Compared to other Key communities, Marathon is a bustling town. This island’s name originates from the days of the Florida East Coast Railroad project. Because the project was worked on day and night at a rapid pace in order to be completed many workers complained that the project was becoming a “marathon.”  When the railway project was finally completed, they decided to name the station Marathon and the name stuck.

This area had been settled for a good deal of time but did not become an officially incorporated city until 1999. You might not find it quite as charming as the other keys, putting it at the bottom of your list of places to stay. However, the island is home to many great dining options, so you definitely will want to try some of the available cuisine even if you’re simply passing through. Something you might notice if you enjoy architecture is that Marathon has the tallest building in the Keys, Bonefish Tower.

It also has the only country club in the Keys, Sombrero Country Club. Outside of Key West, Marathon has the most historic attractions for your viewing pleasure. The main events that take place on the island are fishing, diving, and boating.  If you visit in April or May you will have the chance to watch tarpon tournaments, in June and September there are several other fishing tournaments which regularly take place. September is a wonderful time to visit as you will not only be able to enjoy spectating during fishing tournaments, but the annual birding festival, as  Marathon is home to beautiful burrowing owls  There are many high quality Marathon fishing charters you can hire to help you participate in the busiest fishing seasons.

During holidays, there are lighted boat parades which are beautiful, if you never seen such sights you are in for unforgettable scenes. Don’t be fooled, there is plenty available if you’re seeking delight on Marathon Key.  Enjoy the water, enjoy the land, and if you want a birds-eye view of this wonderful Key then take a look at a Marathon parasailing charter to get a once in a lifetime view of the area.