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

Should you visit Marathon or Newport?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Newport, 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. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Marathon travel costs.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Newport is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Newport travel costs.

Marathon and Newport: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Marathon or Newport?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Newport than Marathon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Newport is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Marathon is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, 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. Newport is well known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. Also, Newport is famous for Thames Street.

How is Marathon different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Newport 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 Newport?

Marathon
Newport

Newport 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 Newport can be an interesting and educational experience. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marathon
Newport

Newport 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 Newport. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

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 Newport Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Newport

The vibe at night is notable in both Marathon and Newport.

If you're looking for night time activities Marathon has a few options to choose from. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Marathon or Newport Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Newport

Marathon is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Newport is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Marathon. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Newport is not a resort destination.


Is Marathon or Newport Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Newport

Marathon is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Newport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Marathon. 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.

Newport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Newport Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Newport

Both Marathon and Newport have excellent beaches worth visiting.

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.

The beaches at Newport attract visitors from all over. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Is Marathon or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Marathon
Newport

Newport is great for its historic old town. However, Marathon does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Newport to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Marathon does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Newport?

Marathon
Newport

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Newport More Beautiful?

Marathon
Newport

Marathon is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Newport is a gorgeous place to visit. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Is Marathon or Newport Better for Families?

Marathon
Newport

Marathon and Newport are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Marathon is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Newport is a very kid-friendly island. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.


Is Marathon or Newport Better for Couples?

Marathon
Newport

Newport is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Newport has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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.

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

Marathon
Newport

Newport is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Newport offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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

Is Marathon or Newport a more walkable city?

Marathon
Newport

Newport is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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 Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Newport?

In either Marathon or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than Newport because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport 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 Newport.


  • How many days in Marathon or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Marathon or Newport?

In Marathon, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Newport offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Newport?

In Marathon, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Marathon or Newport?

Marathon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marathon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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


A week in Marathon or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. In Marathon, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Newport is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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, Newport 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
    Newport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Newport $192

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, while the average daily cost in Newport is $192. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Marathon or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Newport $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Marathon or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $78

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

For Newport, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Newport $17

Tours and Activities in Marathon

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

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

Tours and Activities in Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $32
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40
  • America's Cup Evening Sailing Adventure Newport, RI: $125
  • Colonial Newport Walking Tour: $20
  • Explore Newport Cliff Walk Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Golden Age to Gilded Age Newport's Transformation Walking Tour: $20
  • Golden Hour Cruise: $45
  • Guided Tour of Newport in Open Air LSV : $129
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $100
  • Historic Scenic Tour Through Newport With Elms Admission: $45
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $41
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Newport $14


When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Newport, we can see that Marathon 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 Newport Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Newport?

Newport has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Newport, 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 Newport?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marathon or Newport in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Newport. Most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Marathon is generally a little warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 84°F (29°C), and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Newport during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives more rain than Newport. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Newport in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Newport. The autumn months attract visitors to Marathon because of the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

Marathon is much warmer than Newport in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Newport. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun.

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Newport. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Newport. In the winter, Marathon is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Newport averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Newport during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Newport. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Newport in the Spring?

Both Newport and Marathon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Marathon is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Newport. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Newport. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Marathon

Marathon Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)