Marathon
Join the so-called “snowbirds”, retirees from the northern United States who annually escape the cold northern winters by flying or sailing to Marathon. The coastal settlement is one of the most relaxing destinations in the Florida Keys. Indulge by lounging on the beach or taking long fishing trips and get to know the friendly locals in the town’s many restaurants.
Marathon spans 10 miles (16 kilometers) of the Key chain, mostly on Vaca, Fat Deer and Grassy Keys. The Marathon municipal area is surrounded by natural beauty, both on land and out to sea.
Visit Sombrero Beach for some of the best fishing, swimming and diving in the region. Explore the islands of the Curry Hammock State Park by renting a kayak in the park. It’s a nice escape from the resorts and busy beaches found in other parts of the Florida Keys.
Drive, walk or cycle along the Seven Mile Bridge, a spectacular feat of engineering that crosses a long stretch of ocean between the Keys. It runs all the way to Little Duck Key. Back in town, stop by the Dolphin Research Center for education and entertainment for the whole family.
Try some of the seafood restaurants that the town is famous for. Each day, boatloads of freshly-caught fish arrive, courtesy of skilled local anglers. Seafood festivals are held throughout the year, allowing you to taste stone crab and other delicacies prepared by the locals.
You can reach Marathon by air via the Florida Keys Marathon Airport, by car on the Overseas Highway or by boat through the Marathon Harbor. Boaters should be aware of the boundaries of the Marine Sanctuary and use the provided mooring buoys to protect the reefs.
The climate never reaches freezing point, so many visitors come here in January or February to get some sunshine in winter. If you visit in the low season, cool breezes keep even the most tropical days pleasant in temperature.
