On top of its many available activities, it also has the longest nature trail in the Key, the Golden Orb Nature Trail. If you want to go to Largo, it's about a 1.5 hour drive north. Our score includes factors like airline prices and fuel costs, but it also takes into account the value of your time spent traveling. It has Sombrero beach, one of the best in the Keys (which isn't saying much!) $549, Discover how to Scuba Dive with an Experienced Instructor: Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Key Largo. Blech. Key Largo, the gateway to the Keys, pretty much has everything you could ever want. Known as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, Islamorada is undoubtedly the best place for fishing. As a visitor to the Keys, you may decide you want to take a day trip to experience some things on either the other islands or the mainland. Which is better Islamorada or Marathon? I suggest you read the hotel reviews for these areas and see what fits your tastes and budgets. Key Largo is a much longer Island from end to end, so things are more spread out. So that query would work for me. They are both nice places to stay, I would assume. Key Largo Fisheries in Key Largo is a favorite for locals for stone crab. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. Plus, you dont have to worry about safety as there will be guided tours and the water conditions are conducive for water excursions. There is good snorkeling in Marathon as well. - The Median Age is 8.4 years older in Key Largo. Enough that we might consider a longer stay next time through. Well, I like wintergreen and can't stand peppermint. However, it is not saying that Islamorada is way below. Marathon is a mini archipelago of its own. Get answers to your questions about Key Largo, Nice place for birthday meal for a teenager. Key Largo is close enough to Fort Lauderdale and Miami for a shopping or excursion day trip. So Safety Concerns Don't Hold You Back From Exploring The World. Now a ghost town and dilapidated, the town is mostly in ruins but can be toured. - Key Largo is 0% more densely populated than Marathon. And Marathon is the Florida Keys beach capital and family vacation center. While its always ideal to spend more time in any destination, I recommend staying for at least four days in the Florida Keys, if not longer. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Question for buffetguy69: We'll be driving from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? From kiteboarding to paddleboarding, Marathon is an underrated stop in the Florida Keys. Key Largo is the gateway to the Florida Keys. I've spent about 20 years vacationing in the Keys and to me, Marathon is the "peach" of the Keys. It even allows encounters with several marine animals. 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. Key Largo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Another option is to visit neighboring Islamorada Key for a snorkeling adventure and sandbar tour. and is also close to Bahia Honda State Park, which has beautiful beaches if you get lucky that there's not much seagrass washed up. It is best to ask around which spot is the best to catch this peculiar fish. 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. If you have long enough, why not split your time between the 2 places so you can experience a little of each ? They are mostly small, man-made and rocky. It's also a relaxing resort destination. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80292489', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Islamorada. The coral reefs of Marathon are well-known among snorkelers and divers all around the world. While most of Florida Keys isnt blessed with picturesque coasts, fortunately, most of Islamorada is. While the other half came from other facilities or were rescued, rehabilitated, and found unfit to return to the wild. It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. 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. Without Spending a Fortune. The state-of-the-art park wont only give you education and awareness, but its also filled with fun and excitement. In Key Largo, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Key West, on the other hand, is a three-and-a-half-hour drive, depending on traffic. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. (Photo by Stephen Frink/Getty Images) So you can easily expect that a wide variety of watersports is the citys favorite pastime. They have the largest pool in the keys with a poolside tiki bar. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. In January, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Marathon. If you plan on visiting other areas of the Keys then Marathon is more centrally located. These small cities are packed with high-caliber draws and a few coveted titles on their belt. GET THE ULTIMATE VACATION PLANNER PACKAGE NOW! The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Romantic - yes, cute places to stay - yes, TONS of bars and a great night life with lots of variety, good food but avoid the tourist traps which can be difficult. Just like the rest of the Florida Keys, Marathon takes the welfare of its marine life greatly. The cost of staying in Key West isnt terribly different from the cost of staying in Key Largo. It has Sombrero beach, one of the best in the Keys (which isn't saying much!) With this out of the way, lets look at five of the cheapest places you could set up residence in the Florida Keys. Popular nightlife venues include JJs Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club. This means that Key West is bustling with businesses, nightlife, parties, and every kind of tourism and activity all day and much of the night while Key Largo has a more subdued and relaxed pace with less commercialism. Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. (September and November are the cheapest of all.). I always appreciate the help I get on Trip Adviser. Kayaks can be rented at a number of locations in Marathon. The most common catch has to be the Yellowtail Snapper, considered to be the Keys signature catch. Just like the rest of the Florida Keys, Marathon has great spots to dive and revel in its natural underwater marvels. - People are 13.9% more likely to be married in Key Largo. 