However, when it comes to accommodations, Islamorada offers a whole slew more than Marathon. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. The ideal length of time for a trip to Key Largo is 5-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Marathon is 3-7 days. There is no transportation system by water between Islamorada and Marathon. Highlights. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. But, would also like to do a little beaching, which leads me to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches. Is any one of these locations superior to the other in terms of accommodations and things to do? Islamorada is teeming with all the right draws perfectly combined, making it an easy favorite thanks to Mother Nature herself. $7,200, 6 Days 5 Nights Sailing Catamaran Experience in Florida Keys: 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. It also has a range of educational and conservation-based activities and workshops for guests of all ages. . To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. We like Lime Tree Bay in Layton the best. Key Largo is around the same temperature as Marathon in the winter. Islamorada is home to continuous, smooth white-sand beaches. In the autumn, Key Largo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marathon. The Key West Half Marathon course is a beautiful 13.1-mile run through the island of Key West, Florida. If youre up for on-foot explorations and plenty of walking, its doable, but most choose to use their cars to get from Point A to Point B on Key Largo. Report inappropriate content Key Largo really has virtually no beaches apart from a couple at private hotels and man made ones at John Pennekamp state park. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. more. 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. 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. Key Largo vs. Marathon for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples, The Best Airbnb's in the Florida Keys for a Romantic Couple's Getaway, The Best Florida Keys Vacation Rentals and Airbnbs for Families, Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions, 4 Days and 3 Nights Sailing Catamaran Experience in the Florida Keys: 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! You can do all of the other activities anywhere in the Keys. $8,640, A Unique Private Snorkel Tour of Key Largo: Get the guide and checklists now so you can avoid the travel mistakes that can ruin your precious vacation. Without Spending a Fortune. While both Key Largo and Key West are fairly touristy, youll find fewer tourist-centric spots in Key Largo than in Key West. The main beach is Cannon Beach, the busier of the two, near the concession buildings with plenty of parking. Other choices are Marathon Marina and Skipjack Marina. The shallow depths of some of Marathons reefs make swimming possible. 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. With this out of the way, lets look at five of the cheapest places you could set up residence in the Florida Keys. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39173078', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon? Whenever youre in the village, expect to be met with an overwhelming sense of natural beauty. The best destinations between Key West and Key Largo, Islamorada, and Marathon may be small but they are top-notch. Fishing Report Key Largo - Marathon Mid October 2022 Seas 2 Trees Outdoors fishing onboard the 36' Yellowfin "Ace of Spades" in the last couple of weeks has been very good in the Florida Keys, between Key Largo & Marathon. You could also rent a car in Miami and drive the 160 miles to Key West. Jose A. Iglesias. My choice is the more remote Far Beach, a short walk or bike ride on a paved trail. However, boat charters or tours can take you around different keys. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Marathon. The center participates in a variety of conservation and educational activities, and workshops. Key Largo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Marathon is famous for families. It is about 10-15 minutes south of Islamorada and has a much more relaxed feel. The course starts at Smathers Beach and winds its way through the island, past some of its most famous landmarks. Just off the waters of Islamorada, youll be sure to find one-too-many spots to fish. 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. Well, I like wintergreen and can't stand peppermint. Islamorada, Marathon Islamorada vs. Marathon The best destinations between Key West and Key Largo, Islamorada, and Marathon may be small but they are top-notch. runners will see the Southernmost Point, Duval Street, and the Key West Lighthouse, before . As Islamorada's village is occupied within a cluster of nearby islands, Islamorada is located on Tea Table Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Windley Key and Plantation Key in the Florida Keys. Snorkeling at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park can be a full day of fun. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. We spent a night in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The park is a hardwood hammock where you can do many things. From dolphins to beaches and snorkeling, this island is a great destination for families. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80395686', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Key West is definitely worth visiting while you're in the keys. After exploring the abandoned town, you can take a quick dip or kayak around the mangrove trees. In other words, Key West has an exciting social scene, while Key Largo is more for outdoor activities. What do you think? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80293899', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon is closest to a couple of the nicest beaches in the Keys. The beach also sports calm and gentle waters like most of the Keys. