
Marathon Beach
A family-friendly beach in the Florida Keys with shallow, sandy waters and nearby historic attractions.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Marathon Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A family-friendly beach in the Florida Keys with shallow, sandy waters and nearby historic attractions.
"Perfect for kids 3 years plus, they can venture out and still stand. No seaweed or animals/bugs."

👟 Water Shoes Recommended
Sand can be rocky, especially entering the water. Water shoes offer comfort for kids and adults alike.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Beat the rush to secure a convenient spot.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shallow, Sandy Waters
Marathon Beach
Perfect for families with young children, the gentle slope and sandy bottom make it safe and fun for all ages.
Seven Mile Bridge Views
Near Marathon Beach
Experience breathtaking vistas from the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, a must-see landmark in the Florida Keys.

Pigeon Key Island
Off Marathon
Explore the historic Pigeon Key, accessible via a scenic walk or ferry, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beach Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
Sand can be rocky, especially entering the water. Water shoes offer comfort for kids and adults alike.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Beat the rush to secure a convenient spot.
☀️ Rent Sunbeds
Enjoy a full day of relaxation by renting sunbeds. Great value for all-day beach access.
🚶♀️ Scenic Coastal Walk
Combine your beach visit with a walk along the pedestrian path towards N. Makri for beautiful views.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
Sand can be rocky, especially entering the water. Water shoes offer comfort for kids and adults alike.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Beat the rush to secure a convenient spot.
☀️ Rent Sunbeds
Enjoy a full day of relaxation by renting sunbeds. Great value for all-day beach access.
🚶♀️ Scenic Coastal Walk
Combine your beach visit with a walk along the pedestrian path towards N. Makri for beautiful views.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The Seven Mile Bridge offers spectacular sunset views, a perfect photo opportunity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Marathon Beach is praised for its family-friendly shallow waters and sandy entry, making it ideal for young children. Visitors appreciate the clean water, lack of seaweed, and the convenience of nearby taverns. However, some note the sand can be rocky upon entry and facilities like restrooms are limited.
"Okay sand, a little bit Rocky. Especially when entering but shallow and sandy as you walk out. Perfect for kids 3 years plus. They can venture out and still stand. No seaweed or animals/bugs.
There are plenty of restaurants for drinks and food. Parking may be limited.
Was here in September on a Thursday. The beach was empty.
Possible to rent sun beds."
Håvard Siegel Haukeberg (Howie)
"Beautiful clean, sandy, amazing water, great good prices"
Alec Voro
"It's a small beach line with some taverns around. It's free, but not in the best condition. The water is clean and family friendly. A few sunchairs, next to the start of the pedestrian path. I would definitely recommend the walk from marathon Beach to n. Makri."
t moustaki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Marathon Beach is located in Marathon, Florida. If you're driving down the Florida Keys Overseas Highway (US-1), it's easily accessible. Many visitors arrive by car as part of a Florida Keys road trip.
Parking is available nearby, though it can fill up quickly.Yes, Marathon Beach is a well-known spot in Marathon, Florida. Look for signs along the highway. It's often mentioned in itineraries for Florida Keys travel.
Many visitors enjoy walking from Marathon Beach along the pedestrian path towards N. Makri for scenic views.
Renting a car is recommended for exploring the wider Florida Keys region, including nearby attractions like Pigeon Key.Public transportation options are limited in the Florida Keys. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Marathon Beach and explore the surrounding areas.
Yes, Marathon Beach is located between Key West and the mainland. It's a common stop for those driving to or from Key West. The drive from Key West takes approximately 1-1.5 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Marathon Beach is a free public beach. There is no admission fee to enter and enjoy the sand and water.
Marathon Beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific posted closing times, but it's advisable to leave before dark for safety.
No, tickets are not required for Marathon Beach as it is a free public access beach.
There are no specific entry restrictions for Marathon Beach, but standard rules regarding public conduct apply. It's a family-friendly environment.
Information regarding pet policies can vary. It's best to check local signage or inquire with local authorities to confirm if dogs are permitted on Marathon Beach.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The sand at Marathon Beach is described as okay, but can be a little rocky, especially when entering the water. However, as you walk out, it becomes shallow and sandy.
Some reviews mention it's a mix of sand and stones.Yes, Marathon Beach is great for swimming, especially for children. The water is clean, shallow, and stays that way for a long time, making it very family-friendly.
Unfortunately, there are no public restrooms or showers directly on Marathon Beach. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Yes, you can rent sunbeds at Marathon Beach for the day.
However, if you plan to find more private swimming spots, you might need to bring your own sun umbrella.Reviews indicate no seaweed or animals/bugs were present, suggesting a clean and pleasant swimming experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are plenty of restaurants and taverns located right along the beach line, offering food and drinks.
You can also find options in Marathon, Florida, including places like Marathon Burger.Reviews suggest that the food prices at the taverns around Marathon Beach are good.
Yes, you can buy drinks, such as frappes, at the taverns located next to Marathon Beach.
While there are restaurants nearby, specific picnic areas are not explicitly mentioned. However, you can enjoy food purchased from the local taverns.
Marathon Burger, located in Marathon, Florida, is known for its burgers. Specific orders and recommendations can be found on social media.
📸 📸 Photography
The shallow, clear waters and the sandy shores of Marathon Beach are picturesque. For more dramatic shots, head to the nearby Seven Mile Bridge, especially at sunset.
Late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with the 'golden hour' creating a beautiful ambiance.
Early mornings are also great for fewer crowds and soft light.A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. If you plan to capture the expansive views of the Seven Mile Bridge, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial.
Pigeon Key Island, accessible from Marathon, offers historical buildings and unique island scenery for photography.
The Seven Mile Bridge itself is an iconic structure for dramatic shots.Drone usage regulations can vary by location and time. It's recommended to check with local authorities or the FAA for current rules regarding drone operation in Marathon, Florida, before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the beach itself, the nearby Pigeon Key offers an educational and engaging outing for kids, accessible via a walk on the old bridge or a short ferry ride. The Seven Mile Bridge also provides a unique opportunity for a scenic walk, offering stunning views that even younger children can appreciate.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
For day-trippers, the beach offers a pleasant escape with amenities like sunbed rentals and nearby dining options. Arriving early is key to securing parking and enjoying the beach before it gets crowded, especially on weekends. The shallow waters are perfect for a quick, refreshing dip.
📸 Photographers & Scenery Lovers
For a different perspective, consider visiting Pigeon Key for its historical architecture and unique island charm. The clear, shallow waters of Marathon Beach can also provide beautiful shots, particularly with children playing in the gentle surf. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light conditions for capturing the vibrant colors of the Florida Keys.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Pigeon Key and the Seven Mile Bridge
The Seven Mile Bridge itself is a marvel of engineering. While the newer, modern bridge carries traffic, the old bridge has been partially preserved as a pedestrian and fishing bridge. Walking or biking on the old bridge provides unparalleled views of the turquoise waters and the vast expanse of the Keys. It's particularly stunning at sunset, making it a prime spot for photographers and romantic strolls.
Many travelers consider visiting Pigeon Key and walking a portion of the Seven Mile Bridge a highlight of their Florida Keys trip. It's a chance to connect with the history and natural beauty of the region in a unique way.
Family-Friendly Beach Experience
The sandy bottom, with minimal rocks once you're in the water, further enhances the comfort for little ones. The absence of strong waves also contributes to a calmer swimming environment. While the sand near the shore can be a bit rocky, bringing water shoes can easily mitigate this.
With nearby taverns offering food and drinks, and the option to rent sunbeds, families can comfortably spend a good portion of the day enjoying the beach. The clean water and lack of seaweed or bothersome marine life add to the appeal for a stress-free family outing.
Dining and Local Flavors
Reviews suggest that the food and drink prices at these local spots are reasonable, offering good value. You can enjoy a frappe or a meal while taking in the beach views. For those seeking specific culinary experiences, Marathon itself offers more diverse options, including the well-known Marathon Burger, which has garnered attention on social media for its menu.
While there aren't specific picnic areas mentioned, the proximity of eateries allows for easy access to food. This makes Marathon Beach a practical choice for a day trip where you can easily refuel without venturing far from the coast.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit