A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. San Diego for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Marathon or San Diego?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or San Diego, 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 relaxing, quaint, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, nightlife, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a hip, dynamic, and energetic coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Marathon and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego. Although Marathon and San Diego are popular destinations, San Diego has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Diego is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Marathon attracts visitors for its resorts and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Marathon and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. Marathon is famous 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 San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Diego 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 San Diego can be an interesting and educational experience. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marathon and San Diego offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in San Diego. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Marathon or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is great for live music. However, Marathon is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Diego draws a good crowd. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Marathon is not a live music destination.

Is Marathon or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Marathon is great for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

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

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is Marathon or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find nice snorkeling or scuba diving in both Marathon and San Diego.

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 San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Is Marathon or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego 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 San Diego are among the best in the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

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 Marathon or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is great for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or San Diego?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in San Diego. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego 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.

San Diego is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

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

San Diego has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego 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 San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Marathon is not popular with students.

San Diego is a great destination for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

San Diego 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 San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

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

Is Marathon or San Diego a more walkable city?

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

San Diego is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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 San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or San Diego?

In either Marathon or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than San Diego because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in Marathon or San Diego?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Marathon. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The coastal city of San Diego offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 San Diego?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Marathon. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

San Diego is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 San Diego?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint island of Marathon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

San Diego 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego?

Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marathon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

San Diego is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 coastal 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marathon and San Diego, we can see that San Diego 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 San Diego would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Diego 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 San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marathon or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Marathon is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marathon in July average around 84°F (29°C), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Marathon or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Marathon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marathon in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Marathon is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 80°F (27°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the autumn, Marathon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and San Diego. Most visitors come to Marathon for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Marathon is a little warmer than San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives around the same amount of rain as San Diego. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marathon as well as San Diego. The spring months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In the spring, Marathon is much warmer than San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marathon in April average around 77°F (25°C), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than San Diego. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as San Diego. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Marathon