A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. Jekyll Island for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Marathon or Jekyll Island?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Jekyll Island, 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. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a natural, relaxing, and secluded island. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and museums.

Marathon and Jekyll Island: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Jekyll Island?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Jekyll Island than Marathon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Jekyll Island is better known for its museums, hiking, and shopping, while Marathon is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Marathon is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Jekyll Island is well known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District. Also, Jekyll Island is famous for Driftwood Beach.

How is Marathon different from Jekyll Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island?

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

Jekyll Island is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Marathon is a island with good options for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Marathon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Marathon or Jekyll Island Better for Nightlife?

Marathon is a island with good options for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Marathon or Jekyll Island Better for Resorts?

Marathon is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

In Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Is Marathon or Jekyll Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a island with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Marathon. 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.

Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Jekyll Island Better for Beaches?

Both Marathon and Jekyll Island have high quality 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 Jekyll Island attract visitors from all over. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Is Marathon or Jekyll Island Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island is great for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Jekyll Island?

Jekyll Island is adequate for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Jekyll Island Better for Families?

Marathon and Jekyll Island are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Marathon is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Jekyll Island is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Is Marathon or Jekyll Island Better for Couples?

Marathon is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

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

Neither Marathon or Jekyll Island offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

Is Marathon or Jekyll Island a more walkable city?

Marathon is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Jekyll Island or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Jekyll Island?

It's fun to spend time in either Marathon or Jekyll Island. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Marathon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Jekyll Island.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island.

One day in Marathon or Jekyll Island?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the relaxing destination of Marathon. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The island of Jekyll Island offers museums. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Jekyll Island?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Jekyll Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island 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 Jekyll Island, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Jekyll Island?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Marathon. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Jekyll Island is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marathon or Jekyll Island?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beautiful island of Marathon. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Jekyll Island is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island 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 Jekyll Island, we can see that Marathon 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 Jekyll Island Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Marathon or Jekyll Island?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marathon or Jekyll Island in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Jekyll Island. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Jekyll Island during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Jekyll Island receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jekyll Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Marathon usually receives less rain than Jekyll Island. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Jekyll Island in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Jekyll Island. Many travelers come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Marathon is a little warmer than Jekyll Island in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Jekyll Island fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Jekyll Island. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jekyll Island receives 214 hours of full sun.

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Jekyll Island. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Jekyll Island in the Winter?

Both Jekyll Island and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Marathon is much warmer than Jekyll Island. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Jekyll Island averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Jekyll Island during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Jekyll Island receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Jekyll Island. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Jekyll Island in the Spring?

Both Jekyll Island and Marathon during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the beaches.

In April, Marathon is generally a little warmer than Jekyll Island. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and Jekyll Island fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Jekyll Island. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jekyll Island receives 285 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Jekyll Island. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Jekyll Island and Marathon