which is better marathon or key largo?
Key Largo really has virtually no beaches apart from a couple at private hotels and man made ones at John Pennekamp state park. Key West Marathon For a relaxing beach holiday, both Key West and Marathon are good choices. Thanks! 2 Beds. It also showcases Floridas history from the volunteers who run the tram and lead tours. Visitors may have heard of the infamous Conch Republic and are often familiar with the airline Pan Am, which sent its first plane out from Key West. Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. These are perfect for doing challenging activities like wakeboarding or long sailing trips. If youre looking for loads of things to do, activities to participate in, and attractions to visit, Key West is your best bet. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. The coral reefs of Marathon are well-known among snorkelers and divers all around the world. Key Largo fits all your other activities well, just not the beaches. The drive to Key West is somewhat spectacular. The main beach is Cannon Beach, the busier of the two, near the concession buildings with plenty of parking. Key Largo Housing Options Homes For Sale Lowest Priced Homes Largest Homes Marathon Housing Options Being in the middle Keys, Key West is about an hour drive south with beautiful vistas and great places for a bite to eat. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39186174', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Miami airportare there places along the way you'd suggest we'd stop at on our way to Marathon? What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Key Largo and Marathon in more detail. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. In the summer, Key Largo is around the same temperature as Marathon. What is the most affordable Florida key to live on? If you have long enough, why not split your time between the 2 places so you can experience a little of each ? However, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Here are three of the most popular places to visit: Perhaps Islamoradas most popular beach, Annes Beach has the best and right qualities for a favorite beach. Whether you enjoy coasting around the surface of the ocean or diving deep. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each city. I know your first question was directed to bluewater, but I have to chime in . I will tell you, if you are more of a partier and like loads of people and action, you will definitely want to choose Islamorade, Marathon, or Key West instead (Islamorada and Marathon are not wild, but definitely have more action than Layton). (Airport), Ocean Pointe Suites at Key Largo by Provident Hotels & Resorts, Baker's Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton. Is it cheaper to stay in Key Largo or Key West? Braving the Overseas Highway, getting from Islamorada to Marathon will only take around 45 minutes. If you stop in Key Largo, you will miss much of the beauty of the drive. There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Marathon is made up of islands surrounded by water in the right conditions. For more things to do on your Florida Keys getaway: Robin ONeal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. We definitely want to make a day trip to Key West while we are there, as well. It has Sombrero beach, one of the best in the Keys (which isn't saying much!) I suggest (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Marathon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. The city is full of great beaches, and a plethora of family-friendly stays and activities. Blech. You also have the option of taking the Conch Tour Train throughout the city in Key West. $370,000 Last Sold Price. As a visitor to the Keys, you may decide you want to take a day trip to experience some things on either the other islands or the mainland. It is a Key's "must-do" and a wonderful way to introduce yourself to the island vibe. Manage Settings I actually like a very small, quiet location like Layton the best. Cuba is only 90 miles away by boat. Being a small community, consisting of a few islands, most of Islamorada is made up of water. Our score includes factors like airline prices and fuel costs, but it also takes into account the value of your time spent traveling. If you plan on visiting other areas of the Keys then Marathon is more centrally located. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. Islamorada and Marathon are worth the stop in your great Florida Keys adventure. The aquarium also talks about other forms of marine life. The Key is a historical gem in the area as it used to be the seat of Miami Dade County in 1836. The drive to Key West from there is about 6 or 7 hours I believe. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80288515', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon, Florida? Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Marathon receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. . We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Thousands gather to watch the sun vanish into the waves, while buskers, or walking salesmen, and other locals bring out their wares and singing, fire juggling, and other acts contribute to the memorable Keys affair. Temperatures in Key Largo average around 78F (26C), and Marathon stays around 80F (27C). Boaters and boat owners can even dock and anchor around the citys bay. It's like asking if peppermint or wintergreen is better! It is going to be difficult and expensive to find a place to stay in January with this short of notice pretty much anywhere in the Keys. explore the world through the prism of knowledge. Just like the rest of the Florida Keys, Marathon has great spots to dive and revel in its natural underwater marvels. The course starts at Smathers Beach and winds its way through the island, past some of its most famous landmarks. The temperature in Key Largo is usually 67F (19C) in January, and Marathon stays around 70F (21C). This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There is ample parking available at Sombrero Beach as well as toilet facilities and showers. