When is the Best Time to Visit Marathon, Florida?

If you’re planning a Florida Keys escape and wondering about the best time to visit Marathon, the answer depends on what kind of trip you want.

Marathon sits in the heart of the Keys, spread across 13 islands between Key Largo and Key West. It offers turquoise water, coral reefs, white-sand beaches like Sombrero Beach, iconic views from the Seven Mile Bridge, and easy access to both adventure and laid-back island living.

Some travellers come for perfect winter sunshine. Others want summer snorkelling, tarpon fishing in spring, or quieter shoulder-season value.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly when to visit Marathon, what to expect in each season, and where to stay for the ultimate luxury Keys experience.

Quick Answer: When Is the Best Time to Visit Marathon?

• Best overall weather: December to April

• Best for fewer crowds and better value: May and November

• Best for snorkelling and diving: Summer

• Best for fishing: Spring

• Quietest time to visit: Early fall

The Best Time to Visit Marathon: Seasonal Breakdown

Spring (March–May)

Spring is one of the most balanced times of year in Marathon. Temperatures sit comfortably between the mid-70s and mid-80s, humidity is manageable, and the water is beginning to warm into ideal snorkelling conditions.

This is also prime fishing season, especially for tarpon. The reef visibility improves, and days feel long, bright, and beautifully breezy.

What to Expect

• Warm but not oppressive temperatures

• Excellent boating conditions

• Increasing water clarity for snorkelling

• Lively but not peak-level crowds

Spring is when Marathon feels energetic without feeling busy.

Best Things to Do in Spring

• Snorkel Sombrero Reef National Marine Sanctuary

• Walk or cycle across the Seven Mile Bridge

• Visit The Turtle Hospital

• Spend an afternoon at Sombrero Beach

• Take a sunset cruise into Florida Bay

Who Spring Is Best For

• Couples

• Fishing enthusiasts

• Active travellers

• Families wanting ideal weather without peak winter pricing

Where to Stay in Spring

Wander Marathon Key – 5 bedrooms, 12 guests

Spring is about being on the water, and Wander Marathon Key puts you right in the heart of it. This waterfront retreat offers generous outdoor living space, a private dock, and room for up to 12 guests.

After a day fishing or snorkelling, unwind poolside as the sun sets over calm Keys waters. With spacious interiors and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, it’s perfect for multi-generational trips or two families travelling together.

Summer (June–August)

Summer brings warmer temperatures, typically in the high 80s to low 90s, along with bath-like ocean water that’s perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

This is when reef life feels most vibrant. The turquoise shallows glow, and underwater visibility can be exceptional. Afternoon showers are common, but they’re usually brief and followed by sunshine.

It’s also lobster mini-season in late July, which draws divers and boaters from across Florida.

What to Expect

• Hot, humid days

• Warmest water temperatures of the year

• Afternoon tropical showers

• More family travellers

Best Things to Do in Summer

• Snorkel or dive Sombrero Reef

• Kayak through mangrove tunnels

• Visit Bahia Honda State Park

• Spend long beach days at Sombrero Beach

• Go boating at sunrise or sunset

Who Summer Is Best For

• Families on school holidays

• Snorkelling and diving enthusiasts

• Water lovers

• Adventure-focused travellers

Where to Stay in Summer

Wander Sombrero Oasis – 6 bedrooms, 14 guests

Summer in Marathon is about outdoor living. Wander Sombrero Oasis delivers it in style, with six bedrooms for up to 14 guests, a private pool, and easy access to the beach.

After a day in the sun, cool off in the pool or enjoy dinner al fresco under warm tropical skies. Spacious and thoughtfully designed, it’s ideal for extended family summer escapes.

Fall (September–November)

Fall is the quietest time of year and often the most affordable. Early fall overlaps with hurricane season, but late October and November can be beautifully calm and uncrowded.

The heat begins to soften by late October, humidity drops, and the Keys regain their relaxed rhythm after summer.

If you’re flexible with travel dates and looking for serenity, this may be the best time to visit Marathon for you.

What to Expect

• Fewer tourists

• Lower accommodation rates

• Warmer ocean water lingering into October

• Quieter restaurants and attractions

Best Things to Do in Fall

• Enjoy near-empty beaches

• Book last-minute snorkelling trips

• Fish the calm backcountry waters

• Explore Crane Point Hammock Museum & Nature Center

• Take scenic drives across the Lower Keys

Who Fall Is Best For

• Couples

• Remote workers

• Long-stay travellers

• Anyone seeking peace and value

Where to Stay in Fall

Wander Marathon Haven – 4 bedrooms, 8 guests

Fall calls for a peaceful waterfront base, and Wander Marathon Haven delivers understated luxury. With four bedrooms for up to eight guests, it offers comfort without excess.

Spend slow mornings on the patio, boat out into calm waters, or simply enjoy quiet evenings under pastel skies. It’s a refined retreat for travellers who value privacy and calm.

Winter (December–February)

Winter is peak season, and for good reason. Daytime temperatures hover in the mid-70s to low 80s. Humidity is low, sunshine is abundant, and the weather feels close to perfect. It’s the most reliable time for beautiful days and postcard sunsets.

While prices rise and availability tightens, winter offers the most consistently ideal conditions.

What to Expect

• Dry, sunny weather

• Peak-season visitors

• Higher accommodation demand

• Vibrant marina life

Best Things to Do in Winter

• Boat trips along the Keys

• Sunset dinners on the waterfront

• Snorkelling on calm days

• Dolphin Research Center visits

• Seven Mile Bridge sunrise walks

Who Winter Is Best For

• Sunseekers escaping cold climates

• Families during holidays

• Luxury travellers

• First-time Keys visitors

Where to Stay in Winter

Wander Sombrero Beach – 6 bedrooms, 12 guests

For peak-season travel, you’ll want something exceptional. Wander Sombrero Beach offers six bedrooms for up to 12 guests, placing you near one of Marathon’s most beloved beaches.

Think sunrise coffee on the terrace, afternoons by the pool, and evenings gathering together after days on the water. Spacious, refined, and perfectly positioned, it’s an ideal winter escape.

So, When Should You Visit Marathon?

The best time to visit Marathon ultimately depends on your priorities:

• Choose winter for flawless weather

• Choose spring for activity and fishing

• Choose summer for snorkelling and family adventures

• Choose fall for tranquillity and value

No matter when you go, Marathon delivers turquoise water, coral reefs, sunset skies, and a slower, more intentional pace of life.

If you’re deciding when to visit Marathon, start by choosing the season that fits your travel style – then secure a waterfront retreat that turns your Keys getaway into something unforgettable.