If you are planning a trip to the Florida Keys and Key West, do not pass up an opportunity to visit Marathon.

This article covers the best things to do in Marathon, including snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, day trips, and fishing charters to keep you and your family busy. When you stay at one of our luxury vacation rentals, you can prepare for an unforgettable Florida Keys vacation.

What are a few of the top things to do you can’t afford to pass up? Take a look at the list below, and get ready for an awesome adventure.

 

1. Take In the Seven Mile Bridge

Photo Credit : Photo Video By KG

One of the top activities you need to take advantage of is exploring the old and new Seven Mile Bridges.

The historic Old Seven Mile Bridge, originally part of Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railway, stands as a testament to the region’s transportation history. Having been closed to traffic for decades, it is now a scenic landmark and popular spot for walking and fishing.

This is a free activity and one of the most iconic attractions of Marathon. It will give you an unparalleled view of the blue water.

You can also drive across the new Seven Mile Bridge from Little Duck Key to Knight’s Key, taking beautiful photos along the way. The journey across the bridge is truly memorable.

 

2. Visit the Marathon Air Museum

Photo Cerdit: Koapan

The Marathon Air Museum is close to the Marathon Airport, and it is a great way to learn about the history of flying.

You can expect to hear fascinating stories about aviation history during you visit, making it an engaging experience for all.

Whether it is raining or sunny, spend a couple of hours wandering around the museum. You can take a look at plenty of aircraft and learn about human flight.

 

3. Swing By The Turtle Hospital

Photo Credit: Andriy Blokhin

If you love sea turtles, the Marathon Turtle Hospital is the place to go.

Housed in one of the many former hotels in Marathon, it gives you an opportunity to see where this nonprofit organization nurses injured sea turtles back to life. Visitors and guests may even have the chance to feed turtles during their visit.

The hospital’s efforts focus on rescuing and rehabilitating endangered sea turtles. Its guided tours are engaging and educational for both kids and adults. Guests can learn how to assist in conservation and support the ongoing work to protect marine life.

 

4. Visit Crane Point Museum and Nature Center

Photo Credit: Chris Allan

This tropical oasis is home to some plants and animals that you cannot find anywhere else. It is more than 63 acres in size, allows you to learn about the culture, history, and nature of the area, and is a great activity for children.

The Marathon Wild Bird Center, located within Crane Point, is a highlight for visitors interested in bird rescue and rehabilitation.

There is a trolley tour throughout the botanical gardens, and you can take advantage of nature trails, bird rescue centers, and plenty of marine touch tanks where kids and guests can see and touch starfish.

Guests have the opportunity to encounter local wildlife and learn about ongoing conservation efforts at the center. Don’t miss out on exploring the rest of Crane Point Hammock either. There are 63 acres of hardwood hammock to walk here.

 

5. Grab a Bite at Brutus Land & Sea

As you pass along the Overseas Highway, don’t miss out on an opportunity to try Brutus Land & Sea. It’s regularly regarded as one of the best seafood restaurants in the area.

Brutus is known for its delicious seafood and is considered one of the great places to eat in Marathon. There are outdoor and indoor dining options available, and you can try a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes at the same time.

Don’t forget to try some of their wine and beer as well.

 

6. Relax on Sombrero Beach

Photo Credit: Simon Dannhauer

No trip to Florida is complete without a trip to the white sandy beaches, and one of the top locations in the Keys is Sombrero Beach.

The white sand is soft, the turquoise waters are ideal for swimming and splashing around in, and there are plenty of kid-friendly amenities available.

Visitors can have a picnic on the beach, and both kids and adults can spend time enjoying the awesome area. You can also watch the sunset or local wildlife for a magical experience.

There are opportunities to try out a variety of watersports, rent a kayak, go fishing, grab a snorkel, or even try your hand at beach soccer. There is also plenty of live music that takes place throughout the year.

 

7. Take a Helicopter Tour

Photo Credit: Jeff Morgan

A helicopter tour is often a highlight of visiting Marathon. It offers guests awesome views of the beautiful Keys from above. You can look forward to seeing everything from downtown Key West to the stunning Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

Whether you are traveling alone or with a small group, this is an activity you should not pass up. You can even see Bahia Honda State Park from the air.

