A Visitor’s Guide to Marathon Key, FL

Marathon is a gem of the Florida Keys, offering lots to do for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or have more time to explore, you’ll never be short of things to do in this picturesque island city.

A Marathon vacation rental with a private pool or boat ramp is the cherry on the sundae of a Florida adventure you’ll never forget.

Let’s take a look at our visitor’s guide to Marathon, Florida.

About Marathon

In the heart of the Florida Keys lies the 10-mile-long family-oriented community of Marathon in Monroe County. The city of Marathon is a quaint island oasis promoting an old Keys lifestyle and a rich history anchored in its fishing heritage.

Our Marathon Key vacation rentals offer a relaxed tropical atmosphere with unique shops, great family attractions, impeccable beaches, world-class wreck and reef diving, snorkeling, and legendary fishing all close by. Connected to both Key West and Miami via The Overseas Highway, Marathon is the ideal escape for an epic coastal getaway!

Things to Do in Marathon, FL

Marathon stretches from Long Key to the famous Seven Mile Bridge in the heart of the Florida Keys and offers so many attractions, tasty restaurants, beautiful parks, and beaches to explore. From the beautiful park-like setting of Long Key, where you can fish and kayak, to Pigeon Key, a small island full of historical buildings and a museum.

Take a leisurely hike on the nature trails of Crane Point and visit Crane Point Museum, home to one of the last untouched tropical hardwood hammocks. For more fun in nature, explore the thatch palm forests of Curry Hammock State Park.

Enjoy many awesome interactive marine experiences such as swimming with dolphins at The Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key, petting sea turtles and touring the rehabilitation center at The Turtle Hospital, and feeding Stingrays at Aquarium Encounters. All these special encounters are suitable for both adults and children.

Relax on Marathon Florida’s Beaches

Depending on when you visit Marathon, your experience will vary a bit. Luckily, the beach is always a great option in Marathon! The beaches of Marathon are special, and all are worth a visit, and you’ll have the chance to choose between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico which is a cool feature of visiting the Keys.

Bahia Honda State Park lies 12 miles to the south, and this pristine sandy beach is lined with Palm Trees making it a tropical oasis. Enjoy great snorkeling, soft sands, and turtles at Sombrero Beach, or head to the quiet shores of the pet-friendly Coco Plum Beach in Fat Deer Key. Cross the causeway to Key Colony Beach to visit Sunset Park Beach to simply relax on the soft sand or get active in the water. The winds, shallow waters, and natural environment set the scene for excellent watersports!

Explore Under the Sea on a Snorkeling or Scuba Trip

Much of the beauty of Marathon goes on under the sea. America’s only living coral reef beckons divers and snorkelers. The Thunderbolt Wreck, the perfect artificial reef, draws experienced divers from afar. Across the Seven Mile Bridge is Looe Key, a coral reef within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary featuring excellent diving and snorkeling around the reefs and the 210-foot wreck of Adolphus Busch.

Looe Key also hosts a one-of-a-kind annual underwater music festival. Visit the History of Diving Museum to learn the story of man’s quest to explore and venture under the sea. The Florida Keys is a major sports fishing destination and it is here that you can enjoy the thrill of non-stop rod bending action-packed adventure. Experience world-class fishing on a chartered boat from a local marina. Vacation Boat Rentals and Main Attraction offer the best in offshore fishing. They know these waters and offer the experience of a lifetime. Cruise the turquoise waters in an unbeatable offshore fishing experience day or night, fishing the reef and the wrecks, or paddle a kayak peacefully through the pristine creeks and sample a fresh catch of the day at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Be sure to visit in March for the annual premier Seafood Festival!

Take a Day Trip to Nearby Keys

Marathon is perfectly positioned to explore its neighboring keys as fun-packed day trips. Here are a few of our favorite places to spend a day exploring (in order of distance, with the closest first).

Vaca Key - 6.2 Miles

Vaca Key is part of Marathon and is close enough to visit for just a couple of hours. It provides easy access to stunning beaches, top-tier fishing, and the famous Seven Mile Bridge. It’s adjacent to Boot Key, so be sure to swing by here, too.

Conch Key - 11 Miles

Conch Key is a charming and quiet island getaway with stunning waterfront views, world-class fishing opportunities, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's an ideal spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Islamorada

Islamorada is known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World," and is a paradise for anglers, water enthusiasts, and beach lovers. With its world-class fishing, stunning coral reefs, and vibrant arts and dining scene, this charming locale offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Key West - 50 Miles

Key West, the southernmost point in the U.S., is a vibrant island known for its lively atmosphere, rich history, and stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. From exploring the colorful streets of Old Town and visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home to enjoying the nightlife on Duval Street, there’s something for everyone.

Duck Key - 10 Miles

Duck Key is a hidden gem in the Florida Keys, offering crystal-clear waters, luxurious resorts, and a peaceful island atmosphere. Whether you're looking to snorkel vibrant coral reefs, go deep-sea fishing, or simply relax by the turquoise ocean, Duck Key provides the perfect tropical escape.

Big Pine Key - 21 Miles

Big Pine Key in the Lower Keys offers a laid-back, unspoiled slice of the Florida Keys. This tranquil retreat is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor adventures and is perfect for nature lovers, snorkelers, and kayakers.

Key Largo - 47 Miles

Key Largo is a paradise for divers, snorkelers, and nature lovers. Home to the world-famous John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, it offers stunning underwater adventures, vibrant marine life, and crystal-clear waters.

Marathon’s Weather — A Year-Round Destination

Marathon, Florida enjoys great weather with a warm, tropical climate year-round, making it a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Winters are mild and pleasant, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F, while summers are hot and humid, often reaching the upper 80s and low 90s°F.

The area experiences a distinct wet season from June to November, coinciding with hurricane season, bringing frequent afternoon showers and occasional storms. The dry season, from December to May, offers plenty of sunshine and lower humidity, making it the most popular time for visitors.

With warm ocean waters and gentle breezes, Marathon remains an inviting destination no matter the time of year.

Enjoy Your Visit to Marathon, FL

So there you have it, our visitor’s guide to Marathon. However you spend your time here, we’re certain you’ll fall in love with our friendly community and the many fun things to do here.

Don’t forget to book your Marathon vacation rental before you hop on the Overseas Hwy to ensure you have a comfy, cozy base to return to at the end of every adventure.

Activities & Attractions

Marathon, FL Rentals

Marathon, FL Weather

Marathon Florida Vacation Rentals

As the sky puts on a display with a spectacular sunset, you will know that Marathon is a special place to take a relaxing vacation where lifelong memories are made. At Coco Plum, we have the perfect Marathon Florida Keys rentals for you and your group, from pet-friendly to rentals with private pools. Contact our knowledgeable staff with any questions you may have!