Living in the Florida Keys means enjoying a fantastic way of life where outdoor adventures and beautiful beaches await you every day. Located in the heart of the Keys, the City of Marathon offers everything you can expect from this sun-drenched area – and then some.
This guide explores the best things to do in Marathon, Florida and why owning a home here – whether as a permanent residence or as an accessible getaway – is one of the best decisions you can make.
What’s Inside:
- An Overview of Marathon, FL
- A brief history
- The people
- The best things to do in Marathon, Florida
- On the water
- Local attractions
- Shopping
- Dining
- Learn more about living in Marathon, FL with The Lisa Ferringo Group
An overview of Marathon, FL
Marathon stretches 10 miles over seven islands at the center of the Florida Keys. It is served by the historic Overseas Highway, connecting the city to the rest of the Keys and to the Florida mainland.
Marathon lies at the north end of Seven-Mile Bridge, a historic bridge that connects Knights Key, the city’s southernmost island, to Little Duck Key, found 7.5 miles to the south. To the north, Overseas Highway connects Grassy Key, Marathon’s northernmost island, to Duck Key, located around 10 miles northeast, and further north to the island of Islamorada and beyond.
In addition to Knights Key and Grassy Key, the other islands encompassed by Marathon are Boot Key, Key Vaca, Fat Deer Key, Long Point Key, and Crawl Key.
A brief history
Marathon was incorporated only in 1999, but it has a history that goes back to the early 1800s when New Englanders settled and built a fishing village in the area. To this day, Marathon remains a major fishing destination, attracting serious and casual anglers from around the world.
The name “Marathon” is believed to have originated during the construction of the Florida East Coast Railway from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Laborers worked night and day to complete the railroad, prompting the popular expression, “This is getting to be a marathon.” Upon its completion, Marathon became one of the railroad’s stops in the Florida Keys.
The people
Marathon has approximately 8,700 residents, coming from diverse cultures and backgrounds. The city attracts families with children, singles, retirees, and everyone in between. There are nearly as many 5 to 19 year old residents as there are 65 to 84 year olds. A number of celebrities and CEOs have called Marathon home, including actors Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, musicians Kenny G and Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys, and former NFL player Tony Bryant.
The best things to do in Marathon, Florida
With water, water everywhere, Marathon is a top destination for swimming, diving, fishing, and other beach or ocean activities. But the city’s rich history and growing population have also resulted in a diverse array of cultural experiences, as well as dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Here’s a compilation of the top places to go and things to do in Marathon, FL.
On the water
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The most popular beach in Marathon, Sombrero Beach features a winding shoreline with powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and family-friendly amenities. The beach is everyone’s idea of the perfect getaway where you can do a host of water activities, or simply relax on the shore and soak in the sun. It is also a turtle nesting beach and offers turtle surveying activities.
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Coco Plum Beach is a picturesque natural beach that seldom gets too crowded – perfect for those who seek a quiet time in nature. It is adjacent to a wetland area that serves as feeding and resting ground for several species of migratory and wading birds, making it a favorite among birdwatchers. In addition, the beach is a nesting area for sea turtles, and if you’re lucky enough, you can spot a giant Leatherback Turtle, or perhaps a Loggerhead or Atlantic Green. Those looking for luxurious oceanfront accommodations in the area can look into Coco Plum Beach and Tennis Club and Marina.
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Snorkeling
The Florida Keys is the only place in the United States with a live coral reef. The Florida Reef is the world’s third largest barrier reef and the Sombrero Reef portion found off the coast of Marathon is considered as one of the best snorkeling destinations in the Keys. Most parts of the reef are SPAs or Sanctuary Preservation Areas, so visitors are encouraged to join guided snorkeling trips to ensure their safety and that of the coral reef and the marine life it shelters.
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Fishing
Deep sea fishing is a must-try adventure in Marathon. The waters off the coast of this former fishing village teem with prize catch, such as sailfish, dolphin fish, blue and white marlin, amberjack, sharks, and more. There are plenty of fishing charters that can take anglers to the best spots in the area.
If you don’t feel like venturing into the open sea, you can still have an amazing fishing experience in shallower waters or from land. Some of the top angling destinations in Marathon include:
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Boating and yachting
Marathon is a boater’s paradise, visited by thousands of boating enthusiasts and tourists who wish to go island hopping and experience the area on water. Many homes and rentals come with private docks, and there are numerous boat ramps and full service marinas around the city where residents and guests can park their watercraft. In addition, you’ll find a wealth of boating and fishing charters, as well as luxury cruises that will take you around the Keys in style and comfort.
The waters surrounding the Florida Keys are under the protection of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary so independent boaters are advised to learn about the Sanctuary’s on-the-water guidelines. The shallow waters around the barrier islands may also be tricky to navigate alone, especially by a newbie or non-professional.
Local attractions
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The Turtle Hospital
A wonderful attraction for the family, The Turtle Hospital was established to rehabilitate injured sea turtles and return them to their home. The facility also aims to educate the public about these sea creatures and encourage advocacy to protect them. Visitors get a guided tour of the hospital and have an up close encounter with these sea creatures. -
Seven Mile Bridge
Once proclaimed as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, the Seven Mile Bridge inspires awe with its endless view of sea and sky. It spans 2,369 miles and, as part of the Overseas Highway, connects Knights Key in Marathon to the Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys.
There are actually two bridges in the area. The Old Seven Miles Bridge was completed in 1912 as part of the Florida East Coast Railway, but was permanently closed to traffic in 2008. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, it is presently open to pedestrians and cyclists and is used as a fishing pier. The new Seven Miles Bridge was completed in 1982.
