Marathon situated mainly on Vaca, Fat Deer, and Grassy Keys, is a 10-mile-long island city at the midpoint of the Florida Keys. Known by locals as "The heart of the Keys" for geographic reasons, it also reflects the old-Keys lifestyle that is prevalent along with the spectacular fishing, diving, snorkeling and sailing.
Things To See and Do
Because Marathon is located in the middle of the keys, between Key West and Key Largo, the Gulf of Mexico and Ocean reef are easily accessible. This means most of the activities here are closely related to one or the other. Chances are if you chose to spend your vacation in Marathon, Florida, you plan on either fishing, snorkeling, diving, or going to the beach.
Sombrero Reef, a federally protected section of North America's only living coral barrier reef, lies just a few miles offshore. Beyond it are the Florida Straits, and on the north side of the island lie the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Florida Bay and the Keys backcountry. Do not miss Bahia Honda State Park, which has one of the world's top beaches and is home to many rare and unusual plants and animals.
Some "on land" activities throughout the year are: the Fourth Annual Green Living and Energy Education (GLEE) Expo, taking place at the end of March in Marathon. This event is free and lasts for three days. Call (305) 293-7658 for more info.
And who would want to miss the Annual Original Marathon Seafood Festival during mid-March, showcasing gourmet delicacies from the waters of the Florida Keys. It is held at the Marathon Community Park; please contact Charlotte Quinn at (305) 743-5417 for more information.
Where to Eat
Butterfly Café for horseradish encrusted grouper (MM 48.5 at Tranquility Bay Resort, Marathon, tel: 305-289-7177)
Keys Fisheries for the lobster reuben and stone crabs when in season (3502 Gulfview Ave, Marathon, tel: 305-743-4353).
