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

Should you visit Marathon or Sacramento?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Sacramento, 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 relaxing, quaint, and beautiful island. The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Marathon travel costs.

Sacramento

Sacramento is a laid back, relaxed, and undiscovered city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Sacramento travel costs.

Marathon and Sacramento: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Marathon or Sacramento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marathon. Although Marathon and Sacramento are popular destinations, Marathon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Marathon is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Sacramento attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Marathon is more touristy than Sacramento and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. It is also well known for The Dolphin Research Center. Sacramento is famous for its history and state capital.

How is Marathon different from Sacramento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Marathon
Sacramento

Sacramento 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 Sacramento can be an interesting and educational experience. As the state capital, you'll find a number of historical and informational museums around town. You should check out the State Capital, as well as the California State Railroad Museum, the Crocker Museum of Art, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile Museum.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marathon
Sacramento

Both Marathon and Sacramento offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

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

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Sacramento. Casual restaurants with laid back atmospheres are what's most common around town. You'll also find a variety of international cuisines that include Korean and Vietnamese.

Is Marathon or Sacramento Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Sacramento

The vibe at night is nice in both Marathon and Sacramento.

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 Sacramento. There highest concentration of activities are found in Downtown Sacramento. You'll find bars, clubs and live music in the area. You can also head to midtown, which has performing arts and comedy shows.

Is Marathon or Sacramento Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Sacramento

Marathon is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Sacramento 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.

Sacramento is not a resort destination.


Is Marathon or Sacramento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Sacramento

Marathon is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sacramento 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.

Sacramento is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Sacramento Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Sacramento

Marathon is a very popular place for the beach. However, Sacramento 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.

Sacramento is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Sacramento?

Marathon
Sacramento

Sacramento is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Sacramento. You'll find down-to-earth vendors who have reasonable prices and a great selection. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at the Old Sacramento Waterfront or along Folsom Boulevard.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Marathon or Sacramento More Beautiful?

Marathon
Sacramento

Marathon is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Sacramento is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Sacramento is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Marathon or Sacramento Better for Families?

Marathon
Sacramento

Marathon is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Marathon is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sacramento. With the large number of families that live in the area, you'll a variety of kid-friendly activities. Options include smaller amusement parks like Funderland Amusement Park, museums like the Sacramento Children's Museum, and indoor trampoline parks. There's also Fairytale Town, which is an imagination filled playground.

Is Marathon or Sacramento Better for Couples?

Marathon
Sacramento

Marathon is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for couples.

Marathon makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Sacramento is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Picnics, nice restaurants, and shows make for enjoyable date activities while you're in town.


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

Marathon
Sacramento

Sacramento is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sacramento. There's both light rail and buses around town.

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

Is Marathon or Sacramento a more walkable city?

Marathon
Sacramento

Marathon and Sacramento are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

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

Sacramento is generally not very walkable. You'll really want a car to get around town, but Midtown is one of the more walkable areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Sacramento or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Sacramento?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Marathon or Sacramento to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Marathon than Sacramento because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Sacramento.

Families should spend more time in Marathon than Sacramento. 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 Sacramento. 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 Sacramento 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 Sacramento.


  • How many days in Marathon or Sacramento? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Sacramento 1-2

One day in Marathon or Sacramento?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the relaxing island of Marathon, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Sacramento offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Marathon or Sacramento?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Marathon, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Sacramento 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 Sacramento, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Sacramento?

Marathon, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sacramento 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 Sacramento?

Marathon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sacramento 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, Sacramento 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
    Sacramento Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Sacramento $320

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, while the average daily cost in Sacramento is $320. 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 Sacramento in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Sacramento $111
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Sacramento $222
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Sacramento

Looking for a hotel in Marathon or Sacramento? 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 Sacramento


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 Sacramento Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Sacramento $51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sacramento

Also for Sacramento, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $294
  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $294
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Sacramento Arrival Private Transfer: $93
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Marathon or Sacramento?

Prices for flights to both Sacramento 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
    Sacramento $92

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sacramento

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

  • Chinese Wonton Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • Midtown Sacramento Arts and Food Tour: $98
  • Downtown Sacramento Historical Food Tour: $98
  • Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $115
  • Midtown Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $125
  • Discover Midtown - Delicious Walking Food Tour: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Sacramento $19

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 Sacramento

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

  • 60 Minute Adventures - The Escape Game at The Galleria: $42
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Auburn to Placerville: $15
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Jackson to Angels Camp: $15
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Placerville to Jackson: $15
  • City Cruises Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise 21+: $49
  • Downtown Sacramento Mural and Art Walking Tour : $45
  • Driving in Delta’s Wine Country: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Folsom Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Gold Rush and Ghosts of Sacramento Smart Phone guided (App/GPS) Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Granite Adventure at Quarry Park Adventures Rocklin, CA: $59
  • Historic Folsom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Mini Golf Experience 9 Hole Course in Sacramento: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Sacramento $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Sacramento

Also in Sacramento, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Apple Hill Wine Tasting Tours And Placerville wine tasting tours: $169
  • Old Vine Express Train Ride with Wine Tasting: $174


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marathon and Sacramento, we can see that Sacramento is more expensive. And not only is Marathon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Marathon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marathon 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 Sacramento would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sacramento than you might in Marathon.

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


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Sacramento?

Sacramento has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Sacramento, 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 Sacramento?

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 Sacramento in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Sacramento. The summer months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sacramento this time of year.

In the summer, Marathon is a little warmer than Sacramento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marathon in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Sacramento averages at about 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sacramento this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives less sunshine than Sacramento during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Sacramento receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives more rain than Sacramento. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Sacramento 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Sacramento in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Sacramento. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Sacramento for the shopping scene.

In October, Marathon is generally a little warmer than Sacramento. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 80°F (27°C), and Sacramento fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sacramento. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the autumn, Marathon often gets less sunshine than Sacramento. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 300 hours of full sun.

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Sacramento. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Sacramento 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Sacramento in the Winter?

Both Sacramento and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marathon for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Sacramento in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Marathon is much warmer than Sacramento in the winter. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Sacramento fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Sacramento during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Sacramento receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Sacramento. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 3.8 inches (97 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Sacramento 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Sacramento in the Spring?

Both Sacramento and Marathon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marathon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Marathon is much warmer than Sacramento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marathon in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Sacramento averages at about 58°F (15°C).

In Sacramento, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the spring, Marathon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sacramento. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 328 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Sacramento. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.3 inches (32 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Sacramento 58°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Sacramento and Marathon

Marathon Sacramento
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 76°F (24°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 75°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 45°F (7°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)