Top 3 Tourist Destinations in Marathon, Florida

Nestled in the heart of the Florida Keys, Marathon offers a serene escape for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, marine adventures, and laid-back island vibes. Here are the top three must-visit destinations in Marathon for an unforgettable getaway:

1. Dolphin Research Center

Discover the magic of the sea at the Dolphin Research Center, one of Marathon’s most beloved attractions. Located on Grassy Key, this nonprofit facility is home to a family of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions living in natural seawater lagoons.

What to Expect:

• Dolphin Encounter – Stand in knee-deep water for an up-close meet-and-greet ($230/person)
• Paint with a Dolphin – Create art alongside these intelligent mammals ($85/person)
• Swim with Dolphins – The ultimate experience for animal lovers ($315/person)
• General Admission – Walk the grounds, watch training sessions, and learn about dolphin behavior ($28 adults, $23 children)

Practical Information:

• Address: 58901 Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, FL 33050
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM daily
• Phone: (305) 289-1121
• Tip: Book interactive programs at least 2-3 weeks in advance during peak season

2. Sombrero Beach

Bask in the sun and unwind at the stunning Sombrero Beach, Marathon’s crown jewel. This public beach offers everything you need for a perfect Keys beach day—soft sand, crystal-clear water, and swaying palm trees.

Beach Amenities:

• Free parking and admission
• Clean restrooms and outdoor showers
• Picnic pavilions with grills
• Playground for children
• Volleyball courts
• Lifeguard on duty seasonally

Practical Information:

• Address: Sombrero Beach Road, Marathon, FL 33050
• Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
• Tip: Arrive before 10 AM on weekends for the best parking spots

3. Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

Dive into the underwater wonderland of the Florida Keys at Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters. This hands-on aquarium lets you do more than just look—you can touch, feed, and even swim with the marine life.

Interactive Experiences:

• Coral Reef Swim – Snorkel in a 200,000-gallon reef tank with tropical fish ($75)
• Shark and Ray Encounter – Wade in with nurse sharks and stingrays ($65)
• Touch Tanks – Feel sea stars, sea cucumbers, and horseshoe crabs (included with admission)
• Stingray Feeding – Hand-feed these gentle creatures ($25)

Practical Information:

• Address: 11710 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
• Phone: (305) 407-3262
• General Admission: $20 adults, $15 children (4-12)

Bonus: The Turtle Hospital

No visit to Marathon is complete without a stop at The Turtle Hospital, a working veterinary hospital dedicated to rehabilitating injured sea turtles. Educational guided tours run every hour and last approximately 90 minutes.

Practical Information:

• Address: 2396 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050
• Phone: (305) 743-2552
• Tours: $30 adults, $15 children (reservations required)

Where to Stay in Marathon

Make the most of your Marathon adventure by staying at one of our luxury waterfront vacation rentals. Wake up to stunning ocean views, enjoy private docks for fishing and water sports, and experience the Florida Keys lifestyle at its finest.

Featured Properties:

• Deep Blue – 4BR waterfront estate with private dock
• Azul Paradise – Canal-front luxury with heated pool
• Vista del Mar – Family-friendly with pool and dock

Marathon, with its enchanting marine life, pristine beaches, and captivating attractions, invites visitors to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Florida Keys.