 

8. Go For a Bike Ride

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to go bike riding. You can rent a bike from Marathon Bike Rentals and explore the surrounding area without having to worry about parking.

This is an affordable way to get some exercise and check out some of the most picturesque bike trails in the country. These bike trails are also great places for visitors to walk if they prefer, offering scenic routes for everyone.

You can even make your way over to Grassy Key Trail and Coco Plum Beach.

 

9. Take a Sombrero Reef Snorkeling Cruise

Photo Credit: Lucia.Pinto

If you want to take a look at everything that lives underneath the surface of the waves, you definitely need to check out the Sombrero Reef marine protected area. The journey to the reef is is part of the adventure, leading to a magical snorkeling experience.

Sombrero Reef is the third-largest barrier reef in the world, and you can look forward to a guided tour of the entire area to learn about the wildlife that call the reef home.

While snorkeling, you have the chance to catch a glimpse of a diverse range of marine life, such as tropicall fish, turtles, and even sharks in their natural habitat.

 

10. Visit the Lagoon and Keys Cable Park

Located on Grassy Key, The Lagoon is a great opportunity for guests who love outdoor pursuits to spend time enjoying awesome activities suitable for both kids and adults.

The Lagoon is a day resort, which means it’s filled with all the amenities you’ll need to be comfortable for an hour-long visit or a full day adventure.

Get your adrenaline boost for the day when you try the likes of foilboarding, wingboarding, parasailing, and e-foiling at Cable Park. Embrace some healthy competition in the Rhum Runner Adventure Park, or relax and unwind with a refreshing drink and plate of food in Bongos Botanical Beer Garden.

 

11. Satiate Your Sweet Tooth at Sweet Savannah’s

Photo Credit: moonmovie

Are you ready for something delicious? If so, you will definitely want to check out Sweet Savannah’s.

This bakery and ice cream shop is home to a wide variety of treats, including cupcakes, cookies, cakes, and more. You can even dive into some homemade ice cream, fresh coffee, and delicious tea.

 

12. Sign Up For a Fishing Charter

Photo Credit: Lee Reese

Don’t leave Marathon without joining a fun fishing charter. Experience the excitement of fishing in the beautiful Gulf waters.

Guests of all skill levels can participate, making it a great activity for everyone. No matter if you’re brand new to fishing or a seasoned angler looking for a new personal record, you’re bound to challenge yourself on a Marathon fishing charter.

Cast your line and reel for a variety of fish while enjoying the stunning scenery of the Florida Keys.

 

13. Take a Day Trip To Miami

If you feel like exploring during your time in South Florida, be sure to head to Miami for a day trip. The journey from Marathon to Miami is part of the fun. The road trip takes between 2.5 and 3 hours, and it offers spectacular views of the coastline.

Miami is home to some amazing shops and restaurants, the Miami Dolphins, numerous Tiki bars, and plenty of aquatic attractions. You’ll have no trouble keeping busy.

 

14. Swing By the Dolphin Research Center

If you want to check out some marine mammals, the Dolphin Research Center is the place to go.

Here, you have the opportunity to encounter friendly bottlenose dolphins up close. There are workshops, programs, and classes to help you learn more about them, as well as about California sea lions and numerous other species.

The center offers engaging and educational experiences for guests and visitors of all ages, including kids and adults. Check out the day tour for the best experience.

 

15. Visit Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

If you are in the mood to see some marine life, you’ll want to swing by this amazing establishment.

Guests and visitors can encounter and feed marine animals such as starfish, sharks, and nurse sharks. It is situated near the Overseas Hwy in the heart of the Florida Keys, and there are plenty of interactive activities for you to learn more about animals.

Don’t forget to take advantage of the family-friendly touch pools, where you can watch marine life and enjoy the touch tanks. The aquarium is awesome for both kids and adults, with thousands of amazing species housed here.

 

16. Sail a Catamaran

Photo Credit: Hananeko_Studio

Do you want a new way to explore the Florida Keys? Consider booking a catamaran through Catamaran Sirius!