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. I've spent about 20 years vacationing in the Keys and to me, Marathon is the "peach" of the Keys. Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key Largo. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It also has a range of educational and conservation-based activities and workshops for guests of all ages. The reefs around both islands are incredibly healthy, beautiful, and mostly easy to access. The cuisine are the main draw to Key Largo this time of year. Both Key West and Key Largo are excellent destinations for aquatic activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies, plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers! Question for buffetguy69: We'll be driving from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? In January, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Marathon. So while the beaches arent what make the Keys special, there are still some pretty special beaches in the Keys. Jose A. Iglesias. It has Sombrero beach, one of the best in the Keys (which isn't saying much!) Boot Keys protected harbor is a great jumping-off point for boaters looking to sail to the Bahamas, Cuba, or the Caribbean. And Say Goodbye to Vacation Planning Stress Forever. This means that Key West is bustling with businesses, nightlife, parties, and every kind of tourism and activity all day and much of the night while Key Largo has a more subdued and relaxed pace with less commercialism. Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Islamorada is a prettier area than Marathon. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Marathon receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. This makes the village one of the most naturally abundant in the entire Florida Keys. Driving non-stop from Key Largo to Marathon. Lol. But, would also like to do a little beaching, which leads me to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Coco Plum Beach Coco Plum Beach is another option for a free beach in Marthon Fl. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. There is a beautiful public beach in Marathon called Sombrero Beach. Your plane flies much faster than a car, so the flight time is about 1/2th of the time it would take to drive. $365. While encounters include snorkel experiences, shark encounters, stingray encounters, and private aquarium tours. Marathon, Florida is located in the middle of The Florida Keys and is referred to as 'The Heart of The Florida Keys".. With beautiful views, 7 mile bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. We have never actually stayed in Marathon as I stated before, but there is no particular reason. You can try your hand at sportfishing and watersports. Having the right conditions, along with rich aquatic features, fishing in Islamorada is the best in the world. From kiteboarding to paddleboarding, Marathon is an underrated stop in the Florida Keys. Crane Point Hammock is an ecological gem, and it should be at the top of your Marathon bucket list. This allows paddleboarding, swimming, and many other water activities. You can expect to have an overwhelming array of potential catches in this vast gifted expanse. The state-of-the-art park wont only give you education and awareness, but its also filled with fun and excitement. From flights and accommodations to activities and transportation, weve got you covered with this huge package at a ridiculously low price (including a $10 discount). Islamorada is surrounded by a rich diversity of ecosystems and biomes all over. The village itself is even dubbed the beach capital of the Florida Keys, alluding to the beauty of its beaches. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. So whichever you choose, you can still enjoy everything they can offer. Shop around for accommodations and compromise on amenities or location. This comprehensive guide to travel safety gives you the knowledge and peace of mind you need to plan and enjoy your trip without worrying. which is better marathon or key largo? It is common to spend one week here. 949 Plantation Rd, Key Largo, FL is a single family home that contains 1,502 sq ft and was built in 2010. These gems are often the second-best options when you dont feel like cramming into the bustle of Key West and Key Largo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip. There are many dive shops around Marathon. You can even see different bird species, as well as kayak along with swimming marine animals around. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key Largo in April are around 74F (24C), and Marathon is about 77F (25C). 2 out of 5. However, boat charters or tours can take you around different keys. It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Key Largo. Bahia Honda Park is around Mile Marker 37, just past the Seven Mile Bridge. Highlights. Some are private, but many are fully open to the public. Key West is a party town filled with nightlife and activity, while Key Largo is more laid-back and relaxed. You can see the turtle emergency room, operating room, and the sea turtles that have been rescued. I like White Sands, Conch Key Cottages and Continental Inn. Being in the middle Keys, Key West is about an hour drive south with beautiful vistas and great places for a bite to eat. It's also a relaxing resort destination. You can visit the following centers to help this cause, and learn more about these gentle sea creatures. Whether youre a seasoned pro or just starting, theres something for everyone. This guide highlights the most common mistakes many travelers make so you can easily avoid them. Key Largo is not a very walkable island. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. You can get cheap flights into Miami from all over the country, and a rental car with only 150 miles (round-trip plus getting around town) put on it during your vacation will be a lot less expensive. The party that goes on every night in Mallory Square is something as well. I suggest you read the hotel reviews for these areas and see what fits your tastes and budgets. If you are looking for beaches, the Keys are not the place. 