Things To Do
in Marathon
Marathon is a small town located in West Texas, United States, with a population of around 400 people. It is known for its picturesque desert landscapes and proximity to Big Bend National Park. The town has a historic charm with quaint shops, art galleries, and cafes lining its main street.
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Marathon for hiking, birdwatching, stargazing, and other recreational activities.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along Sombero Beach, enjoying the sunrise and calm waves. Grab a coffee at a nearby café to fuel your beach day.
Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing, or try paddleboarding for a bit of adventure. Don't forget to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach.
Finish your day with a beachfront dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Savor the fresh catch of the day while listening to the gentle sound of the waves.
Rent a bike and hit the scenic Old Seven Mile Bridge for breathtaking views of the water. Stop for pictures and enjoy the fresh morning air.
Continue your ride to the nearby eco-parks and explore their nature trails. Keep an eye out for native wildlife and tropical plants.
Wind down with a sunset bike ride, feeling the cool breeze on your face. Grab a casual dinner from a local food truck to enjoy while watching the sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including national parks and beaches.
- Great opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling.
- Warm, tropical climate year-round.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Unique cultural heritage and vibrant local events.
- High cost of living compared to other regions.
- Limited job opportunities outside of tourism and hospitality.
- Threats from hurricanes and other extreme weather events.
- Isolation from the mainland, with limited access to some services and amenities.
- Seasonal fluctuations in tourism can affect the local economy.
Best Activities in Marathon
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the underwater world of the Florida Keys with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkeling tours are available for all skill levels.
Experience world-class fishing in the waters surrounding Marathon. Charter a boat for deep-sea fishing or enjoy a relaxing day of inshore fishing.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the mangroves and calm waters in and around Marathon. It's a great way to enjoy nature and observe wildlife.
Ride along the scenic Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, which offers beautiful views and a unique perspective of the islands.
Learn about marine mammals at this educational facility. You can watch educational presentations, and even participate in animal encounters.
Relax on the sandy shores of Sombrero Beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking with family and friends.
Join a guided kayak tour through the mangroves to experience local wildlife including birds, fish, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Discover the underwater beauty of the Florida Keys through scuba diving, with several dive shops offering guided trips to reefs and wrecks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Marathon with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Marathon
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the longest bridges in the world, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and islands. Ideal for sunset photography.
A scenic beach with white sand and clear waters, perfect for sunrise shots and capturing tropical vibes.
A nature reserve with lush landscapes and a museum, offering unique opportunities to photograph local flora and fauna.
Known for its stunning sunsets and scenic views, this park provides excellent locations for landscape photography.
Capture incredible images of dolphins in their natural habitat, along with beautiful ocean views.
For aviation enthusiasts, taking photos from above can provide stunning aerial shots of the Keys.
A historic bridge offering exceptional views of the Ocean and the Keys, great for photography during the golden hour.
Food in Marathon
Marathon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic dessert made with tangy key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust. Don't miss out on trying this iconic Florida Keys treat at The Stuffed Pig or Keys Fisheries Market & Marina.
Must-Try!
A beloved local delicacy, these fritters feature tender conch meat seasoned with peppers and deep-fried to perfection. Head to the Cracked Conch Cafe for a superb rendition.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Marathon better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering fresh local produce, seafood, and artisanal goods. Be sure to savor delectable street food offerings, from freshly shucked oysters to fish tacos.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Take the time to learn about and understand local customs and traditions. This may include appropriate greetings, dress codes, and behaviors in public spaces. Showing genuine interest in the local culture fosters goodwill and mutual respect.
Marathon values its beautiful natural surroundings. It's important to engage in environmentally responsible behaviors, such as disposing of trash properly, respecting wildlife, and following local guidelines for outdoor activities to help preserve the area's natural beauty.