This is a fantastic experience where guests can spend time enjoying the sunrise or sunset, smell the fresh sea breeze, and bask in the tropics. This laid-back tour is a perfect way to relax.

 

17. Swing By the Shady Palm Art Gallery

Shady Palm Art Gallery and Photography is one of the great places to see local art in Marathon. If you want to enjoy some of the art and cultural scenes in the local area, then you need to swing by.

Art-lovers are sure to enjoy the diverse exhibits, with artwork by more than fifty artists proudly on display. Many people who have visited the gallery praise its welcoming atmosphere and unique collection.

 

18. Spend Some Time at Pigeon Key

Photo Credit: Andriy Blokhin

You should take advantage of any opportunity to check out Pigeon Key.

This small but significant island has a unique charm and fascinating history. It’s has ben designated a National Historic Landmark since 1990, and it’s home to several historic buildings, that date back to the ealy 1900s.

Explore the historic structures, learn about the area’s Henry Flagler-related history, and checking out the wonderful wildlife that lives on the island.

 

19. Visit San Pablo Catholic Church

If you appreciate architecture, swing by San Pablo Catholic Church. Many people have visited this historic site since it was dedicated in 1959, making it the first church to be dedicated in the Florida Keys in more than 100 years.

Appreciate the landmark’s amazing architecture, the beautiful surrounding scenery, and the excellent photo opportunities.

 

20. Visit Curry Hammock State Park

Photo Credit: 4kclips

This is one of the best opportunities for nature lovers. You can check out seagrass beds, mangrove swamps, tropical forests, and numerous other wildlife attractions.

The park’s grassy flats are a notable feature, making it ideal for snorkeling or exploring the unique underwater scenery.

Curry Hammock State Park is perfect for a picnic amongst natural surroundings. It’s also a great spot to watch wildlife and encounter nature up close. Paddleboarding and kayaking are also popular, and there are plenty of opportunities for cycling and fishing as well.

 

21. Take a Dive

Photo Credit: DNADiving

Whether you are scuba certified or not, you should take advantage of some awesome scuba diving opportunities. Located at nearby Key Colony Beach, guests of all skill levels can try free diving, scuba diving, snorkeling, and more. You can even sign up for a few lessons.

Many of our Marathon guests rave about the diving experiences here. Keep an eye out for the local stingrays—they are incredible to witness.

 

22. Swing By the Sombrero Lighthouse

Photo Credit: J. Skoway

This historic site is a highlight of Marathon, attracting many visitors who are drawn to its unique charm and scenic location.

The Sombrero Reef Lighthouse was built before the Civil War and has a tremendous amount of history behind it.

The lighthouse lies 5 miles south of Pigeon Key. Visitors can enjoy great photo opportunities when they visit by boat or kayak.

 

23. Take a Day Trip To Key Largo

Photo Credit: Lucky-photographer

If you really love scuba diving, then you should consider heading to Key Largo for a day trip. The journey to Key Largo is part of the adventure, offering scenic views along the way.

Key Largo has some spectacular beaches. It is situated between the Everglades National Park and is rich in marine life thanks to its thriving coral reef.

This is a great opportunity for some sport fishing, dolphin encounters along the coral reef, and nature hikes to explore the local ecosystem.

 

24. Visit Islamorada

Photo Credit: xbrchx

This is another fun day trip you can make from Marathon. Visiting the fishing village of Islamorada, which is only 30 miles away, offers guests and visitors the chance to enjoy scuba diving, tours, and fishing opportunities located in and around the area

This is the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing marine wildlife. We recommend stopping by the Theater of the Sea along the way.

 

25. Dine at Island Fish Company

Photo Credit: Ryzhkov Photography

This is one of the top restaurants in Marathon, and there is always something fresh on the menu. Much of the seafood served has been caught fresh off the docks and fishing charters that day, so it’s as fresh as it gets.

You should always ask about the specials and bring your appetite. If you leave hungry, it is your fault!

 

Stay With Us In Marathon, Florida

Of course, you will need a beautiful place to stay during your vacation, and we have a wide array of accommodation options to suit your group’s needs, be it a one-bedroom condo or a family home.

There is always something fun to do in Marathon, so get started planning your vacation in the beautiful Florida Keys.

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