A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. Berkeley for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Marathon or Berkeley?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Berkeley, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a quaint, beautiful, and relaxing island. With stunning beauty, Marathon attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Marathon travel costs.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. Berkeley is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Berkeley travel costs.

Marathon and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Marathon or Berkeley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Berkeley than Marathon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Berkeley is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Marathon is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is well known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Berkeley is well known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Also, Berkeley is famous for University of California Botanical Garden.

How is Marathon different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Berkeley and Marathon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Marathon or Berkeley?

Marathon
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Berkeley can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Marathon or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Marathon
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Berkeley. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Berkeley for the nightlife scene. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Marathon or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Berkeley

Marathon is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Marathon is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.


Is Marathon or Berkeley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Berkeley

Marathon is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Marathon has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Berkeley

Marathon is notable for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Marathon. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Berkeley?

Marathon
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Marathon or Berkeley More Beautiful?

Marathon
Berkeley

Marathon is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Marathon attracts visitors from all around. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Berkeley is a gorgeous place to visit. It has a nice campus and a unique setting that mixes an urban environment with a bayside location.

Is Marathon or Berkeley Better for Families?

Marathon
Berkeley

Marathon is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Marathon is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Berkeley is a family-friendly island. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Marathon or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Marathon
Berkeley

Marathon is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.


Is Marathon or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marathon
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Berkeley is very popular with the backpacker crowd. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or Berkeley Better for Students?

Marathon
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Marathon is not popular with students.

Berkeley is a great city to visit as a student. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Marathon is not popular with students.

Is Marathon or Berkeley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Marathon
Berkeley

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

Berkeley has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.


Is Marathon or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Marathon
Berkeley

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Berkeley is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

For even more information, also check out Is Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marathon and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Berkeley. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

Families should spend more time in Marathon than Berkeley. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Marathon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Marathon than Berkeley. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Marathon that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Marathon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Berkeley.


  • How many days in Marathon or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Marathon or Berkeley?

The beautiful island of Marathon offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The city of Berkeley offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marathon or Berkeley?

Marathon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Berkeley is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berkeley, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Marathon or Berkeley?

Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marathon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Berkeley is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marathon or Berkeley?

Marathon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marathon has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

Berkeley is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Marathon?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Marathon Prices
    USA Prices
    Berkeley Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Berkeley $217

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $217. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Marathon and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Marathon or Berkeley? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Marathon


Hotels in Berkeley


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Marathon Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to Oakland by SUV: $270
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK: $81

Is it cheaper to fly into Marathon or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Marathon change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Marathon $89
    Berkeley $63

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $137
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Marathon

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Marathon.

  • Rhum Runner Aqua Park Adventure: $38
  • Florida: Sunset Champagne Cruise on the Marathon Mermaid: $82
  • Snorkeling Adventure by Boat at Sombrero Reef: $89
  • Intro to Foilboarding Experience: $214

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $100
  • Experience Create your own jewelry workshop for beginners: $95
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $126
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Berkeley:

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Berkeley, we can see that Berkeley is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Marathon Expensive? and Is Berkeley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Berkeley?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Berkeley, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Marathon or Berkeley?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marathon or Berkeley in the Summer?

Both Berkeley and Marathon during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

In July, Marathon is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 84°F (29°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Marathon usually gets more rain in July than Berkeley. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Berkeley. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Marathon is much warmer than Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Marathon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Berkeley in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Berkeley. Many travelers come to Marathon for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Marathon is much warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Berkeley. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Marathon is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Marathon

Marathon Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)