A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. Monterey for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Marathon or Monterey?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Monterey, 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.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Marathon and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Monterey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monterey than Marathon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monterey is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Marathon is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is well known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Monterey is well known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Also, Monterey is famous for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

How is Marathon different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Monterey 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 Monterey can be an interesting and educational experience. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Monterey 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 Monterey. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

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 Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Monterey is great for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Monterey for the nightlife scene. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

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 Monterey Better for Resorts?

Marathon is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Marathon to choose from. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find notable snorkeling or scuba diving in both Marathon and Monterey.

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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Is Marathon or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Marathon is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Many people visit Marathon for it's beautiful beaches. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Monterey?

Monterey is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Monterey is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Marathon is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Marathon or Monterey Better for Couples?

Marathon and Monterey are both great 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.

Monterey is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Marathon or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey 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 Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Monterey 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 Monterey. There is a bus system through the 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 Monterey a more walkable city?

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

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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 Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marathon and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Monterey. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

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

One day in Marathon or Monterey?

The beautiful island of Marathon offers nightlife and food. 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.

The city of Monterey offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marathon or Monterey?

Marathon 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.

Monterey is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Monterey, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Monterey?

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

Monterey 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 Monterey?

Marathon 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 Marathon has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

Monterey is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 Monterey, we can see that Monterey 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 Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Monterey?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Monterey, 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 Monterey?

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 Monterey in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Monterey. Many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Monterey in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Marathon is generally much warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 84°F (29°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In July, Marathon usually receives more rain than Monterey. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Monterey. Many visitors come to Marathon in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Monterey for the shopping scene during these months.

Marathon is much warmer than Monterey in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Marathon for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Monterey because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Marathon is much warmer than Monterey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Monterey averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Monterey. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and Marathon during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In April, Marathon is generally much warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Monterey. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Marathon