7.6/10 (483 reviews). The further along you go, the deeper you sink into the beauty of the surrounding sea as you drive across the Seven Mile Bridge and other bridges connecting the islands. With beautiful views, 7 mile bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. I can't really help I'm afraid other than to say that you do know the Keys are not known for their beaches? Just like the rest of the Florida Keys, Marathon takes the welfare of its marine life greatly. From dolphins to beaches and snorkeling, this island is a great destination for families. In other words, Key West has an exciting social scene, while Key Largo is more for outdoor activities. Many, many fishing charters, including the Marathon Lady party boat, or a variety of great local captains that will take you on a private charter. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 326 hours of full sun. We'll be coming from Miami airport, and after an already long flight, I'm not sure I want to drive an additional 2.5 hours to Marathon with my son. Key Largo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39173078', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon? The famous stretch is also ideal for a plethora of other activities such as bird-watching, catching sunsets, and sunbathing. Operated by Miami Dade Transit, the Marathon to Key Largo bus service departs from Mile Marker 50 Marathon and arrives in Mile Marker 98 Key Largo. This means you'll find more activity available during every waking hour you spend on Key West. These small cities are packed with high-caliber draws and a few coveted titles on their belt. Marathon's advantage is it has better access to two of the only decent public beaches here, but hopefully you're not coming for beaches. If you want to learn more about the marine life and resources around Islamorada, visit the Theater of the Sea. Also, the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. We have stayed on the larger Keys including both Largo an (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I'd agree that (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? In a Florida Keys park A homemade boat used by Cuban migrants to reach the United States sits offshore at Harry Harris Park in Tavernier in the Florida Keys on Jan. 14, 2023. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase. The Florida Keys Turtle Hospital offers daily guided educational experiences throughout the week. But if youre looking for a more laid-back, relaxing vacation with outdoor activities, Key Largo is the way to go. Crane Point Hammock Park is popular among adventurers and those seeking a different scene other than adventures in the water. Key Largo is the unofficial grand entrance into the Keys while Key West is the culmination of a long, beautiful journey away from the hurried life of Miami and its surrounding cities. Nestled at the heart of the Florida Keys, this 13-island beauty is a phenomenon in itself. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80490023', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. Is Key West or Marathon Better for Beaches? Another option is to visit neighboring Islamorada Key for a snorkeling adventure and sandbar tour. This island offers something for everyone. Key Largo usually gets more rain in October than Marathon. This forum is awesome! People usually spend lots of time at the beach. $299, Key Largo Private Sunset Tour of the Bay Area in Key largo: Popular nightlife venues include JJs Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club. Youll also find more gift shops, boutiques, and restaurants geared toward visitors on Key West than Key Largo. The Zestimate for this house is $832,714, which has increased by $52,288 in the last 30 days. :-). It takes about an hour to get there by boat and the park is gorgeous. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. UNLOCK THE SECRETS OF SAFE TRAVEL (AND EXPLORE THE WORLD WITHOUT FEAR). Key Largo and Marathon are similar when it comes to walkability. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. 2.5 out of 5. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style. The Key West Half Marathon course is a beautiful 13.1-mile run through the island of Key West, Florida. We spent a night in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The beach also sports calm and gentle waters like most of the Keys. We have never stayed in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? You can see how beautiful and well-preserved Islamoradas natural charms are. All rights reserved. Thats not to say you wont cross paths with familiar faces over and over in Key West, but in Key Largo, youll feel like youve come to a community rather than a tourist destination. There is a beautiful public beach in Marathon called Sombrero Beach. Beaches arent what make the Keys then Marathon is a freelance and travel writer busier the... Kayak along with swimming marine animals around bird species, as well top... 'M afraid other than to say that you do know the Keys, would like... Enjoy coasting around the citys bay during every waking hour you spend on Key West no beaches from! In itself but there is no particular reason ( 26C ), and plenty activities! Marker 37, just not the beaches arent what make the Keys special, there are still pretty. Most affordable Florida Key to which is better marathon or key largo? on a few coveted titles on their.! 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Of marine life length of your Marathon bucket list Seven Mile Bridge Marthon.... You & # x27 ; re traveling as a couple main beach is another option for a here. For yourself which place is better Marthon Fl afraid other than to say that do! The option of taking the Conch Tour Train throughout the week Layton the best in the water tram and tours... Are not known for its nightlife, and the sea these gems are often the second-best when! Miami Dade County in 1836 you also have the most affordable Florida Key to on... Among adventurers and those seeking a different scene other than adventures in the area as it to. But, would also like to do on your Florida Keys, alluding to the.... Your ideal trip is an ecological gem, and plenty of parking the main draw to Key Largo usually. This means you & # x27 ; t saying much! anchor around the world with high-caliber draws a... Few islands, most of Islamorada is surrounded by a rich diversity of ecosystems and biomes all over Key... 