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15 Best Destinations for Spring Break in the Florida Keys for Families in 2026

February 19, 2026

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Aerial view of a coastal neighborhood with white-roofed houses, a canal running between homes, palm trees, and calm blue ocean under a clear sky with a few scattered clouds.
Aerial view of a coastal neighborhood with white-roofed houses, a canal running between homes, palm trees, and calm blue ocean under a clear sky with a few scattered clouds. Spring Break in the Florida Keys.

Looking for the perfect Spring Break getaway that satisfies everyone from toddlers to grandparents? The Florida Keys deliver a winning combination of turquoise waters, educational wildlife encounters, and luxury family accommodations that make Spring Break 2026 unforgettable. With Marathon positioned at Mile Marker 48 (the geographic heart of the 113-mile island chain), you can access world-class family attractions from Key Largo to Key West without spending your vacation in the car.

Quick Answer: The best Spring Break destinations in the Florida Keys for families include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling, Theater of the Sea for animal encounters, the Turtle Hospital in Marathon for conservation education, Bahia Honda State Park for pristine beaches, and Dry Tortugas National Park for adventure. All are within easy reach of Marathon’s luxury waterfront rentals.

Spring Break 2026 Dates You Need to Know:

  • Most Florida schools: March 16-20, 2026
  • Miami-Dade County: March 23-27, 2026
  • College peak weeks: March 14-21, 2026
  • Overall peak travel period: March 7-27, 2026

Why Marathon is Your Perfect Spring Break Home Base

Before we explore the 15 must-visit destinations, let’s talk about location strategy. Marathon sits at the geographical center of the Florida Keys (Mile Marker 48), which means you’re never more than an hour from any attraction on this list. You get:

  • 45 minutes to Key Largo attractions in the Upper Keys
  • 5-15 minutes to Marathon’s own world-class family spots
  • 45 minutes to Key West in the Lower Keys
  • Waterfront luxury at a fraction of Key West prices
  • Less crowded than tourist-heavy Key West during peak Spring Break

Families staying in Marathon’s waterfront vacation rentals enjoy private pools, boat docks, and full kitchens. These amenities make traveling with multiple generations easier and more affordable than hotels.

1. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo

An underwater statue of christ with arms raised, covered in marine growth, stands on the ocean floor as a snorkeler with a mask and yellow fins swims nearby, surrounded by clear blue water and coral.
An underwater statue of Christ with arms raised, covered in marine growth, stands on the ocean floor as a snorkeler with a mask and yellow fins swims nearby, surrounded by clear blue water and coral. Photo source: travel.usnews.com

Distance from Marathon: 45 minutes north (30 miles)

America’s first underwater park remains the crown jewel of Florida Keys family adventures. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park protects 70 nautical square miles of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove swamps teeming with tropical fish.

Why Families Love It:

  • Glass-bottom boat tours let non-swimmers see coral reefs without getting wet. Perfect for toddlers and nervous swimmers
  • Snorkeling tours depart daily to shallow reefs where kids 6+ can spot parrotfish, angelfish, and even sea turtles
  • Kayak rentals through mangrove trails teach kids about coastal ecosystems
  • Safe swimming beach with lifeguards, picnic areas, and calm waters
  • Christ of the Deep statue. An 8.5-foot underwater bronze sculpture that’s incredibly fun to find while snorkeling

Pro Family Tip: Book the 9:30 AM snorkeling tour. Morning waters are calmer, visibility is better, and you’ll beat the midday heat. The 2.5 hour tour includes all equipment and is suitable for first-time snorkelers age 6+.

