A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marathon vs. Whistler for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Marathon or Whistler?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Whistler, 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 beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Marathon travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and charming village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Whistler travel costs.

Marathon and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Whistler?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Whistler. Although Marathon and Whistler are both popular with visitors, Whistler has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Whistler is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Marathon is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Whistler is more touristy than Marathon and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also home to Cloudraker Skybridge. Marathon is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is Marathon different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Marathon or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Marathon is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Whistler is among the best in the world. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Marathon is not a skiing destination.

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

Whistler is adequate for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Whistler 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 Whistler. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

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 Whistler Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Whistler for the nightlife scene. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

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 Whistler Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, superb resorts can be found in both Marathon and Whistler.

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

In Whistler, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Is Marathon or Whistler Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Whistler 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.

Whistler is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Whistler Better for Beaches?

Marathon is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Whistler 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.

Whistler is not a beach destination.

Is Marathon or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Whistler draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Whistler?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Whistler More Beautiful?

Marathon and Whistler both are comparable with their superb scenery and beauty.

Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Is Marathon or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Whistler is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Marathon is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Marathon or Whistler Better for Couples?

Marathon and Whistler are both superb 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.

Whistler is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Is Marathon or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Whistler is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Whistler 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

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

Is Marathon or Whistler a more walkable city?

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

Whistler is very walkable. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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 Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Whistler?

In either Marathon or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than Whistler 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 Whistler.

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

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

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

One day in Marathon or Whistler?

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 beautiful village of Whistler offers nightlife and food. 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 Whistler?

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.

Whistler 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.

Five days in Marathon or Whistler?

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.

Whistler is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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.

Whistler is a great place to explore. 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 village 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marathon and Whistler, we can see that Marathon is more expensive. And not only is Whistler much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Whistler would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Whistler 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 Whistler.

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Whistler?

Whistler has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler 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. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

Marathon is much warmer than Whistler in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Whistler, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the summer, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Whistler in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Whistler. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Whistler for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marathon is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Whistler averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Marathon usually receives less rain than Whistler. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marathon or Whistler in the Winter?

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

Whistler can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Whistler in the Spring?

Both Whistler 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 Whistler for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Marathon is much warmer than Whistler in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Whistler. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Marathon