How much does a one-week (7 days) trip to Marathon cost?

A one week trip to Marathon costs $1,365 per person on average. This information comes from the actual expenses of travelers and includes accommodation, food, local transportation, sightseeing, and other typical travel costs.

How much does a two-week (14 days) trip to Marathon cost?

Two weeks in Marathon costs $2,730 per person on average. This information comes from the actual expenses of travelers and includes accommodation, food, local transportation, sightseeing, and other typical travel costs.

How much does a one-month (4 weeks) trip to Marathon cost?

One month in Marathon costs $5,850 per person on average. This information comes from the actual expenses of travelers and includes accommodation, food, local transportation, sightseeing, and other typical travel costs.

How much do hotels cost in Marathon?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Accommodation in Marathon is $76

How much does transportation cost in Marathon?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Transportation in Marathon is $47

How much does food cost in Marathon?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Food in Marathon is $89

How much do alcoholic beverages cost in Marathon?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Alcohol in Marathon is $24

Marathon Travel Cost - Average Price of a Vacation to Marathon: Food & Meal Budget, Daily & Weekly Expenses

Q: How much does it cost to travel to Marathon?

$195 is the average daily price for traveling in Marathon. The average price of meals in Marathon for one day is $89. The average price of local transportation in Marathon for one day is $47. The average price of a hotel in Marathon for a couple is $152.

Marathon is a relaxing island known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're relaxing on the beaches or taking in the beauty, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Marathon, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Marathon?

You should plan to spend around $195 per day on your vacation in Marathon. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

$89 on meals
$47 on local transportation
$152 on hotels

A one week trip to Marathon for two people costs, on average, $2,730. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

Travel Style:
Average Daily Cost Per person, per day

$195

One Week Per person

$1,365
2 Weeks Per person

$2,730
One Month Per person

$5,850
One Week For a couple

$2,730
2 Weeks For a couple

$5,460
One Month For a couple

$11,700

This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. .

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Marathon cost?

A one week trip to Marathon usually costs around $1,365 for one person and $2,730 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Marathon on average costs around $2,730 for one person and $5,460 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Marathon will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Marathon on average costs around $5,850 for one person and $11,700 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Is Marathon expensive to visit?

Marathon is a popular island that appeals to many visitors, featuring an array of travel styles and spending habits. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.

Marathon can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like eating at less expensive restaurants and spending long days at the beach.

On average, budget travelers spend $84 per day, mid-range travelers spend $195 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $393 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Marathon.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Marathon is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Saint Augustine or Juneau.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Marathon Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Marathon?

The average Marathon trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Marathon travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Marathon cost?

Marathon on a Budget

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation¹ For 1 person in double occupancy	$33	$76	$156
Local Transportation¹	$20	$47	$95
Food²	$38	$89	$176
Entertainment¹	$12	$27	$52
Alcohol²	$5-14	$12-36	$31-94

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations for your budget when visiting Marathon is important. While it's tempting to aim for a shoestring budget, most travelers don't find that style of travel to be enjoyable. Think about your priorities and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer staying in budget accommodations or enjoying more luxurious options? Do you like to explore attractions and dine out at local restaurants? These choices will influence your travel costs and itinerary.

Who are Budget Travelers?

You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $84 per day that younger budget travelers manage.

Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.

Could You Be an Average Traveler?

If you're a couple or family taking a fun trip, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at favorite restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. A trip to Marathon wouldn't be complete without visiting its major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities have costs involved. Thus, it's realistic to expect your daily budget to be closer to $195 per person, per day.

Marathon offers a fantastic variety of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, which can help save money. Families should focus on hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Tranquility Bay Resort Marathon is an excellent choice, while Captain Pip's Marina & Hideaway is also a great option. To find more accommodations that are family and couple-friendly, check our hotel guide for Marathon.

Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?

If you're looking for a high-end escape with every amenity and high-quality service, be prepared for daily expenses around $393. Staying in upscale hotels, enjoying meals at award-winning restaurants, indulging in lavish excursions, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the island will entail a more premium price tag.

Accommodation Budget in Marathon

In Marathon, the price of hotels can really surprise you. Some are much more expensive, offering higher luxury and amenities. Peak season rates soar, with off-season averages around $265 and peak summer or spring season rising to an average of $494. Prices typically range from $167 to $961, but hostels remain cheaper, especially in dorms. To save money, book during the low season or take advantage of special promotions and advance deals.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Marathon for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $152. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $76 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

Accommodation¹ Hotel or hostel for one person

$76
Accommodation¹ Typical double-occupancy room

$152

Hotels in Marathon

Looking for a hotel in Marathon? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Marathon include:

Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa - Florida Keys starting at $288
Courtyard by Marriott Marathon Florida Keys starting at $231
Seascape Motel & Marina - Marathon starting at $212
Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club starting at $197
Pelican RV Resort and Motel starting at $158

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Marathon

If you're traveling to Marathon with kids, you'll want to choose an apartment or accommodation with more space to enjoy.

