Marathon
Join the “snowbirds” from the northern United States and Canada who annually escape the cold northern winters by flying or sailing to Marathon. The coastal settlement is one of the best places to relax in the Florida Keys. Lounge on the beach or take long fishing trips and get to know the friendly locals.
Marathon is a community that covers a 10-mile (16-kilometer) long group of islands in the middle of the Florida Keys. It is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that charms visitors of all ages from far and wide.
Head to Sombrero Beach for some of the best fishing, swimming and diving in the region. Explore the protected waters of the Curry Hammock State Park on a kayak to meet local wildlife. Marathon is a boating paradise with extensive marina facilities so investigate your options for getting out on the water on a charter or rented vessel. While you’re out on the water, dive or snorkel on the colorful coral reef that runs along this coast.
Drive, walk or cycle along the Seven Mile Bridge, a spectacular feat of engineering that crosses the junction between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, running all the way to Little Duck Key. Back in the Marathon area, stop by Dolphin Research Center for education and entertainment for the whole family.
Dine on delicious seafood while looking out on the sparkling ocean at one of Marathon’s many restaurants. Each day, boatloads of freshly caught fish arrive. A seafood festival is held in March each year, allowing you to taste stone crab and other delicacies.
Reach Marathon by air via private plane or charter, car or boat through the Boot Key Harbor. Boaters should be aware of the boundaries of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and use the provided mooring buoys to protect the reefs.
Come during January or February to enjoy warm sun, as the temperature never reaches freezing in Marathon. If you visit in the summer season, cool breezes keep even the most tropical days pleasant in temperature.