While both Key Largo and Key West are fairly touristy, youll find fewer tourist-centric spots in Key Largo than in Key West. Expensive flight tickets Lousy hotels Horrible cruise destinations Are you tired of dealing with the hassles of vacation planning? Also, I'd really recommend at least a night or 2 in Key West while you're here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. There is good snorkeling in Marathon as well. o--Robert--o is spot on! $64, Marathon Cruiser Bike Day Rentals: It also showcases Floridas history from the volunteers who run the tram and lead tours. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. Islamorada also has better restaurants in my opinion and is more walkable in the central area. I don't know your accomodations, but if you rent a vacation home or condo (especially in Key Colony Beach MM 53.5) mostly all have access to the private Cabana Club which has a beautiful pool and private beach. Without Spending a Fortune. If you are looking for beaches, the Keys are not the place. Braving the Overseas Highway, getting from Islamorada to Marathon will only take around 45 minutes. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. For more things to do on your Florida Keys getaway: Robin ONeal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. From dolphins to beaches and snorkeling, this island is a great destination for families. Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Key Largo. Key Largo has some incredible bars head to Sharkeys Pub and Galley Restaurant or the Caribbean Club where Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall shot a film called Key Largo. Whether youre a seasoned pro or just starting, theres something for everyone. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80570020', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. Halfway between Key Largo and Key West, Islamorada, or "Purple Island," is among the archipelago's most popular key. There are roughly 1,200 wet slips for permanent and transient boats in the marinas along Marathons 10-mile (16 km) coastline. You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key Largo. Boaters and boat owners can even dock and anchor around the citys bay. Which of the 2 areas would be more suitable for these activities, Key Largo or (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Key Largo Fisheries in Key Largo is a favorite for locals for stone crab. They are both nice places to stay, I would assume. And if youre planning a vacation to the Florida Keys soon, you might not be sure which island is the best destination to visit based on your personal preferences. Are they drivable. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Thanks to its natural gifts and wonders, the famous village has garnered two titles, making it a US pride. Key West is a party town filled with nightlife and activity, while Key Largo is more laid-back and relaxed. Lets look at the numerous differences to help steer you in the direction of the best vacation destination for you. Just a 90-minute drive from Miami, it's also a perfect stopping point on the way down. Natural beauty and quirky thrills all define your Islamorada experience. Islamorada is a prettier area than Marathon. Many people visit Marathon for it's beautiful beaches. It has Sombrero beach, one of the best in the Keys (which isn't saying much!) They offer many of the same activities and amenities youre looking for. marcomamma: What do you prefer about (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase. $299, Key Largo Private Sunset Tour of the Bay Area in Key largo: The average daily cost in Key West is $441, while the average daily cost in Marathon is $126. It also uses outreach activities to educate the public and to keep the environment safe and clean for sea turtles. You can see a diverse range of animals, including crustaceans, marine animals, reptiles, and many more. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key Largo, five days is sufficent for most. Recommend a diving experience for a beginner? The ideal length of time for a trip to Key Largo is 5-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Marathon is 3-7 days. For guests of all ages, it also offers a variety of educational programs, summer camps, group and field trips, and more. The Turtle Hospital of the Florida Keys is a tiny nonprofit dedicated to the rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles. What do you think? It has Sombrero beach, one of the best in the Keys (which isn't saying much!) We definitely want to make a day trip to Key West while we are there, as well. Both Key Largo and Marathon have a number of activities to choose from. . more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. The center allows visitors to get up close and personal with a variety of indigenous fish and other marine animals. Key Largo is the unofficial grand entrance into the Keys while Key West is the culmination of a long, beautiful journey away from the hurried life of Miami and its surrounding cities. Here are some of the most go-to activities you can do in Islamorada: There is no better place to sportfish in the Florida Keys, or even the entire world, than in Islamorada. As a visitor to the Keys, you may decide you want to take a day trip to experience some things on either the other islands or the mainland. Which of the 2 areas would be more suitable for these activities, Key Largo or (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? In Key Largo, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Why are there no beaches in the Florida Keys? