A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. Redwood National Park for Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Marathon or Redwood National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Redwood National Park, 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Marathon travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a grand, impressive, and monumental park. Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Marathon and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Marathon or Redwood National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Marathon than Redwood National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Marathon is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Redwood National Park is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, 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. Also, Marathon is famous for The Dolphin Research Center. Redwood National Park is well known for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Marathon different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Marathon or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Marathon is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Marathon area. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Marathon or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Marathon is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Marathon has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Marathon or Redwood National Park Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Marathon is well known for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Marathon to choose from. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Marathon or Redwood National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Marathon is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Marathon is well known for the beach. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Many people visit Marathon for it's beautiful beaches. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Is Marathon or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Redwood National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Redwood National Park?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is mediocre for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Is Marathon or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Marathon and Redwood National Park are both great 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.

Redwood National Park is a very kid-friendly island. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.


Is Marathon or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Marathon and Redwood National Park are both great to visit as a couple.

Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Redwood National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

Is Marathon or Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Many backpackers frequent Redwood National Park. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Neither Marathon or Redwood National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Marathon or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Marathon
Redwood National Park

Marathon is a island with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable island. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Redwood National Park?

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

Families should spend more time in Marathon than Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park.


  • How many days in Marathon or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Marathon or Redwood National Park?

In Marathon, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful park of Redwood National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Redwood National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


Five days in Marathon or Redwood National Park?

Marathon is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Redwood National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Redwood National Park, 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 Redwood National Park?

In Marathon, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Redwood National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This park 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, Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $135. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Marathon or Redwood National Park? 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 Redwood National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Redwood National Park $53

Is it cheaper to fly into Marathon or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Redwood National Park $33

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Redwood National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marathon and Redwood National Park, we can see that Marathon is more expensive. And not only is Redwood National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Redwood National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Redwood National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Marathon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Marathon than you might in Redwood National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Marathon or Redwood National Park?

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 Redwood National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Redwood National Park. Many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Marathon is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 84°F (29°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the summer, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets more rain in July than Redwood National Park. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

Both Redwood National Park and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Marathon is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Marathon. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

Both Redwood National Park and Marathon during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marathon for the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Marathon is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun.

Redwood National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Redwood National Park. The spring months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

In April, Marathon is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Redwood National Park this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Marathon

Marathon Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)