A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Marathon vs. Miami for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Marathon or Miami?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Miami, 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 beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Marathon travel costs.

Miami

Miami is a diverse, bustling, and high energy beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Miami travel costs.

Marathon and Miami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Miami?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Miami. Although Marathon and Miami are both popular with visitors, Miami has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Marathon is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Marathon and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South 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 Marathon different from Miami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Miami 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, Miami is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

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 Miami Better for Nightlife?

Miami is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Miami is a world class party destination. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Marathon or Miami Better for Music?

Miami is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Marathon is not a live music destination.

Miami is known as a music capital around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Marathon is not a live music destination.

Is Marathon or Miami Better for Resorts?

Miami is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Miami offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

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

Is Marathon or Miami Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Miami Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in Miami are among the best in the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

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 Marathon or Miami?

Miami 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 Miami. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Miami More Beautiful?

Marathon is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Marathon or Miami Better for Families?

Marathon and Miami are both excellent 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.

Miami is a very kid-friendly island. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Marathon or Miami Better for Couples?

Marathon and Miami are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as 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.

Miami is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Is Marathon or Miami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or Miami Better for Students?

Miami 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 Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

Miami is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Miami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

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

Is Marathon or Miami a more walkable city?

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

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for 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 Miami Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Miami or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Miami?

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

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

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

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

One day in Marathon or Miami?

In Marathon, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

A weekend in Marathon or Miami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Miami 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.

Five days in Marathon or Miami?

Marathon is a fun place to experience. In Marathon, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Miami is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Miami, 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 Miami?

In Marathon, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quaint destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Miami is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Miami has to offer. This beach city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marathon and Miami, we can see that Miami 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 Miami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Miami 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 Marathon Expensive? and Is Miami Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Miami?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Miami, 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 Miami?

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 Miami in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Miami. Most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Miami because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Marathon is around the same temperature as Miami in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Miami fluctuates around 83°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the summer, Marathon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Miami. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 316 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Miami. Marathon usually gets less rain in July than Miami. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Miami in the Autumn?

Both Miami and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Marathon because of the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Miami this time of year.

In the autumn, Marathon is around the same temperature as Miami. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Miami averages at about 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Miami. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Miami during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 275 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. It's quite rainy in Marathon. In October, Marathon usually receives less rain than Miami. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marathon or Miami in the Winter?

Both Miami and Marathon during the winter are popular places to visit. The cuisine are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Miami for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Marathon is generally around the same temperature as Miami. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Miami fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the winter, Marathon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Miami. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 243 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Miami. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Miami in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Miami. Many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Miami in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Marathon is around the same temperature as Miami in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Miami fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Miami during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 300 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Miami. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Miami and Marathon