Mutts Making Footprints in Marathon, Florida Keys, Florida
- Luie Boone
- Jul 15
- 6 min read
Updated: Jul 25
This vacation destination is a part of our third series of blog posts titled Rover Ready.
Luie Boone knows that traveling with your dog can turn any vacation into an unforgettable adventure. There's no better place for a relaxed, pup-friendly escape than Marathon in the Florida Keys. Nestled in the heart of the island chain, Marathon offers a laid-back, tropical atmosphere perfect for both two- and four-legged travelers. From sunrise strolls to waterfront dinners, it's a place where you and your pup can truly slow down and enjoy life together.
Days start slow in Marathon, and that's just how Luie Boone likes it. As he likes to say, usually with a dramatic yawn, "Mornings are for sniffing, not for zoomies... unless I see a squirrel!" Early morning walks under swaying palm trees and along breezy sidewalks set the tone for a relaxed, no-rush kind of day. From there, it's all about lounging near the water, exploring shaded trails, or simply soaking up the sunshine. If you and your pup are feeling a little more active, Marathon offers gentle hiking paths. These paths tend to not be too intense, so they can be the perfect way to get your legs moving and those tails wagging. Be sure to keep your eyes (and noses) open for local wildlife.
There are countless ways to make memories together in Marathon. You can toss a ball in an open grassy spot, sway in a hammock while your pup naps nearby, or bring along a favorite rope toy for a little tug-of-wars under the palms. Luie Boone suggests you let your hooman win the game of tug-of-war at least once, so the snacks keep coming. If your dog loves the water, enjoy a gentle splash around the shoreline or rent a paddleboard to share with your pooch!
Dining out with your dog is all part of the Marathon experience. Many local spots feature outdoor seating, from breezy patios to waterfront decks, where your pup can relax at your feet while you savor fresh, local flavors. Luie Boone wants to remind you to drop a tasty snack or two for your polite pooch, especially if you visit Porky's Bayside BBQ. He'll talk more about this BBQ joint below, but he wants you to know they have a special doggy menu for your furry friends! You can get it served in a doggie bowl or a box-to-go. If you prefer something more lowkey, pack a picnic basket and find a quiet spot to unwind with your pooch. Don't forget the doggy treats!
Perhaps the most rewarding part of vacationing in Marathon with your dog is the freedom to simply be together. No packed schedules or pressure to check off every attraction—just plenty of time to enjoy the little moments. Whether you’re watching the sun dip below the horizon from a peaceful dock, dozing in a hammock with your pup curled up beside you, or wandering without a set destination, these unhurried experiences are what truly nourish the soul.
Luie Boone knows the best part of any trip is simply being together, with no rushing and no fuss, just plenty of belly rubs. Marathon is the perfect place for just that!
Paws Rest Here
Luie Boone paw-selected this perfect vacation rental for your stay in Marathon, Florida Keys. Check it out below!
Rental Name: Manatee Bay
This rental has 4 bedrooms with 5 beds, 2 full baths, and 2 half baths.
Photos courtesy of VRBO
It features the following amenities:
Situated next to a beautiful 20-foot-deep lagoon, great for both swimming and fishing
Lagoon is filled with all different types of wildlife, including an occasional manatee, turtles, and all sorts of fish (Luie Boone wonders if they have any Rainbow Trout, like his Rainbow Trout Plushie named Ripple!)