Cost: Park entry $8 per vehicle, glass-bottom boat $32 adults/$22 kids, snorkeling tours from $35

2. Theater of the Sea in Islamorada

Two women in wetsuits balance on dolphins leaping out of the water, palm trees and a blue sky behind them. Both have one arm raised, capturing the thrill of spring break in the florida keys.
Two women in wetsuits balance on dolphins leaping out of the water, palm trees and a blue sky behind them. Both have one arm raised, capturing the thrill of Spring Break in the Florida Keys. Photo source: theaterofthesea.com

Distance from Marathon: 25 minutes north (18 miles)

Operating since 1946, Theater of the Sea is one of the world’s oldest marine mammal facilities and still one of the best for families. Built in a former quarry for Henry Flagler’s railroad, the natural saltwater lagoons host dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, parrots, and alligators.

Why Families Love It:

  • Daily shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and parrots that are educational and entertaining
  • Interactive programs let kids swim with dolphins, feed sea lions, or wade with stingrays
  • Bottomless boat tour glides through lagoons narrating the park’s fascinating history
  • Touch tanks where even toddlers can pet starfish, conchs, and sea urchins
  • Small enough to see everything in 3-4 hours. Perfect for families with young children

Multi-Generational Win: Grandparents can watch shows from shaded seating while parents take older kids on interactive programs. General admission includes all shows, making it excellent value.

Cost: General admission $46.95 adults/$32.95 kids 3-10 (includes all shows + boat ride). Swim programs start at $185/person.

Hours: Open 365 days, 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM

3. Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada

Boats float on clear turquoise water under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. People snorkel and swim near the boats, enjoying the calm, tropical sea—perfect for a spring break in the florida keys.
Boats float on clear turquoise water under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. People snorkel and swim near the boats, enjoying the calm, tropical sea, perfect for a Spring Break in the Florida Keys. Photo source: robbies.com

Distance from Marathon: 20 minutes north (15 miles)

This quirky Florida Keys institution has been feeding massive tarpon from the docks since the 1970s. What started as a few fish begging for scraps now draws schools of 100+ tarpon, each weighing 40-100 pounds.

Why Families Love It:

  • Feed the tarpon for just $5 per bucket. Kids squeal with delight when a 4 foot silver fish leap for baitfish
  • Pelican photobombs as opportunistic birds try to steal fish from your bucket
  • No reservations needed. Arrive anytime during business hours
  • Attached market and restaurant with gift shops and ice cream
  • Boat tours launch here for snorkeling, fishing, and eco-tours

Safety Note: The dock has nets to prevent anyone from falling in, but supervise young children closely. Pelicans are bold but harmless. Just funny to watch.

Cost: $5.95 per bucket of fish to feed tarpon

4. Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key

A large sign for the dolphin research center stands next to a tall dolphin statue under a blue sky, welcoming visitors enjoying spring break in the florida keys, with some cars and greenery in the background.
A large sign for the Dolphin Research Center stands next to a tall dolphin statue under a blue sky, welcoming visitors enjoying Spring Break in the Florida Keys, with some cars and greenery in the background. Photo source: one-million-places.com

Distance from Marathon: 10 minutes north (7 miles)

This nonprofit marine mammal education and research facility houses Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions rescued from various situations. Unlike commercial swim-with-dolphins operations, Dolphin Research Center focuses on conservation, research, and education.

Why Families Love It:

  • Educational presentations every 30 minutes teach kids about dolphin intelligence, echolocation, and ocean conservation
  • Interactive programs ranging from “Meet the Dolphins” (ages 4+) to full swim experiences (ages 7+)
  • Sea lion encounters that show off these playful animals’ problem-solving abilities
  • Clear mission that helps kids understand the difference between entertainment and conservation
  • Small groups ensure personal attention and better animal welfare

Best for Ages: 4+ for viewing, 7+ for interactive programs

Cost: General admission $35 adults/$25 kids 4-12. Interactive programs from $85-$275.

5. Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters in Marathon

Three snorkelers swim underwater in an aquarium, surrounded by colorful fish and coral, evoking the vibrant aquatic life you’d find during spring break in the florida keys. They wear wetsuits and snorkel masks, floating above rocks and plants.
Three snorkelers swim underwater in an aquarium, surrounded by colorful fish and coral, evoking the vibrant aquatic life you’d find during Spring Break in the Florida Keys. They wear wetsuits and snorkel masks, floating above rocks and plants. Photo source: inbounddestinations.com

Distance from Marathon: 5 minutes (3 miles from central Marathon)

This isn’t your typical look-but-don’t-touch aquarium. Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters is built for hands-on marine education, with touch tanks, feeding experiences, and even snorkel-with-stingrays programs.

Why Families Love It:

  • Touch tanks everywhere. Kids can handle sea stars, horseshoe crabs, conchs, and urchins under staff supervision
  • Stingray feeding where graceful rays glide up for squid treats
  • Predator tank with sharks, barracudas, and groupers (viewing only)
  • Guided reef snorkel in a 200,000 gallon coral reef tank (ages 5+ with adult)
  • Compact size perfect for toddler attention spans (90 minutes covers everything)

Family Package Deal: Get 2 adults + 2 kids admission plus a stingray encounter for about $165. Excellent value compared to booking separately.

Cost: General admission $24 adults/$16 kids 4-12, guided snorkel $75

6. The Turtle Hospital in Marathon

A sea turtle swims underwater in clear blue water next to the turtle hospital logo, celebrating spring break in the florida keys with its green turtle, red cross, and rescue rehab release motto.
A sea turtle swims underwater in clear blue water next to The Turtle Hospital logo, celebrating Spring Break in the Florida Keys with its green turtle, red cross, and Rescue Rehab Release motto. Photo source: www.club-ocean.com

Distance from Marathon: 10 minutes (within Marathon)

This small nonprofit facility rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured sea turtles and welcomes visitors for guided educational tours. The Turtle Hospital offers a unique opportunity to see recovery tanks, surgical facilities, and permanent resident turtles with injuries too severe for release.

Why Families Love It:

  • 90-minute guided tours explain threats to sea turtles (boat strikes, fishing line injuries, tumor disease)
  • Feed permanent residents like Rebel, who lost his flippers to a shark attack
  • Witness releases if you visit during the right time (check their Facebook for release announcements)
  • Educational mission teaches kids about ocean conservation without being preachy
  • Small facility that doesn’t overwhelm young children

Conservation Impact: Since 1986, the Turtle Hospital has treated 2,000+ sea turtles. Entry fees directly support this work.

Reservations: Required. Book at least 2-3 days in advance during Spring Break.

Cost: $35 adults/$20 kids 4-12

7. Sombrero Beach in Marathon

A sandy beach lined with palm trees stretches along turquoise water under a clear blue sky. People are sunbathing and walking along the shore, enjoying the perfect spring break in the florida keys, with small buildings visible in the distance.
A sandy beach lined with palm trees stretches along turquoise water under a clear blue sky. People are sunbathing and walking along the shore, enjoying the perfect Spring Break in the Florida Keys, with small buildings visible in the distance. Photo source: www.ci.marathon.fl.us

Distance from Marathon: 5 minutes (within Marathon)

This public beach is a hidden gem that even many Florida residents don’t know about. While not as famous as Bahia Honda, Sombrero Beach offers pristine white sand, calm shallow waters, and far fewer crowds.

Why Families Love It:

  • Gentle waves and shallow water extending 50+ feet from shore. Perfect for toddlers
  • Clean facilities with restrooms, showers, changing rooms, and picnic pavilions
  • Playground with swings and climbing structures right on the beach
  • ADA accessible with beach wheelchairs available and paved paths to the sand
  • Free parking and admission (unlike most Florida beaches)
  • Shaded picnic areas where grandparents can relax while kids play

Insider Tip: Arrive before 10 AM during Spring Break to secure a shaded pavilion. Pack a cooler because there are no food vendors or nearby restaurants.

