast and lunch diner in Marathon known for large portions and homemade comfort food. Visitors stop here for pancakes, omelets, breakfast platters, sandwiches, and classic diner favorites before heading out for boating, fishing, or sightseeing adventures.

Sweet Savannah’s (8919 Overseas Highway)

Key lime pie and ice cream is a local gem.

Cuisine

Marathon’s food scene is all about fresh seafood, Keys classics, and tropical flair. Here’s what to taste:

  • Fresh yellowtail snapper
  • Florida lobster
  • Stone crab claws
  • Conch fritters
  • Mahi-mahi sandwiches
  • Key lime pie
  • Fish tacos
  • Blackened local catch
  • Fresh shrimp baskets

From casual dockside seafood spots to upscale waterfront restaurants, Marathon offers some of the best dining experiences in the Florida Keys. Whether you are enjoying fresh seafood beside the marina or watching the sunset with tropical drinks in hand, the local restaurant scene is a memorable part of any Marathon vacation.

Seafood dominates this area with conch, lobster, and fish caught daily. Cuban influences add mojo pork and black beans, while tropical fruits like mango and coconut spice up desserts and drinks. Pair meals with a Keys Disease cocktail (rum, pineapple, coconut) or local brews from Florida Keys Brewing Co. in Islamorada.

Must-Try Dishes

Conch Fritters: Crispy, spiced balls of conch meat with dipping sauce - a Keys staple.
Stone Crab Claws: Harvested October-May, served chilled with mustard sauce - sweet and succulent.
Key Lime Pie: Tangy, creamy, and iconic, Marathon’s versions rival Key West’s.

 

Family Fun

Kids adore Turtle Hospital (2396 Overseas Highway,), where you can tour rehab facilities and feed rescued sea turtles. Coco Plum Beach, quieter than Sombrero, has shallow waters and tide pools for little explorers. The Marathon Community Park (MM 49) offers free playgrounds, skate ramps, and sports fields.

Boating rents from Captain Pip’s  to cruise the Keys’ backcountry or sandbars. Paddleboarding and jet skiing  from Keys Kayak add thrills. Golfers enjoy the 9-hole Sombrero Country Club, a par-3 course with ocean breezes.

For a sunset sail, book with Fury Water Adventure, cocktails and dolphin sightings included. Cyclists love the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, a paved path paralleling US-1 through Marathon it is free and scenic.

Day Trips

Day trips include Key West (1 hour southwest) for Duval Street and Hemingway, or Islamorada (45 minutes northeast) for more fishing and art.

Water Adventures

Marathon’s nickname, “Heart of the Keys,” reflects its prime aquatic offerings. Sombrero Beach, a free public beach on Vaca Key, boasts soft sand, calm waters, and picnic pavilions that are perfect for swimming or kayaking. Rent kayaks from Wheels-2-Go to paddle nearby mangroves.

Marathon claims the title “Sportfishing Capital of the World.” Charter a boat with Sea Dog Charters half/full day) to target tarpon, mahi-mahi, or sailfish in the Gulf or Atlantic. For a casual cast, try the Old Seven Mile Bridge for free to fish, just bring your gear.

Diving and snorkeling thrive at Sombrero Reef, a living coral reef 4 miles offshore. Book a trip with
Tilden’s Scuba Center, gear included) to explore its vibrant corals and fish such as parrotfish, angelfish, and barracuda galore. Boat access only; visibility peaks in spring.

Climate and Accessibility

The climate is tropical, with hot, humid summers (June-September, highs in the 90s°F) and warm, dry winters (December-March, 70s-80s°F). Summer brings afternoon rains and hurricane risks (June-November), while winter is peak season with ideal weather and higher rates. Spring (April-May) and fall (October-November) offer warm days, fewer crowds, and calm seas, perfect for outdoor fun.

Marathon is accessible via the Florida Keys Marathon International Airport (MTH), a small airstrip for private flights and charters, or a 2-hour drive from Miami International Airport (MIA) along the scenic Overseas Highway. Key West International Airport (EYW), 50 miles southwest, is another option. A car is key for exploring US-1 links everything, but bikes and golf carts work for short hops around town. Parking is ample and mostly free.

Why Marathon?

Many travelers consider Marathon the perfect home base for exploring the Florida Keys because of its central location between Key Largo and Key West. The area combines beautiful beaches, boating, fishing, wildlife encounters, eco-attractions, fresh seafood restaurants, and a quieter island atmosphere that appeals to families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you are planning a relaxing beach vacation, an adventurous fishing trip, or a scenic Florida Keys road trip, Marathon offers one of the most complete and authentic experiences in the Keys.



Map of Marathon in the Florida Keys

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