Politeness goes a long way in building rapport with locals. Use please and thank you in conversations, maintain a friendly demeanor, and be considerate of personal space and privacy. This behavior is key to fostering a respectful and positive interaction with residents.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Marathon with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Marathon
Ensure a smooth experience
In Marathon, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is customary in the service industry. It is common to tip servers in restaurants between 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the level of service provided. Tips are also expected for bartenders, taxi drivers, and other service workers. The practice of tipping is considered a way to reward good service and contributes significantly to the income of service industry workers.
Payment practices in Marathon are similar to those throughout the U.S. Cash is accepted at most establishments, but credit and debit cards are widely used for convenience. Many businesses also accept mobile payment options. In restaurants, it is common to receive the bill at the end of the meal, and patrons typically pay directly at the table or at the counter. For larger groups, it may be appropriate to discuss splitting the bill with the server.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Marathon.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter in Marathon is mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit. This season is ideal for outdoor activities like fishing, diving, and enjoying the beaches. Expect fewer crowds as this is the off-peak season.
Spring brings warmer temperatures, ranging from the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. This is a popular time to visit as the weather is pleasant and there are fewer rain showers. Expect lively events, such as the annual Marathon Seafood Festival.
Summer in Marathon can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This season sees the peak tourist influx, along with occasional storms and hurricanes. Expect vibrant beach life, water sports, and local festivals, but be prepared for crowded areas.
Fall offers warm temperatures similar to summer but with slightly lower humidity. This is hurricane season, so visitors should be cautious. However, the crowds begin to thin out, making it a great time for diving, snorkeling, and enjoying the natural beauty without the summer rush.
Marathon at Night
Hiking in Marathon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast park featuring diverse ecosystems, hiking trails ranging from short walks to multi-day backpacking routes, and stunning views of the Chisos Mountains.
A scenic trail that offers a moderate hike through the mountainous terrain with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
A rugged road that provides access to various hiking trails in Big Bend National Park, including the challenging Black Gap Trail.
An easy to moderate loop trail that offers views of the Chisos Mountains and the opportunity to see wildlife in its natural habitat.
A popular hiking trail in Big Bend that leads to stunning panoramic views and allows hikers to explore local flora and fauna.
A strenuous hike that takes you to the highest point in the Chisos, offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains and canyons.
Aiports
How to reach Marathon by plane.
Located approximately 100 miles north of Marathon, MIA is one of the largest international airports in the United States, serving a vast array of domestic and international flights.
Situated about 110 miles north of Marathon, FLL is another major international airport offering numerous flights to various destinations worldwide.
Located approximately 50 miles south of Marathon, EYW serves both domestic and limited international flights, primarily catering to the Florida Keys.
Approximately 120 miles north of Marathon, PBI is a significant international airport offering flights to destinations across the globe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Marathon, primarily consisting of non-Hispanic White residents.
A significant demographic group comprising individuals of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity.
A smaller demographic group representing African American residents in the area.
A small yet diverse demographic group, including individuals from various Asian backgrounds.
Residents identifying with two or more racial groups, reflecting a growing diversity.
A smaller demographic group encompassing Native American residents.
A very small demographic group including individuals from Pacific Island nations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Running events, including marathons, are a major pastime in Marathon, attracting athletes and enthusiasts from around the world.
Due to its coastal location, fishing is a popular sport in Marathon, encompassing both recreational and competitive fishing events.
With access to beautiful coral reefs and marine life, scuba diving is a favored activity among residents and tourists in Marathon.
The waters surrounding Marathon offer excellent kayaking opportunities, making it a popular sport for exploring the natural scenery.
Sailing is a cherished sport in Marathon, with many sailing events and clubs in the area promoting this activity among locals.
Cycling is enjoyed by many in Marathon, with dedicated trails and routes that showcase the beautiful surroundings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Marathon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood takes the spotlight in Marathon, numerous eateries cater to vegetarians and vegans. Visitors can relish creative plant-based fare at The Island Fish Company and Frank's Grill.
For those seeking gluten-free options, many establishments in Marathon are accommodating, with menus featuring gluten-free selections or the flexibility to modify dishes upon request.