Marathon is a city that technically spans 13 gorgeous islands smack dab in the middle of the Florida Keys, offering a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to discover. It is located 50 miles northeast of Key West and 54 miles southwest of Key Largo, making it an ideal base for exploring the Keys. Marathon has a retro, nautical vibe that reflects its history as a fishing and boating destination.
One of the main attractions in Marathon is the Dolphin Research Center, where guests can swim with dolphins, watch their shows, and learn about their behavior and intelligence. You can also visit The Turtle Hospital, which rescues and rehabilitates injured sea turtles and educates the public about their conservation.
Marathon is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy deep-sea, reef, or flats fishing with one of the many charter boats available. You can likewise snorkel or dive among coral reefs and shipwrecks at Sombrero Reef Marine Sanctuary or Coffins Patch.
Marathon also has plenty of options for dining and entertainment. Throughout the year, visitors can join one of the many festivals and events that celebrate the local culture and cuisine, such as The Original Marathon Seafood Festival, The Seven Mile Bridge Run, or The Marathon Games.