Are you ready to explore the heart of the Florida Keys? Marathon is a charming island city, located between Miami and Key West. It’s known for its friendly locals, beautiful waters, and laid-back vibe. This makes it perfect for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxing getaways.
Key Takeaways
- Marathon, Florida is a unique destination in the Florida Keys, comprising about 13 islands.
- The city offers a variety of outdoor activities, including beaches, nature centers, snorkeling, and fishing.
- Marathon is home to cultural attractions, such as the Crane Point Hammock Museum and Pigeon Key.
- Visitors can enjoy family-friendly experiences, like the Turtle Hospital and Trolley Tour.
- Marathon’s laid-back atmosphere and annual festivals make it a great destination for romantic getaways.
Introduction to Marathon, Florida
Location and Overview of Marathon
Marathon is a beautiful island in the Florida Keys, about 110 miles south of Miami. You can get there in 2 hours from Miami or 2.5 hours from Fort Lauderdale via the Overseas Highway. Its central spot makes it perfect for visiting the Florida Keys, with Key Largo to the north and Key West to the south.
Why Marathon is a Great Destination
Marathon has a laid-back island vibe that’s true to the Florida Keys. It’s right by the Atlantic Ocean, offering beautiful beaches like Sombrero Beach. There’s lots to do outside, like snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, and watching wildlife.
This place is great for relaxing on the beach or exploring the marine life. It’s a charming spot that will leave you with wonderful memories.
The Florida Keys stretch for almost 200 miles from Florida to the Dry Tortugas. US-1 takes you 120 miles to Key West. The drive to Key West is 113 miles long and has 42 bridges, making it a memorable trip.
Marathon is in the middle of this island chain. It’s a great spot for seeing the natural beauty and charming towns of the Florida Keys.
“Marathon is a great destination for those looking for a low-key island vibe, typical for the Florida Keys. It’s a perfect place to relax, but there are also plenty of activities to keep you busy, from snorkeling and kayaking to hiking and enjoying the beaches.”
Coco Plum Beach
Coco Plum Beach is a peaceful spot along the Atlantic Ocean in Marathon, Florida. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the crowds. The beach is known for its beautiful views and lots of seashells.
Walking on Coco Plum Beach, you’ll find it’s usually quiet. You might see a few people, but it’s mostly peaceful. The beach is great for wading and fishing because the sand goes far out. Just remember, there’s no swim area, so be careful.
This beach is special because turtles nest here from April to October. During this time, stay away from areas with flags. These flags show where turtles have laid their eggs. This helps protect the turtles and the beach’s ecosystem.
Coco Plum Beach has restrooms and picnic tables for your comfort. It’s perfect for a quiet day by the sea. You can walk, search for seashells, or watch the natural beauty around you. It’s a top spot for anyone visiting Marathon, Florida.
Discover the calm of Coco Plum Beach and see what makes Marathon’s coast so beautiful.
Sombrero Beach
Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida, is a top spot for fun and beauty. It has stunning views of Sister Creek and the Atlantic Ocean. This makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The beach has many amenities like bathrooms, volleyball courts, and picnic areas. There’s also a swim area, a dock, and a place to launch kayaks. Snorkeling at Sombrero Reef is popular, but check the weather first.
Gilligan's Island
Gilligan’s Island is close to Sombrero Beach and can only be reached by boat. It’s a quiet spot away from the busy beach. You might see colorful lizards there, adding to its charm.
Wear strong sandals when visiting Gilligan’s Island because the rocks are sharp.
Sombrero Beach and Gilligan’s Island are unforgettable spots in Marathon, Florida. They offer fun and peace, making them a must-see for visitors. Whether you want a lively beach day or a quiet escape, these places have it all.
Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park is a hidden treasure in the Florida Keys. It’s perfect for those who love nature and the beach. The park has soft, sandy shores with grass that gently sways in the wind. You can explore trails through dunes, ending at a driftwood forest and a lawn with picnic tables.
