Big Sur International Marathon
The Lowdown
The Big Sur International Marathon, first run in the mid-1980s, has grown into one of the world’s most celebrated destination marathons, blending an elite running field with thousands of recreational participants. Held annually along the dramatic central California coastline, the 2026 edition on April 26 continues a long tradition of community support, environmental stewardship, and competitive racing. The event is USATF-certified, a Boston Marathon qualifying course, and an AIMS member race, ensuring accurate timing and recognition for qualifying performances. The point-to-point course follows Highway 1 from near the town of Big Sur north toward Carmel, offering uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, towering redwoods, and iconic landmarks such as the Bixby Creek Bridge and the challenging climb up Hurricane Point. Runners experience a mix of rolling coastal hills, a major ascent in the middle miles, and a rewarding descent toward the finish on Carmel Beach. Aid stations, enthusiastic spectators, live bands placed along the route, and local volunteers create an intimate, festive atmosphere that balances the physical demands of the course with inspirational scenery and community energy—making Big Sur as memorable for first-time marathoners as it is for seasoned competitors.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Medium-sized race
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Excellent spectator turnout
This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon
Race Weekend
Other distances available
Notable Landmarks
Bixby Creek Bridge
Iconic arched bridge offering one of the most photographed coastal views on the course
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Towering redwoods and forested sections where the route briefly moves inland
Andrew Molera State Park
Coastal bluffs and wide beaches with rugged ocean vistas early in the race
Garrapata State Park
Dramatic rocky coastline and wildflower-strewn cliffs along Highway 1
Point Sur Lighthouse
Historic lighthouse perched on a volcanic rock visible from parts of the course
Carmel Mission Basilica
Historic mission near the race’s approach into Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel Beach
Sandy Pacific Ocean finish area and the marathon’s traditional seaside finish
Big Sur, CA, United States
US
Based on nearby accommodations
- Must be 18 years or older on race day (2026-04-26)
- Registered participants only; advance registration required
- Bib numbers are non-transferable and must be worn on race day
- All runners must sign the online waiver/medical release during registration
- Finish within the course time limit — 6.5 hours (approx. 15:00 per mile)
- Participants should consult a physician and are advised to obtain medical clearance if they have health concerns
- No pets, strollers, or unauthorized wheeled devices allowed on the course
- Government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- Signed race waiver (online signature accepted)
- Proof of age for age-group verification (if requested)
- Emergency contact and medical information (provided during registration)
- Online Registration
- Charity Entry
- Tour Operator Packages
- Waitlist/Lottery
Cancellation & Refunds
Policy details
No refunds under any circumstances
Deferrals to the following year's race allowed with a processing fee and approval (medical documentation may be required)
Entries are non-transferable to another runner
If the event is canceled by organizers for reasons outside their control, options may include deferral to the next year or partial refund at organizer discretion
Medical withdrawals with valid documentation may be eligible for deferred entry or partial credit toward a future event
The course is renowned for its dramatic Pacific Ocean vistas and crosses the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge with several sweeping coastal overlooks.
Runners should be prepared for a rolling, point-to-point route with the notable climb up Hurricane Point and frequent short, steep rollers that demand pacing discipline.
Finishers receive a custom finisher medal and a technical long-sleeve shirt, and the finish line festival includes food, beverages, and a beer garden for participants 21+.
Race weekend features an expo with packet pickup and vendors on Friday and Saturday, a kids' run on race morning, and pre-race runner services including gear check and shuttle information.
Aid stations are positioned roughly every 1.5–2 miles with water, sports drink, and medical support, and organizers recommend layers, sun protection, and planning shuttle/parking early due to limited parking and road closures.
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
Learn from fellow runners and share insights that will help the next person toe the line.