Planning a family trip to Marathon, Florida? Get ready for sunshine, ocean adventures, and just the right amount of chaos. After our trip (which involved sharks, lizards, and a hermit crab that almost became our newest family member), I’ve learned a few things. Here’s what you need to know before taking your crew to the heart of the Florida Keys.
1. Embrace the Wildlife… But Maybe from a Distance
Marathon is home to all kinds of creatures—some adorable, some terrifying. My oldest tried to hand-feed tarpon, only to suddenly find himself surrounded by seven sharks. My youngest? Determined to become a professional lizard catcher. He even climbed a tree to grab one, which promptly tried to bite him. Lesson learned? Nature is cool. Nature also bites.
Tip: Encourage curiosity but maybe don’t let the kids offer snacks to ocean predators.
2. Don’t Underestimate the Power of a Pool
Sure, the ocean is amazing, but having a pool at our rental house was a game-changer. After a long day of fishing or snorkeling, nothing beats relaxing by the water while the kids keep themselves entertained (aka casting lines into the canal to see if anything bites).
Tip: If your rental has a pool, pack floaties, pool toys, and extra towels—because wet kids multiply like Gremlins. Dollar stores are a great way to buy some of these items for less. Dollar General has a $5 off $25 on Saturdays if you download the app!
3. Book a Fishing Charter (and Prepare for Excitement)
If you’re in Marathon, you have to go fishing. We booked two charters, and within minutes of the first charter, the kids were reeling in mahi-mahi and tuna at the same time. It was chaos. It was exciting. It was one of those “this is why we travel” moments.
Tip: Bring snacks, sunscreen, and a strong stomach—offshore fishing can get bouncy. My middle son has a tough time with motion sickness so we get a prescription before we travel. It has helped on many fishing trips in the ocean as well as winding roads in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
4. Be Ready for Sudden Weather Surprises
We were having the perfect vacation… until a tornado watch and flood warnings had us sprinting to pack up and leave at midnight just to make it back to Miami before the roads closed. So, yeah—Florida weather is unpredictable.
Tip: Always have a backup plan and check the forecast constantly. When in doubt, evacuate before you need a boat to get to the airport.
5. Feed the Kids (Before They Melt Down)
For some reason, our kids only eat adventurously on vacation. They tried everything—grilled mahi-mahi, seared tuna, lobster, shrimp. We basically ate seafood the entire time. Catching fish and grilling it back at our rental? Easily one of the best experiences ever.
Tip: Marathon has grocery stores with premade sandwiches—perfect for boat trips. Also, getting groceries delivered saved us so much time.
6. Snorkeling? Absolutely.
Snorkeling in Marathon is a must. We found huge conch shells while exploring, and the kids loved seeing fish up close.
Tip: Buy anti-fog masks before you go (we got ours on Amazon), and if you have young kids, bring a life vest or floatation device so they can enjoy the water stress-free. You should also have a dive flag, which you can get a local bait shops for about $50.
7. The Seven Mile Bridge is Amazing—Drive It.
Driving the Seven Mile Bridge was breathtaking. The water on both sides, the sunshine—it’s one of those moments that makes you appreciate how beautiful Florida really is. The color of the water is so beautiful. Maybe I feel that way because sometimes South Dakota lake water isn’t that beautiful. LOL
Tip: If you’re flying in, we saved a lot of money by flying Allegiant into Miami and renting a car—and we got to enjoy the scenic drive down and explore so many other areas.
8. Hermit Crabs Cannot Fly on Airplanes
My son really wanted to bring home a hermit crab. We found a beach with tons of them, and he picked the perfect one. Then I had to research whether TSA allows hermit crabs on airplanes. (Spoiler: They don’t.) We had to say goodbye to our tiny, temporary pet, but it was fun while it lasted!
Tip: If your kids become emotionally attached to small creatures, research TSA rules first to avoid a dramatic airport farewell. Easter was shortly after this trip and brought our family a hermit crab – which my kids very much enjoy.
9. Let the Kids Be Wild, Just a Little
There’s something magical about letting kids explore, get dirty, and discover new things. Whether it was fishing, lizard-chasing, or snorkeling, Marathon gave our boys the chance to be kids—and that’s what made the trip special.
Tip: Pack extra clothes, baby wipes (even for big kids), and a sense of humor.
10. Take a Deep Breath & Enjoy the Adventure
Between the fishing, snorkeling, pool time, and dodging tornadoes, this trip was unforgettable. Watching my kids reel in fish, climb trees, and explore a whole new world reminded me why we travel in the first place. Marathon, FL, is pure magic—sharks, lizards, hermit crabs, and all.
Tip: Take the trip. Make the memories. And always check for lizards before climbing a tree.
Have you been to Marathon, FL with kids? Drop your favorite travel memories (or funniest mishaps) in the comments below!
