The History of Marathon, Florida, and How It Became a Place for Weekly Rentals

Marathon, Florida, is a gem in the heart of the Florida Keys, a string of islands known for their turquoise waters, abundant marine life, and laid-back, tropical lifestyle.

Even though Marathon is currently a sanctuary for tourists in search of a piece of heaven, its evolution into a visitor-friendly location providing weekly lodging options is an intriguing tale.

A Brief History of Marathon

The History of Marathon began in the early 1800s. Bahamian immigrants were the first to settle there. Later, fishermen, spongers, and people in the wrecking business also moved in.

Its prime location along the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico made it a hub for maritime activities.

Nonetheless, it was in the late 19th and early 20th centuries that the destiny of Marathon dramatically shifted, largely due to the industrialist Henry Flagler. Flagler's ambitious endeavor to extend his Florida East Coast Railway from the mainland to Key West involved constructing a railroad that would slice through the Florida Keys, Marathon included. This feat of engineering, which was finished in 1912, received the moniker the Overseas Railroad. The exertion needed to construct this segment was so strenuous that it bestowed upon the area the name "Marathon," as the workers toiled without stopping to finish the project, similar to a marathon run.

Unfortunately, in 1935, a devastating hurricane destroyed much of the railway, and Marathon, like many parts of the Keys, fell into relative obscurity. The remains of the railway would later form the foundation of what is today the Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1), providing easier access to and from the islands and marking the beginning of Marathon's rise as a travel destination.

Marathon's Development as a Tourist Destination

Post-World War II, Marathon, along with the rest of the Florida Keys, began to attract more visitors, drawn by the island's idyllic setting, fishing opportunities, and the allure of a tropical getaway. The construction of the Seven Mile Bridge, which connected Marathon to the Lower Keys, further solidified its role as a gateway to the Keys.

In the latter half of the 20th century, the Hospitality means being friendly and welcoming to guests. It’s about making people feel comfortable and taken care of. This can happen in hotels, restaurants, or other places where people visit. Good hospitality can make a big difference in someone’s experience.

industry in Marathon grew to accommodate the increasing number of tourists. Resorts, marinas, and hotels began popping up, catering to those seeking both short and extended stays. Real estate development boomed, with a particular emphasis on waterfront homes and vacation rentals.

The 28-Night Minimum in Monroe County

Monroe County, which encompasses all of the Florida Keys, has long sought to balance the competing interests of residents and tourists. The majority of the Keys falls under the jurisdiction of unincorporated Monroe County, which governs areas that are not part of an incorporated city. To address concerns over the impact of short-term vacation rentals on local neighborhoods, Monroe County enacted regulations requiring a 28-night minimum stay for vacation rentals in unincorporated areas.

This rule was implemented to preserve the residential character of these communities and to prevent transient, hotel-like environments from disrupting the local quality of life. The 28-night minimum rental policy, however, posed a challenge for property owners and tourists alike, as it limited flexibility for visitors who were interested in shorter stays and reduced potential income for homeowners.

Marathon’s Incorporation and the Fight for Weekly Rentals

By the 1990s, residents and business owners in Marathon, which was still part of unincorporated Monroe County, were facing challenges due to the county's restrictive rental policies. As tourism continued to grow, many locals felt that Marathon needed more control over its development and the ability to address the needs of both residents and visitors.

In 1999, Marathon was officially incorporated as a city after much debate and a public vote. This gave the town more control over local zoning laws, development, and its budget, empowering residents to shape their community's future. One of the most significant issues Marathon faced following incorporation was the question of vacation rentals.

With its newfound independence from Monroe County’s regulations, the City of Marathon established its own rules for short-term rentals. Recognizing the importance of tourism to the local economy, the city created a regulatory framework that allowed for weekly vacation rentals, as opposed to the 28-night minimum required in unincorporated Monroe County. This decision made Marathon an attractive destination for tourists looking for shorter stays and gave property owners more flexibility to rent out their homes.

Balancing Community Needs with Economic Growth

While Marathon’s incorporation and its decision to allow weekly rentals helped boost the local economy, it also brought concerns from some residents. Many worried about the potential impact on neighborhood peace, with transient visitors possibly disrupting the character of their town. To address these concerns, the city established regulations to ensure that vacation rental properties were well-maintained and operated in a way that minimized negative effects on the community.

These regulations included licensing requirements for property owners, occupancy limits, noise restrictions, and proper waste management procedures. By enforcing these rules, Marathon found a way to accommodate both visitors and permanent residents, creating a balance that allowed tourism to thrive without sacrificing the quality of life for locals.

Marathon Today: A Destination for All

Today, Marathon stands as a shining example of a Florida Keys destination that has managed to balance growth with preservation. Its decision to allow weekly rentals has positioned it as a more flexible and accessible option for visitors as compared to the stricter rules in nearby unincorporated Monroe County.

While staying in stunning holiday homes offering the convenience of weekly stays, tourists can indulge in top-notch fishing, snorkeling, diving, and water sports.

Incorporation has empowered Marathon to shape its future, and its ability to offer weekly rentals has made it a top choice for families, couples, and adventurers seeking a tropical escape. The city's charm lies in its ability to cater to both short-term visitors and long-term residents, creating a unique, vibrant community in the heart of the Florida Keys.

Whether you’re visiting for a week or staying for a season, Marathon's rich history, thoughtful development, and commitment to balancing tourism with community needs make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Florida Keys.