The Ultimate Florida Keys Family Resort Getaway

Family vacations are better when there is plenty to do and no pressure to do it all.

At Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort in Marathon, family time comes with a 2.5-acre private white-sand beach, plenty of room to spread out and activities for days when everyone is ready for an adventure. Add sunny Marathon and some of the Florida Keys' best family attractions nearby, and planning your getaway suddenly feels a whole lot easier.

Check in, kick off your shoes and enjoy the lighter side of paradise.

Family at the beach at Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort, in the Florida Keys.
  • Beach Games at Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort, in the Florida Keys.

Why Marathon Is Made for a Family Getaway

Set in the Middle Keys, Marathon puts families close to beaches, wildlife, watersports and plenty of ways to get out on the water.

It also makes a great starting point for exploring more of the Florida Keys. Spend the day discovering somewhere new, then head back to the beach or pool when everyone is ready to slow things down.

Best of all, plenty of family things to do in Marathon, FL are just a short drive away, so every day does not need to start with a long road trip.

Best Things to Do in Marathon With Family

From wildlife encounters to afternoons on the water, there are plenty of ways to fill a Florida Keys family vacation.

Make It a Beach Day

Sometimes the easiest family plan is the best one.

Tranquility Bay's 2.5-acre private white-sand beach gives families plenty of space for swimming, playing and soaking up the Florida sunshine without having to pack up the car.

Bring the beach toys, pick a spot and stay awhile.

Kayak or Paddleboard Together

For a laid-back way to explore the water, grab a kayak or stand-up paddleboard.

Single and tandem kayak rentals make it easy for families to paddle around the waters surrounding the resort, while paddleboards are available for anyone ready to test their balance.

Keep an eye on the mangroves along the way. You never know what local wildlife might make an appearance.

Add a Little Speed With a Jet Ski

Families looking for more adventure can head out on the water with jet ski rentals.

Choose private hire for time on the water at your own pace or join a guided tour around Marathon for an easy way to see more of the area.

Meet the Local Wildlife

Marathon is home to several family-friendly attractions that make learning about the Florida Keys feel anything but like a lesson.

Visit The Turtle Hospital to learn about sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation, explore the trails and natural surroundings at Crane Point, or spend time discovering the marine life that calls the Keys home.

Explore Bahia Honda State Park

Pack the swimsuits and head to nearby Bahia Honda State Park for clear water, natural beaches and plenty of room for an easy day outdoors.

Families can swim, snorkel or simply find a spot on the sand and let the afternoon unfold.

See the Seven Mile Bridge

You cannot spend time in Marathon without seeing one of the Florida Keys' most famous landmarks.

Take in the views around the Seven Mile Bridge, snap a family photo and enjoy one of those unmistakably Florida Keys moments along the way.

  • Dolphins leaping in lagoon at Dolphin Research Center in Marathon
  • Beach Volleyball at Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort, in the Florida Keys.
  • Overseas Heritage Trail, Florida.
  • A fishing charter on the water at sunrise in the Florida Keys.

Go Fishing as a Family in Marathon

Fishing is part of life in the Florida Keys, and a family fishing charter is a fun way to experience it together.

Marathon has charter options for different ages and experience levels, including shorter trips that can work well for younger anglers. When booking, let the captain know you are traveling with children so they can recommend the right type and length of trip for your family.

Whether someone catches their first fish or simply enjoys a few hours out on the water, it is an easy way to make a few vacation stories together.

Family Fun at Tranquility Bay

One of the perks of choosing an amenity-rich Marathon family resort is that staying in can be just as much fun as heading out.

Pick Your Pool

Tranquility Bay has three waterfront swimming pools, giving families plenty of opportunities to cool off between adventures.

Add the private beach just steps away and the hardest decision of the morning might simply be pool or ocean.

Play Your Way

There is plenty to keep everyone moving, with activities including watersports, ping pong, cornhole, volleyball, bicycle rentals and a Jack Nicklaus Golden Bear putting green.

No carefully planned itinerary required. Pick what sounds fun and go.

Keep Mealtimes Easy

After a day outside, nobody wants to make dinner complicated.

Butterfly Café and T.J.'s Tiki Bar keep dining close to home, whether the family is ready for a sit-down meal or something casual near the beach.

See What's Happening During Your Stay

The resort's activities change throughout the year, with programming that can include yoga, live entertainment and seasonal events.

Check the Activities Calendar before your trip or once you arrive to see what is happening during your stay.

aerial view of large pool with lounge seating umbrellas and palm trees
  • Open concept living and dining area of a 2-Bedroom Beachfront Villa at Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort in the Florida Keys.

More Room for Family Time

A great family trip needs space for together time and a little breathing room.

Tranquility Bay’s two- and three-bedroom villas give families separate bedrooms, full kitchens, private porches and laundry facilities, making longer stays and bigger family trips feel much easier.

For smaller families, guest rooms offer a simple hotel-style option with flexible sleeping arrangements.

Whichever works for your crew, you can spend less time working around a cramped room and more time enjoying Marathon together.

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  • Family Reunion at Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort, in the Florida Keys.

Planning a Florida Keys Family Reunion?

When the family group chat turns into an actual vacation, Tranquility Bay makes getting everyone together easier too.

The We Are Family offer is designed for family reunions, with perks including discounted group rates on two- and three-bedroom villas and hotel guest rooms, 20% off food and beverage, a complimentary beach toy kit for each family and complimentary resort yoga sessions.

More people, more quality time and plenty of room to enjoy it.

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Make Family Time Easy at Tranquility Bay

The best family vacations leave room for everyone to find their version of fun.

Head out for a Marathon adventure. Spend the afternoon by the pool. Paddle around the resort, grab dinner by the water or do absolutely nothing beyond putting your toes in the sand.

At Tranquility Bay, it is all here when you want it, with plenty of space to enjoy the lighter side of paradise together.

FAQs About Florida Keys Family Getaways

What are the best things to do in the Florida Keys with family?

Family favorites include beaches, kayaking, paddleboarding, wildlife attractions, fishing, snorkeling and exploring different islands. In Marathon, families can also visit local attractions and enjoy plenty of time on the water.

What are the best family things to do in Marathon, FL?

Spend time at the beach, kayak or paddleboard, visit The Turtle Hospital, explore Crane Point, see the Seven Mile Bridge or take a family fishing trip.

Is Marathon good for a family vacation?

Yes. Marathon offers beaches, wildlife, watersports and family-friendly attractions while its Middle Keys location makes exploring other parts of the Florida Keys easy.

Are there family fishing charters in Marathon, Florida?

Yes. Marathon has fishing charters suitable for families and different experience levels. Ask about shorter or family-friendly trips when booking with younger children.

What should families look for in a Florida Keys family resort?

Look for space to spread out, easy access to the beach, swimming pools, family activities, dining and accommodations that suit the size of your group.

Where should families stay in Marathon?

Tranquility Bay combines a private beach, three pools, watersports, dining and spacious beach houses in one easy beachfront setting in Marathon.