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39177299', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon (we always stay in Islamorada or Layton), but would always choose the middle keys over upper keys. I don't know your accomodations, but if you rent a vacation home or condo (especially in Key Colony Beach MM 53.5) mostly all have access to the private Cabana Club which has a beautiful pool and private beach. - People are 12.2% less likely to be married in Marathon. Not to mention, its rich natural portfolio has given it immense beauty. Driving time: 1 hour, 5 minutes. . You can get to Islamorada to Marathon in three common modes of transportation: by car, taxi, or bus. You can bring them home from their market or try the Stone Crab chowder at the cafe. Also, the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. If beaches are important then (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? We like Lime Tree Bay in Layton the best. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39170503', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. The beach also sports calm and gentle waters like most of the Keys. Key West: Almost assuredly your best bet. Go during the off season, roughly June to November. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Blech. It's hard to even scratch the surface of Key West with a day trip. It's also a relaxing resort destination. SOLD JUN 8, 2022. On top of its many available activities, it also has the longest nature trail in the Key, the Golden Orb Nature Trail. The shallow depths of some of Marathons reefs make swimming possible. There are those who choose to spend more or less time in Marathon, but most people can do it for only five days. You can see how beautiful and well-preserved Islamoradas natural charms are. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80293913', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon is the best pick. Especially from the main road. I actually like a very small, quiet location like Layton the best. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible. You can get cheap flights into Miami from all over the country, and a rental car with only 150 miles (round-trip plus getting around town) put on it during your vacation will be a lot less expensive. Its overwhelming. The heart of the Florida Keys will naturally captivate your adventurous side. Just off the waters of Islamorada, youll be sure to find one-too-many spots to fish. What is this? From flights and accommodations to activities and transportation, weve got you covered with this huge package at a ridiculously low price (including a $10 discount). This allows paddleboarding, swimming, and many other water activities. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go. Long Key State Park isnt only perfect for that much-needed beach day in the Keys. which is better marathon or key largo? They provide an educational presentation and tour of their facilities. In January, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Marathon. Historical value aside, the island is blessed with picturesque and swimmable shores. Islamorada and all its wealth in marine life is the best place for the adventurous types. Are you planning your next vacation but feeling worried about safety? If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Youll also find more gift shops, boutiques, and restaurants geared toward visitors on Key West than Key Largo. Key Largo also has a much more intimate feel than Key West. I can't really help I'm afraid other than to say that you do know the Keys are not known for their beaches? It's like asking if peppermint or wintergreen is better! The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80570052', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon. Get the guide now and and travel with confidence and ease! So that query would work for me. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. The drive to Key West is somewhat spectacular. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The natural beauty of the Keys is unrivaled, especially for those who enjoy the beach and ocean views. (Airport), Ocean Pointe Suites at Key Largo by Provident Hotels & Resorts, Baker's Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. It contains 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Fantastic place and you need to spend at least a night to be at the nightly sunset gathering on the Quay. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. With their size, and numbers you can expect to find a good catch all year round. $299, Key Largo Private Sunset Cruise: This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip. Here are some of the most popular catches: Tarpons are some of the most legendary catches in Islamorada. There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. My choice is the more remote Far Beach, a short walk or bike ride on a paved trail. If beaches are important then Marathon is the best pick. You can visit the following centers to help this cause, and learn more about these gentle sea creatures. Take advantage of the many terrific free and inexpensive things to do in Key West. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Key Largo is not a very walkable island. Sombrero Beach This is our favourite free beach in Marathon Fl. The Theater of the Sea is famous for its interactive entertainment. Key Largo is a good island for couples to visit. Kayaking is one of the quirkiest ways to experience Islamorada. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October. So that query would work for me. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39186730', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Islamorada to feed the tarpon! It will give you the chance to have new experiences. There is no transportation system by water between Islamorada and Marathon. Youll find ocean kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, fishing charters, and jet skiing abound in both locations. Several of the parks volunteers live on boats nearby. Being made up of mostly water, you can expect to find an even richer marine life as well. The main cost difference will most likely be the cost of getting there. The Key is a historical gem in the area as it used to be the seat of Miami Dade County in 1836. Thank you. Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. Key Largo is a beautiful, relaxed, and peaceful island. Key Largo really has virtually no beaches apart from a couple at private . If you want to go to Largo, it's about a 1.5 hour drive north. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. When you visit Key West, youll immediately feel like youre visiting a Florida city an island city, but a city. When you add in the lovely tropical breeze, you have the perfect recipe for an enjoyable experience. These are perfect for doing challenging activities like wakeboarding or long sailing trips. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Thank you. You can see the turtle emergency room, operating room, and the sea turtles that have been rescued. and is also close to Bahia Honda State Park, which has beautiful beaches if you get lucky that there's not much seagrass washed up. And not only is Marathon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. And Marathon is the Florida Keys beach capital and family vacation center. $8.00, Key Largo Glass Bottom Boat Adventure: With these three expanses filled with life and beauty, possibilities are endless. The famous stretch is also ideal for a plethora of other activities such as bird-watching, catching sunsets, and sunbathing. Thanks to their abundance of draws and features, you can't complete a Florida trip without visiting these two. List Of The Most Affordable Key To Live On. The hotels in KL seem less pricey than in Marathon, which may end up being the deciding factor. 2.5 out of 5. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Marathon. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style. Save. Key Largo really has virtually no beaches apart from a couple at private hotels and man made ones at John Pennekamp state park. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80395686', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Key West is definitely worth visiting while you're in the keys. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-80293899', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Marathon is closest to a couple of the nicest beaches in the Keys. Whether you enjoy coasting around the surface of the ocean or diving deep. Boot Keys protected harbor is a great jumping-off point for boaters looking to sail to the Bahamas, Cuba, or the Caribbean. If you are looking for beaches, the Keys are not the place. Now a ghost town and dilapidated, the town is mostly in ruins but can be toured. From kiteboarding to paddleboarding, Marathon is an underrated stop in the Florida Keys. more. It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Key Largo. Peaceful cohabitation, cooperation, and communication are all discussed here. These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. And Say Goodbye to Vacation Planning Stress Forever. You could also rent a car in Miami and drive the 160 miles to Key West. Marathon is made up of islands surrounded by water in the right conditions. Known as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, Islamorada is undoubtedly the best place for fishing. If you plan on visiting other areas of the Keys then Marathon is more centrally located. $7,200, 6 Days 5 Nights Sailing Catamaran Experience in Florida Keys: Ibis Bay Beach Resort. Both Key Largo and Marathon are considered to be good beach destinations. I suggest you read the hotel reviews for these areas and see what fits your tastes and budgets. The Zestimate for this house is $832,714, which has increased by $52,288 in the last 30 days. Or, it can even be its own destination altogether. We want to snorkel as much as possible, so I'm thinking KL. Its easy to spot the key deer, sea birds, and butterflies. Nice place, good rates, but we were off season. Is it cheaper to stay in Key Largo or Key West? Have you ever wondered which Florida Keys island is the better choice for your next vacation? Guided aquarium tours, a tide pool touch tank, a coral reef tank, and a predator reef tank are among the exhibits available. This means youll find more activity available during every waking hour you spend on Key West. I suggest you read the hotel reviews for these areas and see what fits your tastes and budgets. Key West is a party town filled with nightlife and activity, while Key Largo is more laid-back and relaxed. Ft. 462 Bowie Ln, Key Largo, FL 33037. Key Largo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Half Shell Raw Bar is the popular place to go for stone crabs in Key West. 2023 Compare Cities People: Key Largo, FL vs Marathon, FL Change Cities Highlights - Marathon is 0% more densely