Cost: FREE

8. Crane Point Museum & Nature Center in Marathon

Experience an indoor aquarium exhibit perfect for spring break in the florida keys, featuring a blue cave-like tunnel, vibrant coral displays, aquarium models, and a "fishes of the reefs" wall illustration showcasing diverse fish species.
Experience an indoor aquarium exhibit perfect for Spring Break in the Florida Keys, featuring a blue cave-like tunnel, vibrant coral displays, aquarium models, and a “Fishes of the Reefs” wall illustration showcasing diverse fish species. Photo source: paradisefoundescapes.com

Distance from Marathon: 8 minutes (within Marathon)

This 63 acre nature preserve combines history museums with nature trails through one of the last remaining tropical hardwood hammocks in the Florida Keys.

Why Families Love It:

  • Nature trails through hammock forests where kids can spot iguanas, butterflies, and native birds
  • Museum of Natural History with dioramas, artifacts, and interactive exhibits about Keys geology and wildlife
  • Historic village showing how early Keys settlers lived
  • Touch tanks and aquariums featuring local marine life
  • Scavenger hunts provided at check-in to keep kids engaged on trails

Educational Value: Great rainy day backup plan that sneaks learning into vacation.

Cost: $15 adults/$8 kids 5-13, under 5 free

9. Bahia Honda State Park in Big Pine Key

A long bridge stretches over turquoise water toward a tropical shoreline in the florida keys, where palm trees, sandy beaches, and scattered buildings await under a partly cloudy sky—perfect for spring break adventures.
A long bridge stretches over turquoise water toward a tropical shoreline in the Florida Keys, where palm trees, sandy beaches, and scattered buildings await under a partly cloudy sky—perfect for Spring Break adventures. Photo source: www.americasstateparks.org

Distance from Marathon: 20 minutes south (12 miles)

Consistently ranked among America’s best beaches, Bahia Honda State Park offers three distinct beaches with powdery white sand and stunning turquoise waters. This is the postcard perfect Florida Keys experience.

Why Families Love It:

  • Sandspur Beach has shallow, calm water ideal for young children
  • Loggerhead Beach offers better swimming and snorkeling for older kids
  • Historic Bahia Honda Rail Bridge provides scenic views and photo ops
  • Nature trails through coastal habitats
  • Snorkel tours depart from the marina to nearby reefs
  • Kayak and paddleboard rentals for family water adventures
  • Cabana camping if you want to extend your stay

Busy Alert: This park reaches capacity early during Spring Break (often by 10 AM). Arrive at 8 AM opening or visit on weekdays.

Cost: $8 per vehicle (2-8 people), pedestrians/bikes $2 each

10. National Key Deer Refuge in Big Pine Key

Two key deer stand on grassy ground beside rising floodwater, with green shrubs and trees in the background and blurred houses across the water—a serene glimpse of wildlife during spring break in the florida keys.
Two Key deer stand on grassy ground beside rising floodwater, with green shrubs and trees in the background and blurred houses across the water, a serene glimpse of wildlife during Spring Break in the Florida Keys. Photo source: tampabay.com

Distance from Marathon: 25 minutes south (15 miles)

The endangered Key deer (about the size of a large dog) live nowhere else on Earth. This National Key Deer Refuge protects critical habitat for these miniature deer that have adapted to island life.

Why Families Love It:

  • Deer spotting is almost guaranteed at dawn or dusk along Key Deer Boulevard
  • Blue Hole is a former quarry now home to alligators that kids can safely view from an observation platform
  • Easy nature trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels
  • Free admission to all refuge areas
  • Educational kiosks explain how Key deer differ from mainland deer

Photo Op: Key deer are accustomed to people but it’s illegal to feed them. Keep 50+ feet distance, use zoom lenses for photos.

