Cape Cod Marathon
The Lowdown
The Cape Cod Marathon Weekend — Presented by Shipwrecked — has quickly become one of New England’s most beloved fall road races, blending small-town maritime charm with a serious marathon experience. Launched to showcase Falmouth’s scenic coastline and Cape Cod’s unique character, the event attracts competitive runners seeking a Boston-qualifying time as well as recreational participants who want a picturesque autumn run. The race weekend atmosphere is festive and community-driven, with local bands, volunteers, and waterfront spectators creating an encouraging environment from start to finish. The marathon course threads through classic Cape Cod landscapes: ocean vistas, salt marshes, historic villages, and tree-lined residential roads that glow with fall color. Runners enjoy stretches along coastal roads with views of Buzzards Bay and pockets of cheering crowds in Falmouth Center and Woods Hole, making the effort feel both scenic and supportive. The course is USATF-certified and staged as a Boston-qualifying course, providing accurate measurement and reliable conditions for those aiming to qualify. Whether chasing a PR or savoring the coastal scenery, participants consistently praise the friendly race organization, well-stocked aid stations, and the post-race hospitality that highlights Cape Cod’s proud local community.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Intimate field
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Moderate spectator support
2026 Registration Opens
Dec 1, 2025Announcement: 2026 registration opened on December 1st at 11:00am EST. Registration is handled through RaceRoster (link on the site).
Boston Qualifier
This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event. Achieve your qualifying standard here on a verified course.
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Falmouth, MA, United States
US
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Eligibility
- Must be at least 18 years old on race day
- Must complete online registration and pay entry fee by the stated deadline
- Participants must sign the official race waiver and release of liability
- Medical clearance recommended for anyone with pre-existing health conditions; consult a physician if unsure
- Race bibs are non-transferable and proof of age may be required at packet pickup
- All entrants must follow race rules and instructions from race officials and medical personnel
Required Documents
- Photo ID (required for packet pickup)
- Signed race waiver/liability release (online consent required)
- Emergency contact information
- Medical information/medical conditions (for race medical team)
- Proof of age (if requesting age-group verification)
Entry Methods
- Online Registration
- Charity Entry
- Virtual Entry
- Mail-in Registration
Cancellation & Refund Policy
No refunds under any circumstances
Deferral to the 2027 Cape Cod Marathon available until 2026-09-01 for a $25 processing fee
Medical deferral allowed with physician's note for full credit toward the following year
Bib transfers are not permitted
If the event is canceled by organizers for safety or weather, registrants will receive a credit toward the next year's race (no cash refunds)
The course features scenic sections along Cape Cod Bay and the Cape Cod Canal with rolling coastal terrain that is generally considered fast but can be windy on exposed stretches.
Finishers receive a commemorative finisher medal and a technical long‑sleeve race shirt, and there is a well-stocked post‑race food area including snacks and drinks.
The event weekend typically includes a race expo and packet pickup the day before, and many runners take advantage of a pre‑race pasta dinner hosted by local vendors.
Aid stations are located roughly every 1.5–3 miles with water, electrolyte drink, and gels available, and medical support is present along the course.
Parking near the start/finish is limited on race morning—organizers recommend arriving early or using shuttle services and note several good spectator spots near the canal and the final mile.
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Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
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