This island features a range of resorts. You might find a place that offers meals, or at least breakfast, and many resorts have their own restaurants.

Many people stay up to a week in Marathon. If you're here for a longer time, you might want a vacation rental with a kitchen for preparing some of your own meals.

If you plan to avoid summer or spring and visit during the low or shoulder season, you'll find cheaper accommodation rates and fewer tourists.

Recommended Properties

Transportation Budget in Marathon

The public transit system in Marathon is not very good. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Unfortunately, a vast majority of the island does not lend itself to walking. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

Public Transit: (poor)
Walkability: (moderate)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

On average, past travelers have spent $47 per person, per day, on local transportation in Marathon. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Marathon is significantly more than public transportation.
Transportation¹ Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.

$47

From the Florida Keys Marathon Airport, there are a wide variety of ground transportation methods for you to take on you trip. If you are looking for a car rental service, such services can be provided in- and outside the airport with major retailers being Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget. Taxi and shuttle services are also located at the airport as well as around the island, including Bob Narley Taxi, Ahoy Taxi, and Keyhopper Taxi and Transportation. Marathon also provides bus services through the the Lower Keys Shuttle Lime. Take a load off and have an adventure in Marathon, Florida!

Transportation Tips

If you're driving, check that your hotel has parking available.

Flights to Marathon

How much does it cost to go to Marathon? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Marathon

The price of renting a car in Marathon will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.

Food Budget in Marathon

The dining options in Marathon are good, but they don't stand out enough to be one of the main tourist attractions. You can find a few exceptional places in the island worth visiting. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

While restaurant and meal prices in Marathon can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Marathon is $89 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
Food² Meals for one day

$89

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Marathon is around $89 ($89) per person, with previous travelers spending from $38 to $176. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Marathon are as follows:

Breakfast: $9 to $27
Lunch: $13 to $36
Dinner: $27 to $62
Coffee: $7
Fast Food or Street Food: $13

From all these activities, you will probably find yourself getting hungry. Cast away your troubles at Castaway Waterfront Restaurant and Sushi Bar. Built in 1951, Castaway was taken over by John and Arlene Jones in 1999, where it became the savory seafood spot that it is today. Its menu features all S's, including seafood, sushi, spirits, and steaks. With a mouth-watering menu and 52 beers on tap, Castaway takes pride in its nutritious diversity. Some of its meals include stone crab, shrimp alfredo, sauteed gator, coconut shrimp, Florida lobster, and crab cakes. Enjoy the salty taste of the sea at Castaway!

Food & Dining Tips

When eating out with children, look for places that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a significant amount since those meals are typically priced lower. Be aware that some restaurants may not list the kids' options, so it's wise to inquire with your waiter beforehand.

Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.

Make a picnic to enjoy the scenery and save money. Find a local grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and head to a nice park or beautiful location for your meal.

Carry your own water bottle instead of spending on drinks. It's also a positive step for the environment.

Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.

Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Marathon

It's no surprise that Marathon sees many visitors since it offers resorts, beaches, family-friendly activities, and romance.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Marathon typically cost an average of $27 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
Entertainment¹ Entrance tickets, shows, etc.

$27

A gorgeous wildlife reserve, a wonderful museum, and unforgettable nature trails - take a walk into the beauties of Florida at Crane Point Museum and Nature Center. A key point of interest for many travelers and a sight readily encouraged by most, Crane Point offers an endless assortment of activities to choose from. The Crane Point Museum offers a trip back in time to old Florida with its displays of local wildlife, marine life, dioramas and dramatic exhibits featuring artifacts and objects of cultural interest. However, if you find you need to stretch your legs a bit, Crane Point offers over 63 acres of nature trails, where visitors were be greeted by native plant and animal species of the Florida Keys. The trails also offer a taste of history, with tours given to the significant Adderley House and Crane House. Be sure to meet and greet with Marathon's feathery locals at the Marathon Wild Bird Center, where visitors get to admire the recovering birds before they take flight. Besides this, Crane Point also offers kayak and trolley tours. Admission is around $15.

Get acquainted with the history of Marathon's inhabitants and enter the Pigeon Key Historic District. Located off of U.S. 1 in Pigeon Key, Florida, the region contains over 11 historic buildings and 3 structures. The island gained its unique name due to abundance of white-crowned pigeons that roosted there. Some of its key architecture includes the old Seven Mile Bridge created during the building of Henry Flagler's Overseas Railroad Key West Extension. Most of the key historic sights are from the Flagler area, including a rare three-way bridge. However, this neat little town cannot be accessed by foot or wheel, only by ferry and/or other private watercraft. Get a taste of the traditional seaside architecture and learn of how civilization came to be in Marathon.

Don't just get acquainted with Marathon's two-legged inhabitants, be sure to give a friendly hello to its finned ones as well at the Dolphin Research Center. Established in 1984 by Jayne Shannon-Rodriguez and Armando "Mandy" Rodriguez, the Dolphin Research Center seeks to provide forever homes for its dolphin friends, while providing educational and research programs in order to learn about these complex mammals. The facility keeps bottlenose dolphins as well as California sea lions in its safe, spacious quarters. The Dolphin Research Center offers a wide array of programs, including camps, training institutions, field trips, and laboratories. Shake fins with a dolphin and cuddle with a sea lion at the Dolphin Research Center.

If you're looking for a fun, family-friendly place to stay, check out the Hawks Cay Resort in Duck Key, which is just a few minutes from Marathon. You'll find a gorgeous pool, beautiful calm beaches, plenty of great food, and fun activities for the whole family. It's about half way between Miami and Key West, so the whole area is a good spot to base yourself for a trip to the Florida Keys.

Sightseeing Tips

Beaches:
Many people visit Marathon seeking a peaceful beach getaway. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Marathon. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

Florida: Sunset Champagne Cruise on the Marathon Mermaid for $82 details
Snorkeling Adventure by Boat at Sombrero Reef for $89 details
Rhum Runner Aqua Park Adventure for $38 details

Recommended Activities

Nightlife Budget in Marathon

Marathon does have some nightlife activities, but it doesn't compare to the excitement found in more popular destinations. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average person spends about $24 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Marathon per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
Alcohol² Drinks for one day

$24

Nightlife Tips

Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.

Nightlife is fun, but be cautious when drinking. Thieves target distracted people, so stay with your group and trust your instincts to keep yourself safe.

Travel cost data last updated: Feb 27, 2025

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Marathon

Expect higher prices and larger crowds during the peak season of summer or spring. To keep your budget in check and avoid the hustle and bustle, try going during the shoulder or low seasons instead.
Marathon is large enough that you can often find various price levels for hotels, meals, and activities. Save money by exploring options, booking in advance, and checking out free things to do.
By taking a slower approach to travel, you can enjoy the local beauty while saving money. When you jam-pack your schedule with activities, your expenses can skyrocket. But if you allow yourself to relax and take in the sights, you might find you're spending less overall.

Budgeting Challenges

Visitors come to Marathon primarily for the outstanding scuba diving. However, this can be quite costly, with limited opportunities to save money. Expect dive trips, equipment rentals, and boating excursions to take up a significant part of your budget. Make sure to verify that your travel insurance covers all bases, including accidents and cancellations due to weather.
Marathon doesn't have many public transport options available. You may want to consider renting a car or setting up transportation ahead of time, like booking a tour. Just be aware that this might affect your budget elsewhere.
Marathon isn't a hotspot for hostels, so if you were hoping to find a cheap dorm, you might need to adjust your plans. Instead, consider a budget hotel or an apartment rental.

Traveling in Marathon

Marathon Key

You step outside your deluxe suite onto the balcony and are greeted with nothing less than tropical perfection. The hum of the ocean, the whispers of the palm trees, the songs of the seagulls - you bask in this paradise otherwise known as Marathon, Florida. A 10-mile-long island, the chain contains Vaca Key, Fat Deer Key and Grassy Key, along with Duck Key just another few minutes up the road.

Cultivated in the old Key's lifestyle and marinaded in the traditions of seafaring, Marathon is known to give a warm welcome to snowbirds and beach bums alike. Magnificent coral reefs, gorgeous beaches, and amazing nature refuges - Marathon works to retain the wonder of Floridian wilderness. However, if you decide to go beyond the mangroves and alligators, you will surely not be disappointed as Marathon acquires a wide range of shops and restaurants to choose. Marathon is so passionate about its cooking that it even holds annual seafood festivals. With 10,255 friendly inhabitants waiting, open the gateway to your tropical dreams in Marathon, Florida.

Looking for a party hostel in Hawaii or Miami? Traveling alone to LA or New Orleans? Want a budget hostel in NYC?

Travel Budget for Marathon Visit Marathon on a Budget or Travel in Style

How much does it cost to travel to Marathon?