Best Time: Early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (5-7 PM) for deer activity

Cost: FREE

11. Key West Aquarium in Key West

The key west aquarium building, perfect for spring break in the florida keys, features a dolphin statue on the roof, waving american flags, palm trees, and a large "key west aquarium" sign along the waterfront deck.
The Key West Aquarium building, perfect for Spring Break in the Florida Keys, features a dolphin statue on the roof, waving American flags, palm trees, and a large “Key West Aquarium” sign along the waterfront deck. Photo source: keywestrebecca.com

Distance from Marathon: 45 minutes south (50 miles)

Key West’s historic aquarium (opened in 1934) may be small, but it packs an educational punch with daily touch tanks, shark feedings, and interactive programs.

Why Families Love It:

  • Touch tank sessions every 30 minutes where kids handle conchs, sea cucumbers, and horseshoe crabs
  • Shark feeding shows demonstrate safe handling and conservation education
  • Stingray encounters in a shallow tank perfect for timid kids
  • Compact size takes just 90 minutes to see everything. Ideal before or after other Key West activities
  • Downtown location within walking distance of Mallory Square and Southernmost Point

Combo Ticket: Consider the Key West Power Pass which bundles the aquarium with Hemingway House, Shipwreck Museum, and more.

Cost: $18 adults/$12 kids 4-12

12. Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory in Key West

A two-story, light-yellow building with green shutters, palm trees out front, a porch with white columns, and a sign reading the key west butterfly beside bikes—a perfect spring break in the florida keys scene.
A two-story, light-yellow building with green shutters, palm trees out front, a porch with white columns, and a sign reading The Key West Butterfly beside bikes, a perfect Spring Break in the Florida Keys scene. Photo source: greatlocations.com

Distance from Marathon: 45 minutes south (48 miles)

Step into a climate-controlled glass habitat housing 50-60 butterfly species from around the world, plus exotic birds, flamingos, and a koi pond. It’s an oasis of calm in bustling Key West.

Why Families Love It:

  • Temperature-controlled comfort on hot or rainy days
  • Thousands of butterflies flying freely. They’ll land on kids’ shoulders and hands
  • Exotic birds including cockatiels, finches, and parrots
  • Flamingo garden with pink flamingos posing for photos
  • Learning center explains butterfly lifecycle with live chrysalises
  • Quiet atmosphere perfect for overstimulated toddlers needing a calm break

Age Sweet Spot: 3-10 years old absolutely love this. Teens may find it less engaging.

Cost: $13 adults/$9 kids 4-12

13. Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West

A two-story house with white doors and large windows is surrounded by lush palm trees and greenery, perfect for a spring break in the florida keys. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the walkway to the entrance.
A two-story house with white doors and large windows is surrounded by lush palm trees and greenery, perfect for a Spring Break in the Florida Keys. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the walkway to the entrance. Photo source: getoutnabout.com

Distance from Marathon: 45 minutes south (48 miles)

Ernest Hemingway wrote some of his most famous works in this Spanish Colonial home from 1931-1939. Today, 40-50 six-toed cats (descendants of Hemingway’s original polydactyl cat) roam the lush property.

Why Families Love It:

  • Six-toed cats are the real stars. Kids love counting toes and learning cat names
  • Beautiful gardens with tropical plants and shaded paths
  • Hemingway’s writing studio preserved exactly as he left it
  • 30-minute guided tours share fascinating stories about Hemingway’s adventurous life
  • Literary connection for book-loving families

Engagement Strategy: Younger kids may not care about Hemingway, but they’ll enjoy the cat scavenger hunt (guides can provide a checklist).

Cost: $18 adults/$7 kids 6-12, under 6 free

14. Smathers Beach in Key West

A palm tree stands on a sandy beach at sunset in the florida keys, with calm blue ocean water and colorful clouds. Perfect for spring break, the sunlight casts warm hues on the sand and illuminates the palm leaves.
A palm tree stands on a sandy beach at sunset in the Florida Keys, with calm blue ocean water and colorful clouds. Perfect for Spring Break, the sunlight casts warm hues on the sand and illuminates the palm leaves. Photo source: cityofkeywest-fl.gov

Distance from Marathon: 40 minutes south (47 miles)

Key West’s largest public beach stretches for half a mile along the Atlantic side, offering the full beach resort experience with water sports rentals, volleyball courts, and that famous Keys vibe.