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Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters
This kid-friendly attraction offers unique experiences to visitors, including a simulated underwater adventure in a Coral Reef Encounter Tank. Other interactive hands-on encounters include feeding the sharks and training baby stingrays. The facility also offers guided tours where guests can learn about the water creatures and marine life in the Florida Keys and get the chance to touch living sea life.
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Visitors at this outdoor all-natural center get an up-close encounter with dolphins and sea lions during behavior training sessions, and have the opportunity to swim with the dolphins. The narrated behavior training sessions are conducted every half hour, spotlighting a different group of dolphins and sea lions every time. During a session, the center’s experts answer questions covering a wide range of topics related to these sea animals.
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A combination museum and nature center, Crane Point Hammock offers a uniquely Marathon experience. The attractions here include a museum that spotlights the earliest Keys inhabitants, the area’s earliest explorers, and significant historical events at the Keys. The Marathon Wild Bird Center is also housed here, providing rescue and rehabilitation services for various wild bird species in the area.
Other attractions in the center include hammock forests and nature trails, a Fish Pedicure area, a lagoon with a variety of Atlantic Ocean fishes, a historic house, and more.
Shopping
Retail therapy is one of the best things to do in Marathon, Florida. Shopping in the city is not about big box stores or sprawling malls. Instead, you’ll find charming shops selling local and independent brands of a wide range of products, including fashion, food and homemade goodies, sporting goods, fresh produce, and one-of-a-kind gifts.
These are some of the most unique and popular retailers in Marathon:
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This 5,000 square foot retail area is found at the gorgeous Isla Bella Beach Resort and is open to the public daily. In addition to a curated selection of beachwear, jewelry, decors, children’s clothing, and other merchandise, The Marketplace also features a coffee shop and a Watersports Activities Center, a concierge service that helps visitors plan and book their activities in and around Marathon.
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This lifestyle store has everything you need for a fun day out on the water, including fishing tackle, bathing suits, flip flops, boating and fishing gear, and more.
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Paradise Produce Farmers Market
Paradise Produce is the local go-to market for fresh fruits and vegetables grown in Florida farms, as well as homemade goodies like salsas and picos. It is also a tiki market, selling gifts, decors, and other craft items that are 100% locally produced.
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A haven for anglers, The Tackle Box sells top quality fishing gear, including artificial baits, fishing reels, tackle boxes, and more. They also provide repair services for fishing reels and other equipment.
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Shady Palm Art Gallery & Photography
Shady Palm showcases the works of more than fifty local artists who specialize in various mediums, including photography, painting, wood, epoxy, and pottery. They also offer photography and framing services, and host various art events and classes throughout the year.
Dining
Island cuisine tops the culinary offerings in Marathon, Florida. Seafood restaurants abound, serving the freshest catch and great steaks for classic Americana dining. One of the best things to do in the city is to sample the quintessential Key Lime pies – a perennial dessert favorite that’s said to have originated in the Keys.
Here are some of the must-try dining places in the city:
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Located at the foot of the Seven Mile Bridge, Sunset Grille is foremost a beach bar where you can watch breathtaking sunsets while sipping on a cocktail and dining on sumptuous seafood. Customers come to Sunset Grille not only for the view but also for the wide variety of dishes featuring fresh fish and seafood, as well as steaks, burgers, and desserts like Key Lime Pie and Chocolate Bomb.
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If you want the perfect island cuisine, Butterfly Cafe is the place to go. Found in the Tranquility Bay Beach House Resort, Butterfly Cafe features an elegant dining area with a relaxing but sophisticated ambiance. The spacious outdoor seating with a garden view is also a wonderful option, especially for a romantic night out. The restaurant serves delicious fish and seafood dishes, fresh salads, and after dinner coffee with classic desserts like Key Lime Pie.
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Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House
This classic steak and lobster restaurant has been a Marathon staple for more than 40 years, originally as Joe’s Florida Keys Lobster House. Its enduring attraction comes from the great service, welcoming decor, and extensive menu of steaks, seafood, and chops, all using only the freshest ingredients. The restaurant also has a bar serving a wide selection of cocktails and drinks.
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The oldest fish market and restaurant in Marathon, Fish Tales serves seafood “fresh from our market to your table.” You’ll find a large selection of fish and seafood at the market, such as lobsters, pink shrimps, mahi mahi, snapper, grouper, sea scallops, and so much more, then have them prepared and served just the way you want them. Fish Tales also sells and serves top quality certified Angus beef steaks. Not to be missed is their signature Chef Johnny’s Rambler Sandwich, which was named the best fish sandwich in Marathon.
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Sweet Savannah’s of the Florida Keys
If you’re looking for the best Key Lime pie in the Florida Keys, look no further than Sweet Savannah’s. In the last seven years, this local favorite’s version has been named the best Key Lime pie in Marathon – a remarkable feat considering the extensive competition in the city. In addition to this classic Keys favorite, Sweet Savannah’s also offers all kinds of baked goods and sweets, including cupcakes, small batch ice cream, and custom cakes for all occasions.
Learn more about living in Marathon, FL with The Lisa Ferringo Group
With raw natural beauty and amazing things to do, Marathon, Florida is the perfect home for those seeking to live the island lifestyle while staying close to world-class urban amenities and attractions. Learn more about your real estate options in the area with the topnotch professionals at The Lisa Ferringo Group.
Lisa has been the Number One Realtor for residential sales in the Florida Keys since 2015, and over the years, she has led her team to even greater success. Specializing in luxury residential or vacation homes, Lisa has more than 33 years of experience in real estate, 18 of which were dedicated to the Florida Keys communities.
Learn more about the wonderful life that awaits you in Marathon, FL. Get in touch with The Lisa Ferringo Group today at 305.797.1221 or send an email to lisaferringo(at)gmail(dotted)com.