About Marathon
Marathon is a city in the middle of the Florida Keys, in Monroe County, Florida, United States. As of 2024, the city had a population of 9,914, up from 8,297 in 2010.
Places to visit in Marathon
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Seven Mile Bridge
LandmarkA long bridge connecting Marathon to the Lower Keys, offering expansive ocean views. A section of the old bridge is open for walking and cycling toward Pigeon Key.
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Pigeon Key
Historic · 7 mi from centreA small island beneath the old Seven Mile Bridge, once a camp for workers who built the Overseas Railroad. Tours visit restored buildings and a small museum.
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The Turtle Hospital
NatureA working facility that rescues and rehabilitates injured sea turtles found in Keys waters. Guided tours explain the treatment process and let visitors see recovering patients in their tanks up close.
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Crane Point Hammock
NatureA nature preserve and museum with trails through hardwood hammock and mangroves, a bird rescue center and historic buildings. A good introduction to Keys ecology.
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Sombrero Beach
BeachA public beach with soft sand, palm trees and clear, shallow water. A favorite family spot with picnic areas, sometimes visited by nesting sea turtles.
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Dolphin Research Center
Nature · 7 mi from centreA marine mammal facility on nearby Grassy Key offering educational programs and dolphin and sea lion encounters. Visitors can watch training sessions and learn about the animals' behavior, care and intelligence.
Best time to visit Marathon
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Marathon is November to May, when average daytime highs are around 73–83°F and rain falls on about 5 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Marathon weather forecast
- Wed 21 Oct 81° 72° 8%
- Thu 22 Oct 79° 76° 30%
- Fri 23 Oct 79° 78° 48%
- Sat 24 Oct 79° 74° 65%
- Sun 25 Oct 78° 76° 64%
- Mon 26 Oct 80° 78° 47%
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +1
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/New_YorkUTC−4
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
Upcoming public holidays in United States
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents DayWashington's Birthday
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Marathon
These are the airports closest to central Marathon. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- MTH Florida Keys Marathon Airport1 mi (1 km) from the city centre
Getting around Marathon
The best way to get around is to rent a car. The many attractions are not close together and public transportation is scarce and can be inconvenient and costly with families. The island is flat and lends itself well to a bicycle. Although there are few beach areas, the area is loaded with marinas catering to most water sports. Charters are available for all activities.
Marathon travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Marathon?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Marathon is November to May, when average daytime highs are around 73–83°F and rain falls on about 5 days a month.
What is the weather like in Marathon?
August is usually the warmest month in Marathon, with average highs of 87°F (30°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 67°F (20°C). The wettest month is typically June, with about 205 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Marathon?
Florida Keys Marathon Airport (MTH) is the closest airport, about 1 miles (1 km) from the centre of Marathon.
What time zone is Marathon in?
Marathon uses the America/New_York time zone (currently UTC−4). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Marathon?
The best way to get around is to rent a car. The many attractions are not close together and public transportation is scarce and can be inconvenient and costly with families. The island is flat and lends itself well to a bicycle.
What are the best places to visit in Marathon?
Top sights in Marathon include Seven Mile Bridge, Pigeon Key, The Turtle Hospital and Crane Point Hammock. A long bridge connecting Marathon to the Lower Keys, offering expansive ocean views. A section of the old bridge is open for walking and cycling toward Pigeon Key.
