Marathon, FL

Marathon, Florida is a city located in Monroe County in the Florida Keys. It is an integral part of the chain of islands that make up the Florida Keys and is situated on the island of Vaca Key. The city spans approximately 10 square miles and has a population of around 8,700 people.

The history of Marathon can be traced back to the early development of the Florida Keys. Prior to European settlement, the islands were inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Calusa and Tequesta. However, it was the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century that led to the ultimate colonization of the area.

During the 1800s, the Florida Keys became a popular base for fishing and wrecking. Wrecking refers to the practice of salvaging valuable cargo from ships that ran aground on the treacherous reefs surrounding the Keys. Many shipwrecks occurred in the area, leading to the establishment of various marine salvaging communities.

In 1908, the Florida East Coast Railway extended its line to Marathon, which contributed significantly to the development of the area. The railroad allowed for increased transportation and trade, encouraging the growth of the local economy. The presence of the railway also made the Florida Keys a popular destination for tourists.

Marathon's name originates from a comment made during the construction of the railroad. The railroad workers were constructing a bridge that was taking longer than expected. A worker reportedly said, "This is getting to be a real marathon," referencing the long-distance race. The name stuck, and the town of Marathon was born.

In the 20th century, the Florida Keys became known for its recreational activities, including fishing, diving, and boating. These industries continue to be an essential part of the local economy today. Additionally, Marathon is home to several nature reserves and protected areas due to its ecological importance, including the famous Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

Over the years, Marathon has experienced both natural and man-made challenges. The area has been affected by hurricanes, most notably Hurricane Irma in 2017, which caused considerable damage. However, the city has been able to rebuild and continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination in the Florida Keys.

Today, Marathon offers a range of amenities and attractions for residents and visitors alike. Its beautiful beaches, thriving water sports industry, and proximity to the marine life of the Florida Keys make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is also known for its vibrant cultural scene and annual events such as the Marathon Seafood Festival, drawing visitors from all over the world.

Sombrero Beach

A beautiful sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

Dolphin Research Center

A facility where visitors can learn about and interact with dolphins through various programs, including swimming with dolphins, feeding them, and watching them perform.

Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

A unique interactive aquarium where visitors can feed and swim with a variety of marine animals like stingrays, sharks, and turtles.

Curry Hammock State Park

A nature reserve that offers activities like camping, kayaking, swimming, and hiking, allowing visitors to explore the untouched wilderness of the Florida Keys.

Crane Point Museum and Nature Center

A cultural and natural history museum that showcases the rich history of the Florida Keys and provides nature trails, educational exhibits, and a tropical hardwood forest.

Turtle Hospital

A dedicated facility that rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured sea turtles. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the rehabilitation process and the importance of protecting sea turtles.

Marathon Lady Party Boat Fishing

A popular fishing charter that offers half-day and full-day trips, allowing visitors to experience deep-sea fishing in the Florida Keys and catch a variety of fish species.

Seven Mile Bridge

This iconic bridge connects Marathon to the Lower Keys. Visitors can drive or walk on the bridge and enjoy breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and the surrounding islands.

Captain Hook's Marina and Dive Center

A full-service marina and dive center that offers scuba diving and snorkeling trips to the nearby reefs and wrecks, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Florida Keys.

Pigeon Key

Accessible by boat or ferry, Pigeon Key is a historic island that played a significant role in the construction of the Overseas Railroad. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Marathon, FL has a tropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The city is located in the Florida Keys, which means it experiences a year-round warm weather.

Summers in Marathon are typically long, starting from May and lasting until October. During this period, temperatures often reach the 90s°F (32-37°C), with high humidity levels. Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are also common in the summer months.

Winters in Marathon are short and relatively mild. They run from December to February, with temperatures ranging from the high 60s°F (15-20°C) during the day to the mid-50s°F (10-13°C) at night. Compared to other parts of the United States, winters in Marathon are considered quite warm.

Fall and spring are transitional seasons, but they still have warm temperatures. Fall (September to November) in Marathon typically sees temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s°F (24-28°C), with slightly less rainfall than the summer months. Spring (March to May) also brings pleasant temperatures in the high 70s to low 80s°F (25-28°C) range, before transitioning into the hot summer season.

Marathon, FL is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, and the warm climate provides visitors and residents alike with enjoyable outdoor activities year-round. It is important to note that as a coastal city, Marathon is susceptible to hurricanes, which typically occur during the Atlantic hurricane season (June to November).

Marathon, Florida is located in the Middle Keys, and it is one of the larger cities in the Florida Keys. It is known for its beautiful beaches, water sports activities, and fishing opportunities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods found in Marathon:

Key Colony Beach

Located on an island off the coast of Marathon, Key Colony Beach is a gated community that offers a mix of residential homes, condos, and vacation rentals. The neighborhood is known for its numerous canals, which provide direct access to the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico for boating and fishing.

Sombrero Beach

Located on the southern end of Marathon, Sombrero Beach is a popular neighborhood known for its stunning sandy beach. The area features a mix of residential homes, rentals, and waterfront properties with access to canals and open water. It's a great spot for beach lovers and those interested in water activities like snorkeling and diving.

Boot Key

Situated on Boot Key, an island connected to Marathon by the Overseas Highway, this neighborhood is known for its marina and Boot Key Harbor. It offers numerous waterfront properties, boat slips, and marina services, making it a prime location for boaters and fishing enthusiasts.

Coco Plum

Located on the east side of Marathon, Coco Plum is a popular neighborhood known for its primarily residential vibe, offering a mix of single-family homes and vacation rentals. The neighborhood features a mangrove-lined coastline, canals, and scenic biking and jogging paths.

Duck Key

Just north of Marathon lies Duck Key, a private island accessible by bridge. This upscale neighborhood offers luxurious homes, a private club, and a marina. The well-known Hawks Cay Resort is located here, providing various amenities and activities such as a spa, dining, and water sports.

Grassy Key

South of Marathon, Grassy Key offers a more secluded and peaceful setting. The neighborhood is known for its nature preserves, waterfront properties, and access to the Dolphin Research Center, where visitors can learn about and interact with dolphins.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods that make up Marathon, Florida. Each offers its own unique charm, amenities, and access to the natural beauty of the Florida Keys. Whether you are looking for a beachfront property, a boater's paradise, or a quiet residential area, Marathon has something to offer for everyone.