About Outside the City- Marathon

Photo courtesy of flickr.com/justthatgoodguyjim

The sleepy islands between Big Pine Key and Key Largo have many treasures to uncover. Quiet lodgings for watching the sunset, boating trips, fishing, seafood restaurants, and family-friendly activities await those who pause here. Swim with the dolphins or take in a flight over the sparkling waters on a hang glider.

See & Do

This new attraction offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the sparkling waters of the Keys from a bird' eye view – as a bird. At Conch Air, the instructor and passenger are towed on the glider over the Gulf of Mexico until it reaches altitude and is then released by the instructor. Passengers can see through the clear blue water and spot sea turtles, manatees, dolphin, and even an occasional shark.

Eat

Opened in October 2012, Brutus Seafood quickly created a buzz among foodies seeking a new lunch spot. No fancy frills here: menu items and daily specials are displayed on blackboards like any traditional seafood joint. Expect items like lobster melts, shrimp tacos and quesedillas, blackened yellowfin tuna salad sandwiches, and seafood chowder.  Even though they specialize in seafood, the ribeye sandwich is a must for those that prefer land items.

Party

Opened in 2010, the Sunset Grill and Raw Bar has been attracting visitors with a killer location – just next to the seven-mile bridge, a heated pool, beach and lounge area, and boat dock.Sit out on the patio, sip on a margarita and watch the sun set and the live music begin. The bar stays open until midnight and music continues late during busy season for dancing under the stars.

Stay

The same group behind the celebrated Parrot Key Hotel (in Key West) brings the same Conch-style homes and luxurious amenities to Marathon’s Tranquility Bay Resort. With 1,100 feet of private shoreline with 2.5 acres of white sands, a Tiki bar with spectacular views of the sunset, and the upscale Butterfly cafe restaurant has been voted the best restaurant in Marathon year after year, it's easy to see why this is a top choice among travelers.

Shop

Since diving in the sparkling waters of the Keys is such a big hobby, it's no wonder that much of the shopping in the area is for underwater toys. The staff at Captain Hook's takes the time to explain items to beginners, and it is also a place to rent kiteboards, kayaks, and snorkel gear. Be sure to check out the fishpond at the daily 4 p.m. feeding!