Activities for Children

Your children can enjoy a full schedule of eco-tours, dive-snorkel charters, fishing trips and visits to area attractions, such as the Museums and Nature Center of Crane Point Hammock or the Dolphin Research Center. You'll also find plenty of free activities to keep your kids entertained between excursions. Several waterfront restaurants, such as The Island (Mile Marker 54.5 gulf side) and Keys Fisheries (Mile Marker 50 gulf side) thoughtfully provide docks where children can feed tropical fish or see huge tarpon. Marathon also has plenty of playgrounds, parks and beaches, including the following:

Rotary Field of Dreams
Mile Marker 52, oceanside (75th Street and U.S. 1)
Your children will be talking about this large playground for a long time to come. It offers a wooden replica of Thomas the Train, plus plenty of tunnels, swings, and a sandbox with a toothy, make-believe shark. There is plenty for toddlers and older kids.

Sombrero Beach
Mile Marker 50, oceanside (Turn off U.S. 1 at Sombrero Beach Blvd., and drive to the end).
This 12.6-acre beach is one of the most popular stops in Marathon for good reason. The beach was renovated in 2003 with creative landscaping and other amenities. It offers walkways, picnic areas and a roped off swimming area.

Coco Plum Beach
Mile Marker 54.5 oceanside (Turn off U.S. 1 at Coco Plum Drive).
This small, natural beach is an enjoyable stop, but one with few amenities. It is a quiet, dog-friendly beach with clean-up baggies provided.

Skate Park
Between 37th and 39th Street, bayside.
This is a great stop for adventurous, older kids. Skaters will find 11 ramps, a half bowl and numerous rails. There are even bleachers for spectators. Remember your safety equipment.