Why Families Love It:

  • Half-mile of beach so you can always find space even during Spring Break crowds
  • Water sports rentals including jet skis, parasailing, paddleboards, and kayaks
  • Beach volleyball courts for active families
  • Food and drink vendors along the beach (unlike more remote beaches)
  • Bike path alongside for family bike rides with ocean views
  • Sunset views (though Mallory Square is more famous)

Facilities: Restrooms, showers, chair/umbrella rentals, nearby parking (paid)

Cost: Free beach access, parking about $3-5/hour

15. Dry Tortugas National Park (70 Miles West of Key West)

Aerial view of a historic hexagonal fort in the florida keys, perfect for spring break, surrounded by clear turquoise water, lush green islands, sandbars, nearby boats, and vibrant coral reefs visible underwater.
Aerial view of a historic hexagonal fort in the Florida Keys, perfect for Spring Break, surrounded by clear turquoise water, lush green islands, sandbars, nearby boats, and vibrant coral reefs visible underwater. Photo source: visitflorida.com

Distance from Marathon: Day trip requiring ferry or seaplane from Key West

This remote national park crowns many family bucket lists. Dry Tortugas National Park features Fort Jefferson (a massive 19th-century coastal fort) sitting on a tiny island surrounded by crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling.

Why Families Love It:

  • Historic Fort Jefferson to explore. Kids love climbing ramparts and cannons
  • Incredible snorkeling right off the beach with sea turtles, tropical fish, and coral
  • Yankee Freedom ferry includes snorkel gear, breakfast, and lunch in ticket price
  • Pristine beaches with powdery sand and zero crowds
  • Seabird colonies including magnificent frigatebirds and brown noddies
  • Adventure factor of reaching America’s most inaccessible national park

Logistics: Yankee Freedom ferry departs Key West 8 AM, returns 5:15 PM. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for Spring Break.

Best for Ages: 6+ (long ferry ride may be tough for younger kids)

Cost: Ferry $197 adults/$142 kids 4-16 (includes park entrance, snorkel gear, meals)

Luxury Family Accommodations in Marathon

Luxury backyard with a pool and hot tub, lounge chairs, a tiki hut with seating, dining area under a pergola, and lush tropical landscaping beside a canal under a bright blue sky.
Luxury backyard with a pool and hot tub, lounge chairs, a tiki hut with seating, dining area under a pergola, and lush tropical landscaping beside a canal under a bright blue sky.

After a day exploring these incredible destinations, your family deserves a luxurious home base. Marathon’s waterfront vacation rentals offer amenities hotels can’t match:

What Multi-Generational Families Need:

  • Private pools and hot tubs so kids can swim while adults relax
  • Private boat docks for easy fishing, kayaking, and boat access
  • Full gourmet kitchens saving thousands on restaurant meals
  • Multiple bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms for privacy
  • Outdoor living spaces with BBQ grills, fire pits, and water views
  • Elevator access in select properties for grandparents with mobility concerns

Marathon Location Advantage: Your luxury rental sits 45 minutes from Key Largo and 45 minutes from Key West. You’ll spend less time driving and more time making memories.

Explore Villa Paraiso’s waterfront properties to find your perfect Marathon home base.

Planning Your Perfect Keys Spring Break

How Many Days Do You Need?

