A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Clearwater vs. Marathon for Beaches, Food, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Clearwater or Marathon?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Clearwater and Marathon. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Clearwater and Marathon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Marathon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Clearwater. Although Clearwater and Marathon are both popular with visitors, Clearwater has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Clearwater is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, and shopping, while Marathon is known for its impressive beauty. Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach. Marathon is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is Clearwater different from Marathon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Marathon and Clearwater. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Marathon?

Clearwater is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Clearwater can be an interesting and educational experience. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Marathon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Clearwater. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Clearwater or Marathon Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Clearwater and Marathon.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Clearwater or Marathon Better for Resorts?

There are great resorts to choose from in both Clearwater and Marathon.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Marathon is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Is Clearwater or Marathon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find good places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Clearwater and Marathon.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Marathon has a few good snorkeling spots. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Is Clearwater or Marathon Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the beache.

The beaches in Clearwater are among the best in the world. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

The beaches at Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Marathon?

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Clearwater. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Clearwater or Marathon Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Marathon are great family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Marathon is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Is Clearwater or Marathon Better for Couples?

Clearwater and Marathon both great destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Marathon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Is Clearwater or Marathon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Clearwater or Marathon a more walkable city?

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Clearwater is somewhat walkable. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Marathon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marathon or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Marathon?

Both Clearwater and Marathon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Clearwater. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 3-7 days is enough time in Marathon.

Families should spend more time in Clearwater than Marathon. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Clearwater, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Clearwater than Marathon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Clearwater that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Clearwater than Marathon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Clearwater.

One day in Clearwater or Marathon?

The coastal city of Clearwater offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the relaxing island of Marathon, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Marathon?

Clearwater is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Marathon, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Clearwater or Marathon?

Clearwater is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Clearwater, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Marathon, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Marathon?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Marathon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Clearwater and Marathon, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Marathon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Marathon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marathon and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Clearwater would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Clearwater than you might in Marathon.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Clearwater Expensive? and Is Marathon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Marathon?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Marathon, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Clearwater or Marathon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Clearwater or Marathon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Marathon. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Marathon in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Marathon fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Marathon. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 328 hours of full sun.

Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Marathon. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Marathon receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Marathon in the Autumn?

Both Marathon and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Marathon because of the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Clearwater is cooler than Marathon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Marathon averages at about 80°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Marathon during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Marathon receives 258 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Marathon. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Marathon receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Clearwater or Marathon in the Winter?

Both Marathon and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Marathon this time of year.

In January, Clearwater is generally cooler than Marathon. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Marathon fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Marathon. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 252 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets more rain in January than Marathon. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Marathon receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Marathon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Marathon. The beaches are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Clearwater is cooler than Marathon in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Marathon fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Marathon during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Marathon receives 326 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Marathon. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Marathon receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Typical Weather for Marathon and Clearwater