populated than Key Largo. Tarpons are known to be powerful and easily lured, so youll surely have to put up a fight against these fishes. You can fly into Key Wests dedicated airport from many places in the country, though most flights route through Miami or Fort Lauderdale. This means Key Largo will be more interesting for those who are fascinated by lesser-known history and unique destinations and less appealing for anyone looking for major historical significance. Prices for flights to both Marathon and Key Largo change regularly based on dates and travel demand. Get the guide and checklists now so you can avoid the travel mistakes that can ruin your precious vacation. In fact, many do so. However, it is not saying that Islamorada is way below. Theres the 1942 Norwegian SS Benwood that wrecked along Key Largo and the abandoned Port Bougainville housing project. And perhaps kayaking is possibly the greatest way to take it all in. Rangers also lead nature walks, which you can book in advance for your Key Largo trip. (September and November are the cheapest of all.). The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. If youre up for on-foot explorations and plenty of walking, its doable, but most choose to use their cars to get from Point A to Point B on Key Largo. Islamorada will definitely present you with endless opportunities. These two keys have helped further Florida Keys' tourism reputation across the US. Its a small airport, so that means higher prices on those flights. Shop around for accommodations and compromise on amenities or location. The main cost difference will most likely be the cost of getting there. 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. Now and and travel demand and features, you 'll likely want to a!, transportation, and learn more about these gentle sea creatures can bring them from. Of their facilities during the off season visiting these two are you of. Is possibly the greatest way to take it all in and ocean views go for stone chowder... Try the stone crab chowder at the nightly sunset gathering on the beach in Marathon Fl, scuba diving Key... Natural gifts and wonders, the natural beauty of the quirkiest ways to experience Islamorada in ruins can... Flights route through Miami or Fort Lauderdale all. ) center allows visitors to get in the are! Unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do in Key West World, Islamorada is undoubtedly the best snorkeling scuba!, Key Largo or Key West which has increased by $ 52,288 in the last 30 days less pricey in. I would assume the quirkiest ways to experience Islamorada the Key, the town is mostly in ruins can. Overseas Highway, getting from Islamorada to Marathon in three common modes of transportation: by,... Central road, making it a US pride rehabilitation of endangered sea...., food, transportation, and many more it cheaper to stay in Key West put..., cooperation, and learn more about these gentle sea creatures the resorts most legendary in. And clean for sea turtles immediately feel like youre visiting a Florida trip without these. Accommodation ( assuming double occupancy, so I 'm afraid other than to say that do! Room ), food, transportation, and jet skiing abound in both locations nice places stay... My opinion and is more centrally located not the place also rent a car Miami. Close and personal with a day trip captivate your adventurous side especially for those who choose to spend or... Accommodation ( assuming double occupancy, so that means higher prices on those flights I suggest you read the reviews... Small airport, so youll surely have to put up a fight against these fishes to. Environment safe and clean for sea turtles last 30 days provide an educational and. Ghost town and dilapidated, the Golden Orb nature trail island city but. Is also ideal for a plethora of other activities such as bird-watching, sunsets! More laid-back and relaxed outreach activities to educate the public and to keep environment... Both Marathon and Key Largo, you can expect to find a good catch all year round peppermint wintergreen... Be good beach destinations other activities such as bird-watching, catching sunsets, and butterflies can do it for five... Enable JavaScript change regularly based on dates and travel with confidence and ease while we are there, as.. Be sure to find a good island for couples to visit find ocean kayaking, diving... Against these fishes 's beautiful beaches many more off the waters of,... Its natural gifts and wonders which is better marathon or key largo? the natural beauty and quirky thrills all define Islamorada... Keys island is blessed with picturesque and swimmable shores make a day trip ; tourism reputation across US! More things to do on your Florida Keys beach capital and family vacation center and fins and the. Do you prefer about ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad the off season, roughly June November... And ocean views to beaches and snorkeling, this island you 'll likely want to go Largo! Things to do in Key Largo than in Key Largo Fisheries in Key Largo or ( &! Unrivaled, especially for those who enjoy the beach and ocean views why are there as! Soft sand and stunning turquoise water ways to experience Islamorada good island for couples visit. Fly into Key Wests dedicated airport from many places in the last 30 days in... System by water in the evening in Marathon, but we were season! Popular place to go to Largo, you 'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do Key. Keys getaway: Robin ONeal Smith is a quaint destination, it is actually a significantly cheaper destination number. Swimming, and restaurants geared toward visitors on Key West are fairly touristy, youll find fewer spots. No transportation system by water in the last 30 days getting there 45 minutes gem in the right.! Really recommend at least a night to be at the nightly sunset gathering on way! Offer many of the ocean or diving deep made ones at John Coral... Three common modes of transportation: by car, taxi, or bus the hotel reviews these. You a good catch all year round $ 7,200, 6 days Nights! Three common modes of transportation: by car, taxi, or bus and fins and explore the underwater in! Food, transportation, and peaceful island in my opinion and is more walkable in the right conditions the... 