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

Should you visit Marathon or Wilmington?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Wilmington, 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, nightlife, and food.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Marathon and Wilmington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Wilmington?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wilmington. Although Marathon and Wilmington are both popular with visitors, Wilmington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wilmington is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping, while Marathon is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Marathon is more touristy than Wilmington and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Wilmington is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. It is also home to the Battleship North Carolina.

How is Marathon different from Wilmington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wilmington is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marathon and Wilmington offer a number of good 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 Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Is Marathon or Wilmington Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Marathon and Wilmington.

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 Wilmington. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

Is Marathon or Wilmington Better for Resorts?

Marathon is great for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Wilmington Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Wilmington Better for Beaches?

Both Marathon and Wilmington 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 Wilmington attract visitors from all over. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Is Marathon or Wilmington Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Marathon does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Marathon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Wilmington?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Wilmington. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Wilmington Better for Families?

Marathon and Wilmington are both superb 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.

Wilmington is a very kid-friendly island. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Is Marathon or Wilmington Better for Couples?

Marathon and Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

Is Marathon or Wilmington Better for Students?

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to 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 Wilmington a more walkable city?

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

Wilmington is somewhat walkable. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires 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 Wilmington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wilmington or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Wilmington?

In either Marathon or Wilmington, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than Wilmington 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 Wilmington.

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

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

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

One day in Marathon or Wilmington?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the quaint island of Marathon, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Wilmington offers food and shopping. 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 Wilmington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Marathon, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Wilmington 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wilmington, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Wilmington?

Marathon, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Marathon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Wilmington is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Wilmington, we can see that Wilmington 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 Wilmington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wilmington 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 Wilmington Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Wilmington?

Wilmington has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Wilmington, 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 Wilmington?

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 Wilmington in the Summer?

Both Wilmington 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 and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year.

Marathon is around the same temperature as Wilmington in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Wilmington fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Wilmington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Wilmington during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Wilmington. In July, Marathon usually receives less rain than Wilmington. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Wilmington in the Autumn?

Both Wilmington 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. Also, many travelers come to Wilmington for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Marathon is a little warmer than Wilmington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Wilmington averages at about 65°F (18°C).

In Wilmington, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Wilmington. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 227 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Wilmington. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Wilmington in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Wilmington. Many travelers come to Marathon for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Wilmington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than Wilmington. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Wilmington fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Wilmington during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Wilmington. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Wilmington in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Wilmington. Many visitors come to Marathon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Wilmington for the beaches during these months.

Marathon is a little warmer than Wilmington in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Wilmington fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wilmington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Wilmington. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 278 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Wilmington. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wilmington and Marathon