Activities

Activities to do in Marathon Florida vary greatly. While many vacationers come to the Florida Keys to chill on the beach, doing nothing but working on their tans, others search for a variety of activities. We’ve compiled a shortlist of what we consider the best activities to seek out.

Activities to do in Marathon Florida

Water Activities

• Deep-sea fishing (considered the best in the world)
• Sailing
• Scuba Diving
• Snorkeling
• Parasail
• Swim with Dolphins—Your Way

Looking for that iconic dolphin encounter? Whether you’re eager to wade in the shallows or swim out in deeper water, Marathon offers dolphin interactions tailored to just about everyone.

Choose from shallow-water sessions—perfect for families with young kids or anyone less comfortable in deep water—or opt for experiences where you can swim, snorkel, and interact with dolphins in the open lagoon. For those who want the best of both worlds, some programs even combine deep.

No matter which option you choose, you’ll have the chance to make memories with these incredible creatures—a true Florida Keys highlight!

Ultimate Swim with Dolphins Experience

• Enjoy a private, 30-minute session in the water with up to six guests, tailored to you and your group.
• Choose your preferred time, pool location, and interact with dolphins following a program customized just for you.
• Each participant receives a towel, sunscreen, and bottled water, so you can focus on the fun.
• Capture your memories with an included digital photo package—no need to bring your own camera.
• Snorkel gear and wetsuits are available upon request for anyone who wants to get closer to the action.
• Enjoy a hassle-free arrival with priority check-in. Feeling hungry afterward?
• You can even skip the lines and preorder lunch from the available menu.

Swim with the Dolphins: What to Expect

Swimming with dolphins in Marathon isn’t just about sharing the water—it’s about interacting and having some real one-on-one fun. You’ll have the chance to experience a variety of dolphin behaviors, including:

• Gliding alongside them as they offer dorsal tows (hold on for the ride!)
• Gentle hugs and friendly foot pushes through the water
• Playful interactions like cradles and “kisses” in shallow areas
• A mix of both deep and shallow water activities, so everyone—from confident swimmers to those preferring the shallows—can join in on the action

Whether you choose to dive right in or stay on your feet in shallower waters, you’ll get up close and personal with these amazing marine mammals.

Dolphin Swim Experience Costs

Curious about pricing for dolphin swim adventures? Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Shallow water encounters start at $1,995.
• For a deep water experience, expect to pay $2,500.
• Can’t decide? Go for both shallow and deep water options, bundled at $3,500.

Whether you’re wading or diving in, there’s a memorable option for every dolphin enthusiast.

Does the Dolphin Swim Program Include General Admission?

Yes, when you sign up for the dolphin swim program, your general admission to the park and all regularly scheduled shows is included. That means you’re set for a full day of fun—so dive in with the dolphins, then stick around to catch the rest of the action without any extra fees.

Dolphin Experiences for All Ages and Abilities

Curious about whether you need Olympic-level swimming skills or if your little ones can join in the dolphin fun? Good news—these dolphin encounters are designed with everyone in mind. Both swimmers and non-swimmers (including young children) can take part in unforgettable interactions.

Participants have the choice between swimming alongside dolphins in deeper water—where things like dorsal tows or gentle, playful pushes are on offer—or sticking to the shallows, where you can connect with these amazing animals while standing in waist-deep water. Cradles, kisses, and up-close “hellos” await, without the need for strong swimming.

This means families, small kids, and anyone a bit unsure in the water can still share in the magic. No one has to miss out on meeting these remarkable creatures, making it a standout experience on your Marathon vacation adventure list.

Making Reservations for the Dolphin Swim Program

Ready to book your dolphin swim adventure? It’s a breeze! You can reserve your spot online anytime, day or night. Prefer a more personal touch? Drop by in person or call the reservation desk between 9:30 a.m. And 5:00 p.m.—staff are happy to answer your questions and help you secure your swim time.

Other Animal Interaction Opportunities

If getting up close with dolphins isn’t enough to satisfy your wild side, there are plenty of other animal encounters available for adventurous souls. Alongside dolphin programs, visitors can often choose to:

• Interact with sea lions—always a crowd favorite with their playful antics.
• Meet rescued sea turtles and learn about ongoing conservation efforts.
• Get a safe, hands-on look at alligators under expert supervision.
• Swim alongside gentle rays or, for those feeling particularly brave, with sharks.

For a truly unique experience, some locations even offer private animal sessions, ensuring a memorable and personal wildlife connection. So, whether you’re hoping to shake fins, flippers, or claws, there’s no shortage of ways to create your own wild adventure.

Animal Encounters: Policies & Program Overview

For those who love getting up close with animals, Marathon, Florida, offers several unique opportunities to interact with marine and land wildlife. Before booking, it’s good to know a bit about what’s offered and any ground rules.

A variety of local organizations offer animal encounters—including swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with rays, and guided tours with rescued sea turtles. Most programs are suitable for families, though age and height restrictions often apply (usually participants need to be at least 6 years old, with some experiences requiring guests to be 12+).

Here’s what you can generally expect:

• Reservation Policies: Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Some operators require reservations weeks ahead of time.
• Safety First: Life jackets are commonly required for all water activities. There are always guides on hand to ensure everyone’s safety.
• Hands-Off Rules: Direct contact with some animals, like sea turtles or manatees, may be limited. Responsible providers focus on ethical interactions—no chasing or grabbing; it’s all about observation and gentle connections.
• Accessibility: Many locations offer accommodations for guests with disabilities, but it’s smart to ask about any special needs in advance.
• Photo Ops: Most programs either allow your own waterproof camera or offer professional photography (for an added fee, of course).
• Weather: Because most animal interactions are outdoors, they’re subject to cancellation due to weather—always check ahead before you go.

Different programs offer varying degrees of interactivity—some are more hands-on, while others focus on education and conservation. No matter your choice, you’ll have the chance to learn something new while supporting responsible tourism in the beautiful Florida Keys.

Animal Care & Training

• Rigorous daily health checks by experienced caretakers
• Specialized diets crafted in consultation with veterinarians (think: the Ritz-Carlton of fish and fruit buffets)
• Positive reinforcement training, à la the folks at National Geographic, focused on stimulation and well-being, not just showmanship
• Expansive enclosures designed to mimic natural habitats
• Regular exercise routines and enrichment activities to keep minds (and fins/wings/paws) active
• Veterinary partnerships with leading animal health organizations for top-tier care

Every critter, from the tiniest turtle to the sassiest bird, gets the VIP treatment—total wellness comes before anything else!

Wildlife & Nature

• Hunting (Alligator, Deer, Dove, Turkey, Quail, Waterfowl, Wild Hog) 
• Hiking
• Wild sea life to see (Dolphins, Whales, Sea Turtles)
• Wild birds to see (Gray Kingbird, Great White Heron, Roseate Spoonbill, Antillean Nighthawk, and, the Bald Eagle. In 2019 an Antillean Palm-Swift was seen).

In The Air

• Parasail
• Helicopter Tour