A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Marathon vs. Sarasota for Families, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Marathon or Sarasota?

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

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

Sarasota

Sarasota is a underrated, relaxing, and entertaining city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Marathon and Sarasota: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Sarasota?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sarasota. Although Marathon and Sarasota are popular destinations, Sarasota has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sarasota is very popular for its museums and shopping, while Marathon attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is famous for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Sarasota is famous for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. It is also well known for the John and Mable Ringling Museum.

How is Marathon different from Sarasota?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sarasota 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 Sarasota can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marathon and Sarasota 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 Sarasota. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

Is Marathon or Sarasota Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is nice in both Marathon and Sarasota.

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 Sarasota. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

Is Marathon or Sarasota Better for Resorts?

Marathon is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Is Marathon or Sarasota Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sarasota is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Sarasota is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Sarasota Better for Beaches?

Marathon is great for the beache. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

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.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Sarasota?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Sarasota. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Sarasota Better for Families?

Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

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 Sarasota Better for Couples?

Marathon is great for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Sarasota is a good island for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

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

Sarasota 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 Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

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

Is Marathon or Sarasota a more walkable city?

Marathon and Sarasota are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

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

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Sarasota or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Sarasota?

In either Marathon or Sarasota, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than Sarasota because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-5 days is enough time in Sarasota.

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

Couples should spend more time in Marathon than Sarasota. 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 Sarasota 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 Sarasota.

One day in Marathon or Sarasota?

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 Sarasota offers food and shopping. 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 Sarasota?

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.

Sarasota 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 Sarasota, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Sarasota?

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.

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

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Sarasota?

Sarasota has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Sarasota, 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 Sarasota?

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 Sarasota in the Summer?

Both Sarasota 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 Sarasota in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Marathon is around the same temperature as Sarasota. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marathon in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Sarasota averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Sarasota. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Sarasota during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Sarasota receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. In July, Marathon usually receives less rain than Sarasota. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Sarasota receives 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Sarasota in the Autumn?

Both Sarasota 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 Sarasota for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Marathon is generally around the same temperature as Sarasota. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 80°F (27°C), and Sarasota fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Sarasota. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarasota receives 234 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Sarasota. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Sarasota receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Marathon or Sarasota in the Winter?

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

Marathon is a little warmer than Sarasota in the winter. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Sarasota fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Sarasota during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Sarasota receives 200 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Sarasota. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Sarasota receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Sarasota in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Marathon is a little warmer than Sarasota. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marathon in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Sarasota averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Sarasota. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarasota receives 299 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Sarasota. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Sarasota receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Sarasota is June to November.

Typical Weather for Sarasota and Marathon