Best Beaches in Marathon, Florida
One of the most popular beaches in Marathon is Sombrero Beach, which is known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. This family-friendly beach offers plenty of amenities, including picnic areas, showers, and restrooms. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the nearby mangroves.
Another must-visit beach in Marathon is Coco Plum Beach, which is a bit more secluded than Sombrero Beach. This tranquil beach is perfect for a romantic picnic or a peaceful stroll along the shore. Keep an eye out for sea turtles and other marine life, which are often spotted in the area.
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Top Beaches to Visit in Marathon
Sombrero Beach
Sombrero beach is located in the heart of Marathon, Florida, and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
One of the best things about Sombrero Beach is that it has plenty of facilities to make your visit comfortable and convenient. There are restrooms and showers available, so you can rinse off the sand and saltwater before heading home. Additionally, there are picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal with friends and family.
Parking is available at the beach, but keep in mind that there is a fee. The cost is $5 per hour for the first two hours, and then $2 per hour after that. However, the ample parking space makes it easy to find a spot even during peak season.
The sand at Sombrero Beach is soft and powdery, making it perfect for building sandcastles and taking a leisurely stroll. The water is clear and inviting, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling.
If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, Sombrero Beach has plenty to offer. There are volleyball courts available for those who want to play a game with friends, and a playground for kids to enjoy.
Coco Plum Beach
This beach is known for its calm waters, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.
While the beach is beautiful, it’s worth noting that there can be seaweed on the beach, which can detract from the overall experience. However, the beach is regularly cleaned, so you’re likely to find a clean spot to set up your towel.
If you’re planning to spend the day at Coco Plum Beach, you’ll be happy to know that there are restrooms and showers available for public use. Additionally, there’s free parking available, which can be a huge plus in a beach town like Marathon.
Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park is located on the southwest end of Bahia Honda Key, and it is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and stunning sunsets.
The park offers a variety of activities, including fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring the Old Bahia Honda Bridge. You can also rent bicycles and enjoy a scenic ride around the park.
Bahia Honda State Park has several picnic areas with pavilions, making it a great spot for a family outing or a romantic picnic. The park charges a small fee for admission, but the amenities and facilities are well worth it.
Sandspur Beach and Calusa Beach are two of the most popular beaches in the park. Sandspur Beach has shallow waters, making it perfect for swimming, and Calusa Beach is known for its soft, powdery sand.
Curry Hammock State Park
Curry Hammock State Park offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind in a beautiful natural setting.
One of the best things about Curry Hammock State Park is that it’s not too crowded, so you can enjoy the beach and the water without feeling like you’re fighting for space with other visitors. The beach is also very clean and well-maintained, making it a great place to swim, sunbathe, and relax.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love the kayaking opportunities at Curry Hammock State Park. The park offers kayak rentals, and you can explore the beautiful mangrove forests and shallow waters surrounding the park.
In addition to swimming and kayaking, Curry Hammock State Park also has a picnic area where you can enjoy a meal with friends or family. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep an eye out for birds, fish, and other creatures as you explore.
Loggerhead Beach
Loggerhead Beach is a hidden gem situated on the southern end of Marathon, Florida, and is known for its tranquil atmosphere and crystal-clear waters.
Loggerhead Beach is named after the loggerhead turtles that nest on its shores. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures during nesting season, which takes place from April to September.
The beach is relatively small, but it is well-maintained and offers plenty of amenities, including picnic tables, showers, and restrooms. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. You can also rent kayaks and explore the nearby mangrove forests.
Sunset Park Beach
One of the best things about Sunset Park Beach is the stunning views of the sunset that you can enjoy from the park. The park is situated on the west side of the island, which means that you can watch the sun dip below the horizon in all its glory.
While swimming is not allowed at Sunset Park Beach, you can still enjoy the water by wading and dangling your feet off the dock. The park also has a scenic dock, tiki umbrellas, and a community vibe that make it a great destination for families and groups of friends.
In addition to the beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere, Sunset Park Beach also has plenty of amenities to make your visit comfortable. The park has picnic tables, restrooms, and showers, so you can spend the whole day enjoying the beach without having to worry about anything else.
Key Colony Beach
Key Colony Beach is a great family friendly beach option. This beach is known for its calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and playing in the water. The beach has a playground for the kids, so you can relax while they have fun.
There is plenty of parking available at Key Colony Beach, which is a relief if you’re driving. You can easily find a spot to park your car and enjoy the beach.
One of the best things about Key Colony Beach is the beautiful views. You can enjoy the sun, sand, and ocean while taking in the stunning scenery. The beach is also well-maintained, so you can relax without worrying about trash or debris.
If you’re looking to swim, the water at Key Colony Beach is perfect. The calm waters make it easy to swim, and there are lifeguards on duty to ensure your safety. You can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas if you want to relax in the shade.
Planning Your Beach Trip
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit Marathon, Florida, is during the winter months when the weather is sunny and warm. The sun shines almost every day, and the average temperature is around 75°F. The water temperature is also perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices.
If you prefer a quieter and more affordable beach trip, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons in spring and fall. The weather is still pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. Just be aware that some businesses may have limited hours or be closed during this time.
Travel Tips and Resources
To make the most of your beach trip to Marathon, Florida, here are some travel tips and resources to consider:
- Download a travel app like TripAdvisor to research the best beaches, restaurants, and experiences in the area. You can also read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of what to expect.
- Consider renting a car to explore the surrounding areas like Key West, Bahia Honda, and Big Pine Key. This will give you the freedom to go where you want, when you want, and see all the beautiful views along the way.
- Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong sun. You may also want to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for sudden changes. Hurricane Irma hit the area in 2017, so it’s important to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
I am a father of a 2 energetic boys. If one of them accidently sleeps past 6am, the other one make sure he will wake up. Traveling is our favorite activity as a family and we try to do it almost every time school is out. Our favorite location is Florida (coming from Baltimore the warm weather is usually a blessing).