Marathon Florida Keys — Local's Guide

Marathon Is the Middle of the Keys. That Makes It the Smartest Base.

Marathon is a 10-mile island chain in the Middle Keys — roughly an hour south of Key Largo, an hour north of Key West. Most visitors race past it on their way south. That's a mistake, because Marathon offers the best combination of access, value, and authentic local character in the Keys.

Sombrero Beach is the signature stop in Marathon — a county park with a long stretch of white sand on the ocean side, free parking, facilities, and no crowds even on busy weekends. Go at sunset for the view across the Seven Mile Bridge approach.

Tarpon fishing runs February through June — the Middle Keys are ground zero. Marathon is the best base for tarpon season in the Keys.

Stuffed Pig, on Overseas Hwy, is the breakfast institution of the Middle Keys. Get there by 6:45am if you want a seat — the line forms before the restaurant opens at 7.

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Common Questions

Is Marathon a good base for the Keys?

Yes — if you want to be able to do day trips in both directions. From Marathon, you're 60 minutes from Key West and 60 minutes from Key Largo. Staying in the Middle Keys means significantly lower accommodation costs.

What's the best beach in Marathon?

Sombrero Beach, without qualification. It's maintained by the county, has facilities, free parking, and is consistently cleaner and less crowded than the Florida Keys State Park beaches.

When is tarpon season in Marathon?

February through June, with April and May being peak. Book months in advance if you want a specific tarpon day — the good captains fill their tarpon slots by January.

Marathon Florida Keys — Tarpon Season, Sombrero Beach, and the Middle Keys

Marathon Is the Middle of the Keys. That Makes It the Smartest Base.

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Common Questions