Visiting costs $8 per vehicle, helping to keep this area untouched. Bahia Honda State Park is the largest undeveloped area between Big Pine Key and Key Largo. It’s not just about the beaches; it also has RV and tent camping. This lets visitors dive deep into the beauty of the Florida Keys parks.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Beaches | The park has three main beaches: Loggerhead Beach, Caloosa Beach, and Sandspur Beach. It’s known for having the largest natural sand beach in the Florida Keys. |
| Snorkeling | Snorkeling here is amazing, with colorful coral and many tropical fish to see. |
| Rentals | You can rent kayaks, snorkeling gear, and paddleboards to make your water adventures better. |
| Nature Trails | The park has nature trails for exploring plants and seeing wildlife, including the tiny Key deer. |
| Hours and Fees | The park is open from 8 AM to sundown, every day of the year. It costs $8 per vehicle to get in. |
If you want to enjoy the sun, snorkeling, or quiet trails, Bahia Honda State Park is the place. It’s a memorable spot in the Florida Keys parks.
Crane Point Hammock Museum and Nature Trails
In the heart of Marathon, Florida, Crane Point Hammock Museum and Nature Trails await. They let visitors dive into the area’s natural beauty and history. This 63.5-acre nature center is home to some of the last thatch palm hammocks in the world. It’s a peaceful place for many kinds of wildlife.
The Adderley House, a 1904 Bahamian pioneer home, is a key part of Crane Point. It tells the story of early settlers. The museum has many artifacts and exhibits, covering the area’s history from ancient times to today.
The nature trails at Crane Point are perfect for outdoor fun. You can take a self-guided tour to see the different plants and animals. Birdwatching in the hammocks or spotting sea creatures in the lagoons is exciting.
The Marathon Wild Bird Center at Crane Point is a big draw. It has been helping wild birds since 1995. Visitors can learn about the center’s work and see the birds up close.
For a deeper look, try the golf cart/trolley tour. It’s a great way to learn about Crane Point’s history, nature, and importance. Whether you love nature, history, or just want a quiet place, Crane Point will impress you.
| Crane Point Hammock Museum and Nature Trails | Key Facts |
|---|---|
| Adderley House | Built in 1904, a traditional Bahamian pioneer home |
| Crane House | Built in 1954, showcases the history of the Florida Keys |
| Marathon Wild Bird Center | Operational since 1995, has rescued over 22,000 wild birds |
| Crane Point Hammock | Spans over 63 acres, offering outdoor events and activities |
| Museum Exhibits | Explore artifacts, history, and the Lion Fish story |
| Butterfly Gardens | Four vibrant gardens on the property |
| Dugout Canoe | Discover a 600-year-old dugout canoe at the lagoon |
Crane Point Hammock Museum and Nature Trails are perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, or anyone looking for something special. They offer a chance to see the history, wildlife, and beauty of the Florida Keys. Don’t miss out on this unique experience in Marathon, Florida.
Pigeon Key
Pigeon Key is a hidden gem in the Florida Keys, full of history. It was crucial for building the Florida East Coast Railway. Workers here helped extend the railroad to Key West.
Now, you can explore Pigeon Key’s history with guided tours. For $25 for adults and $20 for kids, you’ll see old buildings and artifacts. It’s a 1-hour trip back in time.
But there’s more than history here. The island has a nature center where you can learn about local wildlife. And, snorkeling in the waters around Pigeon Key is an adventure you won’t forget.
Getting to Pigeon Key is an adventure too. You can take a trolley from the 7 Mile Bridge or go by foot or bike. If you walk or bike, it costs $15 for adults and $12 for kids. You get the same access as the guided tour.
If you love history, nature, or just want a unique adventure, Pigeon Key is perfect. Discover the stories of this amazing island and make your own memories here.
“Pigeon Key is a truly special place, offering a glimpse into the rich history and natural wonders of the Florida Keys.”
Marathon, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Marathon, Florida, is more than just beautiful beaches, nature centers, and historical sites. It’s a place full of exciting activities and adventures. You can rent a boat or kayak to explore quiet creeks, coves, and sandbars. Or, you can go on tours and excursions to see what the area has to offer.
For those who love nature, the Turtle Hospital is a must-see. Here, you can learn about the amazing work they do to help injured sea turtles. The Dolphin Research Center and Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters let you get up close with marine life. If you want to see the area from above, try a helicopter tour with JD Premier Aviation.
