Why Marathon, Florida Is the Best Family Destination in the Florida Keys (2026 Guide)

Marathon, Florida is one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Florida Keys, offering beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling, wildlife experiences, and easy access to iconic attractions like The Turtle Hospital, Sombrero Beach, Pigeon Key, and Sombrero Reef. This updated 2026 travel guide includes the best things to do, best beaches based on ages of our kids, local restaurants, a 7-day itinerary, money-saving tips, and practical advice to help you plan the perfect Florida Keys vacation. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or a full week, Marathon is an ideal base for exploring the Middle Keys.

If you're planning a trip to Marathon or anywhere in the Florida Keys, I'd love to help. As a Fora Travel Advisor, I can help you choose the right resort, recommend family-friendly hotels, plan island-hopping itineraries, and often provide complimentary perks at select hotels.

Some links below may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission — for which we are deeply grateful! — at no cost to you.

A Marathon Florida family vacation should definitely include snorkeling

Family Vacation in the Florida Keys

I long believed the Caribbean was a distant travel destination for romantic vacations for two.

A Marathon Florida family vacation proved me wrong.  

Totaling 13 islands, Marathon is known for their beaches and barrier reef. Loggerhead turtles makes their nests at both Coco Plum Beach and Sombrero Beach.

We spent one epic family vacation with our kids in the Florida Keys. 

While we love Cape San Blas, our family decided to try a different part of Florida over spring break one March. And we were so glad we did!

Our family of six spent the perfect week in a sweet three bedroom home with a wonderful porch in the Coral Lagoon Resort in Marathon, a boaters dream location. It was just right for our Florida Key family vacation!

RELATED READING: Whether you're considering a trip to beaches, hiking in national parks, or taking a road trip, here are our top 10 favorite spring break trips over the years.

Where are the Keys?

The Keys are a long string of tropical islands beginning 15 miles south of Miami. The keys split the Gulf of Mexico to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.

Starting with Key Largo and ending at Key West, many of these islands are connected by the famous Seven-Mile Bridge that begins in Marathon. 

These laid-back Keys around Marathon are known for fishing, boating, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Key West is geared more towards adults and is a great destination for say a girls trip full of sun, fun, and food.

Things to do in Marathon Florida in 2026 — the Middle Keys

Without further ado, here are the best things to do on a Marathon Florida family vacation.

Rent a boat on your Marathon Florida family vacation — you won’t regret it!

Rent a boat in the Keys

Jason over at Coco Plum Boat Rentals is your go-to guy for renting a boat, even if you’ve never driven one before. 

Jason and Wendy make the nervous amateur boat driver feel like a pro. They pointed out several great exploring spots, and provided fantastic tips for planning around wind and waves. 

Renting a boat enabled us to set out on open water adventures at our own pace. We snorkeled, went fishing, and explored the crystal-clear, shallow waters around sand bars. It was heavenly.

Getting ready to jump in for snorkeling at Sombrero Reef

SNorkel at Sombrero Reef

One of the top things to do in Marathon, Florida is snorkeling at Sombrero Reef.

This beautiful coral reef is home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional shark.

You can take a guided snorkeling tour and rent a boat to explore the reef on your own, which is what we did. Either way, it's an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Well worth the boat drive out, we spotted all sorts of angelfish, parrotfish, barracuda, and much more! We swam and dove through steel girders and schools of fish until our flippers wore out.

Coffin’s Patch is a wonderful spot for snorkeling too, like Sombrero Reef. We had hoped to make it out to snorkel at this spot in the Atlantic, but the wind and waves weren't cooperating the day we had planned to go out there. Definitely next time!

We bought adult and kids snorkeling gear before the trip and easily packed it in our suitcases. Your own snorkel gear is definitely worth the investment for you Marathon Florida family vacation.

Practice in the pool with your kids putting on and using the snorkeling gear until they feel comfortable.

Visiting the Turtle Hospital

Another must-do activity for families in Marathon, Florida is visiting the Turtle Hospital.

This unique facility is dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of injured sea turtles. Visitors can take a guided tour of the hospital and learn about the different species of sea turtles, their habitats, and the threats they face in the wild.

You can even watch the staff feed the turtles and see them swim in their tanks. It's a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Hunt for sea creatures

We simply parked our rented boat near a sandbar. Then, using our boat's navigation system, we located a shallow spot of three foot deep water, turned off the engine, and threw in the anchor.  

