A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Marathon for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mazatlan or Marathon?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Marathon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a historical, cultural, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Marathon

Marathon is a relaxing, quaint, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife.

Mazatlan and Marathon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Marathon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mazatlan. Although Mazatlan and Marathon are popular destinations, Mazatlan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mazatlan is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Marathon attracts visitors for its resorts and impressive beauty. Marathon is more touristy than Mazatlan and is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Mazatlan is famous for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also well known for the Malecon.

How is Mazatlan different from Marathon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Marathon and Mazatlan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mazatlan or Marathon?

Mazatlan 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 Mazatlan can be an interesting and educational experience. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Mazatlan 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 Mazatlan. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

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 Mazatlan or Marathon Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Mazatlan and Marathon.

Mazatlan has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

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.

Is Mazatlan or Marathon Better for Resorts?

Marathon is well known for its resorts. However, Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Marathon is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Is Mazatlan or Marathon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's nice scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Mazatlan and Marathon.

Mazatlan has a few good snorkeling spots. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Is Mazatlan or Marathon Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Mazatlan and Marathon are very good choices.

Mazatlan is considered a top beach destination. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Is Mazatlan or Marathon Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is great for its historic old town. However, Marathon does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Mazatlan to see the historical old town. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Marathon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Marathon?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Mazatlan. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mazatlan or Marathon Better for Families?

Marathon is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Mazatlan or Marathon Better for Couples?

Marathon is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Marathon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Is Mazatlan or Marathon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Mazatlan is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Mazatlan is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Mazatlan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses around town.

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

Is Mazatlan or Marathon a more walkable city?

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

Mazatlan is very walkable. The city is relatively walkable.

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 Mazatlan Worth Visiting? and Is Marathon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marathon or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Marathon?

Both Mazatlan and Marathon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Mazatlan. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 3-7 days is enough time in Marathon.

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

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

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

One day in Mazatlan or Marathon?

The city of Mazatlan offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 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.

A weekend in Mazatlan or Marathon?

Mazatlan 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.

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.

Five days in Mazatlan or Marathon?

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

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.

A week in Mazatlan or Marathon?

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mazatlan and Marathon, we can see that Marathon is more expensive. And not only is Mazatlan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mazatlan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mazatlan 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 Marathon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Marathon than you might in Mazatlan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mazatlan Expensive? and Is Marathon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Marathon?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Marathon, 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 Mazatlan or Marathon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Marathon in the Summer?

Both Marathon and Mazatlan during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Marathon in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Mazatlan is generally around the same temperature as Marathon. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 29°C (83°F), and Marathon fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the summer, Mazatlan often gets less sunshine than Marathon. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 328 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually gets more rain in July than Marathon. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Marathon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Marathon. Many visitors come to Mazatlan in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Marathon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Marathon fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives less sunshine than Marathon during autumn. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Marathon receives 258 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Marathon. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Marathon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Marathon. Most visitors come to Mazatlan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Marathon because of the cuisine.

In the winter, Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Marathon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Mazatlan in January average around 20°C (67°F), and Marathon averages at about 70°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the winter, Mazatlan often gets less sunshine than Marathon. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 252 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in January than Marathon. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Marathon in the Spring?

Both Marathon and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the beaches. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marathon this time of year.

In April, Mazatlan is generally cooler than Marathon. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 22°C (72°F), and Marathon fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives less sunshine than Marathon during spring. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Marathon receives 326 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Marathon. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Marathon and Mazatlan