Sunshine Coast Marathon
One of Queensland's most scenic running events — a flat, beachside course with ocean views the entire way, held each August under perfect mild winter conditions.
About the Race
The Sunshine Coast Marathon is one of Queensland's most scenic running events, drawing thousands of participants each year to one of Australia's most spectacular beachside race courses. Held annually in August, the event takes advantage of the Sunshine Coast's mild winter conditions — cooler temperatures and low humidity making it ideal for personal bests — along a course that tracks the length of the region's iconic beachfront.
The event offers multiple distance categories to suit runners of all abilities. The full marathon (42.2km) and half marathon (21.1km) are the headline events, joined by 10km and 5.7km options that make the weekend accessible for recreational runners and families. The courses are predominantly flat — following the beachside pathway between Caloundra and Maroochydore — delivering uninterrupted ocean views for the duration of the race and making the Sunshine Coast Marathon one of the fastest marathons in the country for runners chasing qualifying times.
The race atmosphere reflects the laid-back character of the Sunshine Coast itself. Start times are staggered through the morning, with competitive fields leading the way before community waves follow. Local residents line the beachside path throughout the course, and the post-race festival village at the finish offers food vendors, recovery zones, and the chance to celebrate alongside thousands of fellow participants.
The August timing places the marathon during the heart of Sunshine Coast winter — warm, sunny days averaging 21°C with no humidity, and the humpback whale migration in full swing just offshore. Many participants extend their stay to enjoy the coast's beaches, hinterland, and restaurant scene at its comfortable winter best.
Accommodation along the Mooloolaba and Maroochydore beachfront fills quickly for marathon weekend. Many properties sit directly on the race course, making race morning logistics effortless. Book three to four months in advance to secure your preferred location.