Marathon is the “heart” of the Florida Keys located in the middle of the island chain. Marathon is actually made up of many keys or islands beginning with Long Key, Conch Key, Duck Key, Grassy Key, Boot Key, Crawl Key and Pigeon Key. The area consists of many quaint “fishing” cottages located on the inlets and canals. Large estate homes surround the island on the Atlantic and Florida Gulf shores. Marathon is a 10 mile long family oriented island community deeply rooted in a heritage of fishing and reflects the old Keys lifestyle. It is home to the Dolphin Research Center, a world renowned facility associating Dolphin research with their effect on special needs children and adults. Marathon’s natural environment has activities for all ages including sailing, fishing, diving, and snorkeling offering an all around family appeal. Marathon Airport offers general and commercial aviation to its residents and the surrounding islands.