  • 3-4 days: Focus on Marathon area attractions (5-8 on this list)
  • 5-7 days: Add day trips to Key Largo and Key West
  • 7-10 days: Explore the entire Keys at a relaxed pace, including Dry Tortugas

Sample 7-Day Marathon-Based Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive Marathon, settle into rental, explore Sombrero Beach
Day 2: Day trip to Key Largo (John Pennekamp, lunch at Alabama Jack’s)
Day 3: Marathon day (Turtle Hospital morning, Florida Keys Aquarium afternoon)
Day 4: Islamorada (Theater of the Sea + Robbie’s Marina)
Day 5: Crane Point Museum morning, pool/beach afternoon
Day 6: Key West (Aquarium, Butterfly Conservatory, Hemingway House, sunset at Mallory Square)
Day 7: Bahia Honda State Park, Key Deer Refuge, departure

Money-Saving Strategies for Families:

  1. Book vacation rental with kitchen – Save $150-300/day on restaurants
  2. Pack snorkel gear from home – Rental fees add up across a week
  3. Visit free attractions – Sombrero Beach, Key Deer Refuge, Bahia Honda (with park pass)
  4. Bring beach toys, chairs, coolers – Rental fees are steep in the Keys
  5. Book direct with Villa Paraiso – Save 15-20% vs. Airbnb/VRBO booking fees

Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Break in the Florida Keys

What is the best area to stay in the Florida Keys for families?

Marathon offers the ideal balance of central location, family attractions, and less crowded beaches compared to Key West. You’re equidistant from Upper Keys snorkeling and Lower Keys adventures, with luxury waterfront rentals at better values than Key West hotels.

Is Spring Break a good time to visit the Florida Keys with kids?

March is one of the best months for Florida Keys family travel. Average temperatures run 75-82°F, humidity is lower than summer, and water is warm enough for swimming and snorkeling. The main downside is higher prices and larger crowds at top attractions. Booking accommodations and tours 2-3 months ahead is essential.

What should I pack for a Florida Keys Spring Break with kids?

Pack reef-safe sunscreen (required by law in the Keys), rash guards for sun protection, water shoes for rocky beaches, snorkel gear if you have it, insect repellent for evening mosquitoes, light layers for air-conditioned attractions, and a good cooler for beach picnics. Don’t forget underwater cameras to capture snorkeling memories.

Are there family-friendly restaurants in Marathon?

Marathon offers excellent family dining from casual to upscale. Keys Fisheries serves fresh seafood in a waterfront setting with no dress code. The Stuffed Pig is perfect for breakfast with picky eaters. Brutus Seafood and Burdines Waterfront offer full menus with kids’ options. Most Marathon vacation rentals have full kitchens, letting you mix home cooking with dining out.

How far is Marathon from Miami Airport?

Marathon is approximately 2 hours (110 miles) from Miami International Airport via the Overseas Highway (US-1). The drive is scenic, especially once you reach Key Largo, but allow extra time during Spring Break traffic. Some families prefer flying into Key West (45 minutes from Marathon) if direct flights are available from their city.

Can you swim with dolphins in the Florida Keys?

Yes, several facilities offer dolphin encounters. Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key focuses on education and conservation, offering shallow and deep water encounters for various ages. Theater of the Sea in Islamorada also offers swim programs. Programs typically require advance booking and start around $185 per person.

What is the weather like in the Florida Keys in March?

March weather in the Florida Keys averages 75-82°F with low humidity and minimal rainfall. Water temperature runs 74-76°F (warm enough for swimming without wetsuits). Occasional cold fronts can bring cooler temperatures (65-70°F) for 2-3 days, but these are rare. Pack light layers for evening boat tours.

Book Your 2026 Spring Break in Paradise

The Florida Keys deliver everything families dream of for Spring Break 2026: warm turquoise water, unique wildlife encounters, fascinating history, and luxury accommodations that make everyone comfortable. Marathon’s central location means less driving and more adventure, whether you’re feeding tarpon in Islamorada or exploring coral reefs in Key Largo.

Ready to start planning? Browse Villa Paraiso’s luxury waterfront properties in Marathon and secure your perfect home base for Spring Break 2026. With private pools, boat docks, and full kitchens, you’ll have everything needed for an unforgettable multi-generational Keys adventure.

Questions about Marathon vacation rentals? Call us at (786) 348-1396 or contact us here.

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