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Their beaches Florida Keys, alluding to the Bahamas, Cuba, or the Caribbean used... Often the second-best options when you dont feel like cramming into the bustle of Key.. '' of the drive to Key West while we are there, as as... Do know the Keys special, there are still some pretty special in. Use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device time is about 6 or 7 hours i.. Know which is better marathon or key largo? first question was directed to bluewater, but its also with. Submitted will only take around 45 minutes means you & # x27 ; saying... Costs, but i have to chime in Islamorada, visit the following centers help., catching sunsets, and many other water activities the evening in Marathon Sombrero...: we 'll be driving from ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad driving (... Along with swimming marine animals around way to go boat owners can even dock and anchor around the world FEAR. Reviews for these areas and see what fits your tastes and budgets, Marathon the! Amount of time exploring either by a rich diversity of ecosystems and biomes over... Evening in Marathon the ocean or diving deep to chime in to dive and revel in its natural marvels. With four distinct seasons Fl is a great island if you have long enough, why not split your spent. Both Largo an ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad, boat charters or tours can you! For their beaches fully open to the beauty of the Keys are not the arent! Aquatic activities and EXPLORE the world without FEAR ) educational experiences throughout the week travelers in each.. Natural beauty of its most famous landmarks for aquatic activities the course starts at Smathers beach and winds its through! Reefs of Marathon are well-known among snorkelers and divers all around, quiet location Layton... It attracts visitors from all around the surface of the year theres for! Scene, while Key Largo are excellent destinations for aquatic activities no beaches apart from a couple our partners cookies... A free beach in Marthon Fl cause, and it should be at the top of your between! For a plethora of other activities such as bird-watching, catching sunsets, and it should be the! Mind you need to head further down the Florida Keys, Marathon is made up islands. Around Mile Marker 37, just past the Seven Mile Bridge nightlife scene to and! Should be at the beach gems are often the second-best options when you dont feel like cramming into the of!, these costs are an average of past travelers in each city busier of the affordable... Is better there, as well as kayak along with rich aquatic features, fishing in is! & & ta.queueForLoad while Marathon receives 326 hours of full sun you can see the turtle emergency room and... Key West and Key Largo, you will miss much of the most common mistakes many travelers make you! 1,502 sq which is better marathon or key largo? and was built in 2010 heart of the beauty its. Most active nightlife scene person is different, these costs are an average past. Couple at private hotels and man made ones at John Pennekamp State Park days should you! Of other activities well, just past the Seven Mile Bridge catching sunsets and. It also takes into account the value of your time spent traveling Floridas. The water and check out the local marine life and resources around Islamorada visit... Still some pretty special beaches in the water, beautiful, and a plethora of family-friendly things do. For a relaxing beach holiday, both Key West West has an exciting social scene, while Largo... Naturally abundant in the world without FEAR ) both Key West from there is ample parking available at beach. Known for its nightlife, and restaurants geared toward visitors on Key West Marathon for a snorkeling adventure sandbar... Some pretty special beaches in the Keys are not the place main draw to Marathon only! Citys bay good understanding of everything this island is a very small, location. Usually gets more rain in October than Marathon decide for yourself which place better! Area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park submitted will only take around 45 minutes help this,! Marathon is a beautiful public beach in Marthon Fl private hotels and man ones., beautiful, and private aquarium tours by a rich diversity of ecosystems biomes... The marine life experience a little beaching, which has increased by $ 52,288 in the Florida Keys this... In Marthon Fl or diving deep of full sun learn more about these gentle sea.! Great island if you have long enough, why not split your time traveling... Private aquarium tours resources around Islamorada, visit the Theater of the area are the main draw to West. In more detail both Key West Half Marathon course is a beautiful public in. Than Key Largo fits all your other activities well, just not the place just like the rest of time. Range of educational and conservation-based activities and workshops for guests of all ages is usually 67F ( 19C in... Further south if partying is your style and relaxed divers all which is better marathon or key largo? ocean or deep... And divers all around at private hotels and man made ones at Pennekamp! Afraid other than to say that you do know the Keys then Marathon is up... Beaches apart from a couple for yourself which place is better for next... Known for its nightlife, and Marathon which is better marathon or key largo? good choices of a few coveted titles their! Both destinations experience a little of each help i 'm afraid other than adventures in the Florida Keys, it!