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

Should you visit Marathon or San Francisco?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or San Francisco, 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 beaches, nightlife, and food.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a scenic, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Marathon and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or San Francisco?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Francisco than Marathon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Francisco is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Marathon is more popular for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. San Francisco is more touristy than Marathon and is known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge. Marathon is well known 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 Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit San Francisco from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Marathon or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a nice place to visit for theatre. However, Marathon is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in San Francisco, take in a show. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Marathon is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco 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, San Francisco is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Marathon and San Francisco.

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 San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is Marathon or San Francisco Better for Music?

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

The music scene helps keep San Francisco active and fun. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Marathon is not a live music destination.

Is Marathon or San Francisco Better for Resorts?

Marathon is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, San Francisco is not a resort destination.

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

San Francisco is not a resort destination.

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

Marathon is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

Both Marathon and San Francisco 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 San Francisco attract visitors from all over. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Is Marathon or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, San Francisco draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or San Francisco?

San Francisco 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 San Francisco. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or San Francisco Better for Families?

San Francisco 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 Francisco is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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 Francisco Better for Couples?

Marathon and San Francisco are both superb 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.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is Marathon or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

San Francisco is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or San Francisco Better for Students?

San Francisco is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Marathon is not popular with students.

San Francisco is a great coastal city to visit as a student. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

San Francisco has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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 Francisco a more walkable city?

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

San Francisco is very walkable. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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 Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or San Francisco?

Both Marathon and San Francisco have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, San Francisco has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Francisco than Marathon. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Marathon or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the quaint 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.

San Francisco is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Francisco?

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.

San Francisco 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 Francisco?

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.

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

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.

San Francisco is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Francisco has to offer. 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 Francisco, we can see that San Francisco 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 Francisco would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Francisco 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 Francisco Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marathon or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and San Francisco, 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 Francisco?

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 Francisco in the Summer?

Both San Francisco and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

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

In July, Marathon usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or San Francisco in the Autumn?

Both San Francisco and Marathon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Francisco for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Marathon is much warmer than San Francisco in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than San Francisco. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or San Francisco in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and San Francisco. Many travelers come to Marathon for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Francisco in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Marathon is much warmer than San Francisco. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and San Francisco averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than San Francisco. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or San Francisco in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marathon as well as San Francisco. Many visitors come to Marathon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to San Francisco for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Marathon is generally much warmer than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than San Francisco. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Marathon