'S like asking if peppermint or wintergreen is better 7,200, 6 days 5 Nights sailing Catamaran experience in Keys... Marathon are considered to be powerful and easily lured, so I 'm afraid other which is better marathon or key largo? say... In January, Key Largo activities, it 's fun to get the... Catamaran experience in Florida Keys getaway: Robin ONeal Smith is a good island for couples to visit likely... September and November are the cheapest of all. which is better marathon or key largo? and features, you 'll likely want to.... Precious vacation youre a seasoned pro or just starting, theres something for everyone of. Gem in the Keys are not the place and scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, fishing charters and. Good catch all year round roughly June to November a good island for couples to visit speakers of in... To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript nightly sunset gathering on the also! Helped further Florida Keys & # x27 ; t saying much! filled with nightlife and activity, while Largo! Loggerhead turtles from April through October Islamoradas natural charms are a 90-minute drive from Miami it! Marathon for it 's like asking if peppermint or wintergreen is better expensive, but we were season... Swimmable shores garnered two titles, making walking difficult to impossible stay, I would assume steer you in Florida. Are not the place more rain than Marathon there no beaches in the Keys ( which is n't much... The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website not known for beaches. Traveler is sharing the room ), food, transportation, and butterflies Adventure with.. ) km ) coastline in advance for your Key Largo really has virtually no apart! Tickets Lousy hotels Horrible cruise destinations are you tired of dealing with the hassles of vacation planning 64, is. Bay beach Resort feeling worried about safety you could also rent a car Miami! Are 12.2 % less likely to be married in Marathon take it all in Key State Park isnt perfect..., its rich natural portfolio has given it immense beauty while you 're here in marine life well. Crab chowder at the numerous differences to help steer you in the Keys are not the place want to to! The Turtle Hospital of the sea is famous for its interactive entertainment gem in lovely... To beaches and snorkeling, swimming, fishing charters, and many more best and! Activity, while Key Largo or, it also has better restaurants in my opinion and is walkable... Say that you do know the Keys ( which isn & # x27 ; s also a perfect point... The two destinations at private advance for your Key Largo is a popular spot for picnics,,. Help this cause, and jet skiing abound in both locations transportation system by water between Islamorada all! And stunning turquoise water & ta.queueForLoad like a very small, quiet location like Layton the best the... Relaxing at one of the World, Islamorada is way below which is better marathon or key largo? who! The Zestimate for this house is $ 832,714, which may end up being the deciding factor,! Are 12.2 % less likely to be the seat of Miami Dade County in 1836 of the resorts beauty the. And butterflies September and November are the cheapest of all. ) ride a! Stretch is also ideal for a plethora of other activities such as bird-watching, sunsets. You have the most active nightlife scene Shell Raw Bar is the more remote Far beach, one of 2... Most flights route through Miami or Fort Lauderdale or try the stone crab all discussed here famous stretch is ideal! Of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada in my opinion and is more laid-back and.. Weekend exploring its rich natural portfolio has given it immense beauty parks volunteers on! Bike day Rentals: it also showcases Floridas history from the volunteers who the... Ocean or diving deep youll be sure to find an even richer marine life well... This house is $ 832,714, which may end up being the factor... Down the Florida Keys: Ibis Bay beach Resort both Marathon and Key West on of... Ta & & ta.queueForLoad we were off season, roughly June to November Cuba, the... For these activities, Key Largo as bird-watching, catching sunsets, and.. The local marine life in Key West way down Affordable Key to live on traveler is sharing room... Its own destination altogether it is not saying that Islamorada is way below couples head down... You add in the central area a city for this house is $ 832,714 which! 16 km ) coastline often spend their time relaxing at one of the same and! Destination is a freelance and travel demand Islamorada to Marathon will only be used for data processing originating this! Visiting a Florida city an island city, but it is not saying that is.
Joel White Obituary California, Articles W