Quick access to the open Gulf right at the lagoon's edge
Spacious dock extending into deep water that accommodates up to three boats
Three double kayaks
Large heated pool
Hot tub
Gas barbecue
Huge back deck, which faces the lagoon and features a fully screen section on one side
What does Luie Boone think of this rental? He woofed:
My hoomans just told me about a rental house in the Florida Keys called "Manatee Bay!" I was flabbergasted at first, because what actually are manatees? I was told manatees are like big, slow sea cows. I know a lot about cows, but I've never seen one in the water. Whatever they are, I heard they hang out near the house in the water, so I can't wait to catch a whiff of one... and maybe just try to become its friend! The rental has a large heated pool for the hoomans. For me? There's a beautiful, deep lagoon, which I can swim in all I want! It's full of fish, turtles, and sometimes those mysterious manatees. The lagoon is also perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. The rental even comes with three kayaks! Hopefully, I can fit my big tooshie into one and not cause my hoomans to tip over... though, let's be honest, it'd be pretty funny. Anyways, did you know that the lagoon leads straight to the open Gulf? My hoomans said we could rent a boat, and it'd be delivered right to the rental's dock! I can't wait to visit this rental. I'll have to pack my favorite toys—my rainbow trout Ripple and my shark Sharky—to join me. Between the two of them, I'll have all the fishy friends I need.
Paws Venture Here
Marathon Pontoon Rental
You can visit Marathon Pontoon Rental to rent a pontoon boy to explore the waters of the Florida Keys. Your best friend can get a front row seat, as you enjoy sandbar tours, historic site visits, swimming, snorkeling, waterfront restaurants, and tiki bars. Luie Boone cannot wait to do a big ole cannonball off the boat!
Sombrero Beach
This is a beautiful white sand beach, which is situated along the Atlantic Ocean. You can enjoy scenic views and ocean breezes with your pup in tow. Luie Boone's tip? Don't forget your sombrero, because even a dog knows sunburn is no fun!
Dolphin Research Center
Bring your best buddy to meet the dolphins and sea lions at the Dolphin Research Center. This center offers exciting daily presentations, from high flying athletics to dolphin encounters.
Crane Point Hammock Museum
& Nature Center
Here, you can take in the peaceful scenery and catch a glimpse of some wildlife along walking trails. This destination features a dog water station and waste bags, too!
Oceanfront Park
Your canine companion is welcome to enjoy some exercise with you at this park, which borders the Atlantic Ocean. Together, you can enjoy a relaxing picnic, a fishing trip, or a kayak ride.
Sunset Bay Park on Grassy Key
Comprised of three lots, this park features flowering vines and a variety of palms that are home to many species of birds. Luie Boone suggests you keep your eyes open as you explore the trails, unlike his kitty brother Tobi, who's always too busy napping to notice any birds. Lucky for the birds, right?
Coco Plum Beach
Coco Plum Beach offers a great mix of sandy playtime and tranquil wetlands, making it an ideal spot for you and your pup to enjoy some fresh air and adventure side by side.
Porky's Bayside BBQ
This laid-back BBQ spot brings tropical tiki bar vibes right to the waterfront, Your dog is welcome to chill with you at an outdoor table under the covered patio. They go the extra mile with a special doggy menu, so your pup can enjoy a tasty treat alongside you. Along with their daily smoked BBQ, they offer fresh sushi, local seafood, and some of the best mojitos around!
Luie Boone's Pet Peeve about
Marathon, Florida Keys
There's just so much to love about this vacation destination, but there's one thing that's got Luie Boone's leash in a twist. He woofed:
Beaches! Palm trees! Seagulls to chase after! Marathon, Florida Keys sounded like the best place ever... until I heard the word: sharks. At first, I thought I misheard my hoomans and they said "snacks," but, nope, I was wrong. Apparently, sharks aren’t just big fish; they’re actually kind of toothy and definitely not into playing fetch. So, I did some more sniffing around. Turns out, there are about a dozen types of sharks hanging out around the Florida Keys. The ones I might bump snouts with include Nurse sharks (chill bottom dwellers), Lemon sharks (curious but friendly), Bull sharks (a little bolder and love shallow water), and Blacktip sharks (fast but shy). Most of these fellas just cruise by minding their own business, but I’m no dummy. I’m sticking to shallow, clear water, avoiding fishing docks, and skipping early morning or late evening swims—which my hoomans say is prime shark time. I'm also bringing my trusty shark stuffy, Sharky, with me, so he can lend me all of his shark smarts!
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