Where is Marathon, Florida, USA

Written and fact-checked by | Updated On: February 09, 2026 06:15 AM ET

Marathon is located in the Florida Keys in southern Florida, between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. It lies near Islamorada and Key West and is situated at approximately 24.7260° N latitude and 81.0513° W longitude.

Marathon Location Map

Where is Marathon

About Marathon

Marathon is located in the Florida Keys, in the southern part of the U.S. state of Florida. The city sits on a group of islands between the Gulf of Mexico to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the south, roughly halfway between Key Largo and Key West.

Geographically, Marathon is situated at approximately 24.7260° North latitude and 81.0513° West longitude. It is connected by the Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1), which links the Florida Keys to mainland Florida. Nearby locations include Key Largo to the northeast, Islamorada to the north, and Key West to the southwest, making Marathon a central hub within the Middle Keys.

As per U.S. Census data, Marathon has a population of around 10,000 residents. The city covers a total area of about 9.7 square miles (25 square kilometers), including both land and surrounding coastal waters.

Marathon is best known for its relaxed island lifestyle, coral reefs, and access to open-water activities. Popular attractions include the Seven Mile Bridge, Sombrero Beach, Curry Hammock State Park, and nearby snorkeling and fishing spots, making it a well-known destination for boating, diving, and coastal tourism.

Marathon Facts

Island NameMarathon
Native NamesVaca Keys area (historical reference)
CountryUnited States of America
ContinentNorth America
StateFlorida
CountyMonroe County
LocationAtlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, Middle Florida Keys
CoordinatesApprox. 24.71° N, 81.09° W
AreaApproximately 9.3 sq mi (24 Sq Km)
LengthAbout 13 miles (21 km)
WidthUp to 1 mile (1.6 km)
Highest PointApproximately 10 ft (3 m) above sea level
PopulationApprox. 10,500 residents
Administrative StatusIncorporated city in the State of Florida
OwnershipPrivate property, state parks, and municipal lands
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD)
Calling / Area Code305
ZIP Code33050
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone - UTC -5 (EST), UTC -4 (EDT)
ClimateTropical savanna climate
GeographyCoral islands connected by bridges, beaches, canals
Famous LandmarkSeven Mile Bridge, Turtle Hospital
Flora & FaunaCoral reefs, sea turtles, tropical fish, seabirds
Tourist ActivitiesFishing, boating, snorkeling, kayaking, beachgoing
AccessOverseas Highway (US-1), Florida Keys Marathon Airport
Famous ForSeven Mile Bridge, fishing, central hub of the Florida Keys

Attractions in Marathon, Florida

  • Seven Mile Bridge - Iconic Overseas Highway bridge offering sweeping ocean views and photo opportunities.
  • Sombrero Beach - Popular sandy beach known for swimming, snorkeling, and family-friendly amenities.
  • Turtle Hospital - Renowned rehabilitation center dedicated to rescuing and caring for injured sea turtles.
  • Curry Hammock State Park - Protected coastal park ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, and nature trails.
  • Pigeon Key Historic District - Small historic island with museums and views beneath the Seven Mile Bridge.
  • Crane Point Hammock - Nature preserve featuring trails, a museum, and preserved Keys habitats.
  • Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters - Interactive aquarium offering touch tanks and animal encounters.
  • Vaca Key - Central island area with beaches, marinas, and access to boating activities.
  • Boot Key Harbor - Sheltered harbor popular with boaters and scenic waterfront views.
  • Sunset Park - Bayside park known for peaceful sunsets and relaxation spots.

Distance from Marathon to Florida Cities

  • Marathon, FL - 0 km (0 miles)
  • Islamorada, FL - 75 km (47 miles)
  • Key West, FL - 80 km (50 miles)
  • Key Largo, FL - 100 km (62 miles)
  • Homestead, FL - 140 km (87 miles)
  • Miami, FL - 160 km (99 miles)
  • Miami Beach, FL - 165 km (103 miles)
  • Fort Lauderdale, FL - 205 km (127 miles)
  • West Palm Beach, FL - 260 km (162 miles)
  • Orlando, FL - 440 km (273 miles)