On the ocean side of Marathon’s north end, Sparky’s Landing has become one of the best tiki bars in the middle Keys by doing everything right — the water views are expansive, the Sunday Brunch BOGO mimosas attract a crowd that starts early, and the wood-fired Shrimp & Bacon Pizza is the kind of menu item that gets people talking. Locally sourced seafood, a large bar, and a quality lineup of live music acts including Marathon’s former mayor and singer/songwriter John Bartus make this a step above the standard beach bar. Arrive by boat if you can — the ocean-side dock is worth the approach.
