Marathon Key

     At approx mile marker 50 on US1 is the city of Marathon.  It has a large non towered airport with an active EAA chapter.  This island has a  very laid back lifestyle.    The members of the EAA Chapter 1241 gather at their hanger just about every weekday morning for coffee and donuts.  Twice a year they fly young eagles, once in Marathon and once in Key West.  In  February 2010 they are having their Valentine's Day Dance.

     You can find small hotels throughout the island.  No large high-rise chains to spoil the view.  We have stayed at the Key Colony Beach Motel.  It is a small 1950's style motel that sits on a white powdery sand beach reminiscent of Cape Cod.  The people are friendly and the price is right.

     Food on Marathon Key is fantastic.  I have personally tasted and highly recommend the Keys Fishery,  Annette's Steak House, the Stuffed Pig, and the Key Colony Inn Restaurant.

     Marathon has a large number of dive shops.  Water sports are plentiful,  the food is fantastic, but the best deal is to just slow down and relay a while.