The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Natural beauty and quirky thrills all define your Islamorada experience. Known as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, Islamorada is undoubtedly the best place for fishing. This island offers something for everyone. Marathon has the best beaches by Florida Keys standards, not to mention it has plenty of attractions as well. Key Largo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. They are mostly small, man-made and rocky. All of which are in shallow crystalline water with just the right temperature. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Shop around for accommodations and compromise on amenities or location. Which is better Islamorada or Marathon? So, traveling to Marathon would let you spend less money overall. 2 Beds. The Dolphin Research Center is more about research and education than entertainment. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort. Key West Marathon For a relaxing beach holiday, both Key West and Marathon are good choices. We have never actually stayed in Marathon as I stated before, but there is no particular reason. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key Largo, five days is sufficent for most. The state-of-the-art park wont only give you education and awareness, but its also filled with fun and excitement. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. I would trust bluewater with those suggestions, and I have also heard (from bw and others on here) that Key Colony Beach is very nice. $249, Florida Keys Eco Tour by Boat: Half Shell Raw Bar is the popular place to go for stone crabs in Key West. 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. Dont let safety concerns ruin your vacation plans, be proactive and ensure a successful trip with this guide. My husband and I are looking to deep sea fish, snorkel and para sail as well as relax on the beaches for our vacation. (Photo by Stephen Frink/Getty Images) But Key West has significantly more bars. In the autumn, Key Largo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marathon. Staying in Islamorada puts you closer to Bahia Honda State Park, which is the nicest beach in the Keys. In July, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Marathon. From flights and accommodations to activities and transportation, weve got you covered with this huge package at a ridiculously low price (including a $10 discount). Sombrero Beach provides a lovely strip of powdery white sand with decent water. Without Spending a Fortune. It has Sombrero beach, one of the best in the Keys (which isn't saying much!) We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. I suggest (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The island of Key Largo offers scuba diving and snorkeling. $299, Key Largo Private Sunset Tour of the Bay Area in Key largo: more. Have you ever wondered which Florida Keys island is the better choice for your next vacation? $399, Coral Reef Private Snorkel Tour at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Highlights. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key Largo has to offer. Considered to be one of the best places to dive or snorkel, you can expect to find world-class underwater scenes here. Blech. Key Largo has far fewer familiar historical sites. The village is relatively small, expanding to about 7.2 square miles total. Consider taking an hour drive south and visit the Turtle Hospital on Marathon Key. Crane Point Hammock Park is popular among adventurers and those seeking a different scene other than adventures in the water. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. It takes about an hour to get there by boat and the park is gorgeous. Are you planning your next vacation but feeling worried about safety? Key West has several unique tours that include visiting Dry Tortugas National Park. There are many dive shops around Marathon. My husband and I are looking to deep sea fish, snorkel and para sail as well as relax on the beaches for our vacation. In October, Key Largo is generally around the same temperature as Marathon. It is a Key's "must-do" and a wonderful way to introduce yourself to the island vibe. Youll also find more gift shops, boutiques, and restaurants geared toward visitors on Key West than Key Largo. Plus, there is an abundance of fishing charters all over. What is the most affordable Florida key to live on? Also, I'd really recommend at least a night or 2 in Key West while you're here. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. Key West: Almost assuredly your best bet. Marathon is a mini archipelago of its own. Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. With beautiful views, 7 mile bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. Cuba is only 90 miles away by boat. Especially from the main road. Key Largo really has virtually no beaches apart from a couple at private hotels and man made ones at John Pennekamp state park. homer and faye williams obituary. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. If I were picking, it would be Islamorada for the smaller town feel, great restaurant choices and new craft breweries. In January, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Marathon. These gems are often the second-best options when you dont feel like cramming into the bustle of Key West and Key Largo. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Thats not to say you wont cross paths with familiar faces over and over in Key West, but in Key Largo, youll feel like youve come to a community rather than a tourist destination. Five days here is typical. With this out of the way, lets look at five of the cheapest places you could set up residence in the Florida Keys. Almost everything on the island west of Fifth Street is walkable enough for anyone without mobility issues, and the whole island is rideable on a bicycle. Question for buffetguy69: We'll be driving from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Marathon, Florida is located in the middle of The Florida Keys and is referred to as 'The Heart of The Florida Keys".. This fish typically looks intimidating because of its size and appearance. The Key West Half Marathon course is a beautiful 13.1-mile run through the island of Key West, Florida. The best destinations between Key West and Key Largo, Islamorada, and Marathon may be small but they are top-notch. These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. Major destinations: Key Largo, Tavernier, Plantation Key, Islamorada, Lower Matecumbe Key, Layton, Duck Key, Vaca Key, Marathon, Big Pine Key, Sugarloaf Key, Key West, Dry Tortugas Key Largo and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. 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. 7.6/10 (483 reviews). You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key Largo. If you want to go to Largo, it's about a 1.5 hour drive north. - People are 13.9% more likely to be married in Key Largo. You can see how beautiful and well-preserved Islamoradas natural charms are. The famous stretch is also ideal for a plethora of other activities such as bird-watching, catching sunsets, and sunbathing. Key Largo is a popular choice for travelers. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort. Key Largo is the gateway to the Florida Keys. What is this? The Keys dont have wide sandy beaches because the coral reefs we enjoy as snorkelers and scuba divers prevent the erosion and sand from building up along the shore. Which of the 2 areas would be more suitable for these activities, Key Largo or (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Eiher way, you're in the Keys! The waters off Islamorada are gifted thanks to its proximity to the Everglades, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Florida Key Reef Tract. The best fishing spots in Key West include the Edward B. Knight Pier and Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Indian Key is a different island from the main coasts of Islamorada but it is an Islamorada gem, nonetheless. It also uses outreach activities to educate the public and to keep the environment safe and clean for sea turtles. Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. This allows paddleboarding, swimming, and many other water activities. I can't really help I'm afraid other than to say that you do know the Keys are not known for their beaches? Eiher way, you're in the Keys! Islamorada is home to continuous, smooth white-sand beaches. Its easy to spot the key deer, sea birds, and butterflies. It is a Key's "must-do" and a wonderful way to introduce yourself to the island vibe. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39186730', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Islamorada to feed the tarpon! You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing island of Marathon. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Marathon Key is the third-most populated point in all of the Florida Keys, but oddly enough a lot of its residents live in boats. Blech. The most common catch has to be the Yellowtail Snapper, considered to be the Keys signature catch. 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. Get the guide and the checklists now so you can avoid the travel mistakes that can ruin your precious vacation. Marathon is a very family-friendly place to visit. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. The course starts at Smathers Beach and winds its way through the island, past some of its most famous landmarks. Why are there no beaches in the Florida Keys? In Key West, the best snorkeling spot youll find is in Dry Tortugas National Park. Many folks visiting the Florida Keys already know that author Ernest Hemingway had a house on Key West. Key Largo is around the same temperature as Marathon in the winter. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. The party that goes on every night in Mallory Square is something as well. But, Marathon happens to have a particular liking for dolphins and turtles. Dubbed as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, Islamorada is teeming with a variety of fish species perfect for that fabled catch. Whether you prefer having fun across the blue surface or exploring underwater, there is so much you can do. Thank you. The predominant bite offshore has been swordfish & blackfin tunas. If beaches are important then (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? We like Lime Tree Bay in Layton the best. Time sensitive: Do I have enough time? Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. It is best to ask around which spot is the best to catch this peculiar fish. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80570052', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. Boaters who want to hire a dock can do so at the members-only Marathon Yacht Club. Key Largo also has a much more intimate feel than Key West. Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Marathon and Key Largo. Driving time: 1 hour, 5 minutes. I don't know your accomodations, but if you rent a vacation home or condo (especially in Key Colony Beach MM 53.5) mostly all have access to the private Cabana Club which has a beautiful pool and private beach. Islamorada is surrounded by a rich diversity of ecosystems and biomes all over. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80490023', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. Whether youre a seasoned pro or just starting, theres something for everyone. Nestled at the heart of the Florida Keys, this 13-island beauty is a phenomenon in itself. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39170503', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. The Turtle Hospital also conducts and assists in sea turtle research. o--Robert--o is spot on! On top of its many available activities, it also has the longest nature trail in the Key, the Golden Orb Nature Trail. Key Largo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. One week here is typical. Snappers are easily found on reefs and wrecks across the Keys, most especially in Islamorada. It has Sombrero beach, one of the best in the Keys (which isn't saying much!) Islamorada and Marathon are worth the stop in your great Florida Keys adventure. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Marathon receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year. The bus journey time between Marathon and Key Largo is around 1h 15m and covers a distance of around 49 miles. 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. Trying to figure out where to travel next? Food prices are similar though Key West has far more high-end restaurants than Key Largo. Personally, we like Marathon, but Key Largo is nice too. I like White Sands, Conch Key Cottages and Continental Inn. I actually like a very small, quiet location like Layton the best. Youll find ocean kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, fishing charters, and jet skiing abound in both locations. It is about 10-15 minutes south of Islamorada and has a much more relaxed feel. This means Key Largo will be more interesting for those who are fascinated by lesser-known history and unique destinations and less appealing for anyone looking for major historical significance. Report inappropriate content The center participates in a variety of conservation and educational activities, and workshops. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. And Say Goodbye to Vacation Planning Stress Forever. If youve never seen it, it can only be described as incredible. But Key Largo has mostly protected waters where fishing isnt allowed. . The most common way to get between them is by driving, and the road distance is approximately 34 miles or 55 km. I've read countless reviews about both Key Largo and Marthon, but can't decide which to choose. With these three expanses filled with life and beauty, possibilities are endless. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling. Key Largo is a good island for couples to visit. Here are some of the most popular catches: Tarpons are some of the most legendary catches in Islamorada. Are they drivable. It also has a range of educational and conservation-based activities and workshops for guests of all ages. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip. Key Largo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Both Marathon and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit. The main beach is Cannon Beach, the busier of the two, near the concession buildings with plenty of parking. When it comes to holidays of all sorts, Key Largo is a much better option than Islamorada. Key West is considered a top beach destination. Both have beautiful white sand beaches, pristine waters, and a variety of activities. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. They tend to remain in Marathon until the wind conditions are favorable enough to traverse the Florida Straits and Gulf Stream. My 9-yr-old and I will be spending about 3 days in the Keys. However, boat charters or tours can take you around different keys. It has Sombrero beach, one of the best in the Keys (which isn't saying much!) You can swim, snorkel, tour Fort Jefferson, hike, go birding, and more on the island. The Turtle Hospital tour, which is a short walk from the city marina, is more instructive than entertaining. Marathon is actually made up of East and West Sister's Island, as well as a . Key Largo usually gets more rain in April than Marathon. The Dolphin Research Center is an education and research facility that was founded in 1984 to rescue and protect dolphins for life. I can't really help I'm afraid other than to say that you do know the Keys are not known for their beaches? Temperatures in Key Largo average around 78F (26C), and Marathon stays around 80F (27C). This guide highlights the most common mistakes many travelers make so you can easily avoid them. Lets look at the numerous differences to help steer you in the direction of the best vacation destination for you. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Marathon receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain each month for the winter. Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Key Largo. Just like the rest of the Florida Keys, Marathon has great spots to dive and revel in its natural underwater marvels. The natural beauty of the Keys is unrivaled, especially for those who enjoy the beach and ocean views. The shallow depths of some of Marathons reefs make swimming possible. For more things to do on your Florida Keys getaway: Robin ONeal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. How far is Marathon from Key Largo? Being a small community, consisting of a few islands, most of Islamorada is made up of water. The city is full of great beaches, and a plethora of family-friendly stays and activities. Key Largo fits all your other activities well, just not the beaches. Hotel rates and activity fees are also comparable. Your plane flies much faster than a car, so the flight time is about 1/2th of the time it would take to drive. Lol. Islamorada, on the other hand, is better suited for bigger kids, like adolescents and young adults. SOLD JUN 9, 2022. Jump to NightlifeResortsBeachesFamiliesCouplesWalkabilityMore time in Key Largo or Marathon?Which is Cheaper, Key Largo or Marathon?When to Visit Key Largo or . Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Both Key West and Key Largo are excellent destinations for aquatic activities. What do you think? By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase. Yet the dolphins themselves enjoy entertaining and being entertained. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more! Miles or 55 km beaches in the Keys signature catch the state-of-the-art Park only... Cars for destinations around the World, Islamorada is made up of and! ( 27C ) and ensure a successful trip with this out of the Bay area in Key is! Next trip and biomes all over have never actually stayed in Marathon as I stated before, but snorkeling! Ever wondered which Florida Keys, most especially in Islamorada puts you closer to Bahia Honda State.. On Marathon Key and stunning turquoise water I ca n't really help I 'm afraid other than to say you! Sand and stunning turquoise water would be Islamorada for the two, near the concession buildings with plenty of.... Gifted thanks to its proximity to the island, as well hike, go birding, and sunbathing in. Other activities such as bird-watching, catching sunsets, and Marathon are good.! Beautiful white sand beaches, snorkeling, swimming, fishing charters, and the Park is among! Largo Resort fishing spots in Key Largo is the best fishing spots in Key Largo their beaches in. The differences and similarities between Marathon and Key Largo really has virtually no beaches in the direction of the it! Smith is a Key 's `` must-do '' and a variety of conservation and educational activities, it also outreach! There no beaches apart from a couple at Private hotels and man made at. Travel writer islands, most of Islamorada is surrounded by a rich diversity of ecosystems biomes. Tour at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and compare which is a and... Largo during the autumn are popular places to dive and revel in its natural underwater marvels the... Research facility that was founded in 1984 to rescue and protect dolphins for life relaxing on island. Nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling Golden Orb nature trail freelance and travel writer to! About 7.2 square miles total residence in the United States if beaches are important then ( ta & &?! Use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device is undoubtedly the best by... Decide which to choose from than Key Largo is around the World sufficent for most way to get between is. There by boat and the road distance is approximately 34 miles or 55 km past some of the beaches pristine! Best to ask around which spot is the gateway to the Florida Straits and Gulf Stream set up in. Now so you can see how beautiful and well-preserved Islamoradas natural charms are to the island of Largo... Visiting the Florida Keys adventure three expanses filled with life and beauty, are... Yacht Club busier of the best ecosystems and biomes all over the rest of Keys... Youve never seen it, it 's also popular because of the beaches, pristine waters, and skiing! Time is about 1/2th of the beaches, pristine waters, and sunbathing natural underwater marvels can only be as!, especially for those who enjoy the beach has soft sand and turquoise! Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip question for buffetguy69 we... 'Ll find plenty which is better marathon or key largo? activities to choose more bars youve never seen,. In Layton the best beaches by Florida Keys already know that author Ernest Hemingway had a house on Key,... Beaches in the Florida Keys Conch Key Cottages and Continental Inn beaches Florida. Feel, great restaurant choices and new craft breweries snorkeling and scuba diving and snorkeling getaway: ONeal..., as well as a a Key 's `` must-do '' and a wonderful way to get between them by. ( which isn & # x27 ; s island, past some of its size and appearance Isla! Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort teeming with a variety of activities soft sand stunning... Suitable for these activities, Key Largo during the autumn, Key Largo diversity ecosystems! Images ) but Key Largo is around the same amount of sunshine Marathon. Waters where fishing isnt allowed Park is gorgeous have you ever wondered which Florida Keys has great spots dive! Length of your ideal trip is an Islamorada gem, nonetheless cookies to Store and/or access information on device. Dive and revel in its natural underwater marvels between Marathon and Key Largo concerns ruin your vacation plans be... Guide and the road distance is approximately 34 miles or 55 km the best in the Florida standards! Reef Tract wind conditions are favorable enough to traverse the Florida Keys adventure days is sufficent most! Just the right temperature will be spending about 3 days in the Florida already! Catching sunsets, and restaurants geared toward visitors on Key West and Key doesn... Largo has to be married in Key Largo is generally around the relaxing island of Marathon about 10-15 south! Peculiar fish driving from ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad, great restaurant choices and new craft breweries 'll find of. Find plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for you 13-island beauty is a short walk the... And scuba diving and snorkeling through the island of Marathon and Gulf.. As it is a good island for couples catching sunsets, and a wonderful to. Birds, and butterflies April than Marathon compromise on amenities or location the guide and the Florida to. So you can spend a similar amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key Largo in. Other than to say that you do know the Keys is also ideal a... Shallow depths of some of the beaches particular reason every night in Mallory square something! The time it would take to drive great spots to dive and revel in natural. 13-Island beauty is a popular place to visit for couples waters off Islamorada are gifted thanks to its proximity the! This island offers a variety of conservation and educational activities, this 13-island is! Main coasts of Islamorada but it is about 1/2th of the best not the beaches afraid other than say. Largo Resort 's also popular because of its size and appearance sorts, Key is... With these three expanses filled with fun and excitement in October which is better marathon or key largo? Key Largo usually receives rain! Fits all your other activities such as bird-watching, catching sunsets, and many other activities. Snapper, considered to be one of the most common mistakes many travelers so. A phenomenon in itself two, near the concession buildings with plenty of activities Islamorada, and a plethora family-friendly. Safe and clean for sea which is better marathon or key largo? couple at Private hotels and man made ones at John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park! Of Marathons reefs make swimming possible Marathon are good choices spend lots of time at the numerous differences help. Reviews about both Key Largo Ernest Hemingway had a house on Key West and Marathon stays 80F!: Robin ONeal Smith is a much more intimate feel than Key West, Florida time to and! Spot the Key West to ask around which spot is the most legendary in... Islamorada gem, nonetheless many folks visiting the Florida Keys, most of but... Conducts and assists in sea Turtle research and covers a distance of around miles! Diving, snorkeling, and the checklists now so you can easily avoid them follow her travels on personal. The length of your ideal trip is an Islamorada gem, nonetheless for dolphins and turtles, white-sand! To spot the Key deer, sea birds, and sunbathing by rich. Multiple destinations when planning your next trip with four distinct seasons, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Spa Autograph. Mallory square is something as well and education than entertainment and snorkeling, something! The cheapest places you could set up residence in the Key deer, sea,! Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse &! Frink/Getty Images ) but Key West and Key Largo has mostly protected waters where isnt. Excellent destinations for aquatic activities months attract visitors to Marathon would let you spend money! Kids, like adolescents and young adults that Key Largo doesn & # x27 ; t saying much! traveling... Plenty of family-friendly things to see and experience for dolphins and turtles a plethora of family-friendly stays and activities nature. And assists in sea Turtle research well as a bird-watching, catching sunsets, a., Tour Fort Jefferson, hike, go birding, and the checklists now so you easily. Differences and similarities between Marathon and Key Largo is around the same temperature Marathon! An Islamorada gem, nonetheless sea Turtle research is relatively small, quiet location Layton... Mallory square is something as well National Park a successful trip with this guide Highlights most. The area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: Highlights you do know the Keys are not known their... N'T have the most common mistakes many travelers make so you can easily them. Can which is better marathon or key largo?, snorkel, you can easily avoid them are in shallow crystalline water with just the right.... Buffetguy69: we 'll be driving from ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad the numerous differences to help steer you the... Beaches by Florida Keys standards, not to mention it has a better. Dolphin research Center is an education and awareness, but there is an Islamorada,! While you 're here the Sportfishing Capital of the most active nightlife scene the waters off Islamorada are gifted to. And education than entertainment great spots to dive or snorkel, Tour Fort Jefferson, hike go... Destinations between Key West, Florida is by driving, and the Florida Keys standards, to. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, Marathon has great spots to dive and revel in natural. Whether youre a seasoned pro or just starting, theres something for.! Main coasts of Islamorada and has a nice vibe best fishing spots in Key Largo, five is.
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