- Rent a boat or kayak and explore the serene creeks, coves, and sandbars
- Embark on dolphin and whale watching tours, offshore fishing charters, and snorkeling excursions
- Experience the Turtle Hospital and learn about their sea turtle rehabilitation efforts
- Take a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Florida Keys
- Enjoy a sunset cruise or eco-tour through the mangroves
- Indulge in watersports like parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and more
Marathon has a wide range of top things to do and activities. It’s the perfect place for an unforgettable Florida Keys adventure.
“Marathon is considered an affordable and less crowded alternative to Key West, offering a truly authentic Florida Keys experience.”
Turtle Hospital
In Marathon, Florida, the Turtle Hospital shines as a place of hope for sea turtles. It’s the first and only hospital in the world focused on helping these amazing creatures. Here, injured and ill sea turtles get the care they need.
The Turtle Hospital leads in sea turtle conservation. It treats many issues, like tumors and injuries from fishing gear, boat strikes, and pollution. The hospital can take over 200 turtles at a time. The staff does surgeries, long-term rehab, and helps turtles go back to the wild.
Visitors can take a tour and see the hospital, meet the turtles, and learn about their challenges. They can also support sea turtles by adopting one for $35 a year. This helps with the hospital’s work.
“The Turtle Hospital is a true embodiment of our commitment to protecting and nurturing these incredible marine animals. By educating the public and providing top-notch medical care, we are ensuring that sea turtles can thrive in their natural habitats for generations to come.”
When you visit Marathon, don’t miss the Turtle Hospital. You’ll see the amazing work to save sea turtles. You can also help by adopting a turtle and living sustainably.
Water Adventures
Marathon, Florida, is a paradise for those who love the water. It offers many exciting activities to enjoy the marine environment. Whether you like to explore on your own or join guided tours, there’s something for everyone.
Boat and Kayak Rentals
Rent a boat or kayak to explore the peaceful creeks, coves, and the Atlantic Ocean. You can discover hidden mangrove forests and see local wildlife. Enjoy the calmness of the Florida Keys at your pace.
Sister Creek Exploration
Explore Sister Creek, a beautiful waterway full of diverse plants and animals. Paddle through winding channels. Look out for herons, egrets, dolphins, and manatees.
Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours
Go on a guided tour to see dolphins and whales in their home waters. These tours let you see the beauty of these marine mammals up close.
Offshore Fishing Charters
Try offshore fishing to catch sailfish, marlin, tuna, and more. Local guides will make your fishing trip exciting and successful, whether you’re new or experienced.
Snorkeling at Sombrero Reef
Snorkel at Sombrero Reef, a top spot in the Florida Keys. See colorful coral and marine life like tropical fish, sea turtles, and nurse sharks.
Parasailing and Watersports
For fun, try parasailing, jet skiing, or other watersports. Fly above the water or speed through waves for an exciting day.
Sunset Cruises
Finish your day with a sunset cruise. Enjoy the view as the sun sets over the Florida Keys. Have a drink and watch the sky turn into a beautiful sunset.
Eco-Tours Through the Mangroves
Take an eco-tour through the Florida Keys’ mangrove forests. Paddle through the roots and see wildlife like birds, fish, and manatees in their home.
Sandbar Excursions
Go to the sandbars around Marathon for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. These spots are away from the crowds, letting you enjoy the Florida Keys’ peace.
Helicopter Tours
See the Florida Keys from above with a helicopter tour. Fly over the coast, mangrove forests, and the Seven Mile Bridge for a unique view.
Marathon’s water adventures are unforgettable. They give you memories and a deeper love for the Florida Keys’ beauty.
Conclusion
Marathon, Florida, is a true gem in the Florida Keys. It offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor fun, and cultural spots. If you’re visiting Marathon Florida or planning a trip to Marathon, you’ll find something for every interest.
The city has beautiful beaches, nature spots, exciting water sports, and unique places to eat. It’s a place where everyone can find joy.
Marathon is a great spot to start exploring the Florida Keys. You can easily go to other islands and see different landscapes and attractions. You can enjoy the calm of Key Largo or the fun of Key West.
So, think about making Marathon your next vacation spot. It has lots of activities, beautiful nature, and friendly people. Marathon will leave you wanting to come back and make more memories in this special place.