We put on our snorkel gear, grabbed the net and tickle stick. Sliding into the water, we hunted for crabs, starfish, sand dollars, and seaglass. So fun!

Placing the creatures in a the boat’s live well, we shared your findings with everyone on the boat before you throw all of your live creatures back in! We turned this adventure into a scavenger hunt.

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Go lobster hunting if you can on your Marathon Florida family vacation

Fishing at the Seven Mile Bridge

The Seven Mile Bridge is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts in Marathon, Florida.

This iconic bridge offers stunning views of the ocean and is home to a variety of fish species, including tarpon, snapper, and grouper.

You can rent a boat or hire a local guide to take you out on the water for a day of fishing.

Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery and your catch of the day.

We lucked out and happened to be in Marathon during the final week of open lobster season. Fishing at the Seven Mile Bridge was a fun and exciting activity for our whole group.

Our friends brought their nets and tickle sticks and caught eight lobster near the Seven-Mile Bridge our first full day there. What a scrumptious dinner we had that night! 

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Sombrero Beach in Marathon Florida

Best Beaches in Marathon for Families with Small Children

One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors is that the Florida Keys aren't known for long stretches of sandy beaches. Instead, Marathon offers several calm, family-friendly beaches that are perfect for toddlers and young children. Here's where to go:

1. Sombrero Beach ⭐ Best Overall

If you're only visiting one beach in Marathon with young kids, make it Sombrero Beach.

This is the area's most family-friendly public beach, with soft sand, calm water, and excellent amenities that make spending the day easy with little ones.

Why families love it:

• Gentle, shallow water for splashing

• Soft sand for building sandcastles

• Large shaded playground

• Restrooms and outdoor showers

• Picnic pavilions and grills

• Plenty of parking

• Easy stroller access

Good to know: From April through October, portions of the beach may be roped off to protect nesting sea turtles, so be sure to respect marked nesting areas.

Nesting Sea Turtles in Florida Keys

2. Coco Plum Beach: Best Quiet Beach

If your kids enjoy exploring nature more than playing in waves, Coco Plum Beach is a peaceful alternative.

This natural beach has fewer crowds and is a great place for collecting shells, watching shorebirds, and enjoying a quiet sunset.

Best for:

• Toddlers who like to explore

• Family walks

• Paddleboarding and kayaking

• Sunset picnics

Keep in mind: Seagrass can wash ashore, making it less ideal for swimming than Sombrero Beach. (Keys Cove)

3. Curry Hammock State Park: Best for Nature Lovers

While not a traditional swimming beach, Curry Hammock State Park is an excellent choice for families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Children can search for birds, tiny fish, crabs, and other marine life while parents enjoy the peaceful scenery.

Perfect for:

• Easy nature walks

• Kayaking

• Paddleboarding

• Wildlife spotting

4. Day Trip to Calusa Beach at Bahia Honda State Park

Located about 20 minutes south of Marathon, Calusa Beach is one of the best beaches in the entire Florida Keys.

The protected cove offers shallow, clear water that's ideal for young swimmers, and the scenery beneath the historic Bahia Honda Bridge is spectacular.

Bahia State Park in the Florida Keys

Why it's worth the drive:

• Calm, shallow swimming area

• Beautiful white sand

• Picnic tables

• Restrooms

• Incredible photo opportunities

Which Beach Is Best by Age?

Babies (0–2): Sombrero Beach

Toddlers (2–5): Sombrero Beach

Ages 5–10: Sombrero Beach or Calusa Beach at Bahia Honda State

Park

Kids who love wildlife: Curry Hammock State Park

Quiet family afternoon: Coco Plum Beach

Parent Tip

Plan your beach visits in the morning (before 11 a.m.) or late afternoon (after 4 p.m.) to avoid the strongest sun and enjoy cooler temperatures. Bringing a pop-up shade tent, plenty of water, and reef-safe sunscreen will make your beach day much more comfortable, especially if you're traveling with babies or toddlers.

Visit the Dolphin Research Center

The Dolphin Research Center is a must-visit attraction for families in Marathon, Florida. This non-profit organization is dedicated to the study and conservation of dolphins and other marine mammals.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the facility and learn about the different species of dolphins, their behaviors, and the research being done to protect them.

