Unlocking The Magic of The Florida Keys: Marathon and Big Pine (Part 2 of 3)

Diving, snorkeling, fishing, and other water sports are a big claim to fame for this little island. Popular beaches include Sombrero Beach as well as Coco Plum Beach, which is frequented by visitors and locals alike.

Animal enthusiasts and eco tourists will find special pleasure in a visit to Crane Point Hammock. Here you can check out the Marathon Wild Bird Center, where injured or ill birds of the Keys find time and treatment so they may be returned to the wild. Don’t depart Crane Point before visiting the Museum of Natural History. In addition, an adjacent children’s museum provides wonderful exhibits to teach your little ones (and you too!) about the many animals that call the Keys and Florida home.

Marathon certainly welcomes golfers, with a host of private courses. Some of the private clubs boast reciprocity agreements with other clubs across the country - so if you’ve got the links on your mind and your agenda, phone ahead to inquire.

Smaller is better in Marathon and this holds true for accommodations in the area. Live Florida-style by checking out some of the traditional conch-style cottages available for rent. You can also choose among smaller, family run inns for unbeatable Florida hospitality.

Time to island hop on over to Big Pine Key. Travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace to touring and taking it all in will especially feel at home here.

One of this area’s best attributes is an obvious stop, but stunning just the same. Bahia Honda State Park has beaches of pristine sand and gorgeous waters that are so incredible, it’s frequently named one of our country’s best beaches. You’ll find all sorts of delightful shore and water activities to please every member of your family.

Amidst the natural beauty of the beaches and pines for which the island is named for, you’ll find an enchanting species of deer for which the area has also become famous. Key deer abound here and there are opportunities to view them in their natural habitats.

Kayakers will find an absolute haven here, with many tour operators and rentals available for kayaking and other water sports, too.