Held annually on the last Sunday of April—with April 26, 2026 as the date— the Big Sur International Marathon is one of the most picturesque and challenging road races in the world . The point‑to‑point course traverses the dramatic California coastline along Highway 1, passing towering redwoods, coastal cliffs, and the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, with rolling hills and ocean vistas throughout. In addition to the full marathon, participants can opt for shorter distance events—the 21‑Miler, 11‑Miler, 12 K, 5 K, or join a Marathon Relay with four-person teams—ensuring something for every level of athlete. The course is USATF- and AIMS-certified, qualifies for the Boston Marathon, and has a strict 6‑hour cutoff to comply with permits. Year after year, it draws thousands seeking a bucket-list run enhanced by live entertainment—like a pianist on Bixby Bridge—and strong community support.
Races
Marathon
Marathon
21 miles
11 miles
12 km
5 km
Race Date:
26 April, 2026
Also on April 26, 2026, the Marathon Relay lets teams of four share the 42.2 km route from Big Sur to Carmel, with each runner covering approximately 8 to 11 miles. Hosted by the Big Sur Marathon Foundation, this team-friendly version preserves the scenic highlights—including Bixby Bridge and the coastal cliffs—while offering a collaborative race experience.
Weather based on historical averages.
FAQs
What is the Big Sur International Marathon Relay?
How long is the Big Sur International Marathon Relay?
Where does the Big Sur International Marathon Relay take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Big Sur International Marathon Relay?
How can I prepare for the Big Sur International Marathon Relay?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Big Sur International Marathon Relay?
Also on April 26, 2026, the Marathon Relay lets teams of four share the 42.2 km route from Big Sur to Carmel, with each runner covering approximately 8 to 11 miles. Hosted by the Big Sur Marathon Foundation, this team-friendly version preserves the scenic highlights—including Bixby Bridge and the coastal cliffs—while offering a collaborative race experience.
The Big Sur International Marathon Relay is 42km long.
The Big Sur International Marathon Relay takes place in Big Sur, CA, USA.
Runna classifies the Big Sur International Marathon Relay elevation profile as Moderate.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Big Sur International Marathon Relay?
Also on April 26, 2026, the Marathon Relay lets teams of four share the 42.2 km route from Big Sur to Carmel, with each runner covering approximately 8 to 11 miles. Hosted by the Big Sur Marathon Foundation, this team-friendly version preserves the scenic highlights—including Bixby Bridge and the coastal cliffs—while offering a collaborative race experience.
How long is the Big Sur International Marathon Relay?
The Big Sur International Marathon Relay is 42km long.
Where does the Big Sur International Marathon Relay take place?
The Big Sur International Marathon Relay takes place in Big Sur, CA, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the Big Sur International Marathon Relay?
Runna classifies the Big Sur International Marathon Relay elevation profile as Moderate.
How can I prepare for the Big Sur International Marathon Relay?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Big Sur International Marathon Relay?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
More
Sport:
Running
Tags:
Nature
Major City
This event listing is for informational purposes only. Runna is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Big Sur International Marathon 2026 or Big Sur Marathon Foundation. All event details are based on publicly available information and are provided solely to help users discover running events. Runna does not use any official logos, images, or proprietary content from this event or its organiser. Any trademarks or names mentioned are used descriptively to identify the event in a factual manner. For the most accurate and up to date information (including to register or purchase an entry to the event), please visit the Big Sur International Marathon 2026 website.