You can even watch the dolphins perform in shows and interact with them in the water. It's a unique and unforgettable experience for the whole family on your Marathon Florida family vacation.

Meeting a giant grouper at the Marathon Florida Keys Aquamarine Encounters

Florida Keys Aquamarine Encounters

Check out this staring competition with a large grouper.  

An aquarium is definitely the preferred way to meet a shark face-to-face.  Right in Marathon, Florida, we spent a couple of our hours here when we needed a break from the waves, sand, and sun. 

This modern outdoor, well-shaded aquamarine park boasts a huge predator reef tank filled with nurse sharks, sting rays, moray eels and more. 

There is also a tide pool touch tank and a sting ray touch pool (de-barbed)!  Feed the hungry tarpons in the canal area or watch the staff feed giant groupers.  

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We enjoyed the food at Burdines so much, we ate there twice!

Eat at Burdines Waterfront

The day we had 4 adults and 8 kids on the boat (crazy but true!), we pulled into the Burdines Waterfront marina, docked our boat, and walked upstairs to the ChikiTiki Bar & Grille. 

Grilled shrimp, blackened mahi mahi, and the most tasty hush puppies washed down with a Floridian Hefeweisen fueled us up for an afternoon of more fantastic snorkeling and fishing.

You must order the key lime pie at Burdines. Twelve thumbs up.  

More things to do in Marathon Florida

Kayaking through the mangroves

One of the most unique and adventurous activities to do in Marathon, Florida is kayaking through the mangroves.

The calm and shallow waters of the mangroves make it the perfect spot for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.

You can rent a kayak or book a guided tour to explore the diverse ecosystem of the mangroves, which is home to a variety of marine life, including manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles.

This is a great way to get up close and personal with nature and create unforgettable memories with your family.

Chartered Fishing Trip in the Florida Keys

If you really love to fish, a chartered fishing trip should be added to your Marathon Florida vacation itinerary.

Callion Fishing Charters won’t steer you wrong.

With over 25 years of experience, Callion Fishing Charters ranks among the most skilled and versatile professional guides in the Florida Keys and Costa Rica. Captain Jack Callion has helped his clients snag 5000 tarpon catches and so much more.

Suggested 7-Day Marathon Family Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive & Explore

• Check into your resort or vacation rental

• Lunch at Keys Fisheries

• Spend the afternoon at Sombrero Beach

• Sunset walk along the Old Seven Mile Bridge

Day 2 – Sea Turtle Day

• Morning tour of The Turtle Hospital (reserve tickets in advance)

• Lunch at Island Fish Company

• Visit Crane Point Hammock & Nature Center

• Ice cream stop before heading back

Day 3 – Reef Adventure

• Half-day snorkel trip to Sombrero Reef

• Relax at your hotel pool

• Sunset dinner overlooking the water

Day 4 – Pigeon Key & Seven Mile Bridge

• Walk or take the tram to Pigeon Key, the little island under the Seven Mile Bridge

• Learn about the history of the Overseas Railroad

• Kayak or paddleboard in the afternoon

Day 5 – Marine Life

• Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

• Dolphin Research Center on Grassy Key

• Dinner at Sunset Grille

Day 6 – Family Adventure

Choose one:

• Fishing charter

• Sandbar boat excursion

• Kayaking through mangrove tunnels

• Bahia Honda State Park beach day

Day 7 – Last Day in Paradise

• Breakfast by the water

• Souvenir shopping

• One last swim at Sombrero Beach

• Drive toward Key Largo or Key West

Best Time to Visit Marathon, Florida

Marathon is a year-round destination in the heart of the Florida Keys, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of vacation you're planning. Whether you're looking for perfect beach weather, fewer crowds, or the best travel deals, each season offers something unique.

Winter (December–February): Best Overall Weather

Winter is one of the most popular times to visit Marathon thanks to sunny skies, low humidity, and comfortable temperatures averaging 70–78°F. It's an ideal season for snorkeling, fishing, boating, and exploring the Florida Keys without the intense summer heat.

Best for:

• Escaping cold northern winters

• Outdoor adventures

• Couples and snowbirds

• Holiday vacations

Keep in mind: Hotel rates are generally at their highest during winter and around holiday weekends, so booking several months in advance is recommended.

Spring (March–May): Best for Families

Spring combines warm weather with relatively low humidity, making it one of the best times for a family vacation. Water temperatures become comfortable for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking, while wildlife is especially active.