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But, Marathon happens to have a particular liking for dolphins and turtles. $299, Key Largo Private Sunset Tour of the Bay Area in Key largo: Your plane flies much faster than a car, so the flight time is about 1/2th of the time it would take to drive. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Enough that we might consider a longer stay next time through. The Rent Zestimate for this home is $4,470/mo, which has increased by $4,470/mo in the last 30 days. Which of the 2 areas would be more suitable for these activities, Key Largo or (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? All of which are in shallow crystalline water with just the right temperature. Marathon is generally not very walkable. Recommend a diving experience for a beginner? The temperature in Key Largo is usually 67F (19C) in January, and Marathon stays around 70F (21C). The town is packed with the right blend of nature, history, and entertainment. $8.00, Key Largo Glass Bottom Boat Adventure: ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80293913', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon is the best pick. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. Most people set out from Key Largo or Islamorada for snorkeling from the Upper Keys. Crane Point Hammock Park is popular among adventurers and those seeking a different scene other than adventures in the water. Are you planning your next vacation but feeling worried about safety? Posted on May 29, 2022 by May 29, 2022 by Get the guide now and start planning your dream family vacation on a budget! A lower score is better. Beaches are not huge in the keys so for a long walk you would have to visit Bahia Honda which is near Marathon and the 7 mile bridge. If you're taking time off work because you have to drive an extra day, it might be better to fly even if driving is technically cheaper. Just like the rest of the Florida Keys, Marathon takes the welfare of its marine life greatly. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. But Key West has significantly more bars. Time sensitive: Do I have enough time? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80490023', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key Largo and Marathon, we can see that Key Largo is more expensive. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. The most common catch has to be the Yellowtail Snapper, considered to be the Keys signature catch. Sombrero Beach provides a lovely strip of powdery white sand with decent water. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boaters who want to hire a dock can do so at the members-only Marathon Yacht Club. Here are some of the most go-to activities you can do in Islamorada: There is no better place to sportfish in the Florida Keys, or even the entire world, than in Islamorada. Especially with all the mangrove expanses. With only a single highway connecting them, the 32-mile distance is easily covered by driving. To accomplish many things to do in the Florida Keys, youll need a solid five days. Islamorada sits nearby the best fishing spots in the entire Florida Keys Reef Tract. Key Largo really has virtually no beaches apart from a couple at private hotels and man made ones at John Pennekamp state park. They have the largest pool in the keys with a poolside tiki bar. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January. It also uses outreach activities to educate the public and to keep the environment safe and clean for sea turtles. Key Largo really has virtually no beaches apart from a couple at private hotels and man made ones at John Pennekamp state park. You can even see different bird species, as well as kayak along with swimming marine animals around. Key West and Key Largo are both popular destinations, but they offer very different experiences. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. The beach is public but youll have to pay the state park fee in order to access it, which is $9 per two people (but if you pay $43 to camp overnight, you wont have to pay for entrance). Key Largo Marathon The vibe at night is comparable in Key Largo and Marathon. For more things to do on your Florida Keys getaway: Robin ONeal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. Both Key Largo and Marathon are considered to be good beach destinations. If you have long enough, why not split your time between the 2 places so you can experience a little of each ? "That was some match, I don't think I've experienced anything like . 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. If you are looking for beaches, the Keys are not the place. Its a small airport, so that means higher prices on those flights. Key Largo usually gets more rain in October than Marathon. Marathon has the best beaches by Florida Keys standards, not to mention it has plenty of attractions as well. The city expects visitors to take to the streets while leaving their cars behind at their hotels. Both will fit the bill.as will (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Islamorada easily has more accommodations, more activities, and more places to explore. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With their size, and numbers you can expect to find a good catch all year round. Half Shell Raw Bar is the popular place to go for stone crabs in Key West. Key Largo has some beautiful sunsets as well, but they are definitely not the same as the sinking sun of Key West. Why are there no beaches in the Florida Keys? You can bring them home from their market or try the Stone Crab chowder at the cafe. Here are some of the most popular catches: Tarpons are some of the most legendary catches in Islamorada. Marathon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. If luxury resorts are your style, both Key Largo and Marathon have options. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Both are incredible destinations. Marathon is a mini archipelago of its own. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80395686', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Key West is definitely worth visiting while you're in the keys. I would like one with a pool for sure. The village is relatively small, expanding to about 7.2 square miles total. - Key Largo is 0% more densely populated than Marathon. The Islands of Marathon stretch from mile marker 47, which is on the north side of the 7 Mile Bridge, and mile marker 59 in Grassy Key.. Mile marker 106 is the first mile marker after crossing the 18 mile stretch at Key Largo and entering the Keys. If distance is an issue, youll want to note that Key Largo is only about an hour away from Miami. Food prices are similar though Key West has far more high-end restaurants than Key Largo. I'd agree that (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Typically 98 buses run weekly, although weekend and holiday schedules can vary so check . Being in the middle Keys, Key West is about an hour drive south with beautiful vistas and great places for a bite to eat. These gems are often the second-best options when you dont feel like cramming into the bustle of Key West and Key Largo. Can you tell me some places to stay? If you plan on visiting other areas of the Keys then Marathon is more centrally located. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. Key Largo is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. It has Sombrero beach, one of the best in the Keys (which isn't saying much!) Which of the 2 areas would be more suitable for these activities, Key Largo or (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The village itself is even dubbed the beach capital of the Florida Keys, alluding to the beauty of its beaches. Are you ready to take the family on an epic vacation, but worried about the cost? How far is Marathon from Key Largo? Drive south of Marathon across 7 mile Bridge (True Lies) to Bahia Honda, which is one of best beaches in US. Key Largo is a good island for couples to visit. In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. It also showcases Floridas history from the volunteers who run the tram and lead tours. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. You also have the option of taking the Conch Tour Train throughout the city in Key West. Both Marathon and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit. However, these destinations can be perfect for different kinds of families seeking a certain set of experiences. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Whether you prefer having fun across the blue surface or exploring underwater, there is so much you can do. Whether you enjoy coasting around the surface of the ocean or diving deep. I can't tell you why, but, we much preferred Marathon. CAN YOU HAVE A PRICELESS FAMILY VACATION ON A BUDGET? Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. Snappers are easily found on reefs and wrecks across the Keys, most especially in Islamorada. They are mostly small, man-made and rocky. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39167838', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. The bus journey time between Marathon and Key Largo is around 1h 15m and covers a distance of around 49 miles. You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Marathon. The predominant bite offshore has been swordfish & blackfin tunas. But if youre looking for a more laid-back, relaxing vacation with outdoor activities, Key Largo is the way to go. Even though you can drive this distance straight through, it might be more interesting to stop along the . Typically, the summer temperatures in Key Largo in July are around 82F (28C), and Marathon is about 84F (29C). We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each city. This smaller, laid-back community feels homier than the bustling city of Key West. This means youll find more activity available during every waking hour you spend on Key West. Having the right conditions, along with rich aquatic features, fishing in Islamorada is the best in the world. It takes about an hour to get there by boat and the park is gorgeous. I would highly recommend Banana Bay Resort (balcony with marina view) or since you are traveling with another couple, the 2-Bedroom Marathon Key Beach Club (condos next door but you use Banana Bay's facilities). Thanks to its natural gifts and wonders, the famous village has garnered two titles, making it a US pride. Nonstop drive: 50 miles or 80 km. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Key Largo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Marathon during winter. The reefs around both islands are incredibly healthy, beautiful, and mostly easy to access. Yet the dolphins themselves enjoy entertaining and being entertained. We like Marathon because it's in the middlle, so, if you want to visit Key West, it's about an hour drive south. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. It has Sombrero beach, one of the best in the Keys (which isn't saying much!) It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Key Largo. Key Largo also has a much more intimate feel than Key West. Both Key Largo and Marathon are good destinations for a couple's getaway. The total cost of housing, food, child care, transportation, health care, taxes, and other necessities for a single adult in Key Largo is $46,025 a year greater than the annual cost of living for Florida of $36,375 and greater than the national figure of $38,433. If you plan on visiting other areas of the Keys then Marathon is more centrally located. 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. The Theater of the Sea is famous for its interactive entertainment. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39170503', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. The waters off Islamorada are gifted thanks to its proximity to the Everglades, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Florida Key Reef Tract. The vibe at night is comparable in Key Largo and Marathon. Being made up of mostly water, you can expect to find an even richer marine life as well. Fantastic place and you need to spend at least a night to be at the nightly sunset gathering on the Quay. 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.