A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. Charleston for Food, Couples, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Marathon or Charleston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Charleston, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a quaint, beautiful, and relaxing island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Charleston

Charleston is a historic, classic, and picturesque coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Marathon and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Charleston?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charleston than Marathon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charleston is better known for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Marathon is more popular for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Marathon is well known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park.

How is Marathon different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

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 Marathon or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Marathon and Charleston.

If you're looking for night time activities Marathon has a few options to choose from. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is Marathon or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Marathon is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Charleston active and fun. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Marathon is not a live music destination.

Is Marathon or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Marathon is notable for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Marathon is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Marathon or Charleston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Marathon has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Both Marathon and Charleston have superb beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Marathon. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Is Marathon or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Marathon does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Charleston can be explored in its historical center. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Marathon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Charleston?

Charleston is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Charleston. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Marathon does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is a very popular destination during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Marathon does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Marathon or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Marathon does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston has Christmas markets worth visiting. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Marathon does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Marathon or Charleston Better for Families?

Marathon is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Marathon is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Charleston is a family-friendly island. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Marathon or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Charleston has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Marathon or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Marathon is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

Charleston 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 Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

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

Is Marathon or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

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 Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Charleston?

Both Marathon and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Charleston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Charleston than Marathon. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston 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 Charleston.

One day in Marathon or Charleston?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the quaint 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.

The beautiful coastal town of Charleston offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

A weekend in Marathon or Charleston?

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.

Charleston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Charleston?

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.

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marathon or Charleston?

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.

Charleston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Charleston, we can see that Charleston is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Charleston, 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 Marathon or Charleston?

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 Marathon or Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston and Marathon during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

In July, Marathon is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 84°F (29°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the summer, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun.

Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Marathon usually gets less rain in July than Charleston. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Charleston. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Marathon is a little warmer than Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Marathon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Charleston. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marathon or Charleston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Charleston. Many travelers come to Marathon for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Marathon is much warmer than Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Charleston. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Marathon is generally a little warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Charleston. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Marathon