You'll also find beautiful turquoise water and excellent visibility for reef snorkeling.

Best for:

• Spring Break trips

• Family vacations

• Beach days

• Snorkeling and diving

Summer (June–August): Best for Water Activities

Summer brings warm temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s, making it perfect for spending time on or in the water. This is one of the best seasons for boating, sandbar excursions, reef snorkeling, and fishing.

Afternoon rain showers are common, but they often pass quickly.

Best for:

• Snorkeling

• Fishing charters

• Boat rentals

• Budget-friendly hotel deals

Travel tip: Pack lightweight clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities earlier in the day to avoid the hottest afternoon temperatures.

Fall (September–November): Best for Budget Travelers

Fall is often the quietest season in Marathon, offering lower hotel rates and fewer crowds. While September and October fall within the Atlantic hurricane season, many travelers enjoy visiting during November when temperatures become more comfortable and hurricane risks begin to decrease.

If your travel dates are flexible, November offers an excellent combination of pleasant weather and good value.

Best for:

• Couples

• Budget-conscious travelers

• Fishing

• Relaxing beach vacations

Quick Weather Tips

• Warmest months: July and August

• Coolest months: January and February

• Rainiest months: June through September

• Hurricane season: June 1 through November 30, with the greatest likelihood of tropical activity typically from August through October.

• Best snorkeling visibility: Often found during the calmer months of late spring and early summer, though conditions vary with weather and winds.

Local Tip

If it's your first visit to Marathon, I recommend planning your trip between March and early May or late October through November. During these shoulder seasons, you'll usually enjoy warm weather, fewer crowds than peak winter, and great conditions for beaches, snorkeling, and exploring the Florida Keys—all while often finding better hotel rates than during the busiest months.

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Where to stay in Marathon Florida

We spent the perfect week in a sweet three bedroom home with a wonderful porch in the Coral Lagoon Resort in Marathon. 

This beach style house was nestled with 25 others on a canal with a boat slip. 

A resort style pool sat steps away from our back porch. 

Coral Lagoon Resort and Marina is also your boaters dream location.

With a full service marina conveniently located in the heart of Marathon, Middle Keys, this small, quiet resort style property spread out over 6 acres of mature trees and lush landscape offers a beautiful stand alone villa with luxury finishes and open balconies for you to enjoy your ultimate Keys getaway.

The Publix grocery story and Sombrero Beach were both just 3 miles away.

Coral Lagoon was perfect with elementary aged kids and teens.

Not sure which resort or vacation rental is right for your family? I help travelers find accommodations that fit their budget, travel style, and vacation goals. If you'd like personalized recommendations, I'd be happy to help.

If you’d rather stay at a resort on the beach, Hawks Cay comes highly recommended by friends.

With a private beach and outdoor tennis court, this sweet resort also features a full-service spa and a marina.

At Hawk’s Cay, you can spend a day at the beach snorkeling, or relax with sun loungers and beach umbrellas.

There’s also a children's pool and a playground, and with all of the sand and sun, you will appreciate the onsite laundry facilities.

Can’t find a place in Marathon? Islamorada, Florida is another laid back, family-friendly beach destination on the East Coast that’s perfect for exploring the Keys with kids.

Need Help Planning Your Florida Keys Vacation?

I created this guide to make planning a trip to Marathon easier. If you'd like personalized recommendations for hotels, cruises, road trips, or a custom Florida Keys itinerary, I'd love to help.

As a Fora Travel Advisor, I help travelers plan unforgettable vacations—from quick weekend escapes to bucket-list adventures—with expert recommendations and personalized service.

Pack for the Florida Keys

Have the best time in the Florida Keys when you are packed and ready to go for every kind of adventure:

• Personal snorkeling set — don’t waste your time renting snorkel gear as you will use it daily. We’ve been super happy with the U.S. Divers Snorkel + Gear Bag

• Hammock — you’re on vacation, so lay back, take a snooze or read a book in the shade after your time in the sun and the waves.

• Packable Lounging Chair for the beach - we love Eno Lounging Chairs that pack up light and tight

• Shade Canopy — the Neso Gigante Sunshade is our go-to. This large, lightweight, portable sunshade is perfect for your next beach trip or other sunny destination. The best part: stakeless anchors let you use available materials such as sand or rocks.