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. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go. It's quite rainy in Key Largo. Islamorada will take this win, any day. Robbie's in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Both Marathon and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. What is this? 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. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Marathon receives 252 hours of full sun in the winter. To accomplish many things to do in the Florida Keys, youll need a solid five days. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39167838', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. $5,400, 5 Day Sailing Catamaran Experience in the Florida Keys (4 nights): Many folks visiting the Florida Keys already know that author Ernest Hemingway had a house on Key West. 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. This means you'll find more activity available during every waking hour you spend on Key West. Youll also find more gift shops, boutiques, and restaurants geared toward visitors on Key West than Key Largo. and is also close to Bahia Honda State Park, which has beautiful beaches if you get lucky that there's not much seagrass washed up. It's like asking if peppermint or wintergreen is better! Here are some of the most popular catches: Tarpons are some of the most legendary catches in Islamorada. We have never actually stayed in Marathon as I stated before, but there is no particular reason. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. It is going to be difficult and expensive to find a place to stay in January with this short of notice pretty much anywhere in the Keys. 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. The green flash of light another natural wonder that can be observed on Key West thanks to the islands unique atmospherics makes for a truly unique experience. It is common to spend one week here. Key Largo is a great place to explore. Nice place, good rates, but we were off season. Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key Largo, five days is sufficent for most. But Key West has significantly more bars. We stayed at Continental Inn. 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. Our goal, to share the worlds unique, hidden and once in a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80288515', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon, Florida? 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. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80490023', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. 6 Lessons I Learned Living On The Smallest Of Irelands Aran Islands, Swanky New Train Station Coming To Orlandos Airport How It Will Help You Explore Florida, Hilton Adds A Pocketbook-Friendly Hotel Brand To Its Collection What To Expect From Spark, How To Spend An Amazing Day In Islamorada, Florida, Key West Vs. Key Largo: 10 Key Differences Between Them, 12 Florida Keys Vacation Rentals Perfect For Your Next Getaway, The One Place You Need To Go Next Time You Visit The Florida Keys, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our, 12 Amazing Outdoor Experiences From Key Largo To Key West, 12 Fantastic Restaurants To Try In The Florida Keys. It is a Key's "must-do" and a wonderful way to introduce yourself to the island vibe. Coco Plum Beach Coco Plum Beach is another option for a free beach in Marthon Fl. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key Largo in July are around 82F (28C), and Marathon is about 84F (29C). ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80293913', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon is the best pick. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39186383', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Islamorada over Marathon? Are they drivable. Both will fit the bill.as will (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If you plan on visiting other areas of the Keys then Marathon is more centrally located. The village is relatively small, expanding to about 7.2 square miles total. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39186730', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Islamorada to feed the tarpon! Both Marathon and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Flight time: 36 minutes. Theres the 1942 Norwegian SS Benwood that wrecked along Key Largo and the abandoned Port Bougainville housing project. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Key Largo also has a much more intimate feel than Key West. One of the most famous things about Key West is the unique way the sun seen from its shores seems to sink into the ocean. With only a single highway connecting them, the 32-mile distance is easily covered by driving. If distance is an issue, youll want to note that Key Largo is only about an hour away from Miami. While encounters include snorkel experiences, shark encounters, stingray encounters, and private aquarium tours. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If you are looking for beaches, the Keys are not the place. Is any one of these locations superior to the other in terms of accommodations and things to do? Key Largo and Marathon are similar when it comes to walkability. This means youll find more activity available during every waking hour you spend on Key West. The village of Islamorada sits near the many underwater wonders of the Florida Keys such that it is abundant with premier diving spots. The beach also sports calm and gentle waters like most of the Keys. I will tell you, if you are more of a partier and like loads of people and action, you will definitely want to choose Islamorade, Marathon, or Key West instead (Islamorada and Marathon are not wild, but definitely have more action than Layton). Typically 98 buses run weekly, although weekend and holiday schedules can vary so check . Key Largo really has virtually no beaches apart from a couple at private hotels and man made ones at John Pennekamp state park. Hotel rates and activity fees are also comparable. If you stop in Key Largo, you will miss much of the beauty of the drive. They all seem to be nice locations that are relatively close together. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. For guests of all ages, it also offers a variety of educational programs, summer camps, group and field trips, and more. Having the right conditions, along with rich aquatic features, fishing in Islamorada is the best in the world. It is about 10-15 minutes south of Islamorada and has a much more relaxed feel. If youre looking for a place to soak up the sun and enjoy some amazing seafood, you cant go wrong with either Key Largo or Key West. Key Largo fits all your other activities well, just not the beaches. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80292489', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Islamorada. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. The cuisine are the main draw to Key Largo this time of year. 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. 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. Zestimate Home Value: $775,000. Operated by Miami Dade Transit, the Marathon to Key Largo bus service departs from Mile Marker 50 Marathon and arrives in Mile Marker 98 Key Largo. Hotel rates and activity fees are also comparable. Get the guide and checklists now so you can avoid the travel mistakes that can ruin your precious vacation. 2023 mystylit.com. 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. Key Largo usually gets more rain in October than Marathon. And if youre planning a vacation to the Florida Keys soon, you might not be sure which island is the best destination to visit based on your personal preferences. Both Key Largo and Marathon have a number of activities to choose from. Cuban tours were suspended during COVID-19, so be sure to verify the ferry is running. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Nestled at the heart of the Florida Keys, this 13-island beauty is a phenomenon in itself. The spring brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Marathon. However, boat charters or tours can take you around different keys. The goal is to save, cure, and release wounded sea turtles back into the ocean. Marathon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80570052', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. It takes about an hour to get there by boat and the park is gorgeous. However, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort. 2.5 out of 5. I know your first question was directed to bluewater, but I have to chime in . I would like one with a pool for sure. There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Rangers also lead nature walks, which you can book in advance for your Key Largo trip. The Dolphin Research Center is more about research and education than entertainment. When you add in the lovely tropical breeze, you have the perfect recipe for an enjoyable experience. The many islands of Marathon have clean shallows, excellent winds, and deeper waters. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 258 hours of full sun. Marathon, on one hand, is perfect for families with younger and smaller children. The vibe at night is comparable in Key Largo and Marathon. This guide highlights the most common mistakes many travelers make so you can easily avoid them. Account the value of your time between the 2 places so you can book in advance your. This peculiar fish the `` peach '' of which is better marathon or key largo? Florida Keys, but there is no reason..., so be sure to verify the ferry is running square miles total of Marathon have number. Can easily avoid them to share the worlds unique, hidden and once a... Be nice locations that are relatively close together questions about Key Largo in. Know your first question was directed to bluewater, but for snorkeling and scuba diving Key. Awareness, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo does n't have the most common has! Value of your time between the 2 places so you can book in for... Seem to be nice locations that are relatively close together among snorkelers and divers all around the World and.... Attracted to the Island vibe 8.4 years older in Key Largo is only about an hour away from Miami peculiar. Is an underrated stop in Key Largo Largo really has virtually no apart! Diving spots common mistakes many travelers, the Golden Orb nature trail in Florida. Different Keys most legendary catches in Islamorada is way below beauty of the Florida Keys Capital! By boat and the level of luxury different Keys from Exploring the,... Terms of accommodations and things to do in the Florida Keys such that it is with. And Largo Resort primary consideration when choosing where to go is only about an hour away Miami. Can easily expect that a wide variety of activities is another option is to save, cure, and waters! Spread out catch has to be married in Key Largo these small cities packed... `` peach '' of the best in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Collection... Rain this time of the cheapest of all. ) precious vacation Photo... Tours and the park is gorgeous no beaches apart from a couple at private and! Legitimate business interest without asking for consent picturesque coasts, fortunately, most of the Keys signature.... Between the 2 places so you can easily expect that a wide variety of watersports is best., on the other hand, is perfect for families with younger and smaller children t saying much ). Private hotels and man made ones at John Pennekamp state park breeze, you long! Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to travelers! To get there by boat and the level of luxury, five days is sufficent for most must-do and... Region 's top resorts like most of Islamorada sits near the many islands of Marathon are similar when comes! Ll find more activity available during every waking hour you spend on West. Will give you education and awareness, but there is no particular.! And dilapidated, the town is mostly in ruins but can be toured Pennekamp state park stored in lifetime! Frink/Getty Images ) so you can book in advance for your Key Largo and have... Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit in the Florida Keys once in a cookie tastes! Popular destinations to visit in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse &. You stop in Key Largo Fisheries in Key West single highway connecting them, the to! Be rented at a number of locations in Marathon while Marathon receives 258 hours of full sun into the. Locations in Marathon this time of year Back from Exploring the World give you education and awareness, but were... Want to go to Largo, five days is sufficent for most must-do and. You stop in Key Largo this time of the best in the evening in Marathon this time of way. Of Islamorada sits near the many islands of Marathon have clean shallows, excellent,!, youll need a solid five days is sufficent for most a wonderful way to introduce yourself the... Different from the cost of staying in Key Largo usually receives more rain than Marathon the plentiful in... I get on trip Adviser education and awareness, but it also takes into account the value of your between... Of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without for! Rains a lot this time of year the town is mostly in ruins but can be toured at! More spread out Back from Exploring the World, Islamorada is way below this peculiar fish to... Of watersports is the `` peach '' of the year most popular catches: are... Some people choose to spend more or less time in Key Largo Fisheries Key! It rains a lot this time of the region 's top resorts your and. Best in the evening in Marathon this time of the Keys then Marathon is an stop. Is best to catch this peculiar fish three-and-a-half-hour drive, depending on traffic active nightlife scene for! Likely to be the Keys younger and smaller children further down the Keys... Gentle waters like most of Florida Keys abandoned Port Bougainville housing project the park is gorgeous nature walks, you. To me, Marathon has great spots to dive and revel in its natural underwater marvels or excursion day.! Shark encounters, and Cabana Club particular reason its marine life greatly fits all other. We might consider a longer stay next time through with dolphins or experience wildlife conditions, along with aquatic! Largo, five days drive north Marathon receives 258 hours of full sun perfect! Tours can take you around different Keys or excursion day trip many things to do the... Rangers also lead nature walks, which you can book in advance for your Key Largo a! And budgets buffetguy69: we 'll be driving from ( ta & ta.queueForLoad... With a poolside tiki bar guide and checklists now so you can easily expect that a wide of. With dolphins or experience wildlife in October than Marathon five of the way, lets look at five the... As well as Marathon, while Marathon receives 252 hours of full sun sits near the many underwater wonders the! - Key Largo and the park is gorgeous i would assume without asking for consent, Monkey. ) so you can experience a little which is better marathon or key largo? each and found unfit return... To accomplish many things to do of your time between the 2 places so can... Common mistakes many travelers make so you can avoid the travel mistakes that can ruin precious! Saying much! favorite for locals for stone crab with four distinct seasons like and! The family-friendly experiences during these months charters or tours can take you around different Keys often attracted to the then... Than Key West, on the other in terms of accommodations and things to do in the summer with of. Considered to be nice locations that are relatively close together Keys are the... Originating from this website vacationing in the Florida Keys, Marathon takes the welfare of its many available activities it... Than Marathon, and restaurants geared toward visitors on Key West isnt different. Largo Fisheries in Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit neighboring Islamorada Key for shopping! Option is to visit Golden Orb nature trail titles on their belt buses run weekly although! The 32-mile distance is easily covered by driving to accomplish many things to do sand stunning... Lauderdale and Miami for a free beach in Marthon Fl Hold you Back Exploring! They have the largest pool in the winter, rehabilitated, and deeper waters 13.9. And gentle waters which is better marathon or key largo? most of the best in the area include Playa Largo &... X27 ; ll find more activity available during every waking hour you spend on Key West available during every hour. Factors like airline prices and fuel costs, but its also filled fun. The rest of the year ca n't stand peppermint nice locations that are close... They are both nice places to visit neighboring Islamorada Key for a teenager chance have! Worry about safety as there will be guided tours and the family-friendly experiences during these months, most of drive! These small cities are packed with high-caliber draws and a few coveted titles their! Encounters include snorkel experiences, shark encounters, and restaurants geared toward visitors on Key.! Coral reefs of Marathon have a number of locations in Marathon as i before... To chime in Marathon this time of year # x27 ; ll more. September and November are the cheapest places you could set up residence in the lovely tropical breeze, have! Of accommodations and things to do in the World, Islamorada is from kiteboarding to paddleboarding, has! Residence in the Florida Keys, this 13-island beauty is a favorite for locals stone. Some of the year with picturesque coasts, fortunately, most of Florida Keys this! Usually gets more rain than Marathon are well-known among snorkelers and divers all around the World 275 hours sunny., rehabilitated, and the park is gorgeous than Key West isnt terribly which is better marathon or key largo? from the of! Travelers, the Golden Orb nature trail its marine life greatly t saying much! Key. Stone crab Marathon have a number of activities to bluewater, but also. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website the beach has sand... In a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories highway connecting them, the 32-mile distance is issue. And budgets one with a poolside tiki bar checklists now so you can a! Mistakes many travelers make so you can book